League Preview: Longford Town -v- Cork City

LONGFORD TOWN

Longford finally get their chance to kick off their season as the welcome Cork City to the midlands on Saturday (kick-off 7.30pm).

They are the last side to commence after a home tie with Cobh Ramblers was called off due to an unplayable pitch.

They will be eager to put behind the memories of last season’s relegation and return to the Premier Division. It was a tough campaign which ultimately saw them cast adrift at the bottom of the table. Their fate was known long before the final game.

Given the mass exodus of players during the close season, it will be a new look side that will take the pitch on Saturday night.

Most of the pre-season games featured as much as three or four trialists in each game. There is a core of experienced players who still remain at the club though. The likes of Lee Steacy, Mick McDonnell, Shane Elworthy, Karl Chambers and Aaron McCabe can provide an element of stability to help the new faces and underage talent this season.

The latter scored the crucial goals which helped them gain promotion in 2020. It is expected to be a big crowd as fans can finally get behind their team for the first time.

CORK CITY

The visitors will be aiming to get back on track after last weekend’s home defeat to Galway. In a game which they generally had the better possession and chances, they conceded just before half-time, and were unable to break down their visitors.

This despite Galway being down to ten men for most of the second-half. The game saw them pick up a number of injuries to boot, adding to the frustration.

The club were quick to condemn instances of supporter trouble in both games so far. It was also announced that Colin Healy asked to step away from the club for a short period for personal reasons.

Richard Holland took this week’s press conference in his absence.  He expressed his frustration at the loss to Galway, “The performance was okay actually. It could have been better obviously, but we just couldn’t take our chances on the night.

“The one positive was that we at least created chances in the game. Hopefully we can push on again. “

He also warned that Longford would pose another threat.

“I do know Gary from Bray last year. His sides are usually possession based, so will be looking to get it down and play a bit. They are another side who will be very organised and will give us a good game of it.”

Referee: Michael Connolly

MATCH STATS

Due to relegations for both sides in recent seasons, it was 2016 since both sides were in the same division.

It was a resounding win for all three league encounters as the Munster men went on to finish second to Dundalk. They also won away on route to winning the FAI Cup.

It was not a memorable season for Longford as they finished last. It was a better night in 2015 as a late David O’Sullivan strike ensured their survival in a 3-2 win at Turners Cross.

BETTING

Longford Town 17/10; Draw 23/10; Cork City 13/10.

PREDICTION

Longford Town 0-2 Cork City

Longford

Injured: None.

Doubtful: Cristian Magerusan.

Suspended: None.

Cork City

Injured: Gordon Walker, George Heaven, Alec Byrne, James Doona, Dylan McGlade.

Doubtful: None.

Suspended: None.