Waterford bid to level the score

WATERFORD'S reserve goalkeeper, Patrick Holden, will be given his chance to step-up the competition for places in Waterford's Premier Division side when they play Cork City in the quarter-final of the League Cup at Turner's Cross (7.30 pm) tonight.

Holden was told yesterday by manager Jimmy McGeough that he would be given his chance because of the enforced absence of Dan Connor, who is suffering from a virus. Connor played for Ireland's U-21 team last week but McGeough is confident his absence will not hinder Waterford.

“Patrick Holden has earned his chance” said McGeough. “He played in our U-21 team who beat Limerick 2-0 on Saturday and he is well able to step into the first team.”

Cork City will also make some changes to their regular team with Kevin Murray and Neal Horgan certain to be given a start. Both have been in manager Pat Dolan's thoughts for different reasons.

Murray was in the Cork team that won the U-21 National League last season and has made several substitute appearances for Cork's first team and Dolan explained: “He's been very impressive, doing everything I've asked.

“He started against Kerry in the League Cup and played in midfield, then, and in several League matches since. But he can also play at centre-back and I've yet to decide what position he will occupy against Waterford.”

Neal Horgan was an ever present last year but has scarcely seen any action this season. Said Dolan: “He's been under a lot of pressure from exams while studying in Dublin. But now he's finished with them and is living in Cork again. I regard him as one of the best defenders in the League and he deserves a chance now.”

Cork won the Munster Cup final against Waterford in their most recent clash - “Denis Behan scored a fabulous goal from a free,” said McGeough, “it really was special and deserved to win a Cup final so no complaints from us.

“Our matches against Cork always produce a battle and they are always very close so we're looking forward to it. But Cork are one up on us this season and we are determined to level the score in this match.”