Lisburn Distillery have been drawn at home to East Belfast in the first round of this season's Co Antrim Shield.

This game will be played at New Grosvenor on Tuesday 28th August. The winners will play the winners of the Glentoran v Comber Rec tie.

Lisburn Distillery concluded their pre-season campaign with a masterful 9-0 victory against junior side PSNI in a one sided match at Newforge Lane in a game where the hosts only managed one shot on target in the entire 90 minutes.

The game started off evenly and for the first 23 minutes there was no sign of the goal avalanche that was to come although during that time neither side stamped its' authority on the game. A sea change however started to come about on 23 minutes when Andrew Waterworth played a delightful through ball to the incoming Gary Browne who hammered the ball home from 12 yards.

The Whites upped the tempo after that but on 28 mins PSNI created their only chance of the game when a direct free kick was well held by Lisburn Distillery keeper Philip Matthews. Six minutes later and the Whites went 2-0 up when an Aaron Johnston effort was saved by the home keeper, the rebound from Browne was then cleared off the line and Waterworth was on hand to bundle the ball over the line and make it 2-0. By this stage the Whites were playing some delightful fluent football and it was therefore not surprising when a third goal came on 38 minutes when some great play from Waterworth resulted in the ball being moved out wide for Browne and in turn his cross could only be parried by the home keeper and young Mark Cooling was on hand to drive home the third. It's worth pointing out at this time that young Cooling had a top class game and he has certainly done no harm at all to his chances of making the first team for the opening game of the season at Larne this forthcoming Saturday. Indeed it was Cooling in the thick of things once again on 42 minutes as his perfect pass picked out Browne once again on the wing and once again a great cross from the ex-Glentoran player caused chaos in the PSNI defence allowing Waterworth's powerful shot made it 4-0

Second half saw the Whites continue with their fine form with it taking only two minutes for the four goals to become five as Aaron Johnston headed the ball goalward and the same player was then on hand to be the first to react when the PSNI keeper made a great save to keep out his initial effort.The sixth goal of this one sided rout was soon to follow when on 53 minutes a great cross from Johnson was finished off by Andy Kilmartin and a seventh almost followed only two minutes later when young Botswanan trialist Maano made a great run but dragged his final shot inches wide of the home goal.

Johnston gained his second and the Whites seventh on 67 minutes and goal number eight arrived on 80 minutes when substitute Nathan McConnell fired home following a fine cut back from Waterworth who in turn had been put in by a great through ball from James bell. Eight - nil would have been amazing in anyone's books but Andy Waterworth was determined to ensure he got a hat-trick and he achieved that very task on 84 minutes when he headed home a pin point Bell cross.

The Whites played some superb football on the night and the hope now is that this high standard came be carried forward to Inver Park for the first competitive game of the season this weekend.

Team: Matthews, Youle, Muir, Alderdice, Ferguson, Kilmartin, Rezai, Cooling, Johnston, Waterworth, Browne.
Subs: McMenamim for Youle, Bell for Rezai, Manno for Cooling, McConnell for Waterworth, (Peter) McCann for Kilmartin, Wilton for Matthews
Further subs: Waterworth for Brown, Youle for Muir, Rezai for Johnston

Match report and images (reproduced with permission and thanks) Copyright Lisburn Distillery.net, Neil Partridge and David Hunter

Match Report from Neil Partridge

In their penultimate pre-season game Lisburn Distillery had a hard fought win against Banbridge Town this afternoon.

The Whites came up against a hard working and physical side who forced them to fight for the full ninety minutes to come out on top.The game began with Banbridge penning Lisburn Distillery into their own half for much of the opening ten minutes, the home side not allowing their opponents time on the ball, closing them down at every opportunity.

Stuart Thompson had the opening chance for Distillery on eleven minutes but unfortunately he blasted his effort high and wide. A minute later a long ball out of the Whites' defence was met by Gary Browne who beat the off-side trap, but his cross just evaded Mark Cooling coming in at the back post. On thirteen minutes Browne laid the ball off to the incoming Peter McCann, on the right, who shot wide when well placed.

Browne was featuring in most of the Whites' attacks and finally on sixteen minutes he was responsible for Lisburn Distillery taking the lead.Defender Johnny Magee put through a ball over the top for Browne to latch onto and loop a shot over the home keeper into the net, despite Banbridge's protests for off-side. Unfortunately Lisburn Distillery lost defender Stuart Thompson to injury on the half-hour forcing manager Paul Kirk into a defensive reshuffle. The home side kept battling away and keeper David Wilton was forced to be alert with some crucial saves on several occasions. The home side were unlucky on thirty-three minutes with Paul Muir coming to the rescue having to clear a shot off his line with Wilton on this occasion beaten.

Half-time 0 - 1

The second half was slow to sparkle. On fifty-six minutes trialist Maano produced a superb pass to Browne in the centre, he unleashed a well struck shot on goal, the home keeper managed to push the ball out only for the incoming Rezai to push his own shot into the keeper's hands.Banbridge replied a minute later with a well struck free kick from their left back which went just wide. On sixty minutes substitute Lee Mercer crossed for Waterworth to lay the ball off for Browne who again forced a good stop from the keeper. Peter McCann failed to increase the lead on seventy minutes when his long range drive sailed over the
bar, a minute later McCann also failed to connect with a Browne cross from the right across the front of the goal.

On seventy minutes a rather soft challenge in the box on Browne resulted in the referee pointing to the penalty spot, Browne dusted himself down to slam the
ball home for both his and the Whites' second goal. Maano showed some good vision on seventy-eight minutes when his pass to Rezai was curled
just wide by the midfielder. Lisburn Distillery's final effort came eight minutes from time when Maano showed some good control on the ball, but unfortunately he sent his strike just wide.

Full-time 0 - 2

Whites' boss Paul Kirk confirmed that former Halifax Town midfielder Carl Rezai (pictured below), has agreed a 12 month contract with the club.

"Carl has been training with us since the pre-season started and he has fitted in well. He will bring strength and a physical presence to the midfield area and gives us additional options" said the Whites' boss.

Match Report from Neil Partridge

Lisburn Distillery put in a much improved performance to emerge victorious against Dundela last night. The good surface complimented the Whites' fast passing game and at the back the defence once again kept that all important clean sheet.

The Whites first clear cut chance arrived on ten minutes when McConnell fired a shot across the face of the goal, he then followed this up five minutes later with going one on one with the home keeper, the stopper produced a fine save to his left. Andy Kilmartin tried to open the scoring a minute later, but his shot from long range was just over the bar. Lisburn Distillery were really showing some great awareness and movement at this stage, with the influential Kilmartin pulling the strings in midfield. On the half -hour mark, Gary Browne had a snap shot parried by the keeper, from the resultant corner the home defence eventually scrambled the ball away.

Carl Rezai fired just over from a Browne corner on thirty- three minutes with the Dundela number nine shooting just wide from close range two minutes later. Leading up to half time McConnell, Kilmartin and Browne all missed further chance to put the Whites into the lead.

Half-time 0 - 0

The second half began with Paul Kirk making four changes to the line-up. On fifty minutes Kilmartin showed great skill on the left, but unfortunately no-one was able to get a final touch on his great cross into the box. On sixty-five minutes the Whites finally took a deserved lead. Andy Waterworth ran with the ball down the right hand side, he crossed and Gary Browne connected to tuck the ball into the back of the net. Five minutes later Waterworth himself had the ball in the net, only for the goal to be disallowed for off side.

At this stage manager Kirk introduced a young Botswanan trialist by the name of Maano. On seventy-five minutes he was fouled just outside the penalty area. Browne stepped up and fired the resultant free kick home for goal number two, a great strike. Browne nearly completed his hat-trick on eighty minutes but his shot was well saved. Andy Waterworth also failed to add to the scoreline a minute from time when after a good run on goal the keeper again saved his shot. In stoppage time the youngster Maano produced a superb pass to Darren Armour whose goal bound shot was handled on the line resulting in a penalty. Maano was given the honour, unfortunately his well struck shot was pushed out by the keeper with the young trialist just failing to connect with the rebound.

Highlights this evening included the performance of the previously mentioned midfield general Andy Kilmartin, Gary Browne who just looks a quality player and the ever reliable central defensive pairing of Johnny Magee and the rock, Paul Muir. The Whites now play Banbridge at Crystal Park, Banbridge on Saturday as we move towards the start of the new season.

Full-time 0 - 2

Damien McLaughlin (pictured below) has agreed a new deal with the club that will keep him at New Grosvenor until 2009.The midfielder/striker joined the Whites from Glentoran in 2005.

A souvenir team print (pictured below) is now available from the club shop.Unmounted, the 8 x 12 inch print will cost £10. Some of the proceeds from the sale of this print will also be used to provide support to the Youth Academy and the purchase of club training gear.

Match Report from Neil Partridge

The Whites pre-season bandwagon rolled into Clandeboye Road this evening, last season's First Division hotshots, Bangor, our latest opponents.

Paul Kirk, unsurprisingly, made eight changes to the side that lined up against Dromara Village the previous evening, the squad also included a
welcome return for ace marksman Darren Armour starting his comeback from injury.

Bangor started the game confidently with Philip Matthews having to be alert, pulling off a point-blank save after ten minutes. On fourteen minutes Andy Waterworth gave the Whites the lead after the home defence miss-hit an attempted clearance, Waterworth nipping in to hit the ball home at the keeper Brown's near post.

Play for the rest of the half was poor, both teams cancelling each other out, especially in the midfield area. Bangor showed some good movement
on occasions, but Lisburn Distillery were always quick to shut the opposition down at the first opportunity.

Half-time 0-1

Paul Kirk changed things at half time by introducing both Damien McLaughlin and James Bell to the action. On fifty minutes Gary Browne
came close to increasing the Whites' lead, pushing his shot wide from a McLaughlin knock down. Browne was also unlucky on sixty-four minutes,
on this occasion a Peter McCann cross from the right was knocked wide by the forward.

The home side sprung to life on seventy minutes when they peppered Matthews' goal with a combination of around five shots all being either blocked or scrambled and pushed away. The crossbar was also hit. Waterworth, McLaughlin and Nathan McConnell responded with missed chances for the Whites.The highlight of the night followed on seventy four minutes when Gary Browne neatly turned and fired home from around eighteen yards to put Distillery two
goals to the good.

The final quarter of the game played out with McConnell and Mercer missing good chances, although to be fair Bangor didn't give up but again failed to find the net on at least two occasions.

This was probably Lisburn Distillery's poorest showing of pre-season so far, in saying that, the team still won, keeping a clean sheet in the process.
One player who just keeps on impressing is young centre back Johnny Magee deputising superbly with skipper Wayne Buchanan out injured.

The pre-season progamme continues on Monday night, the Whites travelling to Wilgar Park to meet Dundela.

Full-time 0 - 2

Speaking afterwards, Whites' boss Paul Kirk (pictured below) added; " We didn't perform as well as I would have liked, it wasn't a great game of football, we couldn't get our passing going but we are still missing some key players at present and at this stage it is all about preparation and working up our fitness and I am pleased with that."

Match Report from Neil Partridge

Lisburn Distillery continued their fine pre-season form with a relatively straight forward victory over Dromara Village last might.The Amateur League side, ironically managed by former Distillery player Phil McDonagh, provided a sturdy test for the Whites, who certainly didn't have it all their own way.

The game began with Distillery passing the ball about well although the longish grass didn't help the pace of play. Dromara Village provided the first clear cut chance on twelve minutes when the number nine headed wide from a cross. Two minutes later Nathan McConnell spooned his shot high over the bar from a Youle cross on the right. The Whites wastefulness in front of goal continued on nineteen minutes when a superb Aaron Johnston pass to James Bell was screwed wide by the midfielder.

The tricky Johnston was fouled in the box on twenty four minutes with McConnell despatching the resultant penalty past keeper Liam Hartley to put the Whites ahead. Trialist Carl Rezai increased Lisburn Distillery's lead on thirty-three minutes with a powerful header from a pinpoint Andy Dickson cross. Right on half half time Nathan McConnell shot wide when in a great position.

