Graham Luney

Glentoran defender Frankie Hvid says he’s been given an education into how important the Irish Cup is to the east Belfast club.

When the draw for the Clearer Water Irish Cup fifth-round was made, Annagh United’s derby clash with Portadown was one of the standout ties.

Irish League hearts are heavy and broken after what has been a horrific few days for the game in Northern Ireland. Tears will flow on Saturday when clubs unite to pay tribute to Cliftonville defender Michael Newberry and Glenavon’s long-serving Chairman Adrian Teer.

Ards manager John Bailie was beaming with pride after his Championship side performed an Irish Cup giant-killing act at the home of Ballymena United.

What a weekend of action – we can always rely on football to blow away the winter blues.

As the Irish League continues to mourn friends and former team-mates, Ards defender Michael Ruddy has added his voice to calls for football authorities to unite and give mental health the attention it deserves.

Championship side Limavady United will travel to Crusaders in the Sixth Round of the Irish Cup with little fear after dumping out Premiership champions Larne.

Ards manager John Bailie has challenged his players to use the stunning Irish Cup win at Ballymena United as a springboard to more success at the club.

As the Irish League continues to mourn friends and former team-mates, Ards defender Michael Ruddy has added his voice to calls for football authorities to unite and give mental health the attention it deserves.

Coleraine hero Jody Tolan believes the club’s big-money buys will increase pressure and expectation levels at the Bannsiders.