Preview: Cork City vs Shamrock Rovers

Cork City take on Shamrock Rovers at Turner’s Cross following their comprehensive win over Bray Wanderers last Friday night. Rovers however come on the back of a solid scoreless draw against Drogheda, their third draw in a row.

Joe Gamble returns to the Cork squad having served the second game of a two game ban, while Gareth Farrelly is the only player out, through illness.

In stark contrast, Rovers are missing a host of personnel as Barry Ferguson (neck) joins Shamrock Rovers' lengthy injury list and is a doubt along with Darren Stapleton (thigh) and Danny O’Connor (ankle) who will both face late fitness tests. Dessie Baker (thigh), Eric McGill (knee), Chris Mulhall (cartilage), John Martin (hip), Robbie Creevy (ankle) and Pat Flynn (ankle) are all out.

The first meeting between the two sides this season ended in a one all draw at Tolka Park, with Stephen Rice equalising for Rovers within minutes of George O’Callaghan giving the away side the lead.

Speaking to CorkCityFC.ie City boss Alan Mathews said: “The visit of Shamrock Rovers to Cork is always a big game, and one which is eagerly anticipated by all involved, and I’m sure that tomorrow night’s game will be no different. We met Rovers at Tolka Park earlier in the season in what was a close encounter, and they come to Cork with a strong squad.”

“I was very pleased with the win in Bray. We produced a good performance to come away with the three points, and we know that if we play to our potential that we are capable of beating anyone in this league.”

Rovers boss Pat Scully reckons his side can snatch a point or three though: “It's a tough place to go to but I love games at Turner's Cross. It's a real football ground, there's always a good atmosphere there and Rovers usually bring a sizeable away support.

“Cork City also has some fantastic players, such as Colin Healy and Joe Gamble – but we're building slowly and we're getting better and better over the last few weeks. We'll be up for this.

“Our concentration levels will be very important. And if we can also maintain the kind of performances we've had recently I know that we are capable of getting a result in Turner's Cross.”

Kick off at Turner's Cross, Tuesday May 27th (KO 7.45pm)