Half-time 0 - 2

The early stages of the second half commenced with the Whites players delivering plenty of crosses into the opposition penalty area, however unfortunately there was no end product to these. On fifty-four minutes the home side scored a deserved goal when a well delivered cross from the right was not dealt with by keeper Matthews, resulting in the Dromara number three smashing the ball home from close range.The Whites responded on sixty-one minutes with captain Stuart Thompson crashing a header back of the post. Lisburn Distillery unfortunately lost the injured Dean Youle straight after this effort.

Dromara Village nearly equalised on sixty five minutes when one of their midfielders, spotting substitute keeper Mark Armstrong off his line, tried to lob the keeper from just outside the half way line, the effort just missed the target. Six minutes later Lisburn Distillery finally killed of the match when McConnell converted a Bell pass, beating Hartley from five yards.

Further chances fell to Damien McLaughlin and Mark Cooling before the latter was fouled in the box on eighty-three minutes. Cooling got up and despatched the resultant penalty for the Whites fourth and final goal.

Full-time 1-4

With the Whites playing friendlies on successive nights, players will be rested and rotated, so manager Paul Kirk has confirmed the following 4-4-3 line-up for tomorrow night.

Matthews

Alderdice, Magee, Muir, Thompson

P.McCann, Kilmartin, Ward

Waterworth, McConnell, Browne

Subs: Wright, Cooling, McMenamin, Rezai, Bell, McLaughlin

Kick-off should be around 7.00 p.m.

Ryan McCann (pictured) is recovering after being rushed into hospital for an operation after appendicitis. "He has been through his surgery" said manager Paul Kirk "and is now recovering.All the players and everyone here wish him a speedy recovery.We expect him to be out for four weeks but the main thing is that he makes a full recovery."

With the Whites playing friendlies on successive nights, players will be rested and rotated, so manager Paul Kirk has broken with a tradition to name his line-up for tomorrow night's friendly against Dromara Village.The Whites will line out as follows;

Matthews

Youle, McMenamin, Magee, Thompson

Dickson, Rezai, Bell, Johnston

McConnell, McLaughlin

Subs: Alderdice, Wright, Cooling, Ward

Kick-off should be around 7.00 p.m.

Some of you might have noticed a new face on the bench in recent weeks, and we welcome Stuart Gallagher (pictured below) to the club. A UEFA - B licence holder, Stuart will fulfill a performance monitoring role.

Match report by David Hunter

The waiting over, Lisburn Distillery were edged out by a cool finish from John Fleck on 32 minutes in this pre-season friendly against a Rangers XI.The 15-year nephew of former Rangers and Norwich City striker Robert, was put in the clear by Rory Loy and he slipped the ball past Phil Matthews and into the net.

“It was a very good finish, we have spoken about him many times in Glasgow.” said team boss Ian Durrant. “He is doing ok and again he showed his coolness, he done well, very well. The game was played in a good manner, both teams playing attractive football. Paul Kirk was true to his word, they gave us a stern test and a great work out.”

The Whites started out promisingly and Andrew Waterworth got to the bye-line to send a teasing cross along the edge of the six-yard box, unfortunately no-one in a white shirt could get close enough to make contact. Gary Browne's corner was cleared by Andrew Shinnie, and then on 15 minutes Julian Ward was unable to get enough height to direct Peter McCann's cross on target.

The game flowed, both teams attacking and Matthews was across his goal on 17 minutes to clutch a 20 yard free-kick from Shinnie, and then an enterprising move by Steven Kinniburgh broke down on the edge of the box when the full-back was pushing forward. Paul Kirk’s side countered, Chris Smith hooking clear a header from Andrew Waterworth and Andy Kilmartin then cracked a 30 yard effort over the top before the Gers scored that goal.

It gave the young visitors side a lift - Matthews then out again to the edge of the box to snatch the ball away from the in-rushing Steven Lennon with Shinnie then sending a 30 yard effort off target right on the break.

After half-time Shinnie was denied by two good saves from Matthews, the second the best of the game as he punched the midfielder’s header over on 51 minutes.Back came the Whites two minutes later, Paul Muir bringing down Browne's corner, his touch took him wide and under pressure from Smith he saw Calum Reidford beat out the effort at the near post. On 58 minutes Waterworth cut in from the left to send a curling shot a couple of feet just over Reidford's cross-bar before he missed the Whites best chance on 65 minutes. Inside his own half he ran on to Ryan McCann's pass and broke clear down the pitch but as the keeper came out his shot went the wrong side of the woodwork.

A spate of substitutions then took place before Lennon's free-kick dropped onto the roof of the net on 78 minutes and the last action of note was an 85th minute snapshot from William McLachlan that was held by David Wilton.

“They had better opportunities in and around the box and Philip had more saves that their keeper had to make and that sums it up” said Whites’ boss Paul Kirk. It’s been a great day here and we were delighted to have Rangers as our visitors.”

After the match, a civic reception was held for both teams in the Island Civic Centre, Lisburn, by Lisburn City Council.

Lisburn Distillery – Matthews (Wilton 71), Alderdice (Dickson 57), Magee, Muir, Thompson, P.McCann (Youle 80), Kilmartin (Johnston 82), R.McCann (Rezai 77), Ward (Cooling 71), Waterworth (Bell 82), Browne (McConnell 60) Sub Buchanan

Rangers XI – Reidford, Lowing, Kinniburgh (McDonald 69), Harvey, Smith, Emslie, McMillen (McLachlan 64), Shinnie, Lennon (McMillen 84), Loy (Furman 46) Subs Park (76), Weir

Referee: Ken Ginnett (Newtownabbey)

Photographs Copyright David Hunter and Jonathan Irwin - reproduced with permission and thanks

Lisburn Distillery welcome Ian Durrant and Rangers XI to Northern Ireland.We hope that they enjoy their stay and we look forward to the game tomorrow.

Photographs Copyright David Hunter - reproduced with permission and thanks

Match Report from Neil Partridge

Lisburn Distillery continued their impressive early pre-season form with another comfortable victory against Sirocco Works this evening on
the synthetic pitch at the Ashfield Arena.

Paul Kirk added Michael Ferguson, Johnny Magee and Andy Kilmartin to the squad that had played against Shorts forty eight hours earlier.
Ironically it was Sirocco who forced the first save of the match when keeper Wilton was forced to stop a shot from the number eleven after a
free kick had been awarded against the Whites. This was the wake-up call the Whites needed, and on eight minutes a Nathan McConnell header
through the centre was touched in by fellow forward Aaron Johnston, a soft goal conceded form Sirocco's point of view.

A minute later a Dickson free kick swung in from the right was tucked away by James Bell. Lisburn Distillery threatened to run amok at this stage with chances
falling to Rezai, Muir, Johnston, Cooling and Dickson, all unfortunately not converted. It was only a matter of time before the
Whites scored again although when this happened on forty-one minutes it was actually an own goal from the Sirocco Works right back when he hit
an attempted clearance into the back of his own net, acutally a pretty spectacular goal !

Johnston nearly added another strike a minute later when after showing great control he ran forward but shot just wide of the post. Sirocco Works nearly had the final say right on half time when Wilton again was forced to push away another fine free kick form the number eleven, from the resultant corner they then hit the bar with Wilton beaten.

The main highlight of the Whites first half display was the excellent display and combination of the Andrew Dickson and Dean Youle on the right side with Dickson in particular putting in some useful crosses that unfortunately failed to be converted.

Half-time - 0-3

The second half began with only centre-halves Paul Muir and Johnny Magee surviving from the previous forty five. The changes unfortunately reflected in a pretty lacklustre first quarter. Peter McCann missed several good chances with Julian Ward also went close to increasing the scoreline. The fourth goal arrived on sixty-eight minutes when Gary Browne shot past the keeper from the left side.

Seven minutes later a Ryan McCann cross from the left was met by Andy Waterworth who blasted home from close range, the Whites' fifth goal
of the night. Just when it looked like Peter McCann wasn't going to score after again missing another chance on eighty minutes, he finally found the net on eighty- seven after a Browne shot had come back of the post, McCann met the rebound to steer the ball home.

Again this match was a good fitness exercise for the players, which at this stage is what it's all about. Certainly harder tests will follow,
but the Whites' supporters cannot certainly complain about a lack of goals so far this pre-season.

Full-time - 0 - 6

There will be a special one-off ballot at this Saturday's game against the Rangers XI.

Tickets cost £1.00 each or a book of twelve is available for £10. The prize list and winners were;

Tickets will be on sale at the ground

Winners added 230707

Tomorrow night sees pre-season friendlies get underway - the latest programme is as follows;

Lisburn Distillery Pre-season programme 2007-2008

Distillery all White with new kit for glamour Gers friendly

By Stuart McKinley

Lisburn Distillery fans are being given the opportunity to get their hands on a piece of history, linked to their glamour friendly against a Rangers XI this Saturday.

The Whites had hoped the match would be played two years ago to mark the club's 125th anniversary, but it has taken a little bit longer to secure a visit from the Glasgow giants.

Now though, Rangers are on their way and the club have brought out a special kit for the game. The players will wear the club's traditional all white colours against the Ibrox side and as well as that a number of replica shirts have been produced for fans to buy.

Chairman Jim McGrory, however, is urging fans to snap them up quickly before they are sold out. "Having Rangers coming to Ballyskeagh is a great occasion for the club and a lot of work has gone into arranging the fixture," said McGrory. "It will be a great day for our fans and we are giving them something extra to mark the occasion with the shirts that are for sale. "They are a limited edition though, when they are all gone there will be no more so anyone who wants one should get it quickly."

The match is all-ticket and they are on sale at the club on Thursday night and on Saturday morning as well as at the Ramada Hotel, Shaw's Bridge.

Article and photograph (Gerard Smyth) Copyright Belfast Telegraph July 18 2007 - reproduced with permission and thanks

Lisburn Distillery is not responsible for the content of, or services/products supplied/advertised on external websites

Match Report from Neil Partridge

The Whites commenced their 2007 pre-season campaign with a comfortable win this evening at Aircraft Park. Injury ruled out regulars, Wayne Buchanan, Andy Kilmartin and Darren Armour, with Julian Ward and Gary Browne making their debuts in the famous White shirts.

We didn't have long to wait for Lisburn Distillery's first goal of the new season, when Nathan McConnell marked his return to the club with an excellent finish on five minutes after receiving a through pass from strike partner Andy Waterworth, McConnell tucking the ball away to the keeper's right with a well placed first time shot. Shorts responded to this early strike by equalising three minutes later after the Whites defence failed to clear on several occasions, the Shorts player firing
past a helpless Philip Matthews. Lisburn Distillery looked comfortable on the ball for long periods of the half but had to be alert to the danger of several quick breaks by the home side. McConnell had further chances to put his team comfortably ahead and Gary Browne must have felt unlucky when his free-kick on thirty five minutes came back of the underside of the crossbar. Also, Andy Waterworth failed to convert a Ward cross just before half time.

Half-time - 1 - 1

Gary Browne scored the goal of the match five minutes after the re-start. Collecting the ball just inside the box he turned and fired past the home keeper with an excellent strike. As the half wore on the usual rash of substitutions took place with both Mark Cooling and Lee Mercer spurning great chances to increase Lisburn Distillery's lead. The excellent Browne showed them the way to the back of the net when he converted a Waterworth cross for his second and the team's third goal on sixty three minutes. The Whites looked in total command at this stage although only one further strike arrived on eighty minutes when Mark Cooling converted from the spot after trialist Carl Rezai was fouled in the box.

Overall highlights for the Whites were the performances of Andy Waterworth who really looked in a different class, Gary Browne who looked even better as a striker in the second half than his wing position in the first period and finally Julian Ward who worked tirelessly in the midfield. The Whites' East Belfast tour continues just up the Holywood Road against Sirocco Works on Thursday evening at Ashfield Boys High School..

Speaking afterwards, Whites' Paul Kirk, (pictured) below said, "I am pleased with the result, we started off well and played some good passing football, some players impressed, others need to do more. I am however very disappointed at the goal we conceded, I made it clear to the players at half-time that we simply cannot concede goals of that nature in senior games.It was unacceptable. Second-half, we introduced a number of younger players and they all did well, a good start to the pre-season programme."

