Reds through to Kirk Cup final

The Reds took a commanding first half lead but let Dale back into the game in the second half. A last gasp goal from Timmy Smyth sealed a 4-3 win and a fourth Kirk Cup final in a row.

Awaiting Cookstown in the final is Lisnagarvey. Garvey defeated the host club Banbridge 2-0 in the other semi final. The final will take place at the home of Lisnagarvey Hockey Club on Boxing Day.

Cookstown will be hoping for another Kirk Cup victory after Banbridge put an end to their three in a row aspirations in last seasons final.

It has been a hectic couple of months for coach Stephen Cuddy and his squad, with a tiring pre season programme and the Kirk Cup group stages. The squad will now turn attentions to their European Hockey League group stage where they will be making their debut.

The Reds open their campaign against Reading Hockey Club in Antwerp on the 21st October. The following day they face one of the favourites for the tournament Amsterdam.

Prior to their adventures on the continent, Cookstown Council are hosting a civic reception for the squad at Coolnafrankey on the 15 October. Also in attendance will be the 1981 and 1988 European teams who also competed on the European stage.