Story of the Game
Man of the Match
Kenny Browne (Cork City). Mark McNulty produced some heroics in the closing moments of the game, but alongside the vastly experienced Alan Bennett, Browne was an assured defensive presence throughout at the heart of the Cork defence.
The Waterford native joined City following a successful four-year spell with St Patrick’s Athletic, and he helped to curb the influence of in-form Rover striker Gary Shaw.
Save of the Game
While clear-cut opportunities were at a premium for the majority of the game, both sides had chances to claim all three points – especially in the latter stages of the action. Sean Boyd rose highest to meet an 85th-minute Brandon Miele corner, but City netminder Mark McNulty (who commanded his area with greater authority) was equal to his efforts.
Turning Point: In a scoreless game, it is difficult to identify a turning point, but the 36th-minute booking of Rovers defender Robert Cornwall is worth noting. Cornwall was cautioned for a high-foot on Sean Maguire. With a possible goal scoring opportunity on the cards, another referee may have issued a red-card to the centre-half.