SOCCER LEAGUE OF IRELAND:CORK CITY supporters' group Foras are hoping to stage an on -pitch protest before tonight's televised game at home to Bohemians to highlight their continuing displeasure at the running of the club under owner Tom Coughlan.
The club were due back in the High Court after an application to an order for the winding up of its holding company by former player Gareth Farrelly was adjourned earlier this week.
However, it was announced last night that Farrelly’s petition had been withdrawn by the agreement of both parties. The club survived being wound up when a separate order brought by the Revenue Commissioners was struck out last August.
“The point of the protest is to highlight to the FAI that (Cork City Investments) under Mr Coughlan are not suitable licence holders and should not be awarded a licence for next season,” said a Foras statement.
“The protest will also show solidarity and support for the proposed industrial action by the players, and will highlight the ongoing wage difficulties faced by our loyal players and staff.”
League of Ireland director Fran Gavin, FAI Internal Compliance Officer Padraig Smith, and Noel Mooney of the FAI will today meet with representatives of Foras to discuss their concerns.
Meanwhile, Cork manager Paul Doolin spoke of the professionalism of his players as they continue their quest for a place in next season’s Europa League.
“It has been a traumatic season, so if we were to qualify for Europe it would be a fantastic achievement,” said Doolin, whose side are third in the table, two points clear of Derry City.
Left-back Danny Murphy is suspended while Joe Gamble and striker Tim Kiely remain out with knee injuries. Midfielder Stephen O’Donnell returns from suspension while defender Kevin Long has been passed fit.
Bohemians manager Pat Fenlon is without suspended leading scorer Jason Byrne and midfielder Gary Deegan while defenders Mark Rossiter and Jason McGuinness are injured.
St Patrick’s Athletic manager Pete Mahon is expecting an onslaught in their relegation clash with Bray Wanderers at Richmond Park.
“This is a crucial game for both teams,” said Mahon, who is without suspended midfielder Stuart Byrne while key defender Jason Gavin is an injury doubt.
Bray have fitness concerns about defenders Derek Foran and Dave Webster, midfielder Gary McCabe and striker Paul Byrne.
