Irvine Times | Sport | SIGNINGS FRESHEN MEADOW

Monday, 8th September, 2008

Published: Wednesday, 11th June, 2008 13:00

SIGNINGS FRESHEN MEADOW

AMBITIOUS Irvine Meadow this week swooped to sign two highly rated players from Premier Division rivals Glenafton Athletic as they gear up for an expected top flight title assault next season.

The duo have been first team regulars with Glenafton Athletic since 2006-7 - former Rangers youth player Frank Haggerty, 29, and defender/midfielder Chic Connolly, 22.

Haggerty also has experience with Renfrew, Pollok, Bellshill Athletic and Coltness and is a combative midfielder.

Connolly has senior experience with Albion Rovers and Forfar Athletic and although his preferred role is in midfield he can also play at the back.

Meanwhile, Kilwinning Rangers are gearing up to put their Ayrshire Weekly Press Cup hammering behind them as they face the Scottish Cup finlaists in the Premier Division next week.

The first leg is at Townhead Park on Monday and the return match at Abbey Park on Wednesday.

Alan McTurks's side will be boosted by returns from suspended Derek McCulloch and injured George Wallace.

Secretary Tommy Mooore said; "Our target must be to take something from the first leg and that will put us in a strong position for the match at Abbey Park."

And Irvine Victoria failed to end their season with a silver lining as they lost out on penalties to holders Ardrossan Winton Rovers at the North Ayrshire Cup final at Winton Park.

But Westenders boss Rab Madden is aiming to strengthen the squad by bringing in some new faces in anticipation of a promotion push and will be hoping Vics' excellent late season form will carry into the 2008-9 campaign.

He said: "We have to improve the quality and increase the the size of the squad if we want to challenge next season."