Cork City boss John Caulfield believes his side are getting "very close" to the levels Dundalk have set over the last few years but is desperate for some silver to highlight their improvement.
The Leesiders were excellent in a 3-1 FAI Cup semi-final dismissal of St Pat's at Richmond Park, with a Sean Maguire brace and Alan Bennett's header sweeping them into their second decider in 12 months.
They came unstuck against the Lilywhites at the Aviva Stadium last year and could meet them again if Stephen Kenny's men overcome Derry City in their replay on Tuesday night, but Caulfield is focused only on his own charges' capabilities.
"We think we’ve a better team this year," he told RTÉ Sport.
"This was a big win for us. We didn’t play as well in the first half, I felt Pat’s controlled the game. But in the second half we were brilliant. We passed it and moved and showed our quality. We’re delighted to get back to the Aviva.
"We think we’re getting very close to Dundalk. From our own point of view we’d love to lift silverware. I’m delighted for the lads and particularly our supporters."
Republic of Ireland U21 striker Maguire was a class apart for Cork.
Sean Maguire's tremendous header puts Cork back in the lead https://t.co/GdDmxwdBjR #RTEsoccer https://t.co/vgVvUX3Uui
— Soccer Republic (@SoccRepublic) October 2, 2016
His superb header nudged them agead in the second half and he wrapped it up with a fine run and finish in the closing stages.
"Sean has been phenomenal for us," Caulfield added. "He’s a great fella and he’s kept his feet on the ground. That’s what we need.
“It’s all about rest and recovery at the moment. In the cup you can’t underestimate anyone. Fair play to Derry [who came from two goals down to salvage a replay], they’re another great side.
"At the same time people will still fancy Dundalk. But we’re in the Aviva. Whoever comes through we’ll deal with that on the day."
