IRISH CUP: Get us in with the big boys

Banbridge Town boss Ryan Watson wants to maintain the ‘feel-good factor’ at Crystal Park this weekend.
Banbridge Town are determined to make it through to the fifth round of the Irish Cup for the third time in four years when they host Crumlin United on Saturday. Rathfriland Rangers are also in fourth round action, travelling to play Abbey Villa. INBL1548-267EBBanbridge Town are determined to make it through to the fifth round of the Irish Cup for the third time in four years when they host Crumlin United on Saturday. Rathfriland Rangers are also in fourth round action, travelling to play Abbey Villa. INBL1548-267EB
Banbridge Town are determined to make it through to the fifth round of the Irish Cup for the third time in four years when they host Crumlin United on Saturday. Rathfriland Rangers are also in fourth round action, travelling to play Abbey Villa. INBL1548-267EB

Town begin their Irish Cup campaign by hosting Amateur League side Crumlin United (kick-off 1.30pm).

A win would put Town into the hat for the fifth round, when the Danske Bank Premiership sides join in.

And Watson wants a dream tie in Banbridge.

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“The Irish Cup is a bit special,” he said. “After our recent run, there is a feel-good factor around the club so if we could manage to get our name in the hat for the next round, it would really add to that.

“It would be great to get the chance to get a big tie in January.”

Crumlin United, under the stewardship of former Donegal Celtic manager Paddy Kelly, are sitting fourth in the NAFL’s Premier Division.

With teams from that league causing more than their fair share of Cup upsets in recent seasons, Watson knows they aren’t to be underestimated.

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“All the teams in that league are strong sides,” he said. “It’s a tough league to play in and their manager Paddy kelly has a lot of pedigree.

“We had a look at them a few weeks ago. We’re taking them very seriously and we’re treating them the same as any other team.

“We need to keep doing what we have been doing in our recent league games. We’re on a good run of form and we have to keep that going over these next couple of weeks.”

Rathfriland Rangers are also still in the competition. They face a trip to fellow Division 1A side Abbey Villa (kick-off 1.30pm).

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