Hogmany Bonus!

United striker Kevin Kelbie has given the Sky Blues a massive New Year bonus by penning a 2 year extension to his contract, Kelbie is the third player to commit himself to the United cause, following Mark Picking and Craiggers McClean who both signed a 2 year extension a couple of weeks ago. No doubt others will follow as the United manager tries to build a formidable squad to push the bigger clubs in the Carnegie Premier league. They don't come much bigger than tomorrow's opponents, Glentoran, but United may be able for once to match the men from the East. The Sky Blues stretched their unbeaten run to 10 games against Newry City last Saturday, gleaning 26 points from a possible 30, no mean feat for a team written off after losing 4 of their first 5 games in the Premier division. Despite their mounting injuries, Gavin Melaugh being the latest casualty with a leg injury, United's big first team panel is starting to pay dividends. The manager has plenty of options at his disposal for tomorrow's game as Craiggers has recovered from the bout of flu which caused him to miss the Newry game. If McClean does return he can move Haveron to centre midfield or move Lowry to centre and restore Mark Picking to his usual right-midfield role. If instead he wants to go for a more attacking option, he simply has to start Davitt Walsh up front with Kelbie. The United manager was non-committal on whether he would be seeking to extend Walsh's contract beyond its January expiry date. He also refused to confirm an interest in striker Andy Smith, whose contract with Portadown is due to expire in January as well, but he did say he was always interested in quality players. United Captain Albert Watson, who plays his 196 game for the club tomorrow still hasn't signed his contract extension, but the United manager remains hopeful that he will soon. So Sky Blues, the ball is in your court so to speak, let's shag those so called 'wise' men, in fact why don't we give them ' hell boy', 'Kell boy'!

Halfway There!

United reach the halfway stage of their Premier league campaign tomorrow, when they entertain Newry City. It will be a return to the Showgrounds for former defender Gerry Flynn, who manages the border club and former striker Tony Anderson, whose only senior goal for United was a 50 yarder against Cliftonville, remembered fondly by us all. Hopefully the only Flynn who'll be celebrating tomorrow night will be United's current one and defensive kingpin, young Johnny. A win is vital for the Sky Blues tomorrow if they are to keep up with the leaders and keep alive their hopes of a Setanta cup place next season. After tomorrow's game United face 5 of the top 8 teams, including the top 3, in the Premier league, plus a cup match away to tomorrow's opponents all in the space of seven weeks. This will be our make or break time and the strength of our first team squad will be sorely tested over the coming weeks. We aren't aware if David Cushley will have recovered from the 'horror' tackle inflicted on him at Coleraine, but are of the opinion that United will revert to a 4,4,2, formation, which should mean a start for Fitzy, while Stuarty King will have to settle for a place on the bench in order for us to accommodate Gary Haveron and Craiggers McClean in the same team. The rest of the team we expect to be on the usual lines, which means the fit again Mark Picking will continue to occupy the subs bench. So its all systems go for 3 points, 'come on Sky blues, let's shag those men from the marshes'!

Mister Presents!

It's that time again, Santa Claus is hitching up his sleigh, he's on his way almost as we speak and all we want for Christmas is 'to chase the Coleraine B------ds (love children), down the Ballycastle Road, but even more importantly take the 3 points on offer, so for our sakes we hope Santa comes a day late. Boxing Day is the biggest day of the year for 'dyed in the blessed wool' Sky Blue fans, trophies we can live without, but victories over the 'Scum' from the Bannside are a must. United should go into the tie with a near full strength squad, minus Aaron Callaghan, who has decided he wants to join another club, we at 'Sport wish him luck, on the evidence of his displays in a Sky Blue shirt, in our opinion we hasten to add, he's definitely going to need it! The ploy of playing four centre-backs didn't work greatly against Institute last Saturday and hopefully the United manager will have another formation in mind for the visit to Ballycastle Road on Wednesday. If Garth Scates isn't fit, the United manager could do worse than to slip Gary Haveron into centre-midfield, where he has performed well in the past and to restore Craiggers to the leftback slot. Or in a really bold move go to the 4,3,3, system he used so effectively in the 2nd half of our game at New Grovesnor, when we swept the Whites aside. It would mean dropping Fitzy, who let's face it continues to disappoint up front and playing either Lee Patrick or Picking alongside Haveron and Melaugh, that is of course assuming Scates is unavailable. We at 'Sport are disappointed that the one 'dyed in the wool' Ballymena man (well Cullybackey man actually), Nigel Boyd, a veteran of many derby games is not figuring in the squad, as we're sure he could emphasis the importance of this fixture to his team-mates. In the words of Liverpool legend Bill Shankly, this game is not a matter of 'life and death', 'it's much more important than that'! So come on Sky Blues, let's shag those 'stinking' gas men!

Dealers Choice!

When card players are unable to agree on what game to play, they sometimes compromise and go for 'dealers choice', in other words, the 'dealer' picks the game. So it is with football and the 'dealer' in this instance is the team manager, the team selection and the tactics employed are all down to him. United manager Tommy Wright finds himself with a happy dilemma for tomorrows game at home to Liam Beckett's Institute. Big Tam has only one player from his first team squad unavailable, long term injury victim, Aiden Watson. The eleven players who won so convincingly against Lisburn Distillery on last Tuesday night, in a 2-0 victory which lifted United into the 'dizzy heights' of fourth place, are almost all automatic choices for tomorrow's game. We at 'Sport are led to believe though that the United manager would like to revert to a 4,4,2 formation, which leaves him with the difficult choice of who to omit from Tuesday's starting line-up. It would seem to be a choice of selecting two out of three, from, Cushley, McClean and Haveron, a big decision as someone is sure to be less than pleased when omitted. Meanwhile spare a thought for Simon Kelly and Mark Picking, both restored to full fitness but unable to force their way into the starting eleven. We at 'Sport are given to understand that contrary to reports, only Craig McClean and Mark Picking have agreed new deals and this may also have a bearing on who starts tomorrow's game, but then again maybe not. Davitt Walsh and Fitzy are both vying for a start alongside Kevin Kelbie up front, but who gets the nod is anybody's guess. So it's all systems go for the Sky Blues in tomorrow's game, the 'Stute are a potential 'banana' skin, so come on United let's shag those London(derry)ers!

Lights On!

Lights, camera, action, is the cry when film-making, hopefully there will be lights tomorrow night at New Grovesnor and if there's lights, there will definitely be action, as for cameras, that's anybody's guess. Neither United or the Whites are high profile enough to be guaranteed cameras from the local TV companies, although the fact that they are battling for fourth place, might make a difference, but we at 'Sport won't hold our collective breaths. After the news today that United have not got a home draw in the Irish cup and must travel to play Newry City at the Marshes, league points are even more of a premium. We have been unable to ascertain whether Tommy Wright will be making many changes to Saturday's line-up, our source has dried up for the present, but we envisage very few ourselves. We in fact expect United to have an almost identical line-up as they had for the 'abandoned' game 18 days ago, although Fitzy may retain his place as Walsh may be given even more 'rest'. David Cushley will no doubt feel a little aggrieved if he's left out, but it is after all horses for courses and with that in mind we fully expect Johnny Flynn to return to the team. This will in turn release Gary Haveron to play in left midfield and barring any injuries United's other players should keep their starting places. Having said that, the United manager may have a completely different game plan for tomorrow night's game, which in many ways is like a cup match, a win would take us up three places and keep our unbeaten run going, which in turn would give us a massive confidence boost with the holiday fixtures looming ever closer. So it's all systems go for the 3 points, so come on United, let's shag those Lambeggars!

Suffolk Sojurn!

United travel to that wondrous place in West Belfast, Suffolk, the home of Donegal Celtic, known locally as 'the' D.C.. The best one can hope for in a journey into the heartland of Nationalism, is a dry day, as rain cover is limited to say the least. Terracing is also pretty scarce and points are hard to come by, but having said that, it's a match United will be expected to win. Easy it will not be, as never mind local pride, the D.C. are fighting for their existence as a Premier league club. United are forced to make one change, Davitt Walsh carried off against Larne last Friday night is going to be missing for a couple of weeks and United manager Tommy Wright needs to replace United's top marksman. We at 'Sport hope the United manager is going to go for an attacking side and with that in mind we expect Fitzy to be given the chance to resurrect his United career. Paul Brown and Randal Reid will no doubt be waiting in the wings, or the subs bench, along with last week's heroic substitute David Cushley. Mark Picking, who along with Craigers McClean just penned a new contract should also make the bench, leaving the manager with lots of attacking options. We must spare a thought for Simon Kelly who has missed United's last three games, through injury and suspension and with Johnny Flynn performing so heroically alongside United Captain Albert 'the tank' Watson, it's hard to see how he can get back in the team. So come on Sky Blues, let's shag those Suffolk Hippies!

