Ards vs Carrick Rangers.
Irish Cup 5th Round.
Bangor Fuels Arena.
Saturday 4th January 2020.
Ards play their first game in this season's Irish Cup, sponsored by Sadler's Peaky Blinder against familiar opposition in the shape of Carrick Rangers. Carrick of course knocked Ards out of last season's cup in this round at the same venue as well as winning the end of season promotion/relegation play-off between the two clubs.
If any added spice was needed Carrick are managed by ex-Ards favourite Niall Curry and include in their ranks the likes of Willie Faulkner, Guillaume Keke, Kyle Cherry and Reece Neale who have all played for Ards. Unlucky Aaron Hogg will be unable to face his old team mates as he sustained an achilles injury in the recent game at Institute but he was replaced in goal by Liam McAuley, another with Ards connections, Liam saved a penalty in the 2-0 loss to Coleraine last time out.
Carrick must be pleased with their season so far, they sit in ninth place but are 12 points clear of the relegation zone and have had some excellent results, including a six goal mauling of Glenavon.
Ards recent results have shown an improvement, with John Bailie having overseen three wins, with 14 goals scored and none conceded during his three games in charge. Team selection might be expected to be along the usual lines, Ben Cushnie is still unavailable but Caoimhin McConnell has extended his loan from Cliftonville for the rest of the campaign so will be eligible for consideration as will Craig Harris who was suspended for the 8-0 demolition of Knockbreda on Boxing Day.
Fans are reminded that season tickets are not valid for this game and admission prices are set at £12 with concessions at £8.
Match Sponsors : FB Motors Newtownards.
Scrabo Ards Supporters.
Ball Sponsor : Luke Murray Jewellers Newtownards.