Rico urges calm as Cork look to storm through Ekranas

Cork manager Damien Richardson is urging his players to keep calm as they look to progress in the UEFA Cup tonight.

The eircom League Premier Division leaders hold a 2-0 advantage against Lithuanian top dogs Ekranas going into the return at Turner's Cross and Richardson believes the key is in keeping the players’ feet on the ground.

Richardson added: “There are always nerves of expectation for every match - whether you are two goals ahead, defending a lead or chasing a match.

“It is how you cope with the nerves which is the difference and whether you can perform while keeping in control of your nerves.

“Ekranas are a very good side, they are about 15 points ahead of Kaunas and they played well against Liverpool [in the Champions League].

“I have tried to do everything normal in training, we always train a day before the game at match-time.”

Richardson believes glory against Ekranas will give his players a great chance of meeting a European heavyweight this season,

The manager understands the club need the money generated from progressing in the tournament, but he places greater emphasis on the chance his players have of proving their class.

“The financial rewards are a bonus but when you are in a tie like this it is about the players having a chance of achieving something special,” he said.

“We chartered a plane for the first leg, and with the other costs we should break even if we get through, and maybe the draw for the next round would be kinder on us for travelling, along with the prize money from UEFA.

“But the real achievement is if the team win, the most important thing that will come from a win – rather than money – is the confidence it will give the team, supporters and the town. We want to be a substantial team.

“We are realistic and know we won’t win the trophy, but we want as much glory as possible.

“There are big teams in the next round and very big boys in the following round.”