GLENS COME TO TOWN

SATURDAY will mark another historic moment in the town’s sporting annals when Strabane Athletic take to the pitch against Northern Ireland Football League (NIFL) Premiership side Glentoran in the Fifth Round of the Clearer Water Irish Cup.

Mo Mahon's men, who currently play in the Playr-Fit Premier Intermediate League,will host Declan Devine's side at Melvin Arena.

The stage is now set for the biggest competitive game played in the north Tyrone club’s history.

Around 600 supporters from both clubs are expected to be in attendance for the much-anticipated clash, with Saturday’s game kicking off at 1.30pm.

It will be a momentous day for the local side, with the club urging supporters to turn out for what is set to be another memorable day.

Ahead of the game, Mahon looks set to strengthen his squad in the transfer window with two new signings imminent.

The new arrivals were expected to be unveiled last night (Tuesday) on the club’s social media platforms.

The club has also confirmed that 24-year-old Killygordon native, Dylan Woods, has signed a professional contract which keeps him at Athleitc for the remainder of this season and next.

Woods has previously played with Finn Harps and Letterkenny Rovers.

"Strabane Athletic FC are delighted to confirm Dylan Woods has signed a pro contract with the club for the remainder on this season and the 2026/27 season," a statement from the club said.

"A huge moment for Dylan and a testament to the hard work put in on and off the pitch.

"Congratulations Dylan."

Elsewhere, Aaron McCready and Luke McGeehan have departed the club.

One of the club’s longest standing and most respected players, the club said McGeehan’s decision to call time on his playing days, was borne out of a recurring achilles problem, as well as increased family and work commitments.

A club spokesperson said: “Many have contributed to the development, progress and success of SAFC since our inception, but none more so than Luke.

“In his long career with Athletic he seldom missed a game.

“A captain who led by example on and off the pitch, Luke played right-back, left -back, centre-back and midfield in selfless determination to his local club... Luke’s time at SAFC is the best example of a consummate professional attitude which contributed to unprecedented success for the team and supporters.”

McCready is leaving to embark on his travels.

The spokesperson added: "Aaron has been with us for the past two years and during that time has been a valued member of the squad, creating great memories and playing his part in winning trophies along the way.

"We wish Aaron nothing but the very best in this next chapter and thank him for his commitment and contribution to the club. Once a blue, always a blue."

McCready said of his time at the club: "A big thanks to the coaching staff, the committee, the lads and the supporters for the past two years.

"I’ve really enjoyed my time at the club, made great memories and won trophies.

"I’ve no doubt the club will continue to have success as it keeps moving in the right direction.”

Following Saturday’s game, Athletic will be back in PIL league action when they face Knockbreda FC on January 17 followed by a game against Wellington REC FC in the McComb's Coach Travel Intermediate Cup on January 24.

Both games will be staged at Melvin Arena with kick-off at 2pm for the Knockbreda encounter and 1.30pm for the cup game.