Paul Doolin has warned his Cork City team that they need to be tighter at the back if they are to make something of the 2009 season.

The Rebel Army conceded two late goals at the Brandywell last week to lose 2-1 to Derry City. The manner of that defeat has led Doolin to call on his players to increase concentration levels when they face Bray Wanderers at Turner's Cross on Friday night.

“We have to get it into our heads that no matter how well we play, we cannot concede late goals," he said. "There is no mystery other than defending properly, and we have to concentrate and eradicate these mistakes.”

Doolin’s selection options will be somewhat curtailed as Pat Sullivan serves the second match of a two game suspension, while new signing Shane Duggan serves a one match suspension carried over from last season.

It has now emerged that Stephen O’Donnell’s knee injury is not as bad as was initially suspected, and it is likely that the midfielder will be absent for around three months, rather than the six that were initially feared. Robert Mezeckis continues his recovery from an ankle injury, and he will also miss a game which Doolin expects will be a tough encounter.

“Bray Wanderers are a team who have always proved tough opponents for any team in the league," he said. "They claimed a draw here last season and I believe they will put it up to us again tonight.”