League Preview: Cork City -v- Bohemians

CORK CITY

While Bohemians may be starting their 2016 campaign this Friday night, Cork City already have the first trophy that was up for grabs under their belt, as they defeated last season’s league and cup winners Dundalk for the first time in over 10 attempts 2-0.

The Leesiders new signings were all on display last weekend and they will be looking to get their league campaign off to a similar winning start, and despite last week’s victory over the Lilywhites, manager John Caulfield, speaking to CorkCityFC.ie, said he isn’t getting too carried away.

“The fact that we beat Dundalk was no harm, but I don't want to make too much of it,” said Caulfield about the game which kick’s off at 7.45pm and is live on RTE2.

“The league starts Friday night. We've a tough opening and we are looking to see if we can get off to a good start. If you start well and get momentum, it keeps you up there.”

City will be without John Kavanagh, who is still out with injury after these two sides played each other back in July, and Garry Buckley, who will be returning to action next weekend.

BOHEMIANS

The Gypsies have made three signings which may signal their intent for a title push this season, with Ayman Ben Mohamed, Kurtis Byrne and Adam Evans all joining the Phibsborough side over the winter break.

Bohs boss Keith Long also managed to hold onto the services of his top scorer last season Ismahil Akinade, after the 22-year-old striker joined the Dalymount Park outfit half way through the season.

Speaking to BohemiansFC.com, the ex-Athlone manager said he is going to tell his players to embrace the occasion of playing in front of the big crowd expected in Turners Cross.

“There will be a big, partisan crowd,” siad Long, “but that's what you want. Players want to play in front of full stadiums, in front of a vocal and intimidating atmosphere.

“We know it's going to be a big challenge. It's up to our players to rise to that and to enjoy the occasion. They need to embrace it and not be afraid to express themselves."

The away side will be coming into the match with a clean bit of health, having escaped pre-season without any major injuries.

Referee: Neil Doyle

MATCH STATS

The Leesiders picked up a total of seven points from this fixture last season, putting six goals passed Dean Delany in the process.

In the 67 games between the sides throughout their history, Cork City have won 24, Bohs have won 25 and there has been 18 draws.

The last time these sides played against each other in Turner’s Cross it finished 4-0 to the hosts. A brace from Mark O’Sullivan, a penalty from Colin Healy and ex-U19 striker Danny Morrissey rounded off the scoring.

BETTING

Cork City 4/7; Draw 13/5; Bohemians 5/1.

PREDICTION

Cork City 2-1 Bohemians

Cork City

Injured: John Kavanagh, Garry Buckley.

Doubtful: None.

Suspended: None.

Bohemians

Injured: None.

Doubtful: None.

Suspended: None.