League Preview: Derry City -v- Cork City

DERRY CITY

Derry City head into Friday’s clash with Cork City on the back of a 2-1 defeat against local rivals Finn Harps in front of a sell out crowd at Finn Park.

After their first defeat to their Northern rivals in 16 years, the Candystripes will be looking to bounce back against a Cork side notoriously difficult to beat when travelling away from home in recent seasons under manager John Caulfield.

The return of striker Rory Patterson after a spell in England with FC United Of Manchester should boost the Candystripes’ chances of coming away with a result from this game. Patterson showed glimpses of his class during the loss to Finn Harps, which included a cool finish by the Strabane man.

CORK CITY

City got their season off to a winning start thanks to two second half goals from Sean Maguire, as they saw off the challenge of Bohemians at Turner’s Cross.

Speaking to the media ahead of the game, City boss John Caulfield said he expects a reaction from the Candystripes: “It was nice to get the win against Bohemians. We found it extremely difficult in the first half, but we came out differently in the second half and, once Maguire got the goal, it changed the game and we played really well after that.”

“We’re well used to travelling; it’s enjoyable in some ways, as you head away the day before and, particularly with a new team, you are trying to gel things together, and sometimes trips like this can help.”

“Guys are chomping at the bit to get going and there is competition for places, which is good. We have a report on Derry where Kenny Shiels has taken over; seemingly it was difficult for them on Friday against Finn Harps with the conditions, but they were trying to play and he is trying to promote a good brand of football.”

“The fact that they lost last week means we are expecting them to come out and have a right cut off us. It’s their first home game and they will be hoping to have a big crowd; Derry are like ourselves, it’s always a good venue to play in and they’re passionate people, so we are looking forward to that.”

“There’s a lot of work still do, but overall you would have to be pleased with the way the first two weeks have gone. The lads have been phenomenal so far, they have a really fantastic attitude but there is still a good bit of work to do.”

On the injury front, John Kavanagh remains sidelined, while Garry Buckley is ruled out with a knee injury but Caulfield hopes to have him back in the squad next week.

Referee: Derek Tomney

MATCH STATS

Cork City have gone 546 minutes without conceding a goal against the Candystripes, a run stretching back to August 2013 when Rory Patterson scored a late consolation as Cork City emerged 4-1 victors.

The Leesiders only lost one game away from home under John Caulfield last season, a 3-0 defeat to Shamrock rovers in Tallaght Stadium.

Derry City have failed to beat Cork City in their last 8 attempts home and away.

BETTING

Derry City 7/2 ; Draw 5/2 ; Cork City 8/11.

PREDICTION

Derry City 0 – 2 Cork City.

Derry City

Injured: None.

Doubtful: None.

Suspended: None.

Cork City

Injured: Garry Buckley, John Kavanagh.

Doubtful: None.

Suspended: None.