Cruel blow as Mayo native hit by season-ending injury

Cork City’s survival hopes have been dealt a major blow with confirmation that striker Ruairí Keating is facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

Manager Tim Clancy revealed that the Westport native, a popular figure at Turner’s Cross, will be out for between six and nine months after rupturing his Achilles tendon.

“It’s a serious one,” admitted Clancy. “It’s important now that we get the right treatments for Keats. He was looking sharp, doing extra training, feeling good. But after a scan on Friday, the news wasn’t good.

“It is what it is. Injuries happen. The quicker we get him into surgery, the quicker we can start talking about a recovery.”

Keating came through the ranks at Westport United before building a reputation as one of the League of Ireland’s most reliable forwards.

His absence will be keenly felt as Clancy’s side continue their fight to retain Premier Division status.