Additional reporting and photographs: David Hunter

There will be two work parties carrying out work at the ground this week, on the following dates

Sunday 15th July (meet at 11.00 am), and

now Wednesday 18th July ( meet at 7.30 pm).

All help appreciated, further details are avaialable from Ged Irwin

Congratulations to Lisburn Distillery captain Wayne Buchanan who was today named by Roy Millar in a 19- man squad for the Northern Ireland Invitational XI v Everton game on Saturday at the Coleraine Showgrounds. The game is being held as part of the 25th anniversary of the Milk Cup Tournament.

It's a good pre-season boost for Wayne and the club as Wayne seeks to add to his appearances at U-21 and U-23 levels, as well as last season's appearance for the Carnegie Premier League Representative side.

After training to-night, he said; "I saw that the game was on, but I thought that Nigel Worthington would be using the game to bring a few players in before the next European Championship games and I wasn't expecting anything but it is certainly a nice surprise to be thought of in that way. I know that there will be a good crowd at it, it will be good to test myself against Premier League players and obviously it would be good to play against Andy Johnson if the opportunity arises. It will be a great experience and obviously it's nice to be able to follow that up the following week with the game against Rangers."

Lisburn Distillery boss Paul Kirk added his congratulations when he said; "I am delighted, we have a great skipper and the club and the players are delighted that he has been given this accolade. When you look at the significance of the game it will be a great occasion. He got League honours last year and we were delighted at that and we are now delighted that he has been given this honour."

As well as Wayne, the Carnegie Premier League will be represented in the squad by Keith O'Hara (Portadown), Kyle McVey (Coleraine), Sean Ward (Glentoran), Richard Clarke (Newry) and Kevin Braniff (Portadown). We wish Northern Ireland well and congratulate the Milk Cup Organising Committee for their successful achievements over the last twenty-five years.

Congratulations to Lisburn Distillery first team fitness coach Donald Malomo-Paris (pictured) who has successfully completed his UEFA Pro-Licence.

Donald thanked everyone for their support, adding; "Paul has always been determined to make the club professional and has encouraged everyone to gain qualifications, he encouraged to keep doing it and to finish it and now I'm delighted to have got it."

Whites boss Paul Kirk commented; " Donald's very loyal and also very thorough in everything that he does, he is conscientious and a superb person to work with and I am delighted that he has gone as high in the coaching table as what he as done - he fully deserves it."

On the playing side of things, Paul Kirk tonight confirmed that goalkeeper David Wilton (pictured) has agreed a new two year deal and that James Wright has agreed to come and join the club. "He is coming to us from Linfield, he's an U-18 Youth International, a very talented young player, good build, good strength, a central midfielder who can play defensively as well" added the Whites' boss.

Entertainment before, and during the half-time interval, at the Lisburn Distillery v Rangers XI game will be provided by the Upper Crossgare Pipe Band, and Scottish Highland Dancers.We thank the Ulster Scots Agency for their support and look forward to the entertainment on the day.

Events are anticipated to start around 2.15 pm on Saturday. (full details on ticket arrangements can be found at the top of this news archive).

Lisburn Distillery boss Paul Kirk confirmed tonight that terms have been agreed with Glentoran forward Gary Browne who will be joining the club for the new season.

Pre-season training resumed last night.

The weather hasn't been kind, but at least there is plenty of "give" in the ground. Carl Rezai (pictured below), a central midfielder who was formerly with Halifax Town has joined up for the pre-season programme with a view to signing for the Whites.

Today's CIS Insurance Cup draw saw Lisburn Distillery drawn in Group B alongside Armagh City, Glentoran and Larne.

It means that the Whites will travel away to Larne in the opening game of the new season on Saturday 11th August 2007.

The Whites' programme in the CIS Insurance Cup is as follows;

Saturday, 11th August, 2007 - Larne v. Lisburn Distillery

Saturday, 18th August, 2007 - Lisburn Distillery v. Glentoran

Saturday, 25th August, 2007 - Armagh City v. Lisburn Distillery

Saturday, 1st September, 2007 - Glentoran v. Lisburn Distillery

Saturday, 8th September, 2007 - Lisburn Distillery v. Armagh City

Saturday, 15th September, 2007 - Lisburn Distillery v. Larne

Well not quite, however further painting work is being undertaken at New Grosvenor this Saturday (from 12 pm) and Sunday (from 11 am).

Come along and help get the club get the ground ready for the new season. If you can come along and help please email Ged Irwin with your details.

Former Distillery player and Northern Ireland international Derek Dougan died yesterday, aged 69.

Although he will best be remembered as a centre-forward, 'The Doog' as he commonly referred to, played mainly at left-half or left wing for Distillery. He made his debut on 05th February 1955, joining the club from Cregagh Boys in east Belfast and it didn't take long for him to make an impression. In October 1955 the Whites played West Ham Utd in a friendly at Upton Park, they lost 7-5, Dougan scoring for the Whites. In February 1956, Distillery beat Glentoran 2-1 to win the Mercer Cup with Dougan and Ferris Lunn the Whites' scorers. The Whites then went on to beat Glentoran again in the final of the Irish Cup in the1955/56 season after two replays, with Dougan setting up the equaliser in the first game. He also captained the Whites third team who won the IFA Youth Cup that same season. Capped at schoolboy and youth level, he played twice for the Amateur International team.After scoring 17 goals in 76 appearances, he was transferred to Portsmouth for £4000 in August 1957.

He went on to play for Blackburn Rovers,Aston Villa, Peterborough Utd, Leicester City and Wolves, and it was at Molineux that he became a terrace idol with 123 goals in 323 appearances.He was capped 43 times for Northern Ireland, scoring on eight occasions.

He was also a former chairman of the Professional Footballers Association and was later chief executive of Wolves for a short period.

We extend our sympathy to the Dougan family circle.

.

Derek Dougan's funeral was held in Wolverhampton on 05th July 2007.

The season doesn't stop at the end of the season as far as the club is concerned.

Work at the ground and behind the scenes continues through the summer. The club are looking volunteers on Saturday week, 30th June 2007, to help carry out painting work at the club. An 11.00 am start is planned. If you can come along and help please email Ged Irwin with details.

In association with, 'Give Us Back Our Game', Lisburn Distillery Academy held a 4 v 4 Fun Day on Sunday 17 June.

Thirteen teams took part from our 2000 age group through to the 1997's. Two separate tournaments took place, 50 boys and their parents enjoyed a great day of football.

In two hours no fewer than 262 goals were scored by all teams and some fantastic football and skills were on display from all age groups.

Lisburn Distillery Manager, Paul Kirk and defender Stuart Thompson were present to support the event. They took the time to speak to children and parents whilst signing autographs and having their pictures taken.

The event took place world-wide with events happening across the UK and Ireland, the USA, Canada, Australia, Sweden, India, Brunei and the Philippines.

"Give Us Back Our Game" was formed six months ago to highlight the problems of touchline behaviour in children's football and to create a more child and player centred environment through small sided games, including 4 v 4's.

The key issues are:

To give children, coaches, parents and teachers and anyone else involved in grassroots football a voice by lobbying governments, associations and other organisations in order to bring about change.
To highlight the rising 'win at all costs' culture that is slowly destroying the beautiful game.
To give the children back their game by including ALL children, making it fun and giving them the opportunity to 'play'.
To bring back the 'spirit' of the game and fair play.
The main thing that we want to hear is children's voices, calling, shouting, laughing and talking. They will play fun 4 v 4 and small sided games and take responsibility for 'their' game by refereeing their own matches.

Tim Wareing, event organiser, added, 'What a great day - 262 goals scored in 2 hours football! The children played some great football. We play small sided games throughout the Academy. We can see the development in each individual. They have more touches on the ball and make more decisions while playing in all different positions. Our kids always play with smiles on their faces and are not afraid to try anything. Our philosophy is to let the kids play'.

Thank you to all the parents who assisted and supported the day. Thanks also to Paul Kirk and Stuart Thompson for their attendance. A big thank you to the coaching team for their hard work throughout the season.

We look forward to continuing our support to, 'Give Us Back Our Game'.

Tim Wareing
Academy Director

Lisburn Distillery, along with five other Premier League clubs, received their UEFA club licence for the 2007-2008 season at an official presentation yesterday.

Club chairman Jim McGrory, pictured below, received the licence on behalf of the club. It's the third successive season that Lisburn Distillery have been awarded a licence, and out of those clubs owning their own ground, the club is only one of three whose licence enables UEFA ties to be played at their own ground.

In a press release issued on behalf of the Club Licensing Committee by the Irish Football Association, the IFA were "pleased to award UEFA club licensing certificates to the six clubs who successfully completed the club licensing scheme."

The release went on to add; "Clubs were assessed in five key areas namely Sporting, Infrastructure, Personnel & Administration, Legal and Financial.

A monetary award (£1,000) is being made in conjunction with the licence to recognise the effort required by clubs to attain the Licence.

Chairman of the Club Licensing Committee Mr Allen McKinstry said: "Myself and all the members are encouraged by the engagement of clubs within the UEFA Club Licensing Scheme in the past season even though the actual number of licences awarded has decreased this year.

"With the advent of Domestic Club Licensing there will no doubt be a greater drive and determination from clubs to meet the requirements and the Club Licensing Committee and administration shall do all we can to assist clubs in this respect."

IFA Chief Executive Mr Howard Wells added: "The Club Licensing Scheme, both for UEFA and Domestic competition, continues to play an integral part of our future plans for club development. A number of the licensing principles have formed the basis of our work in relation to the establishment of a new league structure within Northern Ireland and this shows the relevance of these principles to the improvement of all aspects of club football."

Source - IFA Media Release

Larne midfielder Julian Ward, is the second player to have agreed terms with Lisburn Distillery during the close season. Whites' manager Paul Kirk said; " I am pleased that we have agreed a deal with Julian, he will be a good addition for us and a Lisburn Distillery player before the new season starts as will Nathan McConnell who has also agreed to join us (from Glenavon). We know about Nathan who was with us before, we know his attributes, his ability on the ball and his enthusiasm and work-rate. Both are good signings for us."

Meanwhile as Julian Ward arrives from Larne, striker Marty Verner will be going in the opposite direction in an unrelated deal.The Whites' boss added; "Although he has not been released yet, we have agreed a deal with Larne and the move will be completed once the paperwork has been finalised.'

Verner becomes the second player to move on over the summer after Francis Murphy opted to move to Cliftonville once his contract expired.

There could be some more signings to come as Paul Kirk indicated when he said; "We're not finished yet in terms of trying to bring in other players."

Lisburn Distillery boss Paul Kirk tonight confirmed details of the 2007-2008 pre-season programme. The squad will report back for training in the first week in July and the programme is as follows. Apart from the game against a Rangers XI (details above) we will confirm kick off times nearer the start of the programme.

Lisburn Distillery Pre-season programme 2007-2008

Details of the Carnegie Premier League games in the 2007-2008 season were released today.

On the opening day of the League season, Lisburn Distillery are away to Coleraine (22 September 2007).

Boxing Day and New Year's Day sees the Whites travelling to Donegal Celtic and Newry City respectively.

The final home game of the league season is scheduled for 12th April 2008 (Donegal Celtic), with the last two games of the league being away to Larne and Institute respectively.

Full details of Lisburn Distillery's matches will appear later.

The board of Lisburn Distillery Football Club is extremely pleased to confirm that they will be playing a Rangers Eleven at New Grosvenor Stadium on Saturday 21st July 2007 (kick-off 3.00 p.m.).

Looking forward to the game, Lisburn Distillery chairman Jim McGrory said; "We have been in discussions with Rangers for some time. It was difficult, not surprisingly, given the demands on, and the fixture schedule of such a famous club, to come up with an earlier date but we are delighted that Rangers have been able to accommodate us.

We thank them for that and we are also delighted that not only have we been able to agree a date but also that the game will be played at our own ground. This was extremely important to us, we wanted a top club to play at New Grosvenor and we wanted our fans to be able to see this game at home.

