On Friday 21st April 2023 Glenavon Under-18s face Portadown Under-18s at Mourneview Park in the Mid-Ulster Youth Cup Final. The young Blues, managed by Belfast man John Savage, hope to make up for the disappointment of losing last season’s Youth Cup Final by lifting the divisional trophy.

“Everyone is looking forward to the final,” said Savage. “Portadown has had an excellent season and will probably be favourites, but we have some good players. If they perform, and we take our chances, there is no reason why we shouldn’t win the cup.”

Glenavon Under-18s hope to be at full strength, though there are doubts about the fitness of centre-midfielder Lloyd Jones (ankle) and striker Jesse Turner (wrist).

The Mourneview youths boast some talented teenagers including goalkeeper George Gracey, centre-back Charlie McShane, midfielder Daniel Dillon, attacking midfielder Ronan McAlinden and striker Turner.

“We have a number of lads who have one more year and a few two more years at this age group,” continued Savage. “They are young but eager to learn. Hopefully they do well.”

Savage has appealed to all Glenavon fans to attend the final and support his young charges. “It would be a big boost to the team and me if there was a good turn out of supporters,” he added. “Come along and get behind us.”

The match at Mourneview Park has a 7-45 p.m. kick-off. Admission prices are a very reasonable £5 and £3.

The Bedeck Suite will be open from 7:00pm.

Glenavon Under-18s’ Route to the Final

First Round – Bye.

Quarter-final – versus Banbridge Rangers (a) 5-1 Scorers: Dylan Alexander (2), Matthew Morris, Christopher Heasley and Harry Bownes.

Semi-final – versus Warrenpoint Town (h) 3-1 Scorers: Dylan Alexander (2) and Ronan McAlinden.

Mid Ulster Cup Semi-Final

Glenavon’s semi-final goalscorers Dylan Alexander and Ronan McAlinden.