League Preview: Longford Town -v- Cork City

LONGFORD TOWN

It has been a frustrating campaign for the Midlanders so far as they prepare to take on Cork City on Saturday at 7.30pm.

They have seen their last two games postponed due to the weather and currently lie bottom of the table.    

They will be eager to put right the loss to Finn Harps on the opening weekend. Despite a Chris Lyons double within the first quarter of an hour, the Donegal men drew themselves level before landing a winner in injury time.   

The home side are expected to have a fully fit squad for this game.

CORK CITY

Meanwhile it is a three games unbeaten start for the visitors who will travel in optimistic mood.

The latest win came last weekend at home to UCD as Cian Coleman’s header gave them another three points.

Tim Clancy was relieved at the end as the away side carved out a number of opportunities but failed to make them count. A red card for Barry Coffey in injury time added to his frustration.  

Tim Clancy is aware Longford’s league position is misleading: “I know a lot of them from the league over the past few years and they have a lot of quality. Again, they are coming in from a two week break which I don’t know will be a help or a hinderance to them. We will have to be prepared in the best way we can and hopefully it will be enough to claim the three points.”

Sean Murray was talking up the positives meanwhile: “We can definitely play better. We have only conceded one goal so far which is great for any team. Jack has been great so far, but we just need to back him which I’m sure we can do”.

Barry Coffey will serve the first of his three-match ban. The likes of Malik Dijksteel, Darragh Crowley and Cian Bargary are back in training but might not be ready to start.

Referee: Jason Moore.

MATCH STATS

Longford proved to be sticky opposition for Cork City in all four games in 2022.

Both games at Bishopsgate ended in draws, whilst a 4-1 win at Turners Cross flattered the home side.  

BETTING

Longford Town 3/1, Draw 11/4, Cork City 7/10

PREDICTION

Longford Town 0-2 Cork City

Longford Town

Injured: N/A

Doubtful: N/A

Suspended: None.

Cork City

Injured: Matthew Kiernan, Conor Drinan.

Doubtful: Greg Bolger, Malik Dijksteel, Darragh Crowley, Cian Bargary.

Suspended: Barry Coffey