Bohemians shot-stopper Brian Murphy is looking forward to a reunion with some of his former team-mates when the Gypsies travel to Oriel Park to face Dundalk on the opening night of the 2009 season.

New Dundalk boss Sean Connor, who was in charge of Bohs for the 2007 season, has taken several ex-Bohs players to Oriel Park as he looks to re-establish the Lilywhites as a top tier team. Among his signings have been Darren Mansaram, Harpal Singh and Chris Turner.

“It will be an interesting game, especially as they have a few ex-Bohs lads playing with them", said Murphy. "They are obviously just back up in the Premier and I’m sure they’ll be looking to take the champion’s scalps in the first match. It’s not just about the first game though, there are 36 matches and each is as important as the last.

"There were no easy games last year but with the division going down to ten teams it will be even more intense this season. We’re happy with how pre-season has gone, Pat [Fenlon] has managed to bring in a few new players and the squad is really taking shape, so we’re looking forward to it getting started.”