Lisburn City Council is also helping us with arrangements for the game and they will be hosting a civic reception. They will also be supplying additional grandstand seating for spectators. I also know that our manager Paul Kirk and the players will be looking forward to this extra-special pre-season game as will our supporters."

Rangers' team details will be confirmed nearer the game.

Ticket prices and distribution arrangements are as follows;

Adults - £12.00
Concessions and children - £6.00

Tickets will be valid for either the grandstand or the terracing; grandstand seats will be allocated on a first-come first-served basis on the day.

Tickets will go on general release shortly - tickets can be purchased safely and securely on-line through our retail shopping partner Vi-Sport .

Lisburn Distillery season ticket holders unable to purchase on-line will have an allocation of tickets set aside for them.

The match will be promoted for Rangers' fans living in Scotland who intend to travel over for this game on Rangers' official club site.

There will be additional sales of tickets at several outlets in the city of Lisburn and at the club on certain dates. Details of these and further match related information will also be available here on the club web-site shortly.

A familiar face at New Grosvenor as far as home and away fans are concerned, and by his own admission, not many get past Robert as he sells the match ballot tickets..

Out each week, in all weathers, he does a fantastic job selling ballots and brought in just over £4000 last season. A superb effort, and one duly acknowledged at the recent end of season awards.

Well done Robert.

Congratulations and many thanks to the Phoenix Society who have confirmed that the annual dinner and auction organised by them on behalf of the club netted £12,400.

The Society will be seven years old this coming August, the proceeds from the March event mean that the Society has raised somewhere in the region of £52,600 since August 2000. It's another fantastic amount from a small group of dedicated and hard-working supporters and the club would like to thank them for their continued work and contributions.

Youth Team Manager & Academy Director, Tim Wareing signs off with his final report of the season.

Click on the link below to find out more about how the young Whites did this season.

Link to Youth Team page information

The downstairs lounge has been refurbished. A new bar has been installed and the old boths have been removed to create a more spacious and comfortable lounge for visitors and users.

This year's golf tournament will be held on Monday 11th June at Whitehead Golf Club.

Open to four-balls, the cost per four-ball (£200) includes fees, three-course post game meal and hole sponsorship.

Tee -off times - 10.30 am to 1.00 pm

For further information - please email the website

Good to see Simon West back at the club for a few days over Easter.The former full-back, now based in Cyprus called in to see his team-mates ahead of the Limavady United game.Simon was back home visiting relatives and still keeps in touch with all things "White" via the club website.

Depsite a set-back following a biking accident in Cyprus, Simon is playing for Anagennisi Derynias who finished sixth in this season's Cypriot Second Division.

Former webmaster Johnny McKinstry continues to add to his coaching CV . Back on Wednesday 28th March his club side, Northumbria UniversityMen's Football 3rd Team, won the British Universities National Vase Competition.

The National Vase competition is competed for by the 32 Regional League winners from England, Scotland and Wales on a knock-out basis.

The road to the final saw victories over Leeds Trinity (5-3), Napier Edinburgh (3-0), Hull (1-0) and Chester (1-0) and the final proved to be an exciting affair in front of some 200 people, Northumbria winning 3-2.This was the first time that Northumbria had won this trophy, and the first time in 8 years that the University has won a National Cup in football.

Lisburn Distillery boss Paul Kirk today confirmed that Marty Verner and Ryan Catney were being made available to other clubs and that striker John Martin will be leaving the club once his contract expires.

Lisburn Distillery groundsman Beattie Arlow (pictured above) was one of three Carnegie Premier League groundsmen shortlisted in the Northern Ireland Groundsman of the Year competition. The shortlist was drawn up by the Irish FA in partnership with the Institute of Groundsmanship (IOG). Dungannon Swifts, Lisburn Distillery and Donegal Celtic represented the Premier League, whilst Coagh United and Carrick Rangers battled it out in the First Division as did PSNI and Ballyclare in the Second Division.

The winners of this year’s competition were presented with their awards at Saturday’s JJB Sports Irish Cup Final at Windsor Park.

Speaking about the the IOG's Northern Ireland Football Groundsman of the Year, John McFarlane, Chairman of the Northern Ireland branch, said "We've been delighted with the interest shown again this year by all the clubs, large and small, in this the competition's second year. All too often club grounds men work tirelessly at pitches with little thanks, again this competition has put them centre stage and given them the recognition they deserve".

The pitches are initially assessed by the referees on a week by week report through-out the season. These are added to the team manager's nominations for the best three pitches they have visited, in their respective leagues during the season, to compile a final shortlist.

The short listed clubs in the Carnegie Premier and First and Second Divisions are visited with the groundsman being questioned on maintenance regime, number of games/training, equipment/resources available etc.

The individual winners each received a trophy from the IOG with the winning club receiving products and services from the competitions sponsors.

The Premier League award was won by Norman Black of Dungannon Swifts.

Well done to Beattie though, he has done a great job on the pitch this season and it shows and will improve further with work alrready started for next season.

It is with very deep regret that we announce the death of our esteemed friend and supporter, Frank Hobson.

Frank, who will be known to many throughout the league and not just here at the Whites, passed away this afternoon after illness.

Our thoughts are with the Hobson family at their time of loss.

Frank was buried at Ballyvester Cemetery on Friday 04th May 2007.

Donations in lieu of flowers if desired can still be made to Action Cancer c/o James Brown & Sons, 535 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7GQ.

Francis (Frank) Hobson

Frank Hobson had followed Distillery for a great number of years. Originally from the Donegall Road area, he was a Whiteman through and through. A faithful supporter over all those years, he was always there to cheer on the Whites.It didn't matter if it was a pre-season friendly or a competitive game, Frank was there and early. Despite the onset of his recent illness, he still made the effort to be there and still came to games a few weeks ago. He supported the club in many ways and both he and his great friend, the late Ben Fox, were familiar faces around the ground and other Irish League grounds for many years.

We have lost another good friend here at New Grosvenor and whilst Frank may be gone, he will not be forgotten by those who knew him, enjoyed his company and respected him. (DH)

The end of season awards were held after the Loughgall match on 28th April 2007.Details of the winners are posted below, congratulations to all those who won awards this season.

Players' Player of the Year 2007	Wayne Buchanan
Lisburn Whites Player of the Year 2007	Paul Muir
Lisburn Distillery.net Player of the Year 2007	Darren Armour
Lisburn Distillery.net Runner-up 2007	Andrew Waterworth
Lisburn Distillery.net Third place 2007	Phil Matthews
Whites Matchday Programme Player of the Year 2007	Andrew Waterworth
Whites Matchday Programme Runner-up 2007	Darren Armour
Whites Matchday Programme Third 2007	Paul Muir
Second Team Player of the Year 2007	Jonny Magee
Youth Team Player of the Year 2007	Alan Coates
Top Goalscorer Award Firsts 2007	Darren Armour
Top Goalscorer Award Seconds 2007	Mark Cooling
Top Goalscorer Award Youth team 2007	Neil McLarnon
Maillot Jaune 2007 (Worst Trainer award-the yellow t-shirt)	Paul Muir

Andy Kilmartin was the winner of the Lisburn Distillery.net April Player of the Month. Congratulations to Andy who was in top form against Linfield in the semi-final of the cup.He is pictured receiving his award from manager Paul Kirk (left) and assistant-manager Ronnie Cromie (right).

Lisburn Distillery are working in partnership with the Dunmurry Community Policing Team on a local "Policing with the Community Initiative"

It's a cross-community soccer initiative that will commence on Thursday 26th April 2007 and will involve a soccer coaching morning followed by a five-a-side competition at New Grosvenor. There will be trophies for the winning teams and medals for all the children taking.The first event will involve primary school children, both boys and girls, from the Dunmurry area and further dates are planned for other events during the year.

We wish the initiative every success and hope that all the children involved have fun and enjoy the experience of taking part.

Update: A great day day weather-wise and fun-wise was enjoyed by all the children partcipating. The feedback was very good indeed and we look forward to the other events later in the year.

The annual "End of Season" awards will take place in the clubhouse on Saturday evening after the last league game of the season. There are plenty of "LiDAs" (Lisburn Distillery Awards) as we refer to them here on the site, up for grabs. The event is once again organised by the Lisburn Whites Supporters Club and the anual Night at the Races event will start around 5.00 pm, this will be followed by a buffet and then on to the awards themselves.

The current list is;

Internet "Player of the Year"

Programme "Player of the Year"

Players' "Player of the Year"

Lisburn Whites Supporters Club "Player of the Year"

Second team and Youth team "Player of the Year"

And First, Second and Youth teams "Top Goal Scorer" awards

Everyone is very welcome to come along and enjoy the evening

Tonight sees another Poker Classic event being run in the Social Club - this fund-raising event is being run monthly, on the third Friday of the month.

The event will start at 8.00 pm and there will be cash prizes which will be dependent on the number of entrants.

Games consist of five and seven stud poker, there will be buy-ins available (£5.00) and there will also be a ballot with prizes on the night.

We would ask you to come along, support the organisers and the club, and enjoy the games.

Lisburn Distillery are delighted to have been one of only six clubs from the Carnegie Premier League to be awarded a UEFA License for the 2007-2008 season (and only one of four whose own ground meets the criteria). It's the third successive season that the club has met the required criteria and is a reward for all the considerable effort, hard work and expenditure that went into this years application.Well done and a big thank-you to all those involved, especially the Chairman Jim McGrory for his personal involvement in a number of areas.

The club have confirmed that a number of new deals have been concluded with players over the last few days. Wayne Buchanan, Paul Muir, Phil Matthews and Ryan McCann have all agreed three year deals. Andy Kilmartin and Andrew Waterworth have signed new two year deals, as did Aaron Johnston and Stuart Thompson earlier this year. Second team players Mark Cooling and Johnny Magee have also agreed new deals.

"I am delighted that we have managed to get things sorted out with the players", said manager Paul Kirk, "we are looking to build on what we have and go forward."

He wasn't risked last week against Donegal Celtic for fears of further bookings, however an Easter Tuesday yellow card against Loughgall means that Ryan McCann starts a two match ban from Monday 23rd April 2007.This rules him out of the cup semi-final, the last match of the season, but he could be back for the final of the JJB Sports Irish Cup should the Whites make it!

It's a case of season over for both players who picked up hamstring injuries last weekend - unfortunately it means that both players are ruled out of next week's JJB Sports Irish Cup semi-final

The Grosvenor Whites Supporter's Club who holding their Player of the Year Award at New Grosvenor on Friday 04th May 2007.

They invite you to attend, the cost is £7 per head which includes a buffet and live entertainment on the night.

Tickets are available this Saturday from Bobby Radcliffe, David Jamieson or the bar staff at the club.

Happy Birthday to Andrew Waterworth who turned twenty-one today.

The club are delighted to confirm that Andrew has signed a new two year deal that will keep him at New Grosvenor until at least June 2009. He has become a fan's favourite in his first season at the club with his performances and goals, and manager Paul Kirk, himself delighted that Andrew sees his future with us, expects that things will get better for him and the club as he continues to develop. The club remain committed to going forward and we will have more good news on the signing front over the next few days.

All is not what it seems in the above picture!

Darren was of course receiving treatment during the warm-up whenever manager Paul Kirk surprised him with his latest award. The duo are pictured below and congratulations to Darren on picking up this month's award, his third of the season. It makes for an interesting time whenever voting takes place for the April award in a few weeks time.

Stuart Thompson will miss the JJB Sports Irish Cup semi-final against Linfield following his four match suspension after the latest meeting of the disciplinary committee.His suspension is effective from Monday 09th April, though he will be back for the last league game of the season and the JJB Sports Irish Cup Final itself, should the Whites make the final.

Linfield defeated Ballymena United yesterday and the result means that they will play Lisburn Distillery in the semi-final of the JJB Sports Irish Cup.

This game will be played on eitherTuesday 240407 or Wednesday 250407 at The Oval (Belfast).

We expect to have ticketing and seat allocation information within the next couple of days and will post this here on site.

The winners will play Dungannon Swifts in the final on Saturday 05th May 2007.

