Derry City to begin defence of FAI Cup against First Division Athlone

Derry City will begin the defence of their FAI Cup with a home tie against First Division side Athlone Town.

The Candystripes won the trophy for the sixth time last November when goals from Jamie McGonigle, Cameron McJannet (2) and Jordan McEneff sealed a 4-0 win over Shelbourne on a memorable day out at the Aviva Stadium.

The club have never managed to retain the trophy since entering the League of Ireland in 1985, which will give Ruaidhri Higgins and his players an added incentive this year. 

City will be strong favourites against a team currently in third place in the First Division.

Defender Mark Connolly said retaining the trophy is a priority.

"Form recently hasn't been what we would like it to be, but we have good people at the club to turn it around. The Cup is a nice distraction from the league and a home tie is something to look forward to. Bringing the cup back to Derry last year was incredible, so it gives you that extra push to go and do it again."

The remainder of the first round draw is as follows: 

Galway United vs. Bangor Celtic

Dundalk vs. Shamrock Rovers

Bohemians vs. Shelbourne

Portlaoise vs. Skerries Town

Kerry FC vs. Ringmahon Rangers

Treaty United vs. Cork City

Drogheda United vs. Sligo Rovers

Cockhill Celtic vs. Bray Wanderers

Lucan United vs. St. Patrick's CYFC

Gorey Rangers vs. Rockmount

Derry City vs. Athlone Town

Kilbarrack United vs. Finn Harps

Wexford vs. Avondale United

St. Michael's AFC vs. Waterford

Longford Town vs. St. Patrick's Athletic

UCD vs. Cobh Ramblers

The ties will played on the weekend of July 23rd.