'It’s important Cork City are back in the Premier': Stephen Kenny relishing Turner's Cross clash

St. Patrick's Athletic manager Stephen Kenny. Pic: Andrew Conan/Inpho

Stephen Kenny is certain that the absence of Cork City’s Seáni Maguire and Ruairi Keating won’t ease the pressure his St Patrick’s Athletic face in Friday’s fixture at Turner’s Cross.

City’s first-choice strikeforce were brought back to the club midway through the First Division title campaign but are both sidelined, with former Saint Keating ruled out for the season. 

Captain Greg Bolger is also unavailable due to injury.

It’s second from top against second bottom within a 10-team league, but the former Ireland boss is expecting a raucous atmosphere to greet the Dubliners on Leeside.

“When Cork were in the First Division last year, they were a massive loss to the Premier because it’s a club with great history,” he said on the eve of the game.

“They’ve been involved at the top end of the table for several decades and are one of the best-supported clubs in the country.

“It’s important they’re back in the Premier Division and it should be a really good game.

Keating sustained his ruptured Achilles during last Friday’s 2-1 defeat at Derry City. It was the fifth game of their eight this season that a lead was squandered, costing them a cumulative 12 points from winning positions.

“Cork played very well at the Ryan McBride Brandywell,” noted Kenny. “They’re unbeaten at home this season and we’re expecting a really tough game.

“Cork is a passionate venue with passionate supporters. Everything we get we’ll have to earn. Yes, they have some attacking players missing through injury, but they also have some top-class players.” 

Saints will have around 400 fans in the St Anne’s End cheering them on.

“After travelling to Galway and getting nothing, we got goals in the 89th and 92nd minute to win against Waterford with a dramatic finale,” said Kenny, relieved to have Seán Hoare, Kian Leavy and Jamie Lennon returning from injury recently.

“When the supporters feel that moment, it suddenly becomes worthwhile. Cork is a good distance so to be bringing that amount of supporters is terrific. 

"We’re privileged to have our home games absolutely full and we appreciate the travelling support.”