I was missing a good away game. Heading to Dublin’s inner city, getting stuffed in a local pub before heading to the ground—what better way to kick off a weekend?
In addition, the Irish League is at its very best after a long time. There are no surprises, for the simple reason that there are no pre-announced favourites.
AMONG THE SHELS
My friend, a Shels fan, got me a ticket among the home supporters. We stood on the opposite side from the City fans, and I could hear them cheering throughout the entire 90 minutes—typical Rebel Army when facing the Dubs.
I told myself I’d stay silent for most of the match, not so much because of my temperament, but based on my prediction of a win for the current LOI title holders. In my estimation, Cork would be a tough challenge, but the Shels wouldn’t miss out on the three points after their defeat to Drogheda and draws with Galway and Rovers.
LOTS OF INJURIES
Both teams couldn’t field their desired squads. A bug prevented Duff from picking his best first eleven, while Cork was heavily affected by injuries.
I saw the impact, and it wasn’t pretty. Two years ago, the Leesiders had loads of players out in the middle of the season, and it all ended with a return to the graveyard.
We’re still in the early stages, but Cork is already struggling with a similar issue. I’m not interested in watching that movie again, thank you!
LOOKING AT EACH OTHER IN THE EYE
Despite recent results and the fact that Shels are the champions, Cork looked them in the eye from minute one. We could have even scored in the first few minutes if Kearns hadn’t shown he was there to do the job.
Shels didn’t threaten for a good 30 minutes. They seemed to have no midfield to handle the transition. They missed their own Greg Bolger.
CORK SCORED, THEN SUFFERED
A goal in the first five minutes of the second half is a blessing. The inevitable Keating knew it and put the ball in the back of the net, making some of the City supporters believe we would leave Tolka with three points.
Not me. I reassured my friend—after celebrating the goal among the Shels fans, explaining I was just enjoying my moment—that it wouldn’t be long before it was their turn to smile, perhaps even twice with a second goal.
The reason? I’ve seen this movie before—in other words, last week, last month, and the last time we were in the Premier Division. Cork takes the lead but then struggles to manage their emotions and keep the advantage. The defenders just can’t handle the pressure.
It’s not all bad news, though. Couto and Mbeng seem consistent and have the right levels of stamina and aggressiveness. We need more lads like them.
CORK STARING AT THE CLOCK
The last 20 minutes felt endless for all City fans, staff, players – the whole of Cork. Myself, I spent more time staring at the clock than watching the pitch.
We could also see Shels mounting a comeback. That would have happened if it weren’t for Crowley denying them, just a few centimetres from the goal line.
CONCLUSION: NOTHING IS CERTAIN IN THE LOI
In fairness, the draw does justice to the game. It felt good to see Cork challenging the champions. But that’s what the League of Ireland is all about: you may have lifted the trophy last season, but you’ll still sweat to beat a promoted opponent when they visit your ground.