City aim for top spot

Damien Richardson wants to extend Cork City’s five-match unbeaten record against Shelbourne at Turner’s Cross tonight (ko 8pm).

Since Rico set foot back on Leeside, Cork have lost just once in six matches to the Reds but tonight’s televised clash is the biggest game of the season for both sides.

Champions Cork can go top for the first time this season if they win and Richardson is relishing that prospect.

“This is what football is all about for me. We want to be playing and competing in all the big games and this is yet another one for Cork City.

“I think the meetings of Cork and Shels have become the highlights of the domestic season in recent years and there will be a lot of pride at stake again tonight.

“We are in a nice position sitting in there in the chasing pack and the secret to retaining our title will be all about our timing this year.

“I am happy where we are but I’d be even happier if we could repeat our Setanta Cup win of last month in what is a big week for us,” he added.

Cork have Danny Murphy suspended so Billy Woods looks set to come in at left-back.

Shelbourne will be without midfielders Joseph Ndo and Jim Crawford, centre-half Jamie Harris and with Alan Moore (ankle ligaments) facing a late fitness test.

The kick-off at the Cross is 8pm and the game is live on Setanta television.

Article courtesy of the Evening Echo