Cork City boss John Caulfield shuffles pack for Longford Town clash

John Caulfield has vowed to make changes for tonight’s SSE Airtricity Premier Division tie at home to Longford Town after his Cork City side suffered a 1-0 defeat at Derry City on Friday.

Greg Bolger is definitely out, having been sent off at the Brandywell, while Gavin Holohan’s groin strain which forced him off early in the second-half will likely keep him sidelined at Turner’s Cross (7.45pm). Colin Healy could come in for his first start of the campaign.

“Everyone knows Friday night’s performance was unacceptable, and we need to be on our game against Longford to get a result,” warned the City boss.

“There are lots of guys available, some of them were on the bench and they’re disappointed they haven’t got a run yet, so this is an opportunity for some of them.”

On the threat of Longford, who, like City lost on Friday after enjoying an opening day win, Caulfield says: “Longford went to the FAI Cup semi-finals last year. They have a strong squad, will be tight and try hit us on the counter.

“We have to be ready from the start and there are no excuses.”

Town boss Tony Cousins will be without Conor Powell through suspension.

Elsewhere, early table-toppers Galway United make the short trip to Sligo Rovers intent on maintaining their perfect start.

“Sligo haven’t picked up any points yet but they’ve had two tough games against Shamrock Rovers and Bohemians,” noted Galway boss Tommy Dunne, who will have Alex Byrne back.

“They’re a strong outfit but we have belief and confidence we can continue our run.”

Panic hasn’t set in for new Sligo manager Dave Robertson despite their poor start.

“We won’t read into things too much because it’s too early in the season for that. Things won’t pan out really until games seven and eight and I think the league then starts to tell a story.”

Champions Dundalk could give starts to Stephen McDonnell and Brian Gartland for the visit to Wexford Youths (8pm). Stephen Kenny’s outfit have also accrued a maximum six-point haul from the opening two games.

In the other fixtures of tonight’s full programme, Finn Harps entertain Shamrock Rovers (8pm) while Bray Wanderers welcome Derry City to the Carlisle Grounds, and St Patrick’s Athletic and Bohemians meet at Inchicore (both 7.45pm).