Bann U17s up for Plate final

Bann edged their way into the decider last week when they beat Malone 8-5 and now they’re looking to add to the U15s’ bowl win, their final also at Cookstown’s Mid-Ulster Sports Arena on the 4G surface (kick-off 1pm).

It’s been a tough, injury-hit season for the U17s, who were knocked out of the Cup by Dromore back in November.

However, they could end it on a high this weekend, should they overcome one final hurdle to win the Plate.

“We’ll have the lads well prepared,” said coach John Mullan.

“We’ll expect a full turn-out at training this week and the boys will be focused on Saturday’s game.

“They’re all excited and everyone wants to play. It’ll be tough to leave anyone on the bench but hopefully we’ll play well and we can get everyone on the pitch.

“We’re all buzzing after Saturday’s win for the U15s and we’re all looking forward to the next final.”

If they are to come out on top of Saturday’s dual with Portadown, Mullan knows his key players will have to be on form, even if, in theory at least, the final should be a largely one-sided affair.

He said: “Cameron Cromie, Josh Cromie and our captain Alan Megaw will be key for us in a game like this.

“We’re confident in this team. If they turn up and play like we know they can, they will tear any team apart.

“On paper, Portadown shouldn’t be as strong as us but it’s a Cup final and it will all depend on the day. We have to be focused.”