Double Trouble!

United manager Tommy Wright, with an almost fully fit squad at his disposal, is calling on his two top strikers, Kelbie and Walsh, to get back to what they do best, scoring goals, when United entertain bottom club Larne tomorrow night, kick-off 1945. The United manager has no illusions as to how hard the 'Harbour Rats' will make it for the home team in the Antrim Derby, but he also believes United have the firepower to blow the Larne yins out of the water. He told Sky Blue Sport he would be having a good talk with his players before the game, but didn't envisage too many changes to his starting line-up. Big Tam said he wasn't surprised when Mickey Collins opted to join the 'Gerry Flynn' revolution at Newry Town. He also hinted that he had a couple of 'irons in the fire' as regards signing players during the January transfer window, although he hoped his present squad would convince him over the rest of this month that he didn't need to get his feet too wet. He hopes to have a back-up keeper on the books shortly, as cover for Paul Murphy during the enforced absence of young Sean O'Neill. So with a plethora of players at our disposable it's all systems go for the visit of Larne, 'So come on United, let's shag those Harbour Rats'!

Fighting Fitz!

United manager Tommy Wright looks set to say same again to the team that snatched a draw from the jaws of victory last week. Mark Picking, Paul Brown and Boydie all returned to training this week and Fitzy has completed his one match suspension. Fitzy will definitely return to the squad, but is not expected to get a starting role, even though on-loan striker Davitt Walsh sat out training with a heavy cold. Johnny Flynn, fresh from a three day trial at Man City, will take his place in central defence alongside United Captain Albert Watson. Albert, who has already made 190 appearances for the Sky Blues, will be out of contract in the summer, but United manager Tommy Wright has assured 'Sport that he'll be offering the Whitehead man a new deal before the transfer window opens. He also has told 'Sport that young Johnny Flynn won't be going on any more trials and any interested parties will have to judge him on his performances for the Sky Blues, although he reiterated his stance that United wouldn't stand in the way of any protracted transfer to full time football. United's record at New Grovesnor has been none to impressive over the last few seasons and tomorrow would be a good time to set things back on an even keel. A victory tomorrow would also vault United above the hosts into fifth place and set us up nicely for the County Antrim derby at home to Larne next Friday night. So come on Sky Blues, let's shag those Lisburners!

Walking Wounded!

United go into tomorrow's crucial game against Dungannon Swifts, with a catalogue of injuries piling up. Definitely out of the reckoning for tomorrow's game are, Stuart King, Mark Picking and Aiden Watson, all carrying injuries, while Fitzy must sit out with an automatic one match ban after his sending off for an alleged elbowing offence in the reserve game last Saturday. Meanwhile Simon Kelly is extremely doubtful as is Gavin Melaugh. Young Johnny Flynn has just returned from his week's trial with English Premier league side, Blackburn Rovers and may step in for Kelly, but will there be a place for veteran Nigel Boyd, when there's a dearth of naturally left-sided players, to replace the injured Gavin Melaugh in centre midfield. The United manager has another couple of options at his disposal, with Randal Reid, Lee Patrick and Stephen McNeil all vying for a start. There's also the forgotten man at the Showgrounds, former Swift's player Thomas Wray, who has been conspicuous by his absence in recent weeks. No matter what United line-up takes the field tomorrow, we at 'Sport just hope they're up for a battle as both teams are striving for the points. But there can only be one winner and United need to make sure it's them, So come on Sky Blues, let's shag those dunners!

Ballymena Boy!

The Ballymena Boy is the title of a book by United legend Norman Clarke, but we're sure Norman will forgive us for using it as our title for tonight's headline. This time we are referring to another Ballymena Boy, current Norn Iron manager Nigel Worthington. Nigel and Norman have many things in common, both born in the old town, both with the same initial for their forename, both left-footed and both United heroes. Nigel has a chance to write his name in the record books again tomorrow night, when Norn Iron play Spain in Las Palmas, a victory for the men in green could see our wee team advance to the European finals for the first time in their history. But no matter what happens history has already been made, for David Healy (or God as he is known to Norn Iron fans), has broken the individual scoring record for European qualifying. Fans of the International side will be hoping that David can summon up even more magic tomorrow night and that Sweden lose to Latvia and Norn Iron qualify for the European finals this summer in Austria/ Switzerland. If we don't we'll still have achieved a minor miracle by finishing in third place and hopefully our Nige will get an extension to his contract which is what the man deserves to say the least. So come on Norn Iron, let's shag those Spaniards, like good Ballymena Boys!

Flying Flynn!

As their are no league games this week, yet another 'balls up' by the I.F.A. we thought we'd give a bit of an update. The good news is that teenage prospect Johnny Flynn has gone for a trial with English Premier side Blackburn Rovers and United manager Tommy Wright is hopeful that the young United star will make the grade at the Premier club, managed by former Wales boss, Mark Hughes. Young Flynn has come on leaps and bounds since his promotion to the United first team and we at 'Sport wish him all the best. Meanwhile the forgotten man at the Showgrounds, injured striker Paul Brown is recovering slowly from his broken arm and should return to training in another two weeks time. It's also hoped that Mark Picking will be available for selection when we entertain Dungannon Swifts in ten days time, we badly missed his attacking prowess last week and can ill afford another weak performance when the Tyrone men visit. That's about all the news for now as we prepare for Norn Iron's triumphs over the next 8 days, first we'll Shag the Vikings and then we'll Reign in Spain (well Gran Canaria actually), so come on you Green Giants!

Hubble Bubble!

United with two wins under their belt, face the team, who on paper should be mere cannon fodder, but who in the past have turned them over and tomorrow they must guard against their old enemy, complacency. Hubble bubble, toil and trouble, that's what Limavady United generally give the Sky Blues, and we at 'Sport expect a similar scenario, tomorrow. United should go into this game with only one change to last weeks starting line-up, former Limavady player Stephen Lowry, who opened his United goal-scoring account last week, is expected to get the nod in place of the injured Mark Picking. The United manager has intimated that Simon Kelly, will continue alongside Albert Watson at central defence, as Johnny Flynn needs the break after playing 3 games for Norn Iron, under-21s in Cyprus. Gary Haveron will continue in left midfield, in spite of the fact that he looks like a 'fish out of water', but it shows his versatility that he continues to perform in an unfamiliar position, although we at 'Sport, like most United fans, believe it to be a more natural position for veteran Nigel Boyd. Manager Tommy Wright obviously thinks different and he after all is the man who decides who plays and who doesn't, we can only hope he's got it right. So come on Sky Blues, let's get on with the job, let's shag those Roesiders!

Blue Dawn!

After last week's win at home to Portadown, United fans are hoping that it was not a 'false dawn' as they make the trip to the 'dead' centre of Armagh to play the local side. The teams news from the Showgrounds is, that despite a few niggles, only one change is necessary to the United panel and that sees the return of under-23 International Aaron Callaghan who proved his fitness in the reserves last Saturday. We at 'Sport, expect Callaghan to return at rightback, releasing Simon Kelly to partner Albert Watson in central defence, as Johnny Flynn is with the Norn Iron under-21's in Cyprus. The only other place up for grabs in the United panel, is the one vacated by David Cushley, who is also on under-21 duty. United Manager, Tommy Wright, hinted that he might promote young Paul McNeill, who scored a hat-trick in the Reserves 6 nil win over Portadown reserves last Saturday. The United manager wouldn't be drawn on whether he would stick with the adventurous 4,4,2, formation he used so successfully last week, or if he would revert back to the 4,1,4,1, formation that so nearly brought a result at Windsor Park two weeks ago. The 'gut' feeling amongst the Sky Blue Sport team is that he will stick with last weeks formation, allowing the partnership of Kelbie and Walsh (or is it Bonnie and Clyde), to develop further. United's two 'shootists' appear to be on the way to becoming a decent partnership, but it's going to take time in order for them to develop a proper understanding. So come on United, let's build on last weeks result, let's shag those apple pickers!

New Leaf!

