Cork City aim to follow Dundalk with Europa League heroics

Europa League, third qualifying round, second leg

Turner's Cross, Thursday, 7.45pm

Eir Sport 1

Cork City (0)

v KRC Genk (1)

Cork City manager John Caulfield has urged his players to be patient as they seek to overturn a one-goal deficit against KRC Genk at Turner's Cross.

Caulfield is keen to ensure that his side don't end up losing the Europa League tie before they give themselves a chance to win it. "We can't be stupid, we know that we have to keep our shape," he said.

“We know the areas where we can cause them lots of problems, but at the same time, there are areas where they’re strong and we have to guard against that.

“We’ve discussed concentration and focus all week and we’re hoping to be ready right from the start.

Greg Bolger, who has captained City in the absence of John Dunleavy, is expected to again take his place in midfield, despite struggling with an ankle ligament injury since the first qualifying round against Linfield. Steven Beattie is a doubt, but otherwise Caulfield has a full squad.

“Everyone had told us that their home record is phenomenal, they hardly ever lose at home, but they don’t always travel well,” he said.

“That gives us encouragement, as does the fact that we created chances out there. We know we’re massive underdogs, but with a full house, massive noise and the fact that they haven’t travelled well, we’re optimistic it will be a memorable night.

“The last game, even in the final five minutes, the noise was incredible and we’ve told the lads to embrace that again.

“It gives them that extra bit of encouragement and the reason it’s so crucial is that the opposition wouldn’t be used to the close proximity of the pitch. It can rattle players.”