City face St Pat's with doubts over five players

Cork City travel to Richmond Park to take on St Patrick's Athletic knowing that they need a victory to stay in touch at the top of the table, kick-off 7.45pm.

City have a number of players rated as doubtful ahead of the game.

Kevin Long and Neal Horgan have returned to training this week, but Horgan is still rated as doubtful, while captain Dan Murray has only a 50-50 chance of being available for the tie.

Greg O’Halloran was substituted in the draw with Sligo having suffered a knock, and he is also a doubt, as is midfielder Stephen O’Donnell who has been suffering from flu.

Boss Paul Doolin said: “It will be a tough game for us. No matter what way you look at it.

"Pat's have a very good squad of players, whereas we are down to the bare bones.

"It’s been tough, but the players have been fantastic and have shown great resilience and great mental strength.

"The run in will be tough, but we will be going up there looking to claim a win and if we could qualify for Europe it would be a fantastic achievement.”

For Saints, Garret ’O Connor (knee), Dave Partridge (hamstring) and Andy Harran (knee) are all out injured.

Jamie Harris resumed training on Thursday but is unlikely to feature in tonight's game.

New managers Pete Mahon said: “It’s been an intense few days for John and myself but it’s good to be back at the coalface.

"We’ve done all we can in a short space of time to prepare for this match.

"While we have to be positive we know that we’re in for a tough game – playing Cork is never easy.

"Cork have had their share of problems this year but Paul Doolin and his players have responded well and they’ve set an example to everyone in the League.”