Final date for Garvey

A 3-2 victory over Instonians at Shaws Bridge last Sunday takes Garvey into the Boxing Day final which will be staged at Comber Road and will be against Annadale who greatly upset the odds to defeat favourites Banbridge in the other semi final. Garvey held on to the final whistle to claim a place in the Boxing Day final on their home ground with a large holiday crowd expected.

Securing their place in the final is the latest in a string of achievements for the club, who were honoured at the recent 2013 Lisburn Sports Awards.

The Men’s 1st XI were honoured in the Senior Team of the Year category for their European exploits last season, when they made Ulster history to reach the second stage of the European Hockey League, whilst the club finished third in the Club of the Year category.

Meanwhile, the Ladies Seconds were awarded the Junior Team of the Year title as they were rewarded for winning the Junior 1 Ladies League, remaining undefeated in 18 league matches, as well as reaching the All Ireland Junior Cup final.

Meanwhile, club stalwart Michael Bowden was presented with the Merit Award. Michael has been with the club for 45 years, having been the Fixtures Secretary for 28 years, as well as having previously been Chairman and Captain of the club.

Speaking about his award, Michael stated: “It was very pleasing, and it was a very good evening. It was nice to be recognised after so many years. You don’t expect that kind of thing but it is nice to be recognised.”