President's Cup Final Preview: Cork City -v- Dundalk

CORK CITY

The Long wait for League of Ireland football is over and new domestic campaign gets under way on Saturday, when Cork City host League and Cup holders Dundalk, in the Presidents Cup Final at Turners Cross.

John Caulfield has made a number of good signings during the winter, with Greg Bolger, Kenny Browne, Stephen Dooley, Ian Turner, Gearoid Morrissey, Eoghan O’Connell and ex-Dundalk man Sean Maguire all eager to make an instant impact on Leeside. Cork will more than likely admit that Dundalk would be the favourites for the league this season and they will be more than fired up to lay down an early marker for the season ahead.

Speaking ahead of the clash, John Caulfield revealed that he was hoping that his off-season efforts to improve his squad will see them finally leapfrog Dundalk in 2016.

“There’s no doubt that Dundalk have been the best team for some time now beating us in the Cup final and winning the league title twice and we’d hope to change that this season. We have strengthened in key areas of the park and we have good cover for every position now.”

Ahead of the game, John Kavanagh is going to miss out on the game.  While Steven Beattie, Kevin O’Connor and Mark O’Sullivan are carrying knocks and will be assessed closer to kick off.

DUNDALK

Dundalk will be keen to continue their spate of recent domination, when they make the visit to Turners Cross for the Presidents Cup Final on Saturday afternoon.

There has been plenty of change at Dundalk in the off season, with star man last year Richie Towell departing these shores for the opportunity to play for Brighton.

They have bought in former UCD player Robbie Benson and Paddy McEleney from Derry City, one of the top players in the League of Ireland on his day.

Stephen Kenny’s side will be targeting their 3rd title in a row and they will take some stopping again this season according to many. Speaking ahead of their visit to Leeside, Kenny described how Dundalk have set their standards high again.  

“Of course it will be difficult to motivate the team again. Dundalk have had loads of great teams but there’s obviously a reason why they never retained the trophy in their history. We focus on making sure that we prepare well but I’m very fortunate in the group of players that I have; I am blessed in that regard. Their attitude is outstanding."

Ciaran O’Connor is the only definite absentee for The Lilywhites.

Referee: Tom Connolly

MATCH STATS

Dundalk had the better of the games between the sides last season, including winning the 2015 FAI Cup final at the Aviva Stadium.

Dundalk won the President’s Cup Final last year, beating St Patrick’s Athletic in the decider 2-1.

Cork City’s new signing, Sean Maguire was with Dundalk for a period during the 2015 season.

BETTING

Cork City 2/1; Draw 21/10; Dundalk 29/10.

PREDICTION

Cork City 2-1 Dundalk.

Cork City

Injured: John Kavanagh.

Doubtful: Steven Beattie, Kevin O’Connor and Mark O’Sullivan.

Suspended: None.

Dundalk

Injured: Ciaran O’Connor.

Doubtful: None.

Suspended: None.