Fermanagh Premier Super Cup manager Keith Douglas is hoping his players can show that they’re “worthy of their place on the global stage” as they bid for glory at this year’s event.
It’s certainly not going to be an easy start for Fermanagh who take on giants Manchester United in the first round on Monday.
Douglas, from Clones, is in a relaxed but confident mood ahead of kick-off against the English heavyweights.
“We are going up to compete and for the lads to show that they are worthy of their place on the global stage,” Douglas told the Herald.
“There have always been good footballers in Fermanagh, epitomised by past successes.
“Manchester United is the game everyone is talking about. Last year we competed well against them, played with attacking intent and were unfortunate with the two goals conceded. While we know United the name and the quality they will undoubtedly bring, we don’t know the players, so they will be an unknown quantity,” he added.
Along with Manchester United, Fermanagh has been drawn to face Intercontinental FA and Skouted FC in their Super Cup group.
The Fermanagh Premier Super Cup manager is confident that his squad will be well-prepared for the upcoming event in the North coast. “Skouted and Intercontinental are unknown to us too, but equally they don’t know about ourselves,” said the Fermanagh Premier’s manager.
“During the week we will pick up ‘snippets’ of information about our upcoming opponents and factor this into our preparations.
“Regardless of the opposition, we will approach each match with confidence, but we are not naive. We will manage each game and look to take our chances when they come.”
The Clones man is hopeful that his side will be well-prepared physically and mentally ahead of the challenging Super Cup fixtures.
“Our players have trained exceptionally hard and competed in a series of pre-tournament matches, where results have been mixed,” said the Fermanagh boss.
“We have come up against some quality teams. This has been a fantastic test and ideal preparation for us, without focusing on results.
“The development and progression towards kick-off next week has been our aim. It is only then when the results really count.”
The camp has had to deal with a late player withdrawal though, with Irvinestown’s Jay Largo Elis unable to take part due to injury.
“This is a massive blow for any young person. We wish him (Jay Largo Elis) a full recovery,” said Douglas.
“We have been pro-active in preparation for such a scenario. One player’s disappointment is another player’s opportunity.
“I’m delighted to welcome Rhys McGourty into the squad. He has worked hard and fits the profile of player we have lost in Jay. Rhys has taken his chance and I hope that he enjoys it.”
With all eyes on Monday’s fixture against Man United, Douglas says there’s a good mood and confidence in the Fermanagh Premier’s squad.
“Our results from in the group will determine which competition we enter on Thursday, with Thursday’s result determining our fate on the Friday,” he said.
“Each game is vital, all players will want to play each day. With a full 18-player squad now available, this gives us every chance. We are looking forward to the challenge.”
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