A single strike from Denis Behan was enough to secure victory for Cork in a match marked by some unusual circumstances.
Given that this was the meeting of two clubs who had terrible financial difficulties last season, it was perhaps surprising that Cork decided to waive the attendance fee.
The move was a gesture of thanks to the fans who continue to support their club despite the ongoing financial crisis affecting clubs and the public alike.
Another unusual dimension to the match was the fact that the clubs had effectively swapped managers in the close season, with Alan Matthews, who led Cork to Setanta Cup glory now in the Drogheda dugout, and Paul Doolin, who guided the Co Louth side to FAI Cup and League championship glory, now in charge at Turner’s Cross.
Cork fielded the same starting 11 that had a fine away win at champions Bohemians on Friday night, while Drogheda made one change to the side which picked up their first point of the season in the 2-2 draw at home to Shamrock Rovers, with Brian King coming into the side on the right of midfield in place of Alan McNally.
Despite the heavy rain which fell before kick-off and up until half time, Cork played good attacking football, and created several good chances, but they didn’t make the breakthrough until seven minutes before the break, when a
shot from Latvian striker Guntars Silagailis was parried by the Drogheda goalkeeper, allowing Denis Behan to sweep the ball home for his first goal of the season.
It was harsh on ‘keeper Steve Williams, as he had been in top form, and had denied Cork on several occasions, with one marvellous save after ten minutes, keeping out a close range effort from Billy Dennehy.
The winger was set up by a fine cross from Davin O'Neill at the far post, but Wiiliams dived to claw away Dennehy's effort on the goal line.
After the break Cork created the bulk of the chances, with Silagailis going close on at least three occasions, but Drogheda always had a chance of sneaking a point.
Ian Ryan had a header easily dealt with by former Drogheda goalkeeper Dan Connor, and John Paul Kelly cut in from the left before firing a shot which was deflected for a corner kick.
But the goal from man-of-the-match Behan gave Cork a deserved win and continues their good recent run which has them established in the top four.
Cork: Connor; Sullivan, Murray, O'Halloran, Murphy; O'Neill, Healy, Gamble, Dennehy; Behan, Silagailis.
Drogheda: Williams; Chambers, Kenna, Ryan, Clarke; King (Duffy 75),Crowley, Shiels, Kelly; Farrell, Barrett inj (Duggan 32).
Referee: P Sutton (Clare).
