Michael O'Neill leads his Shamrock Rovers team into a derby against Bohemians for the first time and he has promised that his players will be ready for battle.

The new Hoops boss has seen the passion of the club's supporters, especially during last week's emotional opening of the Tallaght Stadium, but tonight will see him take part in the Dublin derby for the first time.  

“This is as big a game as we’re likely to face all season, so we’re relishing the opportunity to play the champions on their own patch. The fact that it’s Rovers-Bohs makes it even better," he said.

“I’m obviously aware of the rivalry between the two sets of supporters, but for the players and myself it’s about the challenges that the game itself will provide. We’ll be up for it.

“We’ll be going into this game in good shape. We’re unbeaten, and it’s a good time for us to go to Dalymount and see what progression we’ve made so far this season.

"And we’ll go to there with no fear - the players will be up for it. We have players who understand the nature of this game, and players who are delighted to be at Rovers.

“The likes of Shane Robinson, Stephen Bradley, they’re delighted to get the chance to play for Shamrock Rovers. For Shane it’s the second time around and he relishes the opportunity.

“Then there are players such as Ollie Cahill. Ollie’s played at the top level in this league for a number of years. He has experienced everything the game has to offer.

“And now he’s delighted that, in the latter stages of his career, he’s playing at Shamrock Rovers. He was excellent against Sligo Rovers and I’d expect the same against Bohemians.”