St Patrick's Athletic v Shamrock Rovers: A goal on his debut has completed the transformation of Robbie Doyle from unloved Gypsy to revered saint.

The 22-year-old former youth international ended an unhappy season at Bohemians to sign for St Patrick's Athletic last week and announced his return to Inchicore with the second goal in a 2-1 win over Waterford United.

"As a striker you are always looking for your first goal to come early when you come to a new club," said Doyle. "You can't really wish for any better than for it to come in your first game.

"Thank God, I think I've made the right decision. I'm enjoying every minute of it at Pat's."

"It was important that Robbie scored because it will do his confidence no harm," said manager John McDonnell. "He can build on it from there. Brendan Markey (another new signing) also did well up front . . . They've set the standard and they've got to keep to that standard now."

St Patrick's go for what would be only their third home win of the season against tenants Shamrock Rovers tonight.

"The confidence is always a bit low when you're not winning games, but we're above St Pat's in the league and we'd like it to stay that way," said Rovers manager Liam Buckley, whose side has lost its last three league games.

St Patrick's are forced into a change in midfield due to Keith Fahey's suspension.

Rovers must reshuffle their defence as left back Keith Doyle is banned and right-back Trevor Croly is nursing a knee injury.