The wait is finally over.
A new Boyle Sports Championship season gets underway this weekend, with eight intriguing fixtures to kick off what promises to be a highly competitive campaign. From promotion hopefuls to newly-promoted sides looking to make an immediate impression, every point matters from the very first whistle.
Strabane Athletic vs Institute (Friday)
The new season begins with a North-West derby on Friday night.
Fresh from promotion, Strabane Athletic will be hoping to make the perfect start in front of their home support, but Institute arrive looking to lay down an early marker after strengthening over the summer. A competitive opener is expected.
Armagh City vs Queen’s University
Can Armagh City make a brighter start after last season’s struggles?
Queen’s University will be aiming to build on last year’s impressive fifth-place finish, while the hosts know a positive result would immediately boost confidence heading into the new campaign.
Ballinamallard United vs Newry City
A difficult opening test awaits newly-promoted Newry City.
Stuart King’s side will be eager to prove they belong at this level, but Ballinamallard are always a tough side to beat, particularly with Ryan Mayse back at the club.
Dundela vs Moyola Park
Arguably the standout fixture of the weekend.
Dundela will be determined to put last season behind them, while Moyola Park arrive full of confidence after winning the Premier Intermediate League and strengthening impressively over the summer. This has all the ingredients to be an entertaining contest.
Glenavon vs Ards
All eyes will be on Mourneview Park.
Promotion favourites Glenavon simply have to start well, particularly on home soil. Ards, however, will relish the opportunity to cause an early upset and spoil the Lurgan side’s return to Championship football.
H&W Welders vs Warrenpoint Town
The Welders begin another promotion push this weekend.
Warrenpoint Town have enough experience to make life difficult, though, and will travel believing they are capable of taking points off one of the division’s fancied sides.
Newington vs Annagh United
Another fascinating opening-day clash.
It marks Declan O’Hara’s first league game in charge of Newington, while Annagh United will be desperate to bounce back from last season’s play-off heartbreak and begin another promotion bid with three points.
Rathfriland Rangers vs Loughgall
A stern first Championship test awaits Rathfriland Rangers.
Loughgall will expect to challenge near the top end of the table this season, but the newly-promoted hosts will fancy their chances of causing an early surprise on home soil.