Portadown midfielder Mickey Collins, says he intends to be a new man this season, no more Mister nasty, we at 'Sport say we'll believe it when we see it. United also need to cultivate a new image from tomorrow as the one they've had over the last few weeks has been to say the least depressing. Admittedly 'lady luck' seems to have deserted us at the moment and tomorrow's team selection is evidence of this. Stuarty King will miss tomorrow's game with a thigh strain, while local man Nigel Boyd has aggravated a hamstring and will play no part in proceedings. The United manager was already resigned to being without Aiden Watson in midfield as he must serve an automatic one game ban. Aaron Callaghan should make a comeback with the reserves and this should also mean a recall to the panel for David Cushley and Stephen Lowry. We expect Mark Picking and Davitt Walsh to possibly get a start as United opt for a more attacking formation than the one that gave champions Linfield a tough game last week. This is not a must win for United, but it would go a long way in restoring our confidence before the next couple of games, away to Armagh and then home to Limavady United before the free week caused by Norn Iron's home match with Denmark. So Sky Blues, here we go again, let's shag those Portadowners!

Apolgies! Apologies!

For the first time ever (as far as we can remember that is), we find ourselves without a match report for last Saturday's game at Windsor Park. Bruce Balmer (he who rarely misses a game), called in sick and neither Omar or Sammy Patterson were willing to take on his duties and for that we apologise. United did fight it out with the champions, but as is usual we lost by the odd goal, something that seems to happen again and again. We at 'Sport are at a loss to understand why two of the people who should be in our side at the moment aren't getting a 'nod' from the United management. One of course is veteran Nigel Boyd (who must surely have served his penance for attending a family wedding on a match day) and the other is Lee Patrick. These two players turn out for the reserves regularly and are obviously match-fit, yet the manager ignores them and continues with players who are clearly struggling and are a liability we can ill afford. Craig McClean, Gavin Melaugh and Stuart King are playing well below the required standard, which leaves our left flank decidedly vulnerable, while goalkeeper Paul Murphy still continues to struggle and surely its time for Sean O'Neill to come in for an extended run in the first team. Defeat against Portadown next Saturday will keep us firmly rooted in the bottom four of the table and we believe, we will struggle to extricate ourselves during the coming weeks. Let's face it, after the Portadown game, our next three games, away to Armagh and at home to Limavady and Dungannon are not foregone conclusions, they look okay on paper, but these teams invariably raise their game when playing the Sky Blues. So, a result against Portadown is vital next week in our opinion and the only way to achieve this is with our best eleven players on the pitch, anything less and United are in for a long hard struggle to avoid the relegation trap-door as the tough games against the top six teams of last season will be back round before we know it. So, come on Sky Blues, we're with you all the way, but you have to give us something to cheer for, a battling performance is alright, but it's points we need and it's your turn to stand up and be counted!

Mission Impossible!

Ballymena face the impossible task of going to Windsor Park and somehow scratching out a result against the Premier league champions tomorrow. The United defence continues to leak goals at an alarming rate, while the forwards seem devoid of any ideas when it comes to scoring at the other end. In short United are badly lacking in confidence and Windsor is no place for the faint hearted, as we have discovered to our cost this term already. The United management will have to bring off a miracle, if they are to instill belief in the minds of the United players, who are desperately in need of a good result. Should the manager try to defend, playing with only a lone striker? Or is the old adage still bearing true, 'the best means of defence is attack'? We at 'Sport favour the last, basing our thinking on the fact that if we must lose, let's do it with style. We don't want them to play with reckless abandon, but let's try to give them a game. So come on Sky Blues, give us something to cheer about, you just never know your luck, do you? In short, let's shag those townies, you know it makes sense, so let's go and do it!

Round Corner!

After United showed a bit of fighting spirit on Tuesday night at Stangmore Park, the belief among some of the travelling support, was that we may have turned the corner, we at 'Sport are not so sure. Even though the team fought hard on Tuesday, losing by a single goal, an own goal we're told, we still created no clear cut chances ourselves. While at the other end we seem to be too easily prised open and continue to live dangerously. Centre midfield remains a problem and manager Wright's assertion during the close season, that 'he' and we quote, 'didn't need a midfielder', is coming back to haunt him. Things were so bad on Tuesday night that Fitzy was having to drop into midfield himself as the service was abysmal to say the least. Fitzy had a good game on Tuesday night but may have to make way for the fit again Davitt Walsh, who looks certain to partner Kevin Kelbie up front, if the Scotsman can shrug off his flu symptoms. Thomas Wray has failed to grab his chance at right-back in the absence of the injured Aaron Callaghan and with Gary Haveron fit again, it looks likely that Simon Kelly will revert to rightback, with Haveron resuming his partnership alongside United Captain Albert Watson in the centre of defence. Will the United manager continue with his ploy of playing two wingers, Picking and King, or will he at last use his head and give Boydie a run out on the left flank. Surely the Cullybackey man has served his penance for attending a family wedding on the day United lost heavily to the Glens. One thing is certain, Cliftonville will want to get back to winning ways after their exit from the C.I.S. cup in midweek and United will have to be prepared to stand up and be counted. We have generally matched them over recent seasons but lost both times to them last season by single goal margins, tomorrow would be a good time to lay that 'bogey' to rest. So come on Sky Blues, let's shag those Chickenvillers!

Cup Dream!

We're starting off with an apology tonight, according to 'sources' (nudge, nudge,wink,wink), Stephen Baxter never said United had laced their team with tall players or used long ball tactics. There now, we've got that off our chest, now for the bad news. The bad news is that we have no idea how we're going to, not only beat Dungannon Swifts tomorrow night at Stangmore Park, but how we're going to beat them by three clear goals. If we are to progress to a quarter-final C.I.S. cup meeting against the Glens at the oval, then we simply must win by at least 3 clear goals. Our manager would no doubt settle for any kind of victory, as anything would be better than our last three games, in which we scored one goal and conceded nine. The manager may consider restoring Fitzy to the team after he scored a hat-trick for the Reserves last Saturday. Will he also bring back United's best loved local boy, Nigel Boyd is the question on our lips? Will he have the foresight to give Albert Watson a rest, as the Captain has been less than inspirational so far this season? These and many more questions will be answered tomorrow night, we know it's a tough ask, but if you call yourself a Sky Blue fan, come on and cheer the wee team on. Once a Sky Blue, always a Sky Blue, so come on United let's shag those Tyronians!

Crues Control!

After losing by the odd goal in three on Wednesday past, United need to bounce back with a win against their conquerors, when they travel to Belfast tomorrow. United's record at the tight Seaview pitch hasn't been all that good of late but it's imperative that they glean something from tomorrow's fixture. With that in mind we expect the United manager to pick his strongest eleven, which should include top scorer Davitt Walsh. Young central defender Johnny Flynn may well retain his place as Gary Haveron who limped off on Wednesday night is rated doubtful. The United manager wouldn't be drawn on whether young keeper Sean O'Neill would retain the keeper's jersey, or if regular custodian Paul Murphy would return. If Walsh is fit we expect Mark Picking to return to his usual right-wing berth, but the other three midfield slots are up for grabs as United's midfield was less than impressive during the 2nd half of Wednesday's game. The United manager could include Boydie on the left flank where he would give extra cover to Craig McClean, who was left badly exposed at times in the Shield game. Boydie also gives a good balance to the attack, which was badly lacking on Wednesday night. That would leave Melaugh, Scates, Lowry and Aiden Watson to battle it out for the two remaining central midfield spots. One thing is for sure, the Crues, fresh from their Shield victory over us and with only one point in the league so far, will fight tooth and nail to avoid an embarrassment in front of their own fans. But, if we want to progress up this league table, we must take control of this game, so come on Sky Blues, let's shag those toothless tigers!

Spring Back!

After their collapse against Glentoran last Saturday, United will be anxious to bounce back in tomorrow night's Crest County Antrim Shield semi-final at home to the Crues. Victory would not only see United through to the final, but would set up a meeting with their conquerors of last Saturday, Glentoran, after they defeated Cliftonville 2-1 tonight. It looks like United will go into the game without their under-21 International rightback, Aaron Callaghan, while leading scorer Davitt Walsh is rated as doubtful with a chest infection. On the plus side Boydie is available for selection once more as are, Aiden Watson, Simon Kelly, Fitzy and Stuart King. King may in fact get the nod over young David Cushley, who bore the brunt of Glentoran's heavy tackling last Saturday and may not be risked in this game. United manager Tommy Wright hinted that young Johnny Flynn might get a game in central defence alongside Albert Watson at the expense of Gary Haveron, who had a real 'stinker' on Saturday. Goalkeeper Paul Murphy may also be under pressure from reserve keeper Sean O'Neill after dropping yet another 'clanger' on Saturday. But whoever gets selected for tomorrow night's game, one things for certain, a victory at all costs is absolutely vital. So come on Sky Blues, let's shag those toothless tigers, yes its 'high' time, to stand up and be counted!

