Graham Cummins on Cork City v Shamrock Rovers: Home side must be brave
Cork City’s Cathal O'Sullivan is fouled by Sligo Rovers’ William Fitzgerald during Saturday’s game. Photo Evan Logan
Cork City return to Turner’s Cross on Friday night to host Shamrock Rovers in what promises to be a massive test of their growing momentum and belief.
Saturday’s 1-1 draw away to Sligo Rovers was tough to take, with an injury-time equaliser once again denying City maximum points. It was a frustrating end to a game they managed well for large spells, and dropping back to second from bottom was a blow.
But the performance again showed progress. And now, they must back it up against one of the league’s most talented sides.
City’s last meeting with Shamrock Rovers ended in a heavy defeat, and much of that came down to showing their opponents too much respect. They sat deep, stood off, and allowed Rovers to play with far too much freedom in midfield.
That can’t happen again. City must get in Rovers' faces from the first whistle, press high up the pitch, and look to disrupt their rhythm.
Rovers are comfortable on the ball, particularly in central areas, but they’re not always diligent in their defensive duties. If City are brave and press with intent, there are chances to be had.
One area City must be especially wary of is set pieces — Rovers remain one of the most dangerous sides in the division from dead-ball situations. Their movement in the box is intelligent and their deliveries are usually right on the money. City might consider switching to zonal marking for this game, rather than trying to go man-for-man.
In terms of attacking threats, Milan Mbeng and Benny Couto could have big roles to play. With Rovers deploying a box midfield system that often narrows the pitch, the flanks can be vulnerable. And that’s where the full-backs come in.
Both players will need to provide width and look to push high, especially on the counter. Their ability to carry the ball and stretch the play could prove vital in creating openings. City’s pace and directness down the sides could be their best chance of disrupting Rovers’ shape.
One subplot on the night will be the return of Josh Honohan to Turner’s Cross. The former City defender has been a key part of the Rovers squad since making the move and even scored against City earlier this season. That goal was followed by a passionate celebration, which drew criticism from some City supporters.
However, that reaction was likely born out of frustration.
While Rovers didn’t win silverware in his first season, they did qualify for the Europa Conference League group stages and even played Chelsea at Stamford Bridge — opportunities he simply wouldn’t have had if he stayed.
That said, it’s also fair to expect a little restraint from him should he score tonight. City gave Honohan a platform to develop, helped him through serious injuries, and stood by him when others may not have. There is a mutual respect that should be remembered. Ideally, we see a competitive game played with intensity, but also with class.
This is a huge night for City. The fans will demand a response to that late Sligo goal, and City have to match the occasion with belief and aggression. A strong performance — and a positive result — could be another turning point in what’s becoming an increasingly eventful season.
The key now is consistency. If City can combine resilience with ambition, Friday might just be the night that really kickstarts their campaign.
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