City bidding to go second with win over UCD

CORK CITY travel to Belfield to take on UCD tonight knowing a win will see them into second place in the eircom Premier Division as they look to stretch their 11-game unbeaten run (kick off 7.45pm).

A fine 1-0 win over Shamrock Rovers last Friday night has lifted the Rebel Army level on points with the Hoops, who occupy second place by virtue of goal difference.

Manager Damien Richardson has virtually a full strength side to choose from with Darragh Ryan (pelvic injury) the only confirmed absentee, although John O’Flynn is recovering from a dead leg but is expected to play.

“It is imperative after a fine win on Friday night against Shamrock Rovers that we follow it up with a good performance and a good result. The expectation and desire must be there for us to achieve the three points which would lift us into second place,” said Richardson.

UCD will once again be without Paul Crowley, who is out for the remainder of the season, and Shane Fitzgerald for tonight’s game.

The Students came through Friday’s game with Bray Wanderers without suffering any further injuries but UCD will probably field a different side for the Cork game.

“We’re going to make a couple of changes,” said boss Pete Mahon.

“We’ll bring in a few players that haven’t had as much of a chance (as others) to play in the first team.”

Mahon said the Students’ heavy schedule had affected his preparations for tonight’s game.

“Training has been limited, the sessions have been more about recovering than anything else,” he said. “Cork City are the form team in the league at the moment so this game will be a big test for us.”