Best Man!

United veteran Nigel Boyd is attending a family wedding tomorrow and this should lead to an instant recall for youngster Craig McClean in the leftback slot. Nigel is in fact one of five players definitely missing for tomorrow's game against a so far unbeaten Glentoran side. The others unavailable to United manager Tommy Wright, are Aaron Callaghan, Simon Kelly, top scorer Davitt Walsh and long term absentee Fitzy. Thomas Wray has returned to the 'fold' and may get an instant call-up at rightback and both he and McClean have a chance to establish themselves in the team with a good display tomorrow. United find themselves in joint leadership after one game in the Carnegie league and a good result tomorrow is vital. A victory may be too much to hope for, but a draw against the Glens, who have a 100% record this season, would in itself be akin to a victory. United proved last season that they were capable of beating the better teams, with home victories over the Glens and the Ports, so it isn't beyond their capabilities, the only problem is they have to do it with a much depleted squad. But we all know the old saying about 'when the going gets tough', but what will United's response be tomorrow. We at 'Sport are hoping for a positive response from the Sky Blues and what a lift that would be for next weeks County Antrim Shield semi-final at home to the Crues, so 'come on Sky Blues, let's shag those townies!'

First Blood!

United begin their premier league campaign away to Glenavon and manager Tommy Wright is threatening major changes. Will Nigel Boyd get a well deserved recall at the expense of youngster Craig McClean, while up front the fit again Kevin Kelbie looks set to begin a new partnership with Davitt Walsh. The United manager remains undecided on the make up of the rest of his team, he told Sky Blue Sport that all positions are up for grabs! After the poor display against Linfield the United manager is looking to his team to bounce back in typical fashion. United Captain Albert Watson is a player whose selection is in the melting pot as his displays so far this term have been disappointing to say the least. Sky Blue Sport have been somewhat disappointing themselves, firstly we have lost the match report for the previous Glenavon game and now we find that Bruce Balmer is unavailable for tomorrow´s game due to business commitments. Sky Blue Sport will endeavour to keep the genuine, the dyed in the wool Sky Blue Fan informed of developments tomorrow. ¨So , come on Sky Blues, let´s shag the Mourne viewers!¨

Bigot Bashing!

The Bigoted David Jeffrey blows into town tomorrow with the Linfield blues and its a game United desperately need to win if they are to keep alive their slender hopes of qualifying for the C.I.S. cup knock-out stages. Its also a good time for United fans to demonstrate that they're not the 'bigots' that they were labelled by the 'fat' controller. I'm sure there will be lots of references to Jeffrey's sexual preferences, or lack of them and his absent wife, but thats not sectarian as far as we at 'Sport are aware, while out on the pitch Tommy Wright and his men will need to demonstrate their resolve. The United manager is in his third season with the Sky Blues and has yet to register a victory over the team he supported in his youth, tomorrow would be a good time to deliver the goods. Its vitally important that United select the proper formation and surely if everybody's fit only one change from Tuesday night should be necessary. This should be the inclusion of under-21 right- back Aaron Callaghan, at the expense of Gary Haveron. Hopefully Callaghan has returned from his overseas jaunt unscathed and hasn't been involved in any 'brawls' on the plane with 'mouthie' townie wingers, or should that be 'whingers'. United need to win at all costs so a one goal victory will do, but it would be nice to improve our goal difference which would give the fans something to cheer about. So 'come on Sky Blues, let's shag those Linfield Bigots!'

Home Win!

United manager Tommy Wright has a full panel at his disposal for tomorrow night's second round County Antrim Shield clash at home to Donegal Celtic. A first home win of the season against senior opposition, is vital for the Sky Blues if they are to progress to the semi-finals of the Crest sponsored event. The United defence has been somewhat leaky in two of the four games played so far in the C.I.S. cup, conceding 8 goals in the process and the United manager will no doubt bear this in mind when he picks his 11 players for tomorrow night's game. United Captain Albert Watson has failed to impress so far this term, but with the transfer window now closed and a move to Linfield on hold until January at least, maybe the Whitehead man can get back to his best form. Kevin Kelbie, who played the full 90 minutes for the reserves last Saturday is not expected to figure, but it'll be interesting to see who lines up alongside Davitt Walsh up front . It looks like a straight choice of, Randal Reid, Paul Brown or Fitzy. In midfield, Mark Picking and Stephen Lowry should get the wide positions, but Scatesy and Aiden Watson can expect some competition from, Lee Patrick, Gavin Melaugh and Gary Haveron for the central positions. Haveron may of course be required for central defence if the United manager decides not to ask Simon Jones to travel up from Dundalk, but surely he understands the importance of this game for the Sky Blues and needs to select his strongest line-up. Aaron Callaghan and Craig McClean should line up as the fullbacks, but Thomas Wray will no doubt be pushing for a place also. We at 'Sport expect Paul Murphy to retain the keeper's jersey with reserve goalie Sean O'Neill on the bench. So it's all systems go for tomorrow night, where only a win will do, ' so come on Sky Blues, let's shag those Celts!'

Davitt Debut!

United manager Tommy Wright hopes that the inclusion of on-loan signing Davitt Walsh in tomorrow's County Antrim shield first round game, will help alleviate the disappointment of United's poor show last Thursday in their first competitive home game, when they were beaten with a late strike by Dungannon Swifts. Swifts it would be fair to say have held the 'Indian sign' over the Sky Blues since their step-up to the senior ranks and even though matches between the two are usually close affairs, the Swifts surely hold the edge in victories. But enough about that, United begin their County Antrim Shield quest at home to Amateur league side Orangefield Old Boys tomorrow night and nothing short of an emphatic victory will appease the Showgrounds faithful. The United manager remained tight-lipped about his selection for tomorrow night's game but did hint that Walsh would be given a run out. Congratulations to United's second string who won their Steel & Sons Cup match away to Carrick Rangers last Friday night, winning on penalties after finishing the 90 minutes tied at 2-2. Even more incredibly they played the last 20 minutes of normal time and all of extra time with 10 men, when Stephen Lowry was carried off with an ankle injury. The reason United finished with 10 men was down to a misunderstanding we are led to believe. It seems that Paudie Hearty failed to show up on time and the Reserve manager, David Dorian contacted Tommy Wright who was en route to the game as to his course of action. The manager, assuming that junior football was under the same rules as the senior game, e.g. five subs, informed him to name Paudie on the bench and when he, Paudie, arrived he would be eligible to play. Unfortunately the juniors are still governed by the old rules, e.g. three subs and when Paudie failed to show it left the Reserves with only 13 players. Both subs had been used when Lowry was injured so the wee United were left to battle it out with 10 men, justice though was done in the end. This case highlights a problem that exists in the I.F.A. set up, namely nothing is ever as 'cut and dried' as it should be, but that is no excuse for United not being aware of the situation, a distinct lack of professionalism on their part yet again. But enough of that, it's all systems go as we set-off in search of that elusive trophy, it looks easy on paper but we do remember what happened last year and we don't want any repeats. So Sky Blues, its time to stand up and be counted, in short, 'let's shag those orangers'!

Substitute Captain!

United Captain Albert Watson must serve an automatic one match ban for tomorrow night's home game at home to Dungannon Swifts, kick-off 7-45. That means United manager Tommy Wright, must not only pick a new partner for Simon Kelly, he also needs a new Captain as well. The manager, in our humble opinion, could simply opt for Kelly, who was outstanding during the closing stages of last Saturday's game. He may of course want to give the nod to Aaron Callaghan, who looks destined to slot into Albert's position, but Sky Blue Sport expect that Larne man, Gary Haveron will get the nod from the United manager. That only leaves the decision of who to promote for the right back slot in Callaghan's absence. Thomas Wray, who deputised so ably during the closing stages last week will be the obvious choice as Gavin Melaugh is still suffering from an ankle knock and is not 100% fit. With three points on the board courtesy of their come from behind win last Saturday, a win tomorrow night would take United closer to qualification for the knock-out stages of this C.I.S. sponsored competition. Dungannon are the team who have 'stolen United's thunder' so to speak over the last few seasons and a win tomorrow night would go a long way to restoring that imbalance. So 'come on Sky Blues, let's shag those Apple pickers!'

