General
- Thursday July 24th, 2008 @ 14:05
GAVIN SIGNS AS SAINTS PREPARE FOR CORK TRIP
New signing Jason Gavin goes straight into the St Patrick's Athletic squad as the Saints travel to Leeside as to face Cork City this Sunday in the Premier Division
Gavin completed his move from league champions Drogheda United this week and according to his new manager John McDonnell, the former Ireland Under 21 defender will be a good addition to the Saints squad.
“Jason is the next grade up of player from what was around the league a few years ago. He's coming from the league champions, he's played Premiership football in the past and his experience and ability will be an addition to the squad.”
Both these sides produced some thrilling football back in May when Pats recorded a 3-2 victory over Cork in the clubs only previous encounter this season.
Supporters will be looking for more of the same but for Saints boss John McDonnell picking up points is the most important thing,
“It's going to be difficult but we feel we can take something out of the game. I think they're unbeaten in twelve and that says it all about the run they're on at the moment.
“Both teams try and play good football and our home game against them was a cracker. Hopefully we'll have more of the same but the most important thing is for us to get something out of the game.”
The Saints stuttered through the second round of eleven games last season but McDonnell is happy that his team have avoided a mid-season slump this term.
“We have fifteen points from the middle third of the season with three games to play go. We only picked up thirteen in the same period last season and we've improved on that already. There are nine points to play for and although we'd love to take all nine, we've five to get to reach our target of twenty.”
New signing Derek O'Brien (knee) and defender Stephen Paisley (groin) limped out of Monday nights draw with Shamrock Rovers.
Both have sat out training this week but should be available for selection.
Joe O'Cearuill has completed his recovery from a knee injury and has taken a full part in training all week.
Noel Haverty (ankle) is definitely out but McDonnell hopes to have striker Gary O'Neill back from a groin injury to replace the suspended Mark Quigley.
Kick off in Turner's Cross is at 7 p.m. and the game will be broadcast live on Setanta Ireland.
