Tale of two Citys as Caroline flies Candystripes flag in Cork

CAROLINE O’BYRNE is a huge City supporter. Sadly for her, that love of Derry is frowned upon in Cork ahead of the eircom Premier Division title decider.

Ironically, Caroline’s father Eddie Davis is something of a football legend in both towns.

“In 1937/38 he represented Cork Celtic. They used to train at Turner’s Cross but played all their games at the Mardyke on Sundays,” his daughter recalls. “From there he moved to Wolves and to Southend but when war broke out he moved back to play with Derry and Coleraine. He is now 86, hale and hearty and looking forward to the game tomorrow night.”

Whether his daughter is enjoying the build-up as much as a moot point.

Marriage to a Corkman and living in a house of City fans, Cork that is, has made life interesting this week.

“The banter is pretty crazy. I’m the only Derry City supporter in the house. My husband, John, and six of the kids are supporting Cork but the eldest fellow, Andrew, is very much sitting on the fence. But even apart from this game, the boys are huge Cork City fans and would go to most of the matches. So that all adds to the passion.

“I have a ticket for Turner’s Cross and will hopefully going with John and the boys. It would be great if Derry win for the family up at home and down here the lads will be listening about it for ever more.

“Of course if Cork win I’ll have to do the listening.”