Youth Team Manager & Academy Director, Tim Wareing, feels it's 'mixed form' form for the Youth Team at the minute, They currently occupy fourth place in the league at present - you can find out more about their recent games by reading Tim's latest comprehensive update. Click on the link below to find out more about how the young Whites are getting on this season

Link to Youth Team page information

There will be live International Football in the Lisburn Distillery Social Club on Saturday evening. After the Carnegie Premier League game between Lisburn Distillery and Ballymena Utd, we will be showing Israel v England live (kick-off 18.30) before the big one at 19.15 - the Euro 2008 qualifier between Liechtenstein & Northern Ireland.

As usual, there will be a number of Whites' fans away supporting the Northern Ireland team but we extend an invitation to you to watch the game with us on the big screen in the social club.We hope that Lawrie Sanchez and the team are successful once more away from home.

These are the arrangements for the outstanding quarter-final, and the semi-finals in this season's JJB Sports Irish Cup.

Saturday 310307 - Quarter final replay - Linfield v Ballymena Utd - Windsor Park, Belfast

Saturday 310307 - Semi - final - Cliftonville v Dungannon Swifts - The Oval, Belfast

then

either

Semi-final - Ballymena United v Lisburn Distillery - Tuesday 170407 at Windsor Park

or

Semi-final - Linfield v Lisburn Distillery - Tuesday 240407 or Wednesday 250407 at The Oval.

Note - Both Semi-final games will be played to a finish(with extra time and penalties if necessary)
The Cup Final will be played at Windsor Park on Saturday 5th May

As many Lisburn Distillery and Irish League supporters will already know, Paul Kirk's mother sadly passed away last week.

The club has extended its' deepest sympathy to Paul and his family at this difficult time and a minute's silence before yesterday's game was impeccably observed by all those present in the ground.

Paul decided that he would take charge of the team against Portadown on Saturday and it proved an emotional day for him given the events last week.

After the game he said; , 'I was dreading facing the players, I composed myself and I went into the changing room and they were all sitting there looking at me, and what I knew that I wanted to say I couldn't say. The first thing in my mind was to thank them for all their thoughts phone calls and texts in terms of the situation that I am in with my mother and when I did say that I just broke down.

I said to them, at times like this you need your family the most and for me to sit in the house today and watch the TV wouldn't have been right because this is my family in terms of my football, the football club is my family in terms of my football life and it was important for me to be here for the players.

I am so proud of the day and the result has made my day and has helped me in terms of what I am going through.

I would also like to thank all those who have sent me texts, cards and phoned me. So many people have been in contact with me and their support has been terrific and very much appreciated at this time.Thank you everyone.'

Mrs Florence Kirk's funeral took place in Belfast on Monday 12th March 2007.

Our thoughts are with Paul, Isobel and their family circle in the days ahead.

Rumour has it that Andy Waterworth is off to buy a new trophy cabinet after he collected his third Lisburn Distillery.net Player of the Month award on Saturday.

Andy is pictured receiving the award from Whites' assistant manager Ronnie Cromie.

There are two more awards to go this season so watch out for the March poll at the end of this month.

Congratulations to striker Andrew Waterworth who has been named in the Northern Ireland U20 squad (Milk Cup team) that will play Israel in two U20 International Challenge matches in Israel next week. (Monday 12th March and Weds 14th March 2007). Lisburn Distillery team attendant Stevie Ferguson will also be travelling with the side as kit manager.

Today's superb victory means that Lisburn Distillery will play either Ballymena Utd or Linfield in the JJB Sports Irish Cup semi-finals.

The semi-final draw was

Ballymena United or Linfield v Lisburn Distillery
Cliftonville v Dungannon Swifts

Both games will be played on Saturday 31st March 2007 - we will confirm venues and ticket arrangements once this information is made available to us.

The Phoenix Society would like to thank all those who made the Lisburn Distillery Dinner and Auction a huge success on Friday night.

The Society extends their thanks to Dr Malcolm Brodie MBE, Jackie Fullerton and Johnny Day for a great evening's entertainment and to the Balmoral Hotel for another excellent meal at the venue.

Friday night's event was the sixth for the club and it is a fund-raising event.Whilst final figures are not immediately available, the Society have confirmed that they have raised a five figure sum for the club.The exact figure will be announced once everything has been finalised.

Thank you again to all those who were involved and all those who supported the club in many ways.

Cup football this weekend, with Lisburn Distillery taking on Crusaders at New Grosvenor in the quarter-finals.

This is the featured tie from this round on the Irish Football Association website - to read the preview, managers' views and other lead-in material, please click on the logo below.

Whites' fans will be hoping that Andy Waterworth and skipper Wayne Buchanan will be enjoying more of these scenes on Saturday.

Lisburn Distillery is not responsible for the content of, or services/products supplied/advertised on external websites

We are delighted to welcome back Esker Coaches as the match sponsor for Saturday's JJB Sports Irish Cup quarter-final against Crusaders.

Co-incidentally, Esker Coaches sponsored our Carnegie Premier League game against Crusaders back in October.

Esker Coaches

We appreciate the further support that they are giving us in sponsoring this game and once again hope that they and their guests enjoy their afternoon at the club and at the game.

Lisburn Distillery is not responsible for the content of, or services/products supplied/advertised on external websites

Tomorrow night will see the club annual dinner and auction and dinner take place in the Balmoral Hotel (click here for original post).

There will be a wide range of items up for auction, including signed squad shirts from champions Chelsea, Manchester Utd, Newcastle United, Celtic and Rangers. There are some limited edition prints and a number of other items all of which will raise funds for the club.

The Phoenix Society have been working hard on behalf of the club to organise another top quality event and we thank them for all their efforts ahead of a successful evening.

Lower Maze Youth are holding a fundraising night in the Lisburn Distillery social club on Saturday week - 10th March 2007.

Entertainment will include an adult magic show and a stand up comedy show and the evening will conclude with a disco.

Lower Maze have extended an invitation to all Lisburn Distillery fans to attend, admission costs £6, payable at the door on the night..

Lisburn Distillery would like to once again thank both John Devlin and GlaxoSmithKline for providing the club with 'Lucozade Sport' drink throughout the season.

Lucozade Sport tackles the two key factors affecting sporting performance – depletion of energy stores and dehydration. Available to the players on matchdays, Lucozade Sport protects them against dehydration, energy depletion and poor recovery.

Pictured with Lucozade Sport, training tops and carryall are (l) Darren Armour, physio Eric Conroy and (r) Francis Murphy.

Lucozade Sport and the running man device are registered trademarks of the GlaxoSmithKline Group of companies.

The suspensions are starting to kick in across the league at present.The latest Lisburn Distillery player to miss out through suspension is midfielder Andy Kilmartin.

The ban, effective from Monday 25th February, means he misses next weekend's JJB Sports Irish Cup quarter-final against Crusaders.

Andrew Dickson has had a further injury set-back after being out of action since last October with a knee injury.

He was on the comeback trail with the reserves but in his second game back, he received an ankle injury and is currently on crutches.It's been a hard season for the midfielder but he has been upbeat throughout all his injury problems and hopefully he can overcome this latest setback. The main thing is that he makes a full recovery irrespective of whether or not he will play again before the end of the season and we wish him a full recovery.

Congratulations to Carnegie Premier League manager David Jeffrey and his team who defeated the Conference representative side 3-1 in tonight's game at Mourneview Park - a great result for the league and local football.

Congratuations too, to Lisburn Distillery players, Wayne Buchanan who played the entire match, and Francis Murphy, who came on during the second-half (both pictured below).

The Carnegie Premier league goals came from Gary Hamilton, Paul McAreavey and David Scullion.Goalkeeper Alan Mannus saved a first-half penalty

Lisburn Distillery will play Bohemians in a friendly this Wednesday at New Grosvenor - kick-off time will be 7.30 pm.

This game will form part of Bohemians pre-season programme

Francis Murphy has now been called up into the Carnegie Premier League squad for tomorrow night's game against the Conference representative side(see post below for more information).

Francis now joins Wayne Buchanan and we hope that both players not only enjoy the call-up but hope that both will feature in the action

We wish skipper Wayne Buchanan all the best ahead of Tuesday night's representative game between the Carnegie Premier League and the English Conference.

The game will be played at Mourneview Park, Lurgan, KO 7.45pm.

Wayne (pictured below) recently received his U21 Northern Ireland International cap and we hope that he will be included into Tuesday's nights action.We also wish all the players representing the Carnegie Premier League well and hope that we get a good result in the game.

There are still tickets available for the match (priced at £5 for adults and £3 for concession) from the following ticket outlets:

· IFA offices at 20 Windsor Avenue

· Carnegie Premier League clubs:

· Carrick Primary School

· Drumgor Primary School

· St. Paul’s Junior High School

· Edenderry Primary School, Portadown

· Dundonald Primary School

· King’s Park Primary School, Lurgan

· Lurgan Junior High School

· Ashfield Boys High School, Belfast

Congratulations to Andy Waterworth on collecting the Lisburn Distillery.net player of the Month award for January 2007.

The popular striker admitted afterwards that the award had helped his performance in the match against Glenavon. 'Getting the trophy before the game was a great surprise, it gave me an extra boost and I wanted to repay the fans' said Andy.

Andy is pictured receiving his award from manager Paul Kirk before yesterday's game.

Lisburn Distillery have been drawn at home to play Crusaders in the JJB Sports Irish Cup Quarter-finals.

The draw in full was as follows;

Ballymena United v. Linfield
Cliftonville v. Glentoran or Portadown
Dungannon Swifts v. Armagh City
Lisburn Distillery v. Crusaders

All the games will be played on Saturday 03rd March 2007

More bad, though unsurprising given recent matches, news on the suspension front. Out for two games from Monday 12th February 2007 are Stuart Thompson, Conor Hagan and Ryan Catney.

The players will miss the Carnegie Premier League game against Crusaders and either any sixth round JJB Sports Irsh Cup replay or the league game against Armagh City (depending on the outcome of this weekend's fixture).

Congratulations to Lisburn Distillery Seconds midfielder Mark Cooling (pictured below) who was on target for the Northern Ireland U18s against their Jersey counterparts on Tuesday night.

Mark scored in each half of the game, played in St Helier,as Northern Ireland won 2-0.

The Phoenix Society are working hard ahead of the Lisburn Distillery Annual Dinner and Auction, the biggest event in the club's fundraising calendar, on Friday 02 March 2007.

The Society anticipate that the event will break through the 200 barrier for the first time in its' history, this is the sixth event, in a few weeks' time.

The venue again will be the Balmoral Hotel, Dunmurry and an entertaining line-up is in place.

The Society are pleased to confirm that Jackie Fullerton will once again be compering the event, Dr Malcolm Brodie M.B.E will be the after dinner speaker in a sporting interview with Jackie Fullerton and they also welcome back comedian Johnny Day, the voice of all those 'Folks on the Hill', and look forward to another night's good entertainment.

Some places are still available at £40 per person or £400 for a corporate table (ten people) - some part tables may be accomodated, please speak to Phoenix Secretary Louis Boyle or Treasurer Terry Thompson as soon as possible for further information.

As in previous years, we will be providing details of items that will feature in the auction (as well as accepting bids), and there will once again be a ballot with quality prizes - details will follow.

Lisburn Distillery has once again submitted its' application for the 2007-2008 season, the application being submitted in advance of the 31st January 2007 closing date.

Each year the requirements to satisfy the license change as UEFA update or introduce new criteria.Despite the fact that the club was successful in obtaining a license last year once again a tremendous amount of work has had to be completed for this year's application. This involved not only considerable clerical work but also a lot of work and associated expense at the clubhouse and ground, particularly in relation to the fire and safety certification.

Our thanks go to chairman Jim McGrory, again ably-assisted by secretary Andrew Thompson, for all his hard work, time and commitment in ensuring that the necessary work was undertaken and his involvement in the license application itself.

As in previous years, the outcome of the application will not be known until late spring however the club are hopeful that they will secure a license for the third season running.

The club, management and backroom staff would like to thank the Grosvenor Whites Supporters Club for generously providing the management and backroom staff with new club coats.

Manager Paul Kirk is pictured receiving some of the new coats with members of the Grosvenor Whites Supporters Club.

