City look to close gap with tricky tie in Sligo

Cork City boss Tommy Dunne is under no illusions as to the task that faces his side when they travel to the North-West tomorrow for the clash with Premier Division leaders Sligo Rovers at the Showgrounds (7pm).

“This will be a tough game for us as Sligo are very much an in-form side. If we can get something out of this game, it would be a great result,” said Dunne.

No decision on his starting line-up will be made until the last minute with Daryl Horgan, Dan Murray, Gearóid Morrissey, Davin O’Neill and Kalen Spillane facing late fitness tests.

Sligo, who lost 3-1 to Spartak Trnava in their second round Europa League tie in Slovakia on Thursday, may have one eye on the return game at the Showgrounds next Thursday.

Manager Ian Baraclough must plan without the suspended Iarfhlaith Davoren but insists his team must first concentrate on their chase for the title.

Bottom placed UCD will be hoping to ease their relegation worries when they host to third-placed St Patrick’s Athletic at the Belfield Bowl tomorrow (3pm).

Manager Martin Russell must plan without the injured Chris Mulhall, Sean Russell, Ger Barron, Graham Rusk and Cillian Morrisson.

“St Pat’s will be on a high after that European result. But as we have shown earlier in the season, we are capable of results against any team in this division,” said Russell.

St Pat’s were delighted after their 1-1 draw with Siroki Brijeg in the Europa League second round tie in Bosnia on Thursday. Boss Liam Buckley will be without suspended skipper Connor Kenna, but otherwise it will be the same panel as travelled to Bosnia.