It’s win or bust for Loughinisland when they take on Ballyholland for a place in the last eight of the SFC this evening at Tullylish.
The Blues face the fellow Division 1 side following a controversial defeat in extra time to Mayobridge last weekend.
Jody Gormley’s side will take heart from a determined display where a free-flowing forward display had the Mayobridge rearguard and sixes and sevens during the game.
With heavy rain forecast for the 8pm throw-in, this should suit Loughinisland after a scintillating display in similar conditions a fortnight ago.
The sides have clashed twice in the league this season. The first game was a draw while Ballyholland won the second duel by a three-point margin.
However, Loughinisland have stormed to third in the league since and will be looking for redemption and a quarter-final place.
The Blues’ strong base of Down county star Jonny Flynn, Dan Gordon and the McClements cousins should give a good foundation to set up scores for the clinically effective forward line.
In-form Stefan Mason, Conor Megoran, captain Paddy McKenny and Rory Mason will offer a four-pronged attack to keep the Ballyholland defence busy.
Dependable Chris Turley, widely regarded as the best ‘keeper in the soccer Amateur League, will form the basis of a resolute defence.
Conor O’Toole, Paddy Megoran and Paul Digney have enough in their locker to keep the South Down side at bay.
It should be a close encounter but Loughinisland’s fine display in difficult conditions against Longstone in Castlewellan recently should help them secure their place in the knockout stages.
