It’s time for Slane to hit new heights

The BAWA are all geared up to take on Bourneview Mill in the Alan Wilson Cup final at Crystal Park on Friday and a win there would be ‘the greatest achievement in the club’s history.’

That’s according to manager David Johnstone, who is dreaming of shepherding the club to their first intermediate trophy after their rise from the Newcastle League.

“For all of us, it would be massive,” he said. “Winning this cup would be a significant step forward and probably would be the greatest achievement in the club’s history.

“I would really love to do it for the committee and supporters. From Chairman Brian Ervine right down to those that coach the youth teams or cook burgers on a Saturday, there are so many hard working and dedicated people at the club.

“I took over as manager to help the club when it was in difficulties and my main motivation was to give something back to a club that gave me so much 20 odd years ago.”

Under boss Johnstone, who played for the club before moving on to league football including spells at Ards and Loughgall, Slane have cruised through to the final, netting 13 goals on route and not conceding any.

“We have no fear playing anyone,” he said.

“In last eight games, we have scored 37 and only conceded five so our all round play is very good.

“Gregg (Harrison) has hit over 30 this season which is fantastic at any level of football. He has pace, good movement behind defenders and in recent weeks has scored big goals when it has mattered. That said, Gregg would be the first to point out the contribution of Brian Quilty playing along side him.

“Mark Anderson and Jonny Kernaghan have been in good form as well. Still our defenders are playing well which gives the front players the platform to go and score goals.”

Slane’s opponents Bourneview have done the double over Johnstone’s side, beating them home and away in the league but the boss is hoping his team will get the most important victory of all.

“Bournveiew Mill are a good football club and have proven they can compete with every team in this league,” he admitted.

“They have some good players and in particular Mark Boyce who played for me at Annagh United for a while. They beat us in the league but we will be concentrating on our performance for the final and we know that when we play to our potential we can beat anyone.”

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