Bryansburn Ready for New Season

Bryansburn FC have nearly completed their pre-season schedule and new Manager Paul Moore has his squad raring to go. A dozen new signings have been made to compliment the panel that finished in 3rd place in Division 1C last year so competition for places is fierce.
As well as numerous tough training sessions the 1st XI played matches against Ballywalter Rec, Abbey Villa and Bangor YM while the 2nd XI and 3rd XI opened up their programmes with games against Bangor YM ll and Comber Star respectively. The 3rds were also down to entertain Abbey Villa lll on Tuesday night.

On Saturday a very successful Annual Four Team Tournament and Barbeque was held at Ballywooley aided by a smashing day weather-wise. In the opening matches Dundonald and Sirocco Works booked their places in the final in two keenly contested games. Host Club Bryansburn twice led against Dundonald through goals from Cooling and Morrison but with five minutes remaining and penalties looming, Dundonald scored two late goals to win. On the other pitch Sirocco led Albert Foundry 2-0 only for the Premier League side to fight back to lead 3-2 before Sirocco equalised to force a penalty shoot-out. An entertaining finale saw ten players in each side take kicks, including both goalkeepers saving against each other, before Foundry won through.

In the Final Dundonald led Sirocco 1-0 at half-time through a goal from ex Bryansburn player Tumelty. Sirocco equalised in the second half and Dundonald lifted the trophy with a goal two minutes from time. In the 3rd/4th Place Match Bryansburn put in a spirited performance to only go down 2-0 to Albert Foundry.

Training tonight (Thur) is for all players bar the first team squad who were put through their paces last night. On Saturday there are two games at Ballywooley with the 2nds playing Oakfield Breda and the 3rds welcoming 2nd Belfast. There may also be a game for the 4ths – see Alan Ferris.

Training next week will be at Ballywooley on Tuesday and Thursday, both sessions at 7pm. Any players looking to join Bryansburn for what promises to be a great season will be made most welcome if they come along. On Wednesday the 3rd XI are at home to Bangor YM lll.

Please note that all those who pay their annual dues before the end of August will receive a 20% discount.

Alan Dempster is currently taking names for the Christmas Dinner at Stormont Hotel and the Club end of season trip.