Wakehurst boys aiming for Foyle Cup glory

The local boys are no strangers to the Foyle Cup as this is their third appearance in the prestigious tournament, having previously played under Northend United, but this will be their first outing under Wakehurst umbrella, following the clubs’ amalgamation earlier this year.

The team are hoping to repeat their success of the previous year, wherein they carried off the Shield Trophy, beating top Canadian side, ANB Soccer from Toronto in the final.

The draw for this year’s Foyle Cup has continued to pit the Ballymena boys against another top North American side.

Everton America FC, who are based in Connecticut, USA, are a feeder Club for the English Premiership giants, and this match will pose the Ballymena Boys with their greatest challenge, in the tournament. Tonight’s match takes place at Templemore sports complex (7pm).

Wakehurst also face Strabane Athletic on Wednesday night (Wilton Park, 7pm) and host Club, Derry City on Thursday night (Thornhill College, 5pm) before the knockout stages begin in the main and subsidiary competitions.

SQUAD PROFILES

1. Ryan Gault (goalkeeper): An excellent shot stopper, Ryan converted to goalkeeper midway through last season and has pulled off some important saves for the Team.

2. Jack McKitterick (right-back): Jack joined Northend midway through last season and made his debut in a baptism of fire against Irish League Academy side Crusaders.

3. Cameron Waring (left-back): An accomplished left-back, the Ahoghill lad had an outstanding season last year playing for Hillsborough Boys in the Lisburn Invitational Youth league.

4. Kalin McCollum (centre-back): Kalin is the team’s newest addition and has show up well in the pre-season games. Kalin starred for Antrim Rovers last year in the Belfast and East Antrim League.

5. Niall Swann (central midfield): Tough in the tackle and strong in the air, Niall is the team’s Captain and engine room who covers every inch of the pitch during the game.

6. James Cameron (defence/centre midfield: James had an outstanding first season for the team and ended up winning the Best Newcomer award.

7. Connell Lemon (right wing): Connell had a good first season with the team last year and went on to score a number of important goals.

8. Stephen Hare (centre forward: Equally at home as a centre forward or on the right wing, Stephen was last season’s top goalscorer. He had an excellent season which saw him share the Most Improved award.

9. Kyle Jackson (centre forward): Former Southside player Kyle was Top goalscorer for Larne Youth last season in the South Belfast Youth League with over 40 goals.

10. Jack Nixon (left wing): Jack joined the team midway through last season and went on to make the left wing his own position with some polished displays.

11. Thomas Brady (central midfield): One of the most skilful players on the team, Thomas had an unfortunate leg break last season and went out on loan to Carrick Rangers towards the end of last season to improve his fitness. A true Clubman, he has been with Northend from his Mini Soccer days

12. Michael Laverty (full-back): An excellent man marker, Michael gives 100% in every game for the team and never misses training or match days.

13. Jamie Speirs (central midfield Last season’s joint Player of the Year, Jamie is the engine room of the team and a central midfield powerhouse. Leads by example and scored some important goals last season from his central role.

14. Lee Scroggie (midfield) Mr Versatile, Lee has played in a number of positions for the team last season and always gave 100% in each position. His enthusiasm rubs off on all the team.

15. Ross Swan (full-back): Ross started last season in goals but is now comfortably settled into a full back role.

16. Jake Frew (right wing): Making his debut for the team in the Foyle Cup, Jake has been having a good pre-season to date. Jake played last season with Antrim Rovers, where he won their Player of the Year award.

17. Bryan Etherson (centre-back): Last season’s joint Player of the Year, Bryan is a very competitive defender who is equally strong in the air and on the ground.

Glenn Speirs (manager): Glenn has managed the current team to another outstanding year, finishing a creditable mid table position in the Elite National League before losing the semi-final of the League Cup to Ballinamallard. Glenn brings a vast knowledge of youth football to the team and will be ably assisted by Stephen McLees and Johnny Sayers.