Chairman backs Dolan amid reports of dressingroom unrest

CORK CITY chairman Brian Lennox yesterday dismissed rumours that manager Pat Dolan’s job was at risk after their eircom Premier Division defeat by Bohemians.

Cork’s loss at Dalymount Park on Friday night meant they have won just one of their last six matches and have slipped to fifth position , 12 points behind Shelbourne.

Cork’s indifferent run since their exciting InterToto Cup campaign and reports of unhappiness in the dressingroom led to speculation the manager’s position was under threat.

Lennox has expressed his support for Dolan but has called a meeting of the entire staff of the club for tonight.

Mr Lennox said: “When I took over this club three years ago I had a four-year plan and we are still working to that blueprint. I support Pat Dolan, we are a partnership. We have made progress and a lot of things are happening, off the pitch as well as on it.”

Dolan countered suggestions that results had been affected by stresses within the dressing-room. “I have never been at a football club where everybody is happy,” he said.

“I am very proud to be manager of this club. As far as I am concerned we are the biggest club in the country, we have the best support and we want to be the best. That means changes are necessary and not everybody is comfortable with change.”

Meanwhile, Shelbourne can open up a five point lead with victory over St. Pat’s at Tolka Park tonight.

With David Crawley suspended, Pat Fenlon is likely to switch Dave Rogers to left-back, with Kevin Doherty partnering Jamie Harris in the centre of defence.

Midfielders Stuart Byrne and Alan Moore, suspended for the 2-2 UEFA Cup draw with Lille, both return.