Double Vision!

Ballymena players could think they were back in the cauldron of Windsor Park, where they were 'hammered' both on and off the park last Saturday, when they make the trip to Mourneview Park tomorrow to take on Glenavon. The reason for this 'double vision' is that Glenavon generally play in an almost identical kit to Linfield, hopefully though they won't carry the same threat as the League champions did last week. United manager Tommy Wright insisted that he won't be hitting the panic button just yet, but intimated that he might make a few changes to his starting line-up from last week. The big Ballyclare man was disappointed with the contribution of Stuart King, mainly by his failure to assist young Craig McClean, who was under extreme pressure throughout the match. The manager has a number of options for replacing King, but Gary Haveron would seem like the obvious choice. Lee Patrick must surely come in for consideration as the United central midfield combination of Scates and Aiden Watson looked decidedly lightweight last week, while upfront Kevin Kelbie was less than inspiring too. So we can expect a few changes from the United supremo tomorrow, but he is resigned to going into the game without a recognised goalkeeping sub as Shaun O'Neill is required for the Reserve game at home to Glenavon Reserves. United need to bounce back after last weeks setback and a win tomorrow would go a long way to restoring confidence but it won't be easy. The home team are sure to have their tails up after their victory over Dungannon Swifts last week, but hopefully United will prove a stiffer proposition. So it's all systems go for the Sky Blues, 'come on boys, let's shag those Lurgan layabouts'!

Blue Tooners!

It has already begun, yes the C.I.S. cup is already up and running and our dear neighbours, the Coleraine 'scum' have snatched a draw from the jaws of defeat. Three minutes into injury time and former Sky Blue, Noel Anderson, scored the 'scums' second goal to give them a draw, which just goes to prove that there is no justice! But enough of that, what of United's fate at the hands of last season's champions the glorious Linfield. How will the wee Skies fare playing against the super blues or the I.F.A. as they are better known. Probably none too well is the short answer, a good result for us would probably be a two goal defeat. United manager Tommy Wright says that Kevin Kelbie will be fit to take his place up front alongside the rejuvenated Paul Brown. The rest of the team should be on the usual lines which means no place for new boy Thomas Wray, with Aaron Callaghan expected to revert to his right-back slot. The midfield is perm any 4 from 6, with Melaugh, Scates, Watson, Patrick, Picking and King being the six. United fans will hope for a better start from their team than in recent seasons and any result tomorrow would be a vast improvement than our usual stuttering start. Our best hope is that Linfield will be a bit complacent and believe it's just a matter of turning up and maybe then we can spring a wee surprise. So come on ye 'Blue Tooners', 'Let's shag those Linfield sheep'!

Same Old!

After watching just two of United's friendlies, we missed the Stranraer trip as it clashed with our summer 'piss-up', or booze cruise as its better known, we have come to the collective conclusion that there seems to be little sign of any progress within our ranks. The admission prices on the other hand have been hiked by 12 % but the football has gone backwards as far as we can see. The fact that we beat Scottish first division side St. Johnston 2-0 did nothing to lighten our mood as only the two goals shone out of the mediocrity! Then last Saturday we completely capitulated against a fairly average Coventry City side. In our hearts we knew we were never going to count against them, but it was the 'couldn't care less attitude' of the players that was hard to swallow. Manager Tommy Wright stood and watched as Coventry tore us apart and never threatened to change his formation till it was too late and we at 'Sport got the impression that he was devoid of ideas. He has also 'dragged his heels' all summer long, making token attempts at signing the players we desperately need to bolster our quest for that elusive trophy. Even his two new strikers will not make an appearance it seems before late September and by that time our most realistic chance of ending the trophy famine with either the C.I.S. cup or the County Antrim Shield will probably have vanished for another season. We desperately need to 'hit the ground running' if we are to glean anything from this season, but at the moment we're doing little more than jogging. Maybe a big victory over Wakehurst tomorrow will give us some hope, but somehow we doubt it, but here's hoping anyway!

Dogs Noses!

Four weeks tomorrow United ‘spring’ back into action with a trip to Stranraer for a friendly against the Scottish 3^rd division club. Not a lot has happened since our last bulletin prior to the final game of the season at home to Newry City. We have signed just one player of note, namely Thomas Wray from Dungannon Swifts. Wray, according to reports, is a versatile player, who can slot in anywhere along the back four. All very good, but why the hell do we need him? We had seven players vying for four defensive positions last season, now we have eight. Is the United manager resigned to losing central defender and Captain Albert Watson to Linfield or has he decided to play with an eight man defence and hope to score from set-pieces and breakaways? We’re sure it hasn’t escaped the notice of United fans that no central midfield dynamo has been recruited, something that we have sadly lacked in the last few seasons. Nor are we it seems any nearer to signing a striker and it looks like we’ll be going with the same inept forward line of last season. With Ballymena man Nigel Worthington installed as the Norn Iron manager, what better time for United to spring to the fore once again. After five season’s of the ‘dithering’ Kenny Shiels, we at ‘Sport had hoped that Tommy Wright was the man to lead us out of the ‘wilderness’, but now we’re wondering if he’s just another ‘false prophet’ and we’ve had our fair share of those. So come on big Tam, the ball is at your toe, it’s time for you to stand up and be counted!

Closing Victory!

The curtain will come down on yet another ‘fruitless’ season at the Showgrounds tomorrow, when United entertain Newry City, kick-off 3pm. This will be Newry’s first visit under their new manager, Gerry Flynn, who needs no introduction to Sky Blue fans as he spent a couple of seasons at United under former manager Kenny Shiels. Gerry, who later joined United’s fierce rivals (the Coleraine Scum), will be assured of a ‘warm’ reception from the home fans. United need to win and win convincingly if they are to progress up the table, with at least one place within their grasp, no matter how the other games go. With that in mind we expect manager Tommy Wright to field his strongest team, which should be last week’s eleven, minus young keeper Sean O’Neill who should give way to regular custodian Paul Murphy. It will be interesting to see if Fitzy, who has missed several sitters in his last two games retains his place alongside Kevin Kelbie, or whether the United manager goes for Paul Brown instead. Teletext reported today that Kevin Kelbie was intent on staying with the Sky Blues next season, but finance will no doubt have to be found if he is to fly in every week from Scotland. As this is our last game of the season, it would be nice to see United veteran Nigel Boyd get a start, but somehow we doubt it and as it is our last game, we, the Sky Blue Sport team, are not overly optimistic about tomorrow’s outcome either. But surely United will want to end the season on a high, especially after the disappointments they have heaped on us once again this term. So for the last time, until next season at least, ‘Come on Sky Blues, let’s shag those Carlingford, Lougher’s’!

Picking Licking!

As United go into their penultimate match, Sky Blue fans could be excused for thinking there’s nothing much to play for. But, believe it or not, fifth place in the league is still (well mathematically speaking it is), a possibility for us. With Donegal Celtic ensuring Premier league survival with a 2-1 victory over Dungannon Swifts tonight, we are only 4 points adrift of the Swifts and 3 points tomorrow against already relegated Loughgall should be within our capabilities. That said, our record against so called lesser teams leaves a lot to be desired, as demonstrated as recently as Easter Tuesday in a ‘couldn’t care less display’ at Donegal Celtic. Surely the real United team will turn out tomorrow, they are playing for their future participation in a Sky Blue jersey after all. With the young United reserve team doing so well in the reserve league, surely the time has come to ‘weed out’ some of the dead wood from our non-performing staff. Unfortunately we have no team news for you as our contact has failed to deliver the goods on this occasion. David Cushley is a definite non-starter, according to Teletext, but Aiden Watson and Stuart King are available and hopefully Kevin Kelbie is available also. As for the rest of the panel, it’s a case of ‘perm any 12 from 16’, minus the ‘injured’ Patrick and Melaugh. We are even beginning to sound ‘lethargic’ now ourselves, so for the ‘penultimate’ time this season, ‘Come on Sky Blues, let’s shag those apple pickers!’

Winning Formula!

