Eddie Gormley believes the visit of Shamrock Rovers to the Carlisle Grounds provides the perfect start to the 2009 season. The Bray Wanderers boss is looking forward to beginning the new season in front of a big crowd and a great atmosphere.

Considering that it is ten years since Bray and Rovers last played out a scoreless draw, fans who flock to the Carlisle Grounds on Friday night (kick-off 7.45pm) can be confident of a few goals to kick-off the 2009 season.

Rovers have lost on their last three outings to the Carlisle Grounds and new Hoops boss Michael O'Neill will be desperate to end that run in what will be his first competitive match in charge of Rovers.

Speaking ahead of the game, Gormley said that he was confident that his players could put in a good showing in 2009.

"I realise it will be a difficult season for us and other sides, but I'm looking forward to getting the ball rolling," he said. "I am happy that I have an honest bunch of players who will give me 100% and if we can get good performances week in week out we should be o.k. Its a nice game to start off with,there should be a big crowd and a good atmosphere and everybody here is looking forward to it".