Preview – Cork City v Derry City
Cork City v Derry City – Friday 27th October 2023 – KO 7.45pm – Turners Cross, Cork
SSE Airtricity League of Ireland – Premier Division
Derry City make their final away trip of the season this weekend, and a long one it is too, as the Candystripes set off on Thursday morning for Turners Cross.
Manager Ruaidhri Higgins was in reflective mood at his weekly press conference and admitted he was disappointed at how things had played out over the last few weeks.
“I’m extremely disappointed that we’re sitting here and not in the title mix going into the last couple of matches” he began.
“It’s been a frustrating year with some difficult times but also plenty of positives, especially during the European run.”
“We want more of that, which is why we have to go down here and get the job done this weekend.”
“Qualifying for European competition is the minimum expectation at this club, but we know that Cork will make it very difficult for us.”
“There’s plenty to play for on both sides. They’re fighting for their lives to avoid the play-off and we’re looking to cement a European place so that’s the challenge facing us.”
Asked about City’s chances of repeating last season’s second placed finish, the Limavady man was well aware of what needed to be done.
“If we win our last two games we finish second but I’m not bothered about next weekend at the minute” he said.
“We can look forward to that once Friday night is out of the way.”
On the team front, Derry still haven’t quite got a full squad to choose from, however the boss was more than happy with his options.
“Sadou Diallo is suspended and Jamie McGonigle is doubtful having picked up a knock a couple of weeks ago, but other than that we’re in good shape.”
“We have to turn up and be positive from the outset and if we do that, we’ll give ourselves a great chance of winning the game.”
The match kicks off at 7.45 and will be streamed live on LOITV.
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As usual, both Drive105 and Radio Foyle will be providing live commentary coverage of the game.