North ends City run

ST PATRICK’S ATHLETIC are through to the semi-finals of the FAI Ford Cup — but only after being given one hell of a scare at Turner’s Cross.

Ultimately, a Danny North goal in the first-half proved the difference between the two sides but Cork City were desperately unlucky not to get back on level terms as, after an especially impressive second-half display, they provided plenty of evidence for the TV cameras that they wouldn’t be at all out of place in the top flight.

And that, clearly, remains the major goal of the season, even with an EA Sports Cup final still to come next weekend. To that end, City manager Tommy Dunne sprang a selection surprise before kick-off, opting to go into battle without regulars Graham Cummins and Davin O’Neill, who were replaced by Vinny Sullivan and Vincent Escude-Candau.