Millburn Primary School hoping to draw on history

Front row(left to right): Oliver Cunningham, Joshua Dunlop, Rafferty Mackay, Aaron Lyttle, Jamie Sheppard and Reece Watton. Middle row (left to right) Charlie Henry, Adam McClure, Dean Millar, Lennon McKeeman and Adam Downey. Back row (left to right) Macauley Holmes, Mark Crawford, Ruairi McClean and Kofi Blair

The Coleraine school th0ugh will go into this year’s showpiece final as slight underdogs against the current cup holders.

“Millburn PS has a great tradition of doing well in the competition and just like in past years there is a real buzz around the school in the lead up to this year’s final,” coach and teacher Ruairi McClean told Times Sport.

“We are a very proud school and all students,parents and staff are really looking forward to what should be a great night and occasion for the school.

“We have faced St Colum’s already in the final stages of both the Mullan Cup and the Killowen Cup.

“The fact that St Colum’s have already won both the Mullan Cup and the Killowen cup this year (and deservedly so) just goes to show how strong a team they have.

“Although, we’ve come out second best in the three previous games played between both teams this year, the Millburn boys are sure to give it their all on Thursday night!

“I have been delighted with the progress made by our young side this year.

“The squad includes many P6 children who have obviously lacked the physicality of many of their opponents this year, although what we lack for in physical presence...we certainly make up for in technical ability.

“Being involved in the Finals of both competitions has been a great experience for the boys and a lot has been learned.

“Performance is the first thing I look for from the boys as these children are only at the very early stages of their football development.

“It’s a lovely feeling to win things but my pre match team talk will be focused on encouraging the boys to express themselves, continue to develop as young footballers and most importantly HAVE FUN!

“What a great opportunity for them to showcase their talents, I’d love to be in their position!”

Mr McClean would like to thank the parents of the boys for all their fantastic support throughout the year, the Millburn Parents’ Association for buying the footballers a new kit recently.

A special thanks goes to Mark Crawford who has assisted me with coaching the boys and preparing them for games this year.