Joy for Johnstone as January signings shine
ANNAGH United’s free weekend schedule at first-team level offered some of the January signings an opportunity to settle in with the reserves.
Mark Boyce and Stephen Canning - two recent arrivals from the Mid-Ulster Football League - finished with four goals apiece as Kyle Rendall’s reserves defeated Banbridge Town seconds by 10-1.
The MUFL Reserve Championship triumph also featured a fine display by ex-Lurgan Celtic winger, Ciaran McKerr - with Gerard McAlea clocking up vital minutes following his recent return to Tandragee Road.
“It is frustrating not to have a senior game on a Saturday but we wanted to make the most of the chance by introducing certain players into the seconds for game time,” said Annagh United manager, David Johnstone. “We were relatively active during the New Year window and for any signing it is important to adjust to fresh surroundings as quickly as possible.
“Our latest arrivals all impressed on Saturday against Banbridge Town reserves and positive performances at any level, or even in training, play a crucial role in helping signings feel a part of the club.
“With Dean Smith suspended for this weekend’s IFA Championship 2 match against Chimney Corner, to have Mark and Stephen so prolific is a real bonus.
“The match also helped Chris Murdock build up his match sharpness and everyone is keen to get back on track in the league.”
Annagh entertain Chimney Corner tomorrow (Saturday) aiming to push up the standings and produce a late surge over the remainder of the campaign.
“We currently sit within a tight group of up to seven sides all aiming to climb the ladder,” said Johnstone. “We had 16 at training on Tuesday so that is encouraging and a sign of the spirit around the club.
“The next month will tell a tale as most of the teams so close together will line out against each other at some pint.
“With that in mind, we welcome Chimney Corner and want to put in the hard work needed to secure the right result.
“We remain happy with the progress overall this season but enter every game with the aim of improving as much as possible.”
Kick-off tomorrow (Saturday) at Tandragee Road will be 3 o’clock.
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Weather for Portadown
Thursday 20 June 2013
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: 13 C to 17 C
Wind Speed: 9 mph
Wind direction: South east
Tomorrow
Cloudy
Temperature: 12 C to 18 C
Wind Speed: 12 mph
Wind direction: West
