Credit:
Cork City FC -v- Bray Wanderers AFC
- Alan Smith
- Thu, Mar 26 2009
Cork City and Bray Wanderers both go in search of their opening win of the season when they meet at Turner's Cross on Friday night (kick-off 7.45pm). However, Bray will have to overcome their Leeside bogey if they are to emerge with full points having won just once at Cork in 16 attempts.
Draw specialists
Last year, the County Wicklow side failed to score against Cork and took just one point from three meetings. This season, the Seagulls have drawn their three games thus far, the latest of those in a cracking game against Galway United last weekend, where they came from behind twice – while also missing a penalty late on to win the game - to draw 2-2. "It was a good performance last week by a young team and the senior professionals showed their worth the way they talked the young lads through what was a tough game," said Gormley afterwards.
Derry disaster
Cork, meanwhile, lost to Derry City after conceding twice in added time. With just one point from nine, Paul Doolin was disappointed with his side’s inability to close out the game. “We have to get it into our heads that no matter how well we play, we cannot concede late goals," he said. "There is no mystery other than defending properly, and we have to concentrate and eradicate these mistakes.”
'Tough' tie
A win is a must for the home side but Doolin believes it will be a tough game. “Bray are a team who have always proved tough opponents for any team in the league," the former Drogheda United boss said. "They claimed a draw here last season and I believe they will put it up to us again." Gormley also believes it will be a tight game but will be satisfied once his inexperienced team give it their all. "It will be tough in Cork," he said. "It’s a tough place to go to even with a fully fit squad. It will be a big ask for a young side but the players will give 100 per cent and that is all you can ask for".
Duo depleted
Both sides go into the game severely weakened. Cork will be without Pat Sullivan and Shane Duggan who are suspended for an accumulation of bookings last season. Robert Mezeckis is still nursing an ankle injury, while Stephen O’Donnell remains a long-term absentee for the Leesiders. Bray will be without Darren Forsyth and Paddy Kavanagh who picked up injuries last week. Chris Deans will miss out due to work commitments, while Gormley is also waiting on the fitness of John Flood and Gareth Coughlan.
extratime.ie prediction: Cork are 8/15 favourites with the bookmakers to take the three points, the draw is priced up at 5/2 while Bray are 9/2 to take the maximum haul back up the N8. Cork should shade it. 1-0.
About Alan Smith
Alan Smith works as a sub-editor for the Guardian newspaper in London. Originally from Cork, he freelances for several other newspapers and websites. Follow him on twitter @alansmith90.