Not one for the purists, as Cork City emerge victorious in the war of attrition against in-form Bohs, thank to Conor McCarthy’s first half header. The home side started much the brighter and looked to dominate possession in a niggly affair. But the
Not one for the purists, as Cork City emerge victorious in the war of attrition against in-form Bohs, thank to Conor McCarthy’s first half header.
The home side started much the brighter and looked to dominate possession in a niggly affair. But the visitors, who’s last league victory came against The Gypsies – a 2-0 win at Turners Cross - proved they were made of sterner stuff than recent results might reflect.
The invaluable breakthrough came after just 21 minutes and against the run of play. James Tilley’s delightfully floated free kick found Conor McCarthy at the back post, who rose like a salmon, to cushion his header back across the helpless James Talbot.
As the half wore on the visitors showed all their experience in silencing the sold out Jodi stand, slowing the game at every opportunity and getting their 1o-men behind the ball instantly.
Conor McCormack was immense at the base of the midfield, working tirelessly to break down every potential Bohs attack and goal threat as the frustration grew around Phibsboro.
Interim boss John Cotter will be delighted at what he saw as high flying Bohs struggled to create a spell of sustainable pressure. The best chance fell to winger Kevin Devaney who couldn’t keep his header down following excellent work by Danny Grant on the right hand side.
A shift in formation saw Devaney go up front with Dinny Corcoran midway through the second half, but to no avail as the Leesiders held firm in what turned into an attack v defence session.
And as ugly as it may have seemed for the neutral, the travelling players and fans won’t mind on the long trip home as they stop the rot of eight without a win in the league and, in turn, inflict only the third defeat of the season on Keith Long's troops.
