League Preview: UCD -v- Cork City

UCD

League leaders UCD host recently relegated Cork City at the UCD Bowl on Friday evening (kick-off is at 7.45pm).

The Students come into game fresh off the back of a dramatic 3-2 home league win over Treaty United.

UCD had in fact fallen behind by two goals in the first-half last weekend, before they found a way back into the game just before the break, halving the deficit.

And they would come from behind to secure the three points in the second-half, with Sean Brennan and Harvey O’Brien getting on the scoresheet.

Despite not scoring last weekend, Colm Whelan impressed suitably against Treaty United – as he has done already this season.

UCD are yet to issue team news at time of print, but Jack Keaney and Michael Gallagher are expected to be doubts having missed out on previous games.

CORK CITY

Following their resounding 5-0 win over Wexford last weekend, Cork City visit an in-form UCD at the UCD Bowl on Friday night.

The result was just what the Leesiders were looking for after they went on a wretched winless streak that saw them lose any sort of early season momentum they had.

“It was a great team performance last week, and we got some good goals,” Cork boss Colin Healy said.

“There’s confidence around the training ground at the moment ahead of what will be another very difficult game on Friday against UCD.

“They’re a good side. It’s a big pitch up there, and they’ve got a good way of playing. We’ve had a look at videos of their games.

“The system they play allows them to play good football. It’s going to be a difficult game, but a good game. We’re looking forward to it and we’ll have our boys ready.”

In terms of team news for City, George Heaven, Cory Galvin and Steven Beattie are still out, but Gearóid Morrissey has returned to training and may be involved.

Referee: Oliver Moran.

MATCH STATS

UCD have not played Cork City in a First Division game before – with the last time the sides met being in October 2019 at Turner’s Cross.

Cork City have only lost to UCD four times since 2008 – and have won 12 times in that 16-game period.

Andy Myler’s Students are the highest scoring side in the First Division this season, scoring 21 goals in their 7 league games so far.

BETTING

UCD 3/4; Draw 12/5; Cork City 3/1.

PREDICTION

UCD 3 - 0 Cork City

UCD

Injured: N/A.

Doubtful: N/A.

Suspended: None.

Cork City

Injured: George Heaven, Steven Beattie, Cory Galvin.

Doubtful: Gearoid Morrissey.

Suspended: None.