For more information on the Grosvenor Whites - please click here

The main transfer news today is that the Whites have signed right midfielder Peter McCann (pictured below) from Glentoran.

'I am delighted that Peter has agreed to come to the club,' said Whites' boss Paul Kirk.' He has a lot of quality and he will fit in perfectly on the right side of our side.I think our style of play will also suit him.'

Peter (24) who had been with Blackburn Rovers and Portadown prior to joining Glentoran in May 2005 was Irish League Young Player of the Year in 2001/2002.Versatile on the right, he scored 6 goals in 67 goals at The Oval. We welcome him to Lisburn Distillery and look forward to seeing him in action soon.

We also say good-bye to Gareth McKeown (pictured below), after Lisburn Distillery and Portadown agreed a fee that now clears the way for Gareth to play for Portadown this weekend. A popular figure at the club, a footballing defender, we wish 'Big G' all the very best for the future at Portadown. 'We'll be watching!' is the personal message from the webteam.

It has also been confirmed that Conor Hagan will be leaving the club at the end of the season having also signed a pre-contract agreement with Portadown.

Lisburn Distillery Football Club is pleased to announce that it has formed an affiliation with local boys club, Lower Maze Youth, as a progressive move to generate a complete youth structure for the future development of boys and girls in the Lisburn area.

Lisburn Distillery Football Club have agreed to supply 'Coach Education' programmes for the current coaches involved at Lower Maze Youth and technical support with coaching sessions. In addition to this, Lisburn Distillery Football Club have agreed to supply financial support to Lower Maze Youth when and if requested.

Lower Maze Youth will however retain its' self-identity, and the day to day running of the club will be carried out by the appointed committee in all aspects of league affiliation. Lower Maze Youth may call upon the expertise that Lisburn Distillery Football Club may have available to them that they may see as an advantage to the successful running of the club.

It has also been agreed that all members of Lower Maze Youth can obtain free admission to New Grosvenor after their Saturday fixtures, so we look forward to giving them a warm welcome to New Grosvenor in the weeks ahead.

Lower Maze Chairman Stephen Beckett, committee members, Andy Milliken, Roddy Crookes and Stephen Patterson along with players attended last Saturday's league game between Lisburn Distillery and Glentoran as guests and were given a tour of the clubhouse, including the home dressing room pre-match.

Lisburn Distillery manager Paul Kirk welcomes Lower Maze Chairman Stephen Beckett

Images copyright Johnathan Irwin

Congratulations to striker Marty Verner who topped the Lisburn Distillery.net Player of the Month Poll for December.

With no home games since New Year's Day, we took the opportunity of presenting the award at Mourneview Park last Saturday, Marty is pictured receiving the award from 'the gaffer', boss Paul Kirk.

The January award will go on-line later this week.

With the recent games all away from home, social club members are asked to renew their membership if they have not already done so.

The website team would also encourage those supporters who are not members to support the club by taking out membership, using, and enjoying the facilities at the club.

More information

Defender Gareth McKeown is leaving Lisburn Distillery to join Portadown.

The player's contract isn't up until the end of the season and whilst Gareth exercised his right to speak to Portadown within the final six months of his contract, whether he moves to Ronnie McFall's side immediately after the Co Antrim Shield Final or later will depend on the outcome of the negotiations between the clubs' chairmen.

Speaking to the media, boss Paul Kirk said; "We're disappointed to be losing a player like Gareth McKeown, the fact that one of the top three clubs in the country is keen on our players shows we are doing something right..

Portadown boss Ronnie McFall expects business to be concluded shortly, he said; "We've agreed a two-year contract with Gareth McKeown and provided the chairmen can agree on the terms of the transfer then I expect him to be in the squad for the match against Limavady United on Saturday week."

Lisburn Distillery captain Wayne Buchanan has been named in the 18-man squad for the Carnegie Premier League's representative match against the English Conference on 13 February. Francis Murphy has been named in the stand-by list

The Carnegie Premier League side will be managed by David Jeffrey (Linfield) and the game will be played at Mourneview Park, Lurgan, KO 7.45pm.

At to-day's press conference, manager David Jeffrey said; "I chose this squad thinking of the best young players in the League, focusing on the young guys who have played for the NI U21 squad and those who have the talent to seek careers in England who will benefit most from playing in this match."

"Often some of the young players in NI are underestimated and overlooked and it's that untapped resource that I wanted to uncover and give them a chance to shine. This match isn't about winning or losing, it is about giving Northern Ireland's best young players the opportunity to progress and showcase their skills."

Congratulations to both Wayne and Francis on their inclusions.

This Friday night once again sees another Poker Classic event being run in the Social Club - this fund-raising event is being run monthly, on the third Friday of the month.

The event will start at 8.00 pm and there will be cash prizes which will be dependent on the number of entrants.

Games consist of five and seven stud poker, there will be buy-ins available (£5.00) and there will also be a ballot with prizes on the night.

We would ask you to come along, support the organisers and the club, and enjoy the games - and why not make it a regular feature in the forthcoming months..

Today's fifth round Irish Cup tie between Coleraine and Lisburn Distillery was one of five games to fall victim to the bad weather, a waterlogged picth preventing play.The tie has been re-scheduled for this coming Tuesday (16th January), kick-off time will be 7.45 pm.

The winners will have home adavantage against Glenavon in Round 6 on Saturday 10th February.

The sixth round draw was as follows;

Ards or Dundela v. Linfield or Oxford United Stars
Cliftonville v. Tobermore United or Donegal Celtic
Comber Rec. or Laurelvale v. Ballymena United (to be played at Ballymena Showgrounds)
Coleraine or Lisburn Distillery v. Glenavon
Dungannon Swifts or Coagh United v. Newry City
Glentoran v. Portadown
Loughgall v. Armagh City
Limavady United or Carrick Rangers v. Crusaders or Lurgan Celtic

Darren Armour looks to be out of the Co Antrim Shield Final due to suspension - that's the impact of a two match ban (from Monday 15th January 2007).As things stand, he would miss the Final unless there would be a replay of the Fifth Round Irish Cup tie between Coleraine and Lisburn Distillery.

It's bad news for the striker, and whilst Ryan McCann and Marty Verner also picked up one match bans, they will be eligible for the Shield Final

Congratulations to Lisburn Distillery Manager Paul Kirk who collected the Harp Manager of the Month Award for December.Speaking to the media, 'the gaffer' said; "It was a tough one to win. Coleraine and Portadown did so well that it took us to win six league games in a row to clinch it.I say we because managers alone don't win awards. It's all about their players and backroom staff.

Of course I'm pleased as punch because I know we've earned it against formidable opposition.Sometimes you can be lucky by having a decent run while others have hiccups and fall by the wayside.But that certainly was not the case in December."

Looking to the rest ofthe season, he added; "Yes it has been a wonderful run but it's important to kick-on from here.We have proved a point especially to ourselves so we must try very hard to raise the bar even higher. Our aim now must be to finish high enough in the league table to qualify for the Setanta Cup and perhaps with it the Intertoto Cup."

It may have escaped your notice, but on the 27th December 2007, David Taylor's side topped the then table.It read;

1 Lisburn Distillery II 15 21
2 Linfield Swifts 11 25
3 Ballymena United Reserves 13 24
4 Cliftonville Olympic 11 23
5 Glentoran II 11 21
6 Crusaders Reserves 12 20
7 Portadown Reserves 12 20
8 Limavady United Reserves 10 17
9 Donegal Celtic Reserves 13 16
10 Dungannon Swifts Reserves 9 14
11 Newry City Reserves 9 12
12 Coleraine Reserves 13 12
13 Loughgall United 12 10
14 Larne Olympic 10 7
15 Glenavon Reserves 12 5
16 Armagh City Reserves 11 5

Well done to David and the team - we have a number of reports and pictures to update and we hope to do this shortly

http://irishpremierleague.com/reservetable.htm

At the same time. Tim Wareing's Youth team sit in fourth place so the good news continues.

1 Ballyclare Comrades Colts 8 19
2 Donegal Celtic Youth 7 18
3 Linfield Rangers 7 17
4 Lisburn Distillery III 9 16
5 Glenavon III 7 9
6 Portadown III 7 7
7 Carrick Rangers Colts 8 7
8 Loughgall United Colts 6 6
9 Armagh City Youth 10 5
10 Newry City Wanderers 9 5


http://irishpremierleague.com/youthtablea.htm

http://irishpremierleague.com/premtable.htm

Here are details of the winners in the club's annual Christmas Ballot.

This Saturday, 23rd December 2006, the annual Children's Christmas party will take place in the Social Club from 2.00 pm until 5.00 pm.

Everyone is welcome, admission costs £2.00 and of course a very special visitor will be making his annual appearance, red suit and all.

Lisburn Distillery were drawn away against Coleraine in today's Irish Cup Fifth Round draw. This game will be played on Saturday 13th January 2007 and it means the Whites will be at Coleraine in successive weeks as they play at The Showgrounds in the League on the 6th January 2007.

The draw in full was as follows;

Ards v. Dundela
Armagh City v. Institute
Coleraine v. Lisburn Distillery
Comber Rec. v. Laurelvale
Crusaders v. Lurgan Celtic
Dungannon Swifts v. Coagh United
Glenavon v. PSNI
Glentoran v. Ballymoney United
HW Welders v. Ballymena United (to be played at The Showgrounds)
Larne v. Cliftonville
Limavady United v. Carrick Rangers
Linfield v. Oxford United Stars
Loughgall v. Ballyclare Comrades
Newry City v. Ballynure Old Boys
Portadown v. Bangor
Tobermore United v. Donegal Celtic

Following the decision of the County Antrim Football Association to switch the venue for our semi-final game against Linfield, an emergency board meeting was held at New Grosvenor at tea-time last night (Friday 151206).

The board were extremely concerned and aggrieved that they had not been involved in, or made aware of, the decison to switch the game to Windsor Park, the home ground of Linfield FC, before that decision was made public.

The club has no issue with either Linfield or what will happen on the park however they wished to fully consider the options open to them and the board met last night to discuss these. That meeting was also attended by Mr Bobby Reid, President, of the County Antrim Football Association.

After deliberation, the board has confirmed that the club will play Linfield this coming Tuesday at Windsor Park, and chairman Jim McGrory, on behalf of the board, said

"We feel very aggrieved that we were not consulted before this decision was made public.We were not given the option of at least tossing a coin for the choice of the venue and Mr Reid explained that we have to play at Windsor Park because of health and safety implications.

We do of course play Linfield at home at least once every season but it seems that the time-frame of this game and pressure on the health and safety front have forced the County Antrim Shield Committee to select Windsor Park as the venue.

We are in the semi-finals on merit and whilst we could have explored further avenues before agreeing to the game, we feel that any further stalling of our game is not in the interests of football here in Northern Ireland, the sponsors or either club.

We are applying common-sense despite the way things appear to have been rail-roaded through, and we hope that the choice of venue will be an added incentive to our players to go out and win."

Lisburn Distillery's postponed Crest Teamwear Co Antrim Shield semi-final against Linfield has now been re-arranged for Tuesday 19th December 2006.

Kick-off time at The Oval is 7.30 pm, admission charges (pay by cash at the turnstiles) are Stands £7, Terracing £6, Concessions £5.

Our suppoerters will occupy the main stand and adjacent terraces on entering from the Mersey Street side of the ground.

Talked about for years amongst the Distillery faithful, you can now actually re-live that famous day on the 18th May 1963, when George Eastham's side defeated Linfield 4-2 at Grosvenor Park to win the League title and lift the Gibson Cup.

This is a remarkable production in many respects. Three cine cameras were used to cover the game and all six goals are well captured in colour, a number of years before match footage appeared in colour on televison.It gives a unique insight into the game at that time, a packed ground and the bizarre sight of the two sets of supporters changing ends at half-time.......by walking from one end of the pitch to the over.If you have never witnessed it, here's your chance.

Legends of the sixties appear on both sides and given the equipment used at the time the quality is very good indeed almost forty-four years later.The atmosphere has been enhanced by modern background supporters chants, and whilst they are not indicative of what was perhaps sung at the time, they add to the drama on that great day.There is also an excellent commentary on the game from Steve Dunwoody.