United manager Tommy Wright will hope that his players have put Easter Tuesday’s debacle against Donegal Celtic behind them. A repeat performance in the Derby game away to the Coleraine Scum would result in United fans voting with their feet in the remaining two home league games. Much thought will go into team selection, but one man looks sure to return, team Captain Albert Watson. With Messers Melaugh, Patrick, King and McConaghie still missing through injury and Randal Reid serving a one match suspension the United manager must select from a reduced senior panel. Nigel Boyd is reportedly injured also and the United supremo has added Daley Carnduff to his panel. There’s a feeling that United will use the system deployed against the Blues in the cup replay, on paper a 4, 3, 3, formation, but in reality a 4, 5, 1, with the two wide men linking up with the striker during attacks. This system was successfully employed by former United manager Alan Frazer, with Barry Patton as the lone striker, ably backed up by winger Peter Murray and the impressive Phillip Knell. The present United panel have a long way to go before they can ‘lace the boots’ of that immortal threesome. But we digress, tomorrow is the last chance for United to salvage something from this season, one of the poorest for some considerable time, failing to make it to the last four of any competition and finishing in the bottom half of the league added insult to injury for the ‘long suffering’ Sky Blue fans. It was disappointing to hear the catcalls directed at the United manager last Tuesday, but in our opinion, they were completely justified. That level of performance was just not good enough and a complete turnaround tomorrow must be witnessed. So come on Sky Blues, let’s shag those stinking gas men, nothing short of an emphatic victory will suffice!

Suffolk Lambs!

United make their first ever visit to Donegal Celtic tomorrow, kick-off 3pm, full of confidence after their demolition of Larne last Saturday. We at ‘Sport can’t help thinking that the D.C. (familiar name for the local team), will be no pushover in their own backyard and hopefully United will give this fixture the respect it deserves. Barring serious injuries, we expect the United manager to make very few changes from his starting line-up against Larne. This will give team Captain Albert Watson and Co a bit more time to recover full fitness as they’ll be needed for the next game away to the Coleraine scum. But we digress, back to tomorrow’s game at Suffolk, where United have played at least once before in a friendly during the close season against Cliftonville, who needed a warm up game for the Inter Toto cup. United might just have a survivor from that game, veteran Nigel Boyd, but the chances of the Cullybackey man getting a start tomorrow are slim indeed. United manager Tommy Wright, in common with most managers we have to add, seems reluctant to drop any of his new players in favour of players of Boydie’s class and natural ability. We, the ‘Sports team, feel that this failure to face facts could be the former International keeper’s downfall, in the ‘so called’, United manager’s hot seat. Hopefully he’ll get the balance right (or should that be Wright), for United’s remaining four games and we’ll pocket the remaining 12 points on offer, starting with 3 points tomorrow at the D.C.. So come on Sky Blues, let’s shag those Suffolk sheep!

Rat Catchers!

With winger Stuart King and United Captain Albert Watson both facing late fitness tests tomorrow, it’s not clear what United’s team will be for the County Antrim derby at home to Larne. Cup-tied Stephen Lowry and teenager reserve player David Cushley have been added to the United panel and with the United manager intending to ‘blood’ some of the younger players over the closing weeks of the league campaign, both may get the nod for tomorrow’s game. One thing for sure tomorrow is that the Larne boys will be chasing the 3 points that would lift them closer to league safety. United on the other hand have very little to play for except pride, as its hard to see them lifting themselves into the top half of the league with only five games remaining. Even though there’s little at stake for the home team, it would be nice to see a decent crowd for the game for if the worst comes to the worst, it could be Larne’s last visit to the Showgrounds for a season or two. We at ‘Sport are still hoarse from last week, but we’ll be back shouting our heads off tomorrow, as if nothing has happened. So ‘come on Sky Blues, let’s shag those Harbour rats!’

Sweet Dreams!

Here it comes, goes the old song and here it comes for the Sky blues tomorrow when they tackle cup-holders Linfield at Windsor Park in the Irish cup replay. A win tomorrow is vital for United in order to keep the dream of a first trophy in 18 years alive. To say it won’t be easy is to make a gigantic understatement, we will be playing against a potential 14 men as the referee and his assistants will give the benefit of any doubt to the home team. That said, if we want it enough there’s no reason why we can’t complete the job which should’ve been done at the Showgrounds in the first match. With 3 of our first team panel Melaugh, Patrick and McConaghie missing through injury, and one player Stephen Lowry, cup-tied, the United resources will be stretched to breaking point. Striker Paul Brown has been passed fit and we expect to see him start alongside Kevin Kelbie up front. The back four should be Callaghan, Albert Watson, Kelly and McClean, with an attacking midfield of Picking, Aiden Watson, Scates and King. With the bench being made up of, Haveron, Fitzy and Boydie or Cushley. Surely this is the best attacking selection available to us and as the old saying goes, ‘attack is the best means of defence’. There’s no point of us starting with Gary Haveron in midfield and Scates on the wing as its imperative that we attack Linfield on their Achilles heel, the flanks. If we can get at them from the wings then victory will be ours, if not then it’s in the lap of the gods. So come on Sky Blues, let’s shag those Linfield bluffers!

White Washing!

Ballymena trail tomorrow’s opponents Lisburn Distillery by 6 points, so anything less than a win tomorrow is unthinkable, as we would fail to close the gap on the men from Ballyskeagh. Craig McClean and Aiden Watson return from suspension, while Aaron Callaghan is away on under-21 duty. This leaves the United manager with a couple of tough decisions to make, does he reinstate McClean and Watson immediately discarding the two men who deputised for them so ably last week, veteran Nigel Boyd and Larne man Gary Haveron. He also must decide who he selects at rightback in place of Callaghan, the versatile Gareth Scates could drop back or he may opt for young Gareth McConaghie who filled the position so ably against Portadown a few games ago. The manager will no doubt also be considering his options carefully with United having a potential 7 games inside a 4 week period from next Saturday. The advantages of having an extensive first team squad should bear fruit over the coming weeks, if United are to improve their league position and advance in the Irish cup. So no slip-ups can be contemplated tomorrow at Ballyskeagh, which let’s face it is not really a ground where we tend to excel. We had a good win last Saturday at Armagh, another tomorrow at Lambeg would do very nicely. So ‘come on Sky Blues, let’s drum these pretenders into the ground!’

Stewed Apples!

Here we go once again with our suitcase in our hands in our hands and we’re making our way down river road, oh sorry that’s a song, we just got carried away. But United are off on their travels with 3 away games on the trot, to Armagh and Lisburn City for league games and Belfast for the drawn out cup replay, 3 cities in a row. For tomorrow’s game United must do without the services of Craig McClean and Aiden Watson, who are both suspended. That is the down side, but on the upside it should see a recall for one of our favourite players, Nigel Boyd. Nigel is the obvious choice to replace McClean at left-back and many United fans feel that he should still be occupying the number 3 spot even when McClean is available. Aiden Watson’s position will probably be taken by Gary Haveron, although young Stephen Lowry could get the nod. The only other position up for grabs is that of striking partner alongside Paul Brown, Kevin Kelbie is the incumbent, but he hasn’t been at his best of late and ‘Sport wonders if the United manager would consider starting Fitzy instead. He has two games to try and work out his best striking partnership as after last Saturday’s showing, it seems like United have lost interest in trying to achieve a high place finish in the league table and therefore the cup is our only aim. Armagh will be no pushover tomorrow, but like last Saturday’s opposition they are the type of team we need to start putting to the sword. So ‘come on Sky Blues, let’s shag those apple pickers!’

Rowed Under!

United manager Tommy Wright refused to be drawn on the make-up of his team for tomorrow’s league encounter with his former club Limavady United. All Bruce Balmer was able to glean from the United boss tonight was that everybody was fit and he had the happy task of deciding who to omit from his starting panel. When asked if he hoped to lay the ‘bogey’ which his former charges appear to have over the Sky Blues, again he declined to comment except to a curt reply of ‘wait and see’. He also refused to comment on the continuing saga of United’s Irish cup replay with Linfield, instead he just shook his head and walked away. So all we can say for sure tomorrow, is that United will put out their strongest team and don’t be surprised if winger Mark Picking gets a start with Melaugh moving inside to partner Aiden Watson at the expense of Lee Patrick. Scatesy may also get the nod for a place on the bench, while young midfielder Stephen Lowery may miss out against his former club. One man the Sky Blues will have to keep a watchful eye on tomorrow is former player Austen Friel, who seems to have found his scoring touch since his return to his former club, after scoring only once in a Sky Blue Jersey. After the euphoria of last week’s draw at home to the cup-holders, or disappointment according to your point of view, United need to get back to winning league points in order to pull themselves up the table. A win tomorrow would in fact guarantee our league safety, which though never in real doubt, is a nice milestone to attain. So it’s all systems go for tomorrow, ‘Come on United, let’s shag those Roesiders’!

