League Preview: Cork City -v- Bohemians

CORK CITY

Cork City are looking to mark their return to the Premier Division with a victory as they host Bohemians at Turners Cross on Friday night.

 Last season’s First Division title winners are expecting a capacity crowd for the encounter. It will be the first game at this level since 2020. The core of last year’s squad is still present with a couple of new additions in recent weeks.

Pre-season games have gone well with the sole defeat being a narrow loss away to Dundalk. They have allowed players to build up match fitness.

The major new face at the club is at the ownership level as the Dermot Usher era marks a new start for the club.  

Colin Healy emphasised the step-up facing his side ahead of the game. He said: “No disrespect to the First Division but you are dealing with quality, quality players.

“You are dealing with better teams and more tactics. It’s a challenge we are looking forward to though. The players can’t wait for Friday night and we are no different.”

Barry Coffey hoped to use the crowd to their advantage.

“Over the years it’s been a hard place for teams to come to,” he added. “I think everyone is looking forward to it and to get back to winning games in the Premier Division because that’s what is expected at this club.”

BOHEMIANS

There are plenty of new faces at the Dalymount outside after a disappointing season last year.

Gary Cronin has arrived as assistant to Declan Devine from Longford Town along with Luke Dennison following him from the midlands to Dalymount.

He has been joined in the management team as Pat Fenlon was named as Director of Football and Trevor Crolly as Academy Coach.

They will be looking to spoil the party to get their season off to a good start. It is expected that plenty of fans will travel in anticipation.  

Referee: Robert Hennessy.

MATCH STATS

The two sides only played one another twice in a Covid interrupted season in 2020.

The Dublin side came out on top in both games as they tried to keep pace with the likes of Dundalk and Shamrock Rovers.

BETTING

Cork City 29/20, Draw 21/10, Bohemians 7/4

PREDICTION

Cork City 2-1 Bohemians

Cork City

Injured: Cian Murphy

Doubtful: None

Suspended: None.

Bohemians

Injured: N/A

Doubtful: N/A

Suspended: None.