Coalisland Athletic stand between the Saints and a second triumph in the tournament but manager, Gerry Fay, views confidence as high ahead of the bid to match the memorable achievements of the 1996/97 panel.

“I remember cheering the boys on back then and it would be great to bring the trophy to St Mary’s as manager,” said Fay. “We lost out to Lurgan Celtic a few years ago in the final and I remember a defeat at Holm Park in the Mid-Ulster Shield semi-final so the plan is to put those bad memories in the past.

HEALTH

“I should have a clean bill of health going into the match and everyone wants to play a part in what is a big occasion for the club.

“We scheduled three training sessions for this week alone so the commitment is certainly in place but we can expect a tough test.

“Coalisland are the current leaders of Mid-Ulster League Division One and we face a physical challenge.

“Although we managed to finish with three points and a 2-0 win from the visit to face Coalisland, it was a tight match and we must prepare for something similar this time around.

“Playing at Holm Park should give the lads a lift and it would be great to see a big crowd out to back us on.”

PANEL

Fay can boast a panel of almost 20 players available for selection, leaving the manager with something of a welcome poser before kick-off tonight.

“Probably for the first time since I arrived as first-team manager about six or seven years ago I have a large squad of players,” said Fay. “Although that obviously produces a few headaches, it certainly helps to increase the options.

“The experience of players such as Kevin Bates and Chris Mackle is a bonus but we also put a lot of emphasis on youth development and Thomas McStravick, for example, has been superb this season.

“It offers everyone a great chance to grab the glory but, ultimately, it is about going out and not letting anyone down.”

Kick-off tonight (Friday) at Holm Park in Armagh will be 7.30.