The summer break is over, and the League of Ireland Premier Division returns with the business end of the season set to commence. This weekend pits Cork City vs Bohemians at Turner’s Cross on Friday.
It is now a seven-game winless run for the Rebel Army, but they did pick up an encouraging 1-1 draw with Shelbourne before the break.
Alan Reynolds’ team’s recent resurgence continued with a 1-0 win over Derry City last time out. It is now 12 points collected from the last 15 available.
Cork City vs Bohemians Preview and Prediction
Cork City’s Home Form Will Prove Crucial in Survival Battle
The return of Sean Maguire has seen the former Preston North End man score twice in his last three appearances.
His added quality in attack will be crucial for Ger Nash’s side as they seek to create a gap between themselves and Sligo Rovers in the battle to avoid automatic relegation.
Pairing the 31-year-old with Djenairo Daniels should yield results and having more than one outlet in attack may help to get the best out of Cathal O’Sullivan, who has yet to catch fire in the top-flight.
Their performance against the champions should be a morale-booster as they were the better team for large periods, particularly in the first half.
There is enough quality in the team to pick up results, and although expectations should be kept limited to survival this season, supporters will likely not fear facing any side at Turner’s Cross.
Cork City have picked up 11 of their 13 points at home and recorded a victory over Bohemians in February.
Bohemians’ Title Credentials on Show During Impressive Run
From the marquee signing of Lys Mousset not working out to discontent around the manager’s position at the start of the season, a difficult season appeared to be on the cards at Dalymount Park in February.
However, a 1-0 win over this week’s opponents in April, followed by a run of six wins and two defeats in eight, has elevated Alan Reynolds and Bohemians into third place.
Kacper Chorążka is proving a revelation in goal behind a solid defence, and with a wealth of talent in midfield and out wide, Bohs look equipped to stay in touch with Shamrock Rovers at the top of the table.
There are still issues to sort out in the number nine position, but the return to form of Dayle Rooney may add more of a goal threat in the coming weeks.
Five defeats in nine on the road are a cause for concern, but that record appears to be a trend of teams struggling away from home.
If Alan Reynolds can drill his side into one that is hard to beat away from Dalymount Park, we could be looking at Shamrock Rovers’ main title contender.
Cork City vs Bohemians Prediction
Both of these teams have a victory over the other this season, and despite the contrast in form heading into this fixture, it is difficult to pick a winner.
It appears to be an away win, but Cork City are decent at home with Bohs struggling on the road, as mentioned.
Cork City vs Bohemians has not produced a draw since 2019 and but that trend may break on Friday.
There is enough grit and determination in the home side to keep fighting and edge out a point, but if Bohemians turn up and play to their best, it could be a one-sided evening.
A draw appears the most likely outcome with the return of Maguire, enough for Ger Nash to pick up another valuable point, ending the away team’s record of not having a drawn a league fixture this season.