Chairman’s Update – Friday 19th October

THE home games are coming thick and fast at the minute and we prepare for another one tomorrow. After the visit of Glasgow Rangers, Carrick Rangers come to Inver Park for another importantChampionship encounter.

As we have found out all season, league points are hard earned and we know whatever weget against my good friend Niall Currie’s side will be just that. It’s the third East Antrim derby of the season, and the rivalry ensures no quarter will be asked for or given. Today is the return to our bread and butter and the points are significant.

We come into the match on the back of a wonderful occasion and fantastic match on Wednesday evening, to mark the completion of the first stage of work at Inver Park. We were delighted to see 2,086 fans there and it made for a superb spectacle and atmosphere. The contingent who traveled from Rangers were all complimentary of how things are developing on and off the pitch. We faced a young Rangers side who handled themselves very well before, during and after the match.

I thought our own lads equipped themselves extremely well against a very good young Rangers team. It was pleasing to see a number of teenagers take to the field for ourselves, and it is testament to the quality coming through as well as Tiernan and the coaching staff, as to how they’re trying to integrate them and give youth a chance. Iain Dowie and Mick Quinn, who were both guests of Kenny Bruce on the night, said it was clear that we have an identity in our play – and those two know their football!

I would personally like to thank all those who made the night such a success, from the board members, to those who volunteered from Larne Youth, those who helped steward, sell programmes and everything in between – your contribution made the night possible.

As well as cutting the ribbon of the ground, there was also the official opening of the Agnew Lounge for VIP members and players. This was opened by Mrs Anne Barlow, Kenny Bruce’s mother, and named in honour of her ownparents. It was a very special occasion.

Finally, let me thank our sponsors for tomorrow’s match. We are looking forward to welcoming the Latharna Club as Match Sponsor, Ball sponsor, Yes Chef Magazine and thanks as always to ourseason long sponsors The Curran Court Hotel and Classic Drinks. We are forever grateful for the support of our sponsors.