Dergview vs Ards.
Bluefin Sport Championship.
Darragh Park, Castlederg.
Saturday 7th September at 3.00 p.m.
At the time of writing this game is scheduled to go ahead, in spite of the torrential rain that caused the ground to be flooded last weekend when the river Derg overflowed. Dergview have indicated that the pitch is in good condition, free of any debris and only another torrential downpour would cause any concern.
Dergview started the season with an impressive win over Ballinamallard but since then they have only gathered one more point in their last five league games with a draw against Ballyclare Comrades. Like Ards they were eliminated from the League Cup at the first hurdle, losing 2-0 at Dungannon. Their team will be boosted this week with the return of a few regulars and manager Ivan Sproule will be hoping they can climb away from the basement position they currently share with Knockbreda.
Ards will hope to have Johnny Taylor available again after his recent injury absence and if he does play it will be his 100th appearance for the Red and Blues. Jamie McGovern, who had to be substituted last Friday is also hopeful of recovering in time to play. Eamon McAllister is also available after missing last week's game. Ards will definitely be without long term injury absentee Jonah Heron and also Craig McMillen who sits out this game after collecting five yellow cards, Craig's enthusiasm will be missed as he has been in good form this season, adding three goals to his energetic displays.
Two of those goals gave Ards a strong position and a two goal half time lead against Portadown last Friday before a nervy start to the second half saw the Ports eventually come out 4-2 winners. Paradoxically most fans present felt that this was Ards best display of the season and at 2-2 they had several chances to retake the lead, a draw would certainly have been a more acceptable reward for their performance.
This is an important game for both clubs, Ards looking to narrow the four point gap between themselves and the joint League leaders and the home side trying to get away from the foot of the table.
There will be no supporters bus going to this fixture but hopefully fans that do make the long journey will come back happy.
Referee : Diarmuid Harrigan.
1st Assistant : Roy Beacom.
2nd Assistant : Shane Corrigan.