Cork City's pursuit of securing a place in the 2024 Sports Direct Women's FAI Cup Final can be massively aided by the potential return of Niamh Cotter.

One of the stand-out performers for The Leesiders this season, the fiesty defender missed the scoreless draw with Wexford in the SSE Airtricity Women's Premier Division but could potentially return for the Cup semi-final against Shelbourne.

Cork, of course, will not risk a player who might not yet be ready but if she is fit enough to be selected then manager Danny Murphy knows that he will have a full-blooded warrior just in time for their biggest battle of the season.

There have been a number of excellent players for Cork over the past number of months, including Heidi Mackin, Alix Mendez, and Orlaith O'Mahony. But it is Cotter who has caught the eye more than most - with the exception of captain Eva Mangan who has been involved in the Ireland Women's National Team squad.

Cotter is a fierce competitor. Perhaps there is something in the water around Bandon, but she plays the game with a desire that brings the best out in those around her. She attacks every aerial ball and ground challenge as if winning that particular duel will result in her team claiming three points. If you think that is a little too over the top, then simply look at her stats: 75.5% success rate in aerial duels, 73% success rate in defensive duels, 93 interceptions made and 76 clearances completed.

If Cork were to have Cotter in their backline for the trip to Tolka Park then it would greatly enchance their chances of reaching a first Cup Final in four years and possibly going on to win it for just the second time in their history.

The determined teenager will be ready if called upon and motivated by the fact that she has been on the losing side in matches with Shelbourne twice already this season. That won't deter Cotter though and it is the fearless streak that drives her that Cork need every player to adopt for this crucial final four fixture.

2024 Sports Direct Women's FAI Cup Semi-Finals
Saturday, September 21 | Shelbourne v Cork City, Tolka Park, KO 14:00
Sunday, September 22 | Sligo Rovers v Athlone Town, The Showgrounds, KO 15:00