It's a unique snapshot of a great era in Irish Football and one which appeal to other fans as well as Distillery and Linfield's.

A bonus for Whites supporters is a short extract for Ards v Distillery in 1964, with three goals from the Whites and the dazzling footwork on the left from Kenny Hamilton

The running time is 28 minutes and the DVD ((£10) can only be puchased directly from Eclipse Films - phone 00 44 (0)289187 2480 or 00 44 (0)289187 8589.

A nostalgic, thoroughly enjoyable DVD and important piece of Distillery and Irish League football was the verdict of the Web Team's personal review.

There was a sizeable Distillery support on the day, if you were one of them and perhaps you haven't been to the Whites games recently, we would be delighted to see you at New Grosvenor!

Lisburn Distillery is not responsible for the content of, or services/products supplied/advertised on external websites or supplied by third parties.

The Phoenix Society will be confirming the line-up for the Lisburn Distillery Annual Dinner and Auction shortly.

An entertaining line-up is in place for the event which will be held once again at the Balmoral Hotel, Blacks Road on Friday 02nd March 2007.

A table of ten costs £400, part table can be accomodated at a cost of £40 per head.

A formal announcement will follow soon, in the meantime enqueiries should be directed to Secretary Louis Boyle or Treasurer Terry Thompson

In Round 4 of the Harry Cavan Youth Challenge Cup, the winners of the outstanding Lurgan BB OB v Lisburn Distillery III will be away to Crusaders Colts on Saturday 27th January 2007 at the Grove Playing Fields, Belfast (kick-off 1.30 pm)

The Brendan Shine concert scheduled for tomorrow night has now been cancelled.

It is hoped to re-arrange the concert in the Spring of 2007. Apologies for any inconvenience.

Next week's Crest Teamwear Co Antrim Shield semi-finals have been postponed.

The Co Antrim Shield Committee are scheduled to meet next week, and we will bring you details about re-arranged dates as soon as they have been made available to us.

Semi -final - Lisburn Distillery v Linfield - Tuesday 12th December (The Oval KO 7.30 pm)

This match is not now an all-ticket game

The semi-final draw for the Crest teamwear semi-finals was made today and Lisburn Distillery has been paired against Linfield.

The semi-final draw was

Lisburn Distillery v Linfield - Tuesday 12th December (The Oval KO 7.30 pm)

Cliftonville v Glentoran - Wednesday 13th December (Windsor Park KO 7.30 pm)

We will confirm ticket arangements once we receive them.

The news ahead of Lisburn Distillery's Crest Teamwear Co Antrim Shield game against Dundela was that Lisburn Distillery manager Paul Kirk had agreed an extension to his current contract that will take him through to June 2010.

I am thrilled because I have put a lot of work into Lisburn Distillery. It is a great club," said a delighted manager who has been with the Whites since February 1996.

"I have a great backroom staff. We have raised expectations at the club which is a measure of the team's success."

Northern Ireland U-21 Ryan Catney has put pen to paper to sign a new deal that will keep him at New Grosvenor until January 2008.

Ballot tickets are now available at club for this year's Christmas ballot.

They cost £1.00 each, or alternatively a book of six can be purchased for £5.00. Tickets are available at the club or from any club director.

The draw will be made on Boxing Day after the home fixture against Donegal Celtic, as well as the winners being notified, details of the winning tickets will also appear here on site.

Thank you for your support with this ballot.

Conor Hagan is the latest player to be suspended by the Disciplinary Committee.

He has received a one match ban from Monday 27th November, meaning he will miss Tuesday night's Crest Teamwear Co Antrim Shield game against Dundela

The club is pleased to announce that they have now received confirmation that popular singer and accordion player Brendan Shine will be appearing in the Lisburn Distillery Social club on Friday 08th December 2006 (8.00 pm until late).

Brendan will be appearing in concert with his Brendan Shine Super Band.

Admission will be by ticket only. Tickets will cost £10 each and Social club members or others wishing to purchase tickets can do so by contacting the Social Club Manager or Chairman Jim McGrory on 00 44 (0) 2890 301148.

Additionally, contact the club via this website - Shine Tickets and in your email provide

• your name
• a contact number, and
• the number of tickets you wish to purchase

The Manchester City v Fulham game will be on live in the Social Club tomorrow - kick-off time is 12.45 pm.

Click here - Big Screen Action - for more information.

There will be another Poker Classic fund-raising night on Friday 24th November 2006.

It will take place once again in the Social Club (8.00 pm) and there will be cash prizes which will be dependent on the number of entrants.

Games consist of five and seven stud poker, there will be buy-ins available (£5.00) and there will also be a ballot with prizes on the night.

As this is another worthwhile fund-raising cause for the club, we would encourage as many of you to come along, support the organisers and the club, and enjoy the games.

Three players have received a one match ban following last week's Disciplinary Committee meeting. The bans, effective from 131106, mean that Wayne Buchanan, Darren Armour and Ryan Catney all miss the next Carnegie Premier League game against Armagh City.

Congratulations to Lisburn Distillery midfielder Ryan Catney (pictured below).

Ryan who has appeared in U19 internationals recently now steps up to the next level and is in the U21 squad to play against Germany in an Under 21 International Challenge Match, next Tuesday in Torgau, Germany (kick-off 18.00 hrs).

Distillery favourite, Buster Andrews sadly passed away on 01st July this year.

In memory of him, the club will be running

A special Karaoke & Disco Night

on

Saturday 25th November 2006

8 pm until late in the Lisburn Distillery Social Club

Admission is £5 and by ticket only

You can get tickets from Director Bobby Hanna or Secretary Andy Thompson

Proceeds will go to the 'Bring Nassima Home' Appeal

(Nassima is Buster's grand-daughter and her case has been widely publicised in the media recently).

Last night's draw in the Crest Teamwear Co Antrim Shield, saw Lisburn Distillery paired with Dundela in the quarter-finals of the competition.

This game will be played on Tuesday 28th November 2006 at New Grosvenor.

The quarter-final draw was

Cliftonville v Donegal Celtic

Glentoran v Wakehurst

Linfield (holders) v Crusaders

Lisburn Distillery v Dundela

Congratulations to Darren Armour who picked up the Lisburn Distillery.net Player of the Month for October 2006.

Goals at the start of the month made him a favourite with the voters..

Although suspended on Saturday, Darren picked up his award before Saturday's game against Linfield, the presentation being made by Lisburn Distillery boss Paul Kirk (see picture below).

Youth Team Manager & Academy Director, Tim Wareing, provides us with his October update.Click on the link below to find out how the young Whites are getting on this season

Link to Youth Team page information

Following on from our post dated 281006, either Lisburn Distillery III or Donegal Celtic Youth will be away to Lurgan BB OB Youth or Enniskillen Rangers Res, in Round 3 of the Harry Cavan Youth Challenge Cup.

This game is to be played on Saturday 25th November 2006 (Kick-off 1.30 pm)

(L-R Lee Mercer (Youth Team) Alan Sayers and Susan Boal (G&H Bell Ltd), Jim McGrory (Lisburn Distillery Chairman) and Tim Wareing (Youth Team Manager)

Lisburn Distillery were delighted to formally announce their sponsorship arrangements for the Youth Team today.

At a media launch at the Beechlawn Hotel the club introduced Hillsborough insurance brokers G&H Bell Ltd as the Youth Team sponsors. This is the first time that the Youth Team have had full sponsorship funding in place and we are pleased to have the support and backing of G&H Bell Ltd.

The sponsorship deal is for a three year period and it now means that the club have sponsorship agreement in place for all three teams and the Youth Academy - info

Lisburn Distillery is not responsible for the content of, or services/products supplied/advertised on external websites

Congratulations to Conor Hagan on picking up the Lisburn Distillery.net Player of the Month for September 2006.

A run of form and a succession of goals saw the midfielder romp clear in the September poll.

Conor picked up his award before Saturday's game against Crusaders, the presentation being made by Lisburn Distillery boss Paul Kirk (see picture below).

The Match Sponsor for this weekend's Carnegie Premier League game against Crusaders is

Esker Coaches

We appreciate the support that they are giving us in sponsoring this game and hope that they and their guests enjoy their afternoon at the club and at the game.

For further information on commercial opportunities at Lisburn Distillery - click here

Lisburn Distillery is not responsible for the content of, or services/products supplied/advertised on external websites

The Wigan v Manchester City game will be on live in the Social Club this weekend - kick-off time in 12.45 pm.

Click here - Big Screen Action - for more information.

Lisburn Distillery are pleased to be able to assist the Swiss Football Association and their U-17 side with their training preparations for their games in Group 12 of the 2006 UEFA European U17 Championship.

The Group games are currently being held in Northern Ireland and Switzerland will be training at New Grosvenor in preparation for their games

Switzerland take on Northern Ireland on Tuesday 24th October at Windsor Park (kick-off 7.30 pm)

THE Irish Football Association and the 16 Carnegie Premier League clubs have joined forces and together are very excited to launch a brand new initiative aimed at increasing match attendance figures.

Supporters of Armagh City, Ballymena United, Coleraine, Donegal Celtic, Dungannon Swifts, Larne, Lisburn Distillery, and Loughgall will be able to avail of the offer on Saturday 21 October.

At a recent photo shoot, Donegal Celtic goalkeeper Alex Spackman and Lisburn Distillery player Michael Ferguson both gave their approval and support to the campaign and agreed that it's a great initiative.

Alex is looking forward to the day and wants to encourage supporters back to the local game, 'It's great that something is being done within the area of domestic match attendance and promotion. This campaign a great start and I hope all kids drag their grandparents out for some fun at the matches and enjoy a great day of football.'

Michael agreed by adding, 'It's time to focus on the domestic scene now that the international squad have done so well recently. I'd love to see as much support for the Carnegie Premier League teams as there is for the national team. My club will certainly welcome as many supporters as we can to any of the games, but it'll be especially nice if everyone makes a special effort for this campaign and head to watch a game on the 21st.'

This is the first in many campaigns designed by the IFA to increase match attendance figures over a 3 year project. The idea behind the first campaign is to restore pride in the local game and create a sense of nostalgia as well as a fun and relaxed family atmosphere.

The IFA's Head of Marketing, Geoff Wilson was the man who got the ball rolling and kick started the project. 'We really want to concentrate on the domestic scene now and help out the clubs with promotion. We want people to see football as a family event and our ultimate aim is to bring different communities together through football. This campaign offer is aimed primarily at grandparents and grandparents but the family fun day is open to all. We want to draw people back into supporting their local club and restore pride in the domestic game, but this can only be done by working alongside the clubs, teams, and the general public. Support the beautiful game at all levels!'

There will be entertainment pre-match and at half-time, face-painters, and balloon modelling to make the day fun-filled and family-orientated. There will also be competitions offering excellent prizes ranging from Carnegie sweatshirts, Umbro footballs, and JJB vouchers. But the ultimate overall prize will be a trip for two to watch the next Northern Ireland European Qualifier away to Liechtenstein in March 2007!

Terms and conditions for the campaign
Grandchildren are admitted when accompanied by a paying grandparent.
No tickets are required for grandchildren.
Grandchildren must 16 years and younger.
Campaign is valid exclusively for home supporters and only applies to Carnegie
Premier League matches played on 21 October 2006.

Games on 21st Oct - Carnegie Premier League (kick-off 3pm)
Armagh City v. Portadown
Ballymena United v. Linfield
Coleraine v. Limavady United
Donegal Celtic v. Glenavon
Dungannon Swifts v. Cliftonville
Larne v. Glentoran
Lisburn Distillery v. Crusaders
Loughgall v. Newry City

Source - IFA Media Release

Details of a fund-raising event have been announced for Friday 27th October.

A 'Poker Classic' event will take place in the Social Club that night (8.00 pm)and there will be cash prizes which will be dependent on the number of entrants.

Games consist of five and seven stud poker, there will be buy-ins available (£5.00) and there will also be a ballot with prizes on the night.

Come along and enjoy the games and support the Whites.

Congratulations to Darren Armour and Phil Matthews in passing a couple of milestones in last week's game against Glenavon.

