Athlone Town avoid big guns in FAI Cup draw

Athlone Town have been drawn at home to Wexford in the second round of the FAI Cup.

Athlone's first game after the lengthy Covid-19 enforced break was actually a home game against Wexford, with the Slaneysiders recording a 3-1 win on July 31. Former Athlone player Kaleem Simon scored twice for Wexford in that encounter, with Ronan Manning scoring Athlone's goal.

The sides will now meet again in a cup tie that is due to be played on the week ending August 30.

Due to the reduced timeframe in which to complete the competition, only SSE Airtricity League clubs are competing in this year’s Extra.ie FAI Cup.

Athlone were among the teams which had a bye into the second round, while three clubs had to earn their place in the last 16. Cork City required extra-time to overcome Longford Town, Finn Harps defeated St Patrick's Athletic and Premier Division champions Dundalk beat Waterford.

The pick of the second round ties is Cork City's trip to Tallaght Stadium to face current cup holders Shamrock Rovers.

In their next First Division game, Athlone Town host Drogheda United tomorrow night (Friday) and this will be followed by a trip to Belfield to play UCD on Monday (kick-off for both games is 7.45pm).

Extra.ie FAI Cup - second round draw

UCD v Sligo Rovers

Bray Wanderers v Finn Harps

Bohemians v Cabinteely

Shamrock Rovers v Cork City

Drogheda United v Derry City

Athlone Town v Wexford

Cobh Ramblers v Dundalk

Galway United v Shelbourne