League Preview: Shamrock Rovers -v- Cork City

SHAMROCK ROVERS

Stephen Bradley insists that Shamrock Rovers must be at their best if they are to beat Cork City at Tallaght Stadium on Sunday evening (kick-off is at 6pm).

The Hoops have struggled in recent weeks in the league, FAI Cup and Europe – but their sole focus is now on winning a fourth league title in a row now.

St Patrick’s Athletic are now just a point behind Bradley’s side in second, and the heat is on Rovers in their bid to win another league title.

But Rovers have been here before and will be looking to use their prior experience to their advantage in the coming weeks.

And Bradley said: “We know that nothing but our best is going to be enough to win (against Cork City).

“We need to make sure we take Thursday’s mindset into tomorrow, attacking the game from the first minute, and impose ourselves on the game as soon as possible.

“We know Cork are going to come with a freedom and play so we have to make sure we’re ready for that and take over the game as soon as possible.”

CORK CITY

Relegation battlers Cork City have it all to do if they are to escape a play-off at the end of the season at the expense of either Drogheda United or Sligo Rovers.

The Leesiders are six points behind Drogheda United – and seven behind Sligo Rovers – as they sit in ninth place.

But they have been able to add to their squad in recent days with Ben Worman joining from Cambridge United.

“I’m really looking forward to the opportunity,” he said last week.

“I am at the stage of my career where I want to play as many games as I can, so hopefully I can do that here and show everyone what I am about.

“We want to get out of the position we are in the league, that’s massive for the club. Giving 100% is the minimum requirement for each game and that is what I will be looking to do.

“The fans can expect that from me and I will also be looking to try and create and score a few goals along with that as well.

“I have heard good things about the club and good things about the league.

“Quite a few players have gone over to Ireland and it has been a good opportunity for them so I was excited when the chance arose and I am looking forward to it.”

Referee: Damien MacGraith.

PREDICTION

Shamrock Rovers 3-0 Cork City

Shamrock Rovers

Injured: Trevor Clarke, Neil Farrugia, Lee Grace, Jack Byrne.

Doubtful: None.

Suspended: None.

Cork City

Injured: N/A.

Doubtful: N/A.

Suspended: None.