'Ard Hearted

United will have to treat their opponents in tomorrow's Irish cup, Ards, with respect, but at the same time they must be clinical as all that matters is the result. Rumour has it that former Sky Blue Darren Fitzgerald has left the club, but at the moment we can't confirm it. United winger Mark Picking, on loan to the County Down club should be ineligible as he is still a registered United player, but then again what do we know. Missing from the United line-up through suspension are, Andy Smith, Chris Ramsay and Aiden Watson, while Locky may not be risked after his recent heart scare. On the plus side team captain Gazza should be fit to resume and what a boost that would be for the Sky Blues as they embark on the pursuit of their favourite trophy.

This will be no easy match but we expect a professional approach from the Sky Blues and if we get it, they should progress to the next round. Our record in the cup of late has been lamentable and the present team, who are capable of beating the top sides on their day, have a chance to go some-way to improving on that. Kevin Kelbie, assuming he hasn't indulged too much over the festive period should be too hot a handful for the Ards defence, ably backed up by big Nathan McConnell. Manager Roy Walker is reportedly searching for a striker to fill the void in the short term during Andy Smith's enforced 6 match absence, but it's doubtful that anyone will be in place for tomorrow's game. We'll just have to manage with what we have in the meantime, so it's all systems go for the Irish cup, so come on Sky Blues, let's shag those 'Ard boys!