Blue Bottle!

It’s the battle of the ‘Blues’ at the Showgrounds tomorrow when the Linfield juggernaut comes to town and United must run them off the road in order to reach the Irish cup semi-final. This is the first meeting of the two clubs in the cup since United beat the Linfield Blues in the ’89 semi-final and went on to claim the ‘blue riband’ trophy of Irish football. That was in fact our third cup triumph in the eighties, second only to the Glens who won it six times. Disappointingly we haven’t triumphed since and in fact haven’t won a trophy since, but we believe this is our year. United have no reason to fear their opponents, who despite having six fulltime pros in their squad, are not the team of last season and we ran them pretty close in the County Antrim Shield final then. United manager Tommy Wright told Sky Blue Sport that he has a full panel to choose from and has more or less decided to run with a midfield of, Melaugh, Patrick, Aiden Watson and Stuarty King. The remainder of the team will be that which started the previous two games which means second top scorer Mark Picking will be vying for a place on the bench with, Scatesy, Fitzy, Lowery, Haveron, McConaghie and possibly Darren Murphy who has delayed his operation until the summer. We at ‘Sport believe the United manager, after careful consideration, will opt for Picking, Fitzy and the fit again Haveron as his subs, which gives him the best chance of covering any crisis as Haveron and Picking are both extremely versatile players. So it’s all systems go for United tomorrow, we’ll never have a better chance of progressing in the cup and with a big home crowd (all of us will be praying for that), we can turn over the cup holders. Linfield have stuttered a bit this season, already surrendering two of their four trophies from last term, but as we know they are at their most dangerous when their pride has been hurt, so we’ll have to be at our best if we want to advance to the semi-final. We at ‘Sport are hoping for a strong referee, someone not afraid to make decisions and who won’t be swayed by the ‘diving’ tactics of, Thomson, Dickson and McAreevy, unlike Mark Courtenay 2 weeks ago, never have we seen worse! So come on United, let’s shag those ‘Townies’, remember, ‘we’re the farmers and they’re the sheep’!

Swift Return!

United are in need of a quick return to form for the visit of Dungannon Swifts tomorrow. United lost the corresponding league game to a late goal, when Aaron Callaghan failed to take appropriate action when faced with a foraging forward. When in doubt, kick it out, is the best advice and if Callaghan had followed that maxim United may have been a point better off than they are now. It’s not known whether the United manager will make any changes to last week’s starting eleven, but with everybody declared fit he may say same again and add Melaugh and Scates to the bench at the expense of McConaghie and Lowery. Then again he may decide to rest Paul Brown, who suffered twinges of pain in his foot last week and push Picking forward, with Melaugh take his place on the wing. There are many permutations open to the United manager, but one thing is certain, with the so called tough games out of the way and United gleaning 7 points from their games against the top five teams, it’s time for the Sky Blues to start putting results on the board. Former United player, Rory Hamill makes an emotional return as a Swift’s player and we can assure the Bannsider of a warm welcome from the home faithful. So it’s all go for three points tomorrow, let’s put them ‘swiftly’ to the sword!

Super King!

United go into tomorrow’s game against the reigning league champions and current leaders, Linfield, trailing the ‘navy’ blues by 19 points. It is indeed a massive margin, but like last week’s game against Portadown, United have the ability to match the Belfast giants, but once again we need everybody giving 100% commitment. According to reports today, defender Simon Kelly will continue to partner team Captain Albert Watson at the centre of United’s defence. Manager Tommy Wright says that Aiden Watson will definitely replace the suspended Garth Scates, but has still not made his mind up whether youngster Stephen Lowery or Stuarty King will be promoted in the absence of fellow suspendee (is there such a word), Gavin Melaugh. King, an avowed Linfield fan, famous or infamous, depending on your point of view, for turning up on cup final day in a Superman suit, would seem to be the obvious choice, as he is a natural left-sided player. Maybe the United manager is unsure about Stuarty’s commitment to the United cause, unlike United’s other ex-Linfield player Mark Picking, who will hopefully be out to prove a point against his former team. Stephen Lowery has a lot of potential, but on this occasion we at ‘Sport feel that Stuarty is the obvious candidate to replace Melaugh and a good performance from the Londonderry man tomorrow, could go a long way into making it a successful season for the Sky Blues. The rest of the United team will be the same as that which started against Comber Rec last Saturday and a similar result will do very nicely thank you. ‘So come Sky Blues, let’s shag these bloody pretenders!’

Onward United!

It’s Irish cup time once more tomorrow and with the quarter finals beckoning, United must avoid a potential banana skin, when juniors Comber Rec visit the Showgrounds. With that in mind United manager Tommy Wright says he’s putting out his strongest team for tomorrow’s game, but says he intends giving a start to central defender Simon Kelly, now that the Dundalk man has served his two game suspension. This should in turn release Aaron Callaghan to his more familiar right-back role. Young Steven McConaghie, a hero of last week’s victory over Portadown may not even get a seat on the bench, with Aiden Watson, Paul Brown and Fitzy all fit again. Even though Gareth Scates and Gavin Melaugh begin a one match suspension from next Monday, the United manager is adamant that they will both be playing a full role tomorrow. The United manager stated that tomorrow is a vital game for us, more important than the trip to Windsor Park to face the league leaders next Saturday. So it’s all systems go for a United win and let’s hope we have a decent crowd to cheer us on, ‘so come on United, let’s reck those Comber men!’

No Downers!

Ballymena go into tomorrow’s home game against second placed Portadown, trailing them by 18 points. Like last Saturday, this is a huge game for the Sky Blues, but despite the points gap United have the capability of beating the men from Shamrock Park. In an exclusive interview with Sky Blue Sport, United manager Tommy Wright named his line-up for tomorrow’s game. Aaron Callaghan will partner team Captain Albert Watson in central defence and young Gareth McConaghie will slot it at right back, therefore releasing Gavin Melaugh into right midfield, the rest of the team will be last Saturday’s starting line-up. The subs bench will include the fit again Paul Brown, alongside Randal Reid and new signing Stephen Lowry. Tommy emphasised the need to stop the service to Portadown’s front men and he was looking for a big game from Lee Patrick and Gareth Scates in central midfield. When asked about last weeks fracas at the end of the game Tommy said he couldn’t comment as the matter was still in the hands of the police. What he did say was that it was disappointing to concede a late goal and lose all three points when he thought we were the better side overall. He told the players during training this week that it was imperative that they concentrate for the full 90 minutes and to keep their spirits up as they could still have a good finish in the championship. When Bruce Balmer suggested that maybe United’s 'fighting spirit' was lacking, the manager stated that he was quite happy with the team’s attitude as demonstrated during training this week. So come on United, we turned this team over in the C.I.S. cup and we can do it again, so, ‘let’s shag those ‘Downey’s!’

Red Revenge!

United enter their toughest round of games in the 2^nd half of the Premier league when they entertain 3^rd placed Cliftonville at the Showgrounds tomorrow. United treasurer Noel Millar, is hoping the ‘reds’ will bring a decent crowd with them tomorrow, in the wake of their winning of the County Antrim Shield on Tuesday past. As we said this is the start of United’s toughest run of games, at home at first to Cliftonville tomorrow and then 2nd placed Portadown next Saturday. On the following Saturday we entertain Comber Rec in the Irish cup, followed by a trip to Windsor Park to take last years champions, at present in 4^th place, before a home game against Dungannon Swifts, who at present are just 6 points behind league leaders, Glentoran. United are set to give a first full game to new signing Gavin Melaugh, in right midfield, with 2^nd top scorer, Mark Picking, partnering Kevin Kelbie up front. Austen Friel has moved back to Limavady with central midfielder, Stephen Lowry, coming to the Showgrounds and being in the panel for tomorrow’s game. Simon Kelly signed from Eircom league side, Dundalk, must sit out two games as he has been suspended by his previous association, the F.A.I... Darren Fitzgerald may get a place on the bench, but Randal Reid who had flu symptoms last week, looks sure to be rested. Could this mean a recall to the bench for the fit again Paul Brown, the subject of transfer speculation this week? United manager Tommy Wright was unavailable for comment, so it’s anybody’s guess and we’ll just have to wait and see. The stage is set, the 3^rd placed team, fresh from their Shield winning exploits are in town and it’s up to us to send them home pointless. We know we have the players capable of doing it, if only they can bring their best ‘game’ out tomorrow. So ‘come on United, let’s shag this Chickenville crap!’

