Although Cork City have their sights set on reeling in league leaders Drogheda, their likeliest chance of silverware this season comes via the FAI Cup. But if they're going to win it, they'll have to do it the hard way.
Damien Richardson's in-form side were tonight paired with Bohemians in the semi-final draw and must travel to Dalymount Park for the televised encounter on Friday, October 26th.
In the other tie, to be played two days later, UCD - who eliminated holders Derry City in the quarter-final - host modern day cup specialists Longford Town at Belfield Park.
Cork, who beat Waterford after a replay in the last round, will face a Bohemians side determined to rescue something from their season having lost the League Cup final to Derry City last night.
Dan Murray, the club's captain, was on the losing side when Drogheda lifted the trophy at Lansdowne Road in 2005 and he is keen to make amends by going all the way this season.
"Losing that final still lingers among the Cork players and we'll be looking to put that right," he said.
"But we've to concentrate on the semi-final first and that's going to be a tough game away from home. It doesn't get much tougher than Bohemians away."
Bohemians manager Sean Connor was disappointed not to come away from the Brandywell with the League Cup and is counting down the days before Cork arrive in Phibsboro.
"I'd like the game to come as quickly as possible," he said. "If we're going to win the cup it looks as if we'll have to do it the hard way.
"We've already beaten Drogheda and Pats away from home and now we've got Cork. That's the top three teams in the league although this next game will be in our own back yard."
UCD manager Pete Mahon is frustrated that his team has failed to build on the promise of last season and hopes to salvage something from the campaign via the cup.
"We've been in last three quarter-finals so it is nice being in semis. But you get nothing for semis, we want to be in the final," he said.
October 26th
Bohemians v Cork City, Dalymount Park
October 28th
UCD v Longford Town, Belfield Park
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