McMillen fit for final

Ards have been boosted by Craig McMillen declaring himself fit to take part in the big Christmas Day cup final against Carrick Rangers.

Craig McMillen

The winger took full part in Tuesday night's last training session at Ashfield, showing no ill signs during the one hour work-out. Craig had come off the field in the last minutes of Saturday's draw with Ballymoney, after a blocking tackle had left him in some pain.

The jury is still out however on whether defender Gary Spence will make the game. He too was withdrawn early on Saturday, having felt a tightness in his hamstring, and although he did some training this week, he also received treatment from physio John Weatherup.

So Ards boss Tommy Kincaid will be hoping for the thumbs-up from Spence on Thursday morning, giving him a full squad to choose from and some decisions to make. Spence has been partnered by James Wilson in the centre of defence for the last few games and if that partnership doesn't continue, then Darren Nixon may move inside from his recent right-back role.

Gary Spence

David Cully is also pushing for a starting spot, having been on the bench in the last two games, following a recent suspension. The Ards midfield remains open to question also, with Paul Dickson, Jimmy McIlhagga, James Wright and Kyle McCleery batting for three places.

Up front the regular partnership of Darren Fitzgerald and Darren Stirling seems likely to get the nod, with the pair having knocked in 25 goals between them this season. A late push for a place from Ricky Billing shouldn't be ruled out though.

Thursday's meeting with Carrick Rangers will be the 113th staging of the Steel & Sons final, this year sponsored by Paddy Power. Carrick won the trophy twice in their intermediate days in the sixties, with the  Ards senior side looking a win in the final for the first time.

Ards twice lost semi-final games in the 1940s, while a more recent defeat came in the 2006/07 season, when Ards lost a penultimate match to HW Welders.

All of that is history however and even this season's form likely wont count for much with the three-all draw between the sides back in August of little consequence now.

The game takes place at its traditional venue of Seaview, Belfast and has a 10.45am start. Cash will be taken at the gate with prices set at £5 and £3 for concessions. A limited number of stand tickets will also be available at £6 each.

Ards supporters using the official supporters' club transport should note the buses depart from the Sports Club in Regent Street at 9.45am and that a pre-bought ticket is required for the journey. The Sports Club will be open prior to the buses' departure.

24th December 2008

ardsfc.co.uk