Heaven Knows!

The big question on the lips of Sky Blue fans, is not about the relegation struggle, but whether United can somehow put together a decent cup run. Almost exactly 20 years ago, United came to Dixon Park in the 2nd round proper of the Irish cup, they had already accounted for Distillery (now Lisburn Distillery),in the 1st round and if memory serves me correctly, raced into a two goal lead at Dixon Park. The home team however fought back and the match ended in a draw which meant a replay at the Showgrounds. It snowed heavily most of that day and night of the replay and the referee abandoned the game at halftime with United leading 2-0. When the game was subsequently played United ran out easy winners by a score of 5-1. They also went on to lift the 'cup' beating near neighbours Larne in a largely forgettable final. We're not sure whether this is a good omen for tomorrow's game or not, but United were drawn away from home in every round that year and this campaign is beginning with an away tie. Any body who thinks this is an easy game had better get a reality check, this is going to be a hard brutal game, but it's a game we are capable of winning. It's hard to say whether we can do it in one game or if a replay will be necessary, but we really need to be up for it. As for team news, surprise! surprise! we haven't got any, but barring injuries we expect a similar line-up to that which started last weeks game at home to Cliftonville. It's not known if we will go with the 3 at the back system, or switch to a 4,4,2, but whatever system we employ, we are going to need 11 battlers or our cup run will be drastically curtailed. United manager Roy Walker admits to having a poor record in the cup and it would be nice if we could rectify that situation, but first we've got to avoid the potential banana skin of the Comrades. Mike Ward has at last discovered his scoring touch and maybe he'll be the man to carry us through tomorrow, while new signing Paul Muir will have to wait to make his debut as he is carrying a hamstring injury. So come on Sky Blues, let's be up for the cup, let's shag those 'ruddy' Comrades!