**MATCH POSTPONED**
Friday 1 February 2019, kick off 7.45pm.
On Friday evening we make another attempt to visit Newry Showgrounds for the first time since our 4-3 away league win on 12th March 2011. We also face Newry City for the second time in two weeks.
Newry currently sit eleventh in the table with sixteen points, two ahead of Ards as they look to extend their stay in the Danske Bank Premiership beyond their first season back. They host us on Friday night on the back of a very disappointing seven consecutive defeats, six in the league and one in the Irish Cup.
Two weeks ago we had a 2-1 home win after coming back to win the game with late goals from Darren Murray and an own goal. Our previous meeting was also at the Oval in September was a more comfortable 4-1 win with goals from Curtis Allen, Robbie McDaid, Marcus Kane and the now departed Dylan Davidson.
Gary Smyth “I was disappointed at the result against Linfield on Monday night after working hard after half time and getting ourselves back in the game so well. It wasn’t a 4-2 game but the defending let us down for the fourth goal in particular, especially after Dwayne made such a good first save from Stewart
Lukasz Gwiazda and Paul O’Neill are both available now after completing their one match suspensions while Joe Crowe misses out following his two yellow cards against Linfield on Monday night. I’ve spoken to Joe about it and he knows they were two totally unnecessary bookings. It’s a pity as he[s been playing well but now Gavin Peers is likely to get his first start which will be good as the experience and know how he’ll bring should be a benefit to the whole team. Curtis also misses out as he’s got a one match suspension for five bookings this season.
Elliott is likely to miss this one as well as he’s still feeling twinges in his back so may need a bit more rest. But I thought Dwayne did well against Linfield. He wasn’t to blame for any of the goals and I thought he was decisive throughout the match. When he had to come for the ball he did it without hesitation and when he had to punch he got plenty of distance to it. He’s a very experienced keeper so I’m confident he’ll do well if he stays in.”
Travel Advice to Newry Showgrounds:
From the A1 take the A2 exit, signposted Newry, Warrenpoint and Mourne Coastal Route. Then take the A2 towards Newry. On reaching the edge of the town centre you will cross two small bridges, after which you turn right towards Warrenpoint (Kilmorey Street A2). At the next roundabout take the second exit into the Greenbank Industrial Estate. The take the first left just before the Newry Shamrocks Gaelic Football Ground. You will reach the entrance to the Showgrounds further along on the right. There is a fair sized car park at the ground which is free, otherwise, there is plenty of street parking available nearby.
