16 June 2017
By Bryan Smyth
bryan@TheCork.ie
Cork City FC return to league action after the mid-season break, as they welcome Limerick to Turner’s Cross.
City have won their last four league games, since drawing 1-1 away to Galway United just over a month ago, and have 100% record at home in the league this season. Their last home fixture saw them come from a goal down to beat Shamrock Rovers 4-1.
The visitors come into the game with two wins, two losses and one draw in their last five. Their last game before the break was a 5-3 home win against Bray Wanderers, while their last away fixture resulted in a 3-2 defeat away to Finn Harps.
The sides have met twice already this season, once in the league and once in the EA Sports Cup. Both fixtures took place at the Market’s Field and both resulted in 3-0 wins for City.
Speaking to the media ahead of the game, John Caulfield said: “Limerick have some very good players and they have a very good team. We know on Friday night that Limerick will come down with the belief that they are going to beat us and we have to be on our guard.”
“If you want challenge for trophies and compete in Europe, you need fellas who can be eight out of ten every week, and thankfully we are at a stage now where we feel that, every week, they are consistent and that gives you a right chance.”
“We have to make sure that we can give a performance like the one we put in against Dundalk, and if we can play at that level and intensity, then I will be very happy. If we don’t, or we switch off, then it will be a tricky match for us. It is crucial that we keep the momentum going and that we are prepared for Friday night.”
After picking up a knock to his ankle on Monday, Ryan Delaney is regarded as extremely doubtful, while there is also a concern over the availability of Steven Beattie.
Injury News: Ryan Delaney, Steven Beattie
Suspensions: None
Last game: Cork City 4-2 Wilton United (AET- Munster Senior Cup Final)
Last league game: Dundalk 0-3 Cork City
Last meeting: Limerick 0-3 Cork City
League Form (most recent game first): W W W W D W
