Ballynure in confident mood ahead of Rathfern clash

Ballynure Old Boys’ manager Gary Burns says he will guard against complacency as his men gear up to take on Rathfern Rangers in the Intermediate Cup.
By The Newsroom
Published 21st Nov 2014, 08:00 BST
Ballynure manager Gary Burns.Ballynure manager Gary Burns.
Ballynure manager Gary Burns.

The second-round draw has set up a tasty local derby with the Amateur League Division 1B outfit, but Burns’ lads do have home advantage.

Bill Campbell’s Rangers haven’t had much joy in cup competitions this term but they have just one defeat to their name from their last seven outings in the league - and that was to runaway leaders, Newcastle.

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Ballynure’s blistering form has them in pole position in the Ballymena Intermediate League, seven points clear at the top, but main challengers Brantwood and Newtowne have matches in hand.

“We have strung together a few wins,” said Burns modestly, “and the lads just can’t wait for the next match to come along, so confidence is sky high, but I will guard against complacency.

“Rathfern have a fine record in the Amateur League, so I’ll not be surprised if this one goes to extra-time and penalties,” he predicted.

The Ballynure team is likely to be selected from: Hughes, Penny, Leckey, G Curlett, M Curlett, Robinson, S Duff, M Duff, McGreevy, Forsythe, Officer, McIlroy, Watson, Higgins, R Burns. 

Meanwhile, the Ballynure ‘B’ - Rathcoole Reserves league fixture was postponed owing to a bereavement in the Rathcoole club.

Related topics:Brantwood