League Preview: Kerry -v- Cork City

• Philip Morrissey
• Fri, May 03 2024




Kerry FC

The excitement is building as Kerry FC look to get back on track by welcoming Munster rivals Cork City to Mounthawk Park this Friday at 19:45.

They have now lost their last two games in a row, with the defeat at Bray last weekend following their eight-game unbeaten streak.

In a game of few chances, second-half efforts from the home side ensured that the Tralee outfit returned empty-handed.

Coach James Sugrue is looking forward to the challenge: “We are up against the league leaders, so if you can win, it will further drive your confidence. We will approach the game with the right attitude, and we will train and prepare hard this week. We will be looking for the twelfth man yet again on Friday night; the players feed off it and drive us on. We have no fear in the camp and we will be well up for it.”

Kerry look to have a full squad to pick from as Jack Kavanagh, Nathan Gleeson, and Sean McGrath are all available for selection.

Cork City

The league leaders make their first visit to Kerry as they aim to extend their unbeaten start to the league campaign on Friday.

Last weekend’s trip to Donegal has been their third game on the road after problems with their pitch and has yielded seven points.

Second-half goals from Sean Murray and Jadan Umeh helped push out their lead at the top to seven points.

Tim Clancy is not taking it for granted though: “Looking at them in recent weeks, they have been on a great run of form. There has been a huge improvement in them from last season. They look very fit and organised and carry a big threat as well. For us travelling down, we expect a big crowd and a great occasion.”

The likes of Conor Drinan and Cian Murphy have returned to training and may play some part.

Referee: Daniel Murphy.

BETTING

Kerry FC 11/2, Draw 14/5, Cork City 4/9.

PREDICTION

Kerry FC 0-3 Cork City

Kerry FC

Injured: N/A

Doubtful: N/A

Suspended: N/A

Cork City

Injured: Jack Doherty, Malik Dijksteel.

Doubtful: Cian Murphy, Conor Drinan

Suspended: N/A