Friends hockey reachMcCullough Cup semi

The boys’ first XI, coached by Craig Cunningham, have had a great McCullough Cup campaign, recording impressive victories against Bangor (4-0), Wallace (3-1), Banbridge Seconds (4-2), Regent (2-0) and Grosvenor (7-0). As a result, the First XI have finished top of their group.

Friends’ now have home advantage and face Banbridge in the semi-final at Lisnagarvey Hockey Club. The match was due to be played on Wednesday but the game was called off due to a frozen pitch. It has now been re-arranged for Monday.

The Second XI, coached by former pupil Glenn Whitten, are also doing well in their competition, the Prior Shield. The Seconds are through to the quarter-finals where they will play Ballyclare. Despite losing 5-3 to Campbell, they defeated Bangor 6-0, B.R.A. 7-1 and most recently, Newry First XI 6-0.

The strength and talent of Friends’ hockey was on display at Ulster level. Andrew Allen (Year 14), Jack Henderson (Year 13) and Matthew Sullivan (Year 13), played at the Interpros last weekend for the U18 Team, whilst at U16 level, James Milliken (Year 11), Aaron Martin, Ryan Donaldson and Thomas Mathewson (all Year 12) played with distinction and helped Ulster to two victories and two draws.

Special mention must go to Aaron Martin who scored four of Ulster’s seven goals.