Dundalk bid to grasp opportunity to close on Cork

League of Ireland preview: Should they prevail against Bray Wanderers at the Carlisle Grounds tonight, Dundalk can at least create the temporary illusion of a two-horse title race at the top of the SSE Airtricity League Premier Division.

Victory for the defending champions would cut Cork City’s lead to 12 points but, of course, the Leesiders — who along with Shamrock Rovers and Derry have been in European action this week — would still have two games in hand with which to restore, if they can, their current 18-point advantage.

Still, for their visit to third-placed Bray, the Lilywhites will feel confident about closing the gap a little on the back of an impressive run since the mid-season break.