AMATEURS TO TAKE ON GLENS

The ‘wise men from the east’ take on Dromore Amateurs in the first round of the Intermediate Cup.

The Oval side are guaranteed a warm welcome from their hosts - but the local lads, sponsored by McDonald’s Mace, are hoping to make it an uncomfortable afternoon on the pitch for Glentoran and spring a major cup upset.

However, Amateurs manager David Smylie has no illusions about the size of the challenge facing his players.

‘From what I’ve heard, Glentoran Reserves are a very talented team,’ he said.

‘They’re very skilled, very athletic and like to play good passing football - everything you would expect from an Oval side with players who are desperate to impress and carve out a career at full Irish League level.

‘So it’s not going to be easy for my boys.

‘But one thing is for sure - we’ll be up for the challenge, we don’t fear anybody.

‘The Glens players are much more accustomed to grander surroundings than Ferris Park - maybe they won’t much fancy the thought of playing in Dromore on a cold October afternoon.

‘It’s cup football, and if my boys can be at the top of their game, and with a wee bit of luck, anything can happen.’

The Amateurs - who were knocked out of the Irish Cup on Saturday, losing 2-1 away to Ballynahinch United - are appealing for a big support to come along to Ferris Park and cheer from the sidelines.

Saturday’s matchball will be sponsored by Darren McCauley Plumbing. Kick-off is 1.30pm.