Irish Cup - Semi-Final | Ballymena V Coleraine

Words: Nigel Tilson

D A V I D J E F F R E Y T H E B O

Ballymena United manager David Jeffrey is hoping for something magical to finish the 2019-20 season as it started.

He pointed out Coleraine have “quality all around the pitch”, although he insisted his players will be up for the challenge, adding that their commitment and effort has been first class since returning to training.

Injuries ravaged his squad during the Danske Bank Premiership campaign, thus hampering his side’s progress, so he is instead looking all the way back to last summer to provide inspiration for the final week of this extended season. He explained: “Carrying forward last season’s momentum (his team finished second in the league) and effort into the first round in Europe (Europa League preliminary round) saw a historic progression against Faroese team NSI Runavik who were fully match fit, midway through their league season and very comfortable playing in the always-changing weather conditions at home. “Taking a 2-0 lead out there and coming away with a fantastic 0-0 draw led to an almost fantasy-like experience of taking on Swedish giants Malmo in the next round. “For the club, the staff, the players and particularly the fans that was a magical experience to share together.” And he would love nothing better than a similar magical experience this week, starting with today’s semi-final against Coleraine. He said: “The Irish Cup final is the blue riband event of the domestic calendar, and whilst Bryan (McLaughlin – his number two) and I have been fortunate to experience it a number of times over the years the desire to get there is as great now as it was the first time, and we very much want to experience that joy with others here at Ballymena United.” But Jeffrey, who won 31 trophies during his 17- year tenure as Linfield manager, knows his side will have to be at their best to have any chance of reaching the final on Friday.

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