Limerick will hope to make it 22nd time lucky when they go in search of their first league win of the season against Sligo Rovers at the Markets Field this evening, kick-off 6.30pm.
Heading into the final game of the second round, Limerick find themselves rooted to the bottom of the Premier Division table, without a win in 21 attempts and lying ten points adrift of nearest rivals Sligo.
Limerick go into the game on the back of a 4-1 defeat at Shamrock Rovers last Sunday and can call on the new signings of defensive duo Shaun Kelly and Patrick Kanyuka, as well as forward Cyril Guedjé, who has arrived on loan from Saint Patrick’s Athletic.
Young left-back Colm Murphy is not available as he is struggling with a hamstring injury.
It will be Sligo’s first trip to Limerick’s revamped Market’s Field venue in over 30 years.
In the previous meeting of the sides Rovers were denied a win with a 94th minute Paul O’Conor goal.
The Bit o’Red made four new signings were made this week with Rob Lehane, Tim Clancy, Jason Hughes and Patrick Nzuzi all in contention to make their debuts.
John Russell will again miss the game though it is hoped he may return from his hip flexor problem for next week’s game with Cork City.
Sander Puri picked up a knock in last week’s defeat to St. Pat’s but it is hoped that he will be fit to play, while there are still question marks over the fitness of Regan Donelon (quad) and Kevin Devaney (ankle).
Rovers have no suspension problems for the match.