Cork face tough trip to Heary’s Sligo in opener

Sligo Rovers manager Owen Heary has targeted an opening day victory over Cork City on the opening weekend of the 2015 SSE Airtricity League Premier Division season.

The fixture list for the upcoming campaign was announced yesterday and John Caulfield’s men start with a trip west on March 7 before hosting Munster rivals Limerick on March 13, and another tough away day against Shamrock Rovers a week later.

Heary is determined to ensure City’s bid to go one better than last season gets off to the worst possible start.

“It will definitely be a big test for us and a tough game but at least we are at home,” the Sligo boss said. “They had a great season last year. It is the type of game that we want to be winning if we are going to have a successful year. It’s important that we prepare for the game properly and we are looking forward to it already.”

Champions Dundalk begin their title defence against First Division champions Longford Town at Oriel Park, before a trip to Derry City and a home clash with St Pat’s.

Limerick’s first game at Markets Field since 1984 will see them face Bohemians while Shamrock Rovers begin their campaign with a Dublin derby against St Pat’s.