Tiger Tamers!

United go into tomorrow’s game against the ‘hatchet men’ at Seaview with two new signings in their squad. Gavin Melaugh, who made his debut as a substitute last Saturday against the ‘Welders’ in the Irish cup, is joined by 22year-old Simon Kelly from Eircom league side, Dundalk. It’s hoped the young six-footer, who can play anywhere along the back four, or even in midfield, will be a great asset to our squad. United manager Tommy Wright has not ruled making further additions to his panel, but has said that unfortunately Gordon Simms, must be transferred as he is surplus to requirements. With Fitzy fit once more, the United manager refused to be drawn on his starting line-up, but it’s thought that last weeks starting line-up will get the nod from the manager. This in turn will probably mean young David Cushley dropping down to the reserves and United could have the rare luxury of two strikers on the bench, Austen Friel and Fitzy. The other sub is expected to be Melaugh, while new signing Simon Kelly will play in the reserves alongside Paul Brown, who is making a good recovery from his broken foot. We at ‘Sport would like to congratulate Aaron Callaghan in making the stand-by squad for the Inter-league game, selected by Linfield manager David Jeffrey. So United, as we enter ‘Tiger’s bay’ tomorrow, let’s show those ‘cubs’ who’s boss, in short, ‘let’s shag those townies’!

Round One!

Okay here we go, this is it, forget about last Saturday, forget about Tommy signing an extended contract, focus only on one thing, United progressing to the next round of the Irish cup. The I.F.A. have ‘dithered and dallied’ once more and we have no sponsor for the so called, ‘blue riband’ trophy. But that doesn’t diminish its importance for us or for any team involved in it. Harland & Wolfe Welders will be out to turn us over tomorrow, of that we can be certain, but our fate is in our own hands. United manager Tommy Wright has intimated his intention to start with last weeks starting line-up, minus Fitzy who has a hamstring injury, with Randal Reid taking his place. New signing Gavin Melaugh will we believe be on the bench, but Darren Murphy must sit out the game with a thigh injury. Could this mean a recall for either Paul Brown or the more versatile Nigel Boyd, we’re afraid we’re not privy to that decision. But no matter who gets the nod for the panel of 14 players, we expect the United fans to get right behind them from the outset. We all have a part to play, players, management, board members and fans, so let’s give it our best shot. ‘Come on Sky Blues; let’s shag those ‘Brass Monkey’, repair men!’

High Times!

After the news today that Tommy Wright has had his contract extended we thought we’d break with tradition and bring out an extra news bulletin, so for what it’s worth here it is…

January 15 2005, League position 7^th, final position April 2005, 7^th, Kenny Shiels sacked.

Jan 15 2005 P W D L F A Pts

16 5 7 4 20 21 22

January 14 2006, League position 5^th, final position, April 2005 6^th, manager safe

Jan 14 2006 P W D L F A Pts

17 9 1 7 20 25 28

January 13 2007, league position 9^th, final position April, 9^th at best (estimate).

Jan 13 2007, P W D L F A Pts

17 6 4 7 20 22 22

In April 2005 and after 5 years in charge Kenny Shiels was sacked as the board rightly decided enough was enough, with the team finishing 7^th, the exact same position as they were in January 15 2005.

In April 2006 our new manager took us to 6^th, roughly the same position as we were in on January 14 2006 and we gave him the benefit of the doubt as it was his first year, but we were not overly happy as the football was boring to say the least.

This year we are in 9^th in January 13 2007, if history is to repeat itself and it probably will, we will finish in 9^th position in April, as estimated above. Could someone please explain to us the logic in rewarding our manager, who has so far delivered sweet F.A. (Fanny Adams), with a 2 year extension to his contract, for a season in which we have so far gone nowhere but backwards?

If you want to draw an analogy with 2004/05 season, we lost to Kilmore Rec in the County Antrim Shield first round and this year we lost to Dundela in the 1st round of the same competition. We thought the manager should’ve been sacked for that alone in 04/05 season, we also thought the manager this season, should have been at least warned that his one bad result had gone and any repeat would lead to termination of his contract. Last Saturday we witnessed the worst defeat we have ever had to endure as Sky Blue supporters and now we see our board has rewarded our manager with an extension to his contract. The United supporters sing a song the first line of which goes, ‘In the town where we were born, we all take heroin and live on farms’. We thought the bit about ‘heroin’ was just an ironic joke, but now we’re wondering if it isn’t. Could the United board be having something slipped into their halftime cuppa? That would explain why they are throwing good money after bad on a manager who appears to have no football brain whatsoever. Take for example the one position that Tommy Wright, professional International goalkeeper should know about, goalkeeper of course. Tommy’s first action when he came to Ballymena was to discard the best keeper the club has had since Robbie Beck, namely Goosey Robinson. Then through Tommy making one or two gaffes we were left with Willie McFrederick, who although a fair shot stopper, never left his goal-line for crosses or back passes and was blamed for at least half of the team’s goals against column last season. This year Tommy has discarded Willie in favour of Paul Murphy, who let’s face it, is useless as a shot stopper, reasonable with crosses, but a nightmare with back passes. So if Tommy can’t get that position right what chance has he of sorting out our sluggish defence, inept midfield and punchless forward line? Thank god the new Premier league is going to be by invitation; otherwise we wouldn’t be in it!

Double Time!

United manager Tommy Wright is expected to give a vote of confidence to the 11 players who finished the match against Glentoran, where we have the chance to do the 'double' over the Lugan Blues. Definitely out of tomorrow’s game is midfielder Aiden Watson who has a broken wrist. Darren Murphy is rated as doubtful for the game against one of his former clubs, while Randal Reid who had to have five stitches in a head wound, courtesy of an elbow from ‘player of the month’, Gary Hamilton (who claims goals he doesn’t even score), may possibly make the bench. Hopefully new signing Gavin Melaugh’s clearance will have come through in time for the Glenavon game, yet another example of the inefficiency of the Irish F.A., while Austen Friel may be recalled to the panel of 14 players. Whatever team takes the field they had better be aware that Tuesday night’s game is done and dusted and it will be a wasted exercise if they don’t show the same commitment and desire in this game. Stuarty King is a case in point, coming off the bench on Tuesday night he probably had his best game since signing for the Sky Blues, but we at ‘Sport were left wondering was it because we were playing Glentoran. Stuarty makes no secret of the fact that he is an ardent Linfield fan and when better to demonstrate this than in a game against Linfield’s fiercest rivals, Glentoran. Hopefully we are being paranoid and Stuarty will play a major role in tomorrow’s game, but we think it might be just as well to have Boydie in the panel, if Darren Murphy isn’t fit, for back-up. Aaron Callaghan, who twice messed up for Glentoran’s first goal, first with a sliced clearance and then hitting the ball off Albert Watson for the own goal (outrageously claimed by Hamillton), will be another player under the microscope tomorrow. The under-21 International has to say the least been unimpressive since his move from Limavady and will soon need to find his best form if he’s to keep his place in the United line-up. So it’s over to you boys, the stage is set, let’s leave those Lurgan men in ‘Mourneing’, in short, let’s shag them!

Let Me-laugh!

Ballymena United manager Tommy Wright looks set to give an instant debut to new signing Gavin Melaugh in tomorrow night’s game at home to league leaders Glentoran, kick off 19-45. Melaugh, who spent two seasons at the Oval, before moving across town to join newcomers Donegal Celtic, was released by the West Belfast side, in a cost cutting exercise. We’re afraid we have no idea on the make-up of the United team, but believe that the new boy will get the nod in midfield, but who makes way is anybody’s guess. Stuarty King, who continues to disappoint, would seem the obvious choice, but it could be either Aiden Watson or Lee Patrick. The only midfielder sure of his place at the moment is joint top scorer Mark Picking. Mark will be anxious to atone for the ‘sitter’ he missed at the Oval in the reverse fixture back in September and we wish him all the luck in the world. Kevin Kelbie who came off the bench at the Oval last season to score against his former club, looks set to be on the bench again for this fixture and may get a chance to repeat the dose. No matter what happens tomorrow night, United’s league position won’t change, but a win would give them a cushion over the teams below them and move them closer to arch rivals, the Coleraine scum. Hopefully they’ll be a good crowd there to cheer them on, so ‘Come on United, let’s shag those townies!’