Alec Byrne admits it will be a ‘weight off the shoulders’ if Cork City can get the win tonight that will secure their top flight status.
The Rebels have endured a torrid season and are not yet clear of the relegation playoff spot.
With six points to spare over Finn Harps with three games to play - and the benefit of a considerable goal difference - a win at home to UCD tonight will see them right.
And they will be guaranteed of their safety if they win and Finn Harps fail to do the same at Shamrock Rovers.
Midfielder Byrne, 20, said: “It’s been tough for us as we’ve had no luck the last few weeks, but we’re working hard and we’ll see what happens.
“It would be a weight off the shoulders to do it tonight. It's been tough, physically so more than anything but I’m thoroughly enjoying the run in the team.
“The performances have been there but we need to tighten up the back and take our chances
“We have to get the ball in the net no matter how pretty it is. Once it goes in is what matters, it doesn't matter how.”
Boss Neale Fenn is still looking for his first win since taking charge but is planning ahead for next season regardless.
And he already knows which players he will be keeping for next year and which ones will be leaving.
Fenn said: “I need to be clear in my mind what direction we're going, and the players have to be clear as well.”
He added: “This is a huge game for us. We're not too concerned about how other teams do, we just have to make sure we get the result we need.
“We’re playing well in patches but putting the ball in the net has been a problem which everyone can see.
“Getting that win is the weight around our neck and we need to get it. We're going in the right direction but it's about putting the ball in the net.”
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