Heights FC hoping to march on in Irish Junior this Saturday

History could be made this Saturday by Heights FC if they can overcome St Luke’s in the Irish Junior Cup.

Anthony Olphert’s side will make the long trip to Belfast for the third round tie, and if they make it through, it will be the Coleraine team’s first victory in the third round in a handful of seasons.

The Heights men are joined at this stage by a few other Coleraine and District league sides, providing a great advert for the local players and the high standard of football within the Borough.

Speaking exclusively to Times Sport, Heights manager, Anthony Olphert previewed Saturday’s tie, and looked back on his side’s season to date.

“We are very much looking forward to this tie.

“After our success in the previous rounds I am very pleased with our perforances to date. The lads have been playing very well and we have netted some great goals.”

Olphert pointed out that the run in the Cup has given his side confidence, and that their League form has also impressed.

“Our league form has been very good. We are in good scoring form, and also not leaking too many goals at the back which impresses me even more.

“Having said that, St Luke’s are a very good side. They play in Division 2A in the league, just below intermediate level. They remain undefeated in their League, so we know it will be a tough test.”

With St Luke’s having home advantage, the Heights players may take time to get used to the 3G surface.

“We aren’t accustomed to the surface, but with a good support behind us, and the talent we have, confidence is still high.”

Looking at his panel, Olphert hopes that Matty Graham will be fit to play: “A couple of hard training sessions this week, and we will decide who makes the squad,” he said.

Club Chairman Daniel Bleakley congratulated Anthony and his team on their success to date.

He encouraged any young players keen to join the ranks of Heights Reserves to come along to training. “We have already seen how players from our Reserves have filtered into the first team,” he said.

*Anyone wishing to book a seat on the bus, should contact Nicky Hanna. The cost is £10 per head, and there will be filled soda available for those travelling at an additional £2.

Other local teams in the Irish Junior Cup: Aghadowey v Army City Youths; Kilrea United v Foyle Wanderers; Riada v Bangor YM.

RESULTS:

Coleraine & District Afternoon league Results: Magherafelt Sky Blues 2-3 Riada; Aghadowey 1-5 Portrush; Magherafelt Reds 2-5 Ringsend

Chronicle Cup First Round: Ballybogey 9-0 Ballymoney Res; Portstewart Res 5-2 aet Macosquin; White Eagles 2-4 Portrush Res; Dervock 1-0 Dunaghy

Constitution Cup Results: Kilrea 7-3 Garvagh