Pherson seeks improvement in United’s home form this season

United boss Jim Pherson told the Times: “They looked good in 1B last season and seem to be able to attract experienced players, so it will be a tough test for us. But I’m concerned about our home form. It’s something we need to address and it will have to improve this season.”

On Tuesday (18th), it’s home again for Barn for a local ding-dong with Larne Tech.

Before then, the Tech travel to last year’s 1b champions, East Belfast. Tech manager Johnny Hastings said: “I expect a tough, physical battle. Away to East is never easy, and they looked impressive in winning 1b last season.”

Meanwhile, in 1b, Wellington hope to have Andy Waide, Craig Cowie and Andy Phillips back on board for Saturday’s visit of Rosario YC. Rec had played the other relegated side, UUJ earlier in the week and their test next Tuesday (18th) is a home derby with Rathfern.

With three out of the first four fixtures at home, boss Stephen Donald said: “It’s important to get a few points on the board, because it’s going to be cup ties for a few weeks after this.”

UUJ are on their travels to Dromara on Saturday to meet Ballynahinch Olympic and then to Bloomfield in midweek. Rathfern, meanwhile, are in Steel Cup action at home to 1c side Shorts.

In 1c, Mossley are off to Newington Rangers on Tuesday (18th) but before then they visit Bangor Amateurs, while Newington are at Saintfield United.

After two tough league openers, Nortel manager Lee McCartney won’t be disappointed with a Steel Cup trip to Downshire YC before his men lock horns with Islandmagee at home on Tuesday.

Davy Rollo’s Islanders take on Kilmore Rec at Wilbourne Park on Saturday.