City win cup under cloud of uncertainty

CORK CITY’S victory in yesterday’s FAI Cup final was tempered by the almost certain departure of manager Damien Richardson.

Last night’s 1-0 win in dreadful conditions at the RDS was barely over when Richardson was once more answering questions about his future with the Rebels.

He could give no official confirmation only saying the decision rested with the club’s board, but he admitted his interpretation of the situation was that he had managed Cork City for the last time.

“When different people take over the club they have their opinions of the way the club should go,” he said. “But today is not about me, it is all about the players.”

Last night’s victory comes following an acrimonious week for the club with players disaffected over contract negotiations.

“I asked the players to realign their thoughts and they did that,” Richardson said last night. “There are players who are out of contract who put those aside for the value of the club.”

However, the players had clearly still got the contracts issues firmly at the front of their minds.

Captain Dan Murray said it was a great feeling to win the cup and was hopefully the start of good things to come.

However, he added: “It is two fingers up to the board and whoever is running the club.

“This is for ourselves and we are going to enjoy it tonight.”

The players also expressed their wish that Richardson be kept on.

Last night’s victory came courtesy of a diving header from striker Denis Behan. The goalscorer said afterwards: “I’m delighted we’ve won the cup. It helps erase the memories of two years ago when we were beaten by Drogheda United.

“Playing conditions were difficult out there, particularly when there was a swirling wind and spots of rain. But the RDS pitch was good and we knew that our football abilities would show in the second half.”