City primed for European adventure

Cork City will face Icelandic opposition for the first time in their history in tomorrow’s Intertoto Cup game against Valur in Reykjavik.

Damien Richardson’s side have a few injury concerns going into the game with Colm Carroll missing with a cruciate injury and Brian O’Callaghan definitely out with a groin strain.

The “FIFA Two” of Gareth Farrelly and Colin Healy must wait a little longer before making their debuts for the club.

Apart from that, Richardson has a full squad to choose from, and he is looking forward to another European campaign.

“There is a huge sense of anticipation amongst all here at the club as we enter another European campaign,” said the City boss.

“There is a great sense of the unknown about our opposition, however we now know enough about playing in Europe to know that any team we face at this level will present us with a stern challenge, and it is up to us to perform.

“We know that we must play to our potential, and that we have to give a performance of maximum effort and quality if we are to get the required result.”

City were beaten 3-0 by Red Star Belgrade in their last European game, while their last Intertoto fixture ended in a very respectable 1-1 draw with French side Nantes.