Cork City fans to stage protest at FAI Cup semi-final over possible relegation

Eva Osborne

Cork City fans are understood to be planning a protest at Friday's FAI Cup semi-final at home to St Pat's.

Demonstrations by a supporters' group are actively being planned at Turner's Cross, aimed at the club's ownership over a possible third relegation in six seasons.

In a huge game to avoid the drop in the SSE Airtricity Men’s Premier Division, Galway United defeated Cork City at Eamonn Deacy Park on Friday night.

Speaking on Newstalk, Cork City striker Seani Maguire said he is hopeful fans will still support the team in their huge cup clash.

"I think every fan, and any person that supports a football club, I think they have every right. They are entitled to their own opinion," he said.

"Like, if they're going to start a protest, I can't stand here and tell you that they can't do it and they shouldn't do it.

"But what they probably have to think about is that going to help us players going into a really really big game? I don't know."

Speaking to Cork's 96FM, manager Ger Nash said: "For me, my job is to protect the players and that's where I put all my time and my interest in.

"We're going to continue to fight, I hope the fans can see that. I hope the fans can see some of the changes we're trying to make.

"I know it's a tough time, I really understand that. All I can say is the dressing room, myself, the staff, everyone in the club are desperate for a performance from it and hopefully we get the result we want."