Darren scored his 125th goal for the Whites (and his 124th and 126th of course!) whilst Phil made his 225th appearance between the posts.

Well done lads.

Our match sponsors for Saturday's Carnegie Premier League game against Glenavon are local firm

Heritage Kitchens

Unit 2,Glenburn Business Centre
252 Hillhall Rd
Lisburn
County Antrim
BT27 5JQ

Telephone: 028 9082 6000

Website information

We would like to thank Heritage Kitchens and Gary Trueman for their sponsorship and support on Saturday. We welcome them to New Grosvenor and hope that they and their guests enjoy their afternoon at the club and at the game.

For further information on commercial opportunities at Lisburn Distillery - click here

Lisburn Distillery is not responsible for the content of, or services/products supplied/advertised on external websites

In Round 2 of the Harry Cavan Youth Challenge Cup, Tim Wareing's side have been drawn away to Donegal CelticYouth.

This game is scheduled to be played at Suffolk Road on Saturday 28th October 2006 (2.00 pm)

Lisburn Distillery have been drawn at home to play Ards in the Crest Teamwear Co Antrim Shield.

This game will be played on Monday 16th October 2006 at New Grosvenor.

The first round draw in full was

Linfield (holders) v H&W Welders

Lisburn Distillery v Ards

Ballymena Utd v Dundela

Glentoran v Bangor

Cliftonville v Brantwood

Donegal Celtic v Carrick Rangers

Crusaders v Ballyclare Comrades

Larne v Wakehurst.

Lisburn Distillery have confirmed that they have released young defender Gary Spence (pictured below).

Manager Paul Kirk said; 'Gary is a very talented player who did very well for us, he played almost 20 first team games for us, made his debut at 17 and was with us in Europe last season.He was disappointed at being left out recently and whilst I can understand that, I am disappointed that he did not see his future with us.He felt that his opportunities for progressing with us would have been limited and felt that playing reserve team football would not have been beneficial for him.We have released him and in doing so, wish him all the very best in the future'.

The Youth team defeated Hawthorn Rec 4-0 in the Youth Cup on Saturday, Mark Cooling was the man in form, netting a hat-trick.

Paul Muir and Andy Kilmartin both remain doubtful for Wednesday night's CIS quarter-final against Cliftonville at Solitude following their injuries at Newry on Saturday.

Whilst the stretchers were brought on for both players, only one was used for Andy Kilmartin who was subsequently able to make his way to the dressing room with asssistance. Both players were able to leave the ground unaided after the game and whilst Paul Kirk has plenty of options within the squad, the injuries are personal blows to both players in what has been a settled team of late.

The Seconds are at home on Tuesday night to Newry City Reserves in their second IFL Reserve League game of the season.

Kick-off is 7.45 pm and David Taylor's side hope to continue their fine recent run of form in recent weeks. If you can, come along and support the team.

The first round of the The Belfast Telegraph Intermediate Cup sees Lisburn Distillery Seconds paired with Bangor.

The Whites were given home advantage in the draw, the game scheduled to be played on 04th November (kick-off 1.30 pm) at New Grosvenor.With the first team scheduled to meet Linfield at home in the Carnegie Premier League that day the venue will undoubtedly have to be switched and we will bring you further details once these have been confirmed.

Update 081006 - the Whites have foreited home advantage and this game will be played at Clandeboye Park, Bangor.

Tonight's semi-final draw for the George Wilson Cup was as follows;

Lisburn Distillery v Crusaders Res (to be played at New Grosvenor)

Donegal Celtic Res v Dungannon Swifts Res/Armagh City Res (to be played at Celtic Park, Suffolk Road, Belfast)

Both ties will be played on Tuesday 10th October 2006 (kick-off 7.45 pm)

Make a note in your diary and come along and support David Taylor and the Seconds.

Lisburn Distillery were delighted to welcome Special Olympics Ireland medal winning athlete Margaret Quinn back to New Grosvenor on Saturday.

In February this year, the club agreed to raise funds for Margaret and ran several fund-raising events to help her in her medal bid in the 2006 Games held in Belfast in June.

Margaret stormed to gold in the 200m and 4x100m relay event and also collected a silver medal in the Games and she came back as she promised she would to share her success with us.

Margaret is pictured with her medals alongside Gareth McKeown (l) Paul Muir and manager Paul Kirk (r).

Once again we express our thanks to the ladies committee, the management, players, officials and supporters here at New Grosvenor who were involved in the various fund-raising events.

Congratulations again to Margaret and all the other participants in all the other events who made the Special Olympics Ireland Games 2006 'special' in every way - 'a place for everyone' as the official logo states.

Lisburn Distillery is not responsible for the content of, or services/products supplied/advertised on external websites

Work for the license has already started at the club, and the following extract from an IFA press release (Weds 20/09/06) gives some more insight into what is involved/required.

'Over the next months clubs will engage with the licensing administration and experts to look to satisfy the requirements in Sporting Development, Infrastructure, Personnel & Administration, Legal and Finance.

The Club Licensing Scheme remains an excellent benchmark for clubs to assess their own development, to seek to improve their procedures and to foster the game in general within their club.'

The Carnegie Premier League kicks off today and we are pleased to announce that today's opening league game is sponsored by

Butchery & Abattoir Services

Mary Street

Newry

We would like to thank them for their support today and hope that they and their guests enjoy their afternoon at the club and at the game.

For further information on commercial opportunities at Lisburn Distillery - click here

As runners up in Group C, Lisburn Distillery will now travel to Solitude to play Cliftonville in the quarter-finals of the CIS Cup on Weds 04 October 2006.

Congratutaions to David Taylor's Seconds team who are now into the semi-finals of the George Wilson Cup. We will bring details of that game once the draw has been confirmed.

The Youth team also remain unbeaten in Section A of the IFA Youth League, they collected their first win on Saturday, making four points out of six from their opening two games.

Congratulations to striker Andrew Waterworth who has impressed the Lisburn Distillery support with his performances in August.

Andrew was the clear winner here in the Lisburn Distillery.net award for the August player of the Month award and is pictured receiving his award from Lisburn Distillery manager Paul Kirk.

Looking to next week's game against Glenavon, there remain a number of injury doubts for manager Paul Kirk.

Neil Alderdice (ankle), Wayne Buchanan (thigh strain), Andrew Dickson (hamstring) and Aaron Johnston (shin splints) are all recovering at present.

Ryan McCann is now available having served a four match ban, whilst Gareth McKeown is also available after returning from holiday.

Lisburn Distillery's third match in Group C of the CIS Insurance Cup has been brought forward to Friday 25th August 2006.

Kick-off at New Grosvenor is 7.45 pm

Youth Team Manager & Academy Director, Tim Wareing, provides more information as the Youth Team and the Youth Academy prepare for the new season.

Link to Youth Team page information

Link to Youth Academy page information

Andrew Waterworth topped the poll in the on-line Man of Match poll against Linfield

Lisburn Distillery's home game against Linfield in the CIS League game has been confirmed for Tuesday 29th August.Kick-off at New Grosvenor will be at 7.45 pm.

Linked to this game and the George Wilson Cup format, Lisburn Distillery IIs will be away to Linfield Swifts on Wednesday 30th August. This game will be played at Midgely Park, kick-off 7.45 pm.

Lisburn Distillery travel to Windsor Park this Saturday and Linfield have confirmed that similar segregation arrangements to last year will apply.

Tim Wareing has taken time out from his busy pre-season schedule to tell us what is happening in both the Youth Team and Youth Academy.

Link to Youth Team page information

Link to Youth Academy page information

Many of you will be aware that sadly, former player Buster Andrews died suddenly on 01st July this year.

His friend and team-mate, Distillery legend, Bertie McMinn has organised a special charity game this Sunday. It will be played at the Hammer Complex on Belfast's Shankill Road (kick-off 1.00 pm) and a number of Buster's Distillery team-mates have indicated that they will play in the event. The event will also help the 'Bring Nassima Home' Appeal (Nassima is Buster's grand-daughter and her case has been widely publicised in the media recently).

We will be running a 'Man of the Match' poll on all first team games throughout the season.

So here is your opportunity to vote for the 'Man of the Match' against Glenavon on Saturday - poll closes on Tuesday (150806).

Paul Muir was voted Man of the Match

Lisburn Distillery Seconds got their George Wilson Cup camapign off to a winning start at Mourneview Park tonight with a 3-1 victory over Glenavon Res.

With no first team players on duty, David Taylor was well pleased with the victory and the start to the new campaign. The goals came goals from Mark Patton (2) and Kyle McQuillan.

We will have a report on-line later this weekend.

David Taylor's side have been drawn away to Sirocco Works in Round 2 of this season's Steel & Sons Cup.

This game will be played at Dixon Park, Grand Parade, Belfast on Saturday 26th August 2006 - 2.30 pm KO.

Game now brought forward one week to Saturday 19th August - same venue and kick-off time.(update 160806)

The Seconds kick off the new season this Friday night, away to Glenavon Res (details on the home page).

The new season kicks off on Saturday, and we are pleased to welcome D G Williamson Ltd to New Grosvenor this weekend as the first match sponsors of the new season.

We hope that they and their guests enjoy their afternoon at the club and at the game, and thank them for being our match sponsors on Saturday.

For further information on our match sponsors - click here.

For further information on commercial opportunities at Lisburn Distillery - click here

Lisburn Distillery is not responsible for the content of, or services/products supplied/advertised on external websites

Tonight marks the end of the first team pre-season progarrme.

Manager Paul Kirk and the players would like to thank all the supporters who attended the pre-season games. The 'gaffer' said; 'Unfortuately with work continuing on our pitch, we have once again had to play our pre-season games away.I would like to thank our supporters who travelled and attended the games, we valued their support and it was good to see friendly faces in the crowd. The lads appreciated their support at each of the games.'

We apologise for the slight blip in service tonight, which was unfortunately outside our control. Our web hosting company suffered a hard drive failure that impacted on us, things have now been corrected.

We have covered the pre-season games fairly extensivley and extend our thanks to Neil Partridge, David Hunter, Colin Hopkins, Terry Mann and Paul Kelly for their match reports, and to David Hunter and Jonathan Irwin for their photographs. We hope that they will stick with us for the remainder of the season.

It's early days for site traffic, but at the minute we have had hits from the USA, India, Japan, Russia, Georgia, Norway, Czech Republic, Spain, France and Croatia to name but a few.

Paul Muir has been on the site and in touch whilst on holiday in Cyprus but assures us he will be back for Saturday.

If you find any broken links do please let us know LDnet Webteam.

We will bring you more web information throughout the season - support the Whites home and away.

Welcome to our 2006-2007 site.

It's been a hard few week's putting things together but the site for the new season is up and running, ahead of schedule, and will be bringing you the news from New Grosvenor throughout the season.

New kits are available from our new on-line shop and we hope that you will take advantage of this.

Enjoy the site, enjoy the new season and support the Whites.

The first match in the Milk Cup's Elite Group (Under 19s) will be at Ballymoney's new Riada Stadium, Paraguay will be the opponents on Monday 31st July 2006 (7.30 pm).

Northern Ireland will then take on Turkey at the Coleraine Showgrounds on Wednesday (August 2) at 7pm.

Play off matches and the elite final will be held on Friday (August 4).

Good luck to Ryan (pictured below)and the Northern Ireland team in this year's competition.

The first game in the pre-season programme kicks off this coming Saturday (Banbridge Town at Crystal Park, Banbridge 3.00 pm).

Season tickets will be available at this game from Chairman Jim McGrory or Treasurer John Duffy.

For season ticket pricing click here.

For pre-season games click here.

We are now into the second week of pre-season training, and we thought that we would use that opportunity to introduce our four new signings to our supporters.

Pictured below with manager Paul Kirk, are (l) Marty Verner, Andrew Waterworth, James Bell and Neil Alderdice (r). We welcome them all to the club and look forward to seeing them in action soon.

Also joining us is physio Eric Conroy. Eric (pictured below) has helped out at the club in the past and we welcome him back in his new position.

Virtually the full squad is back in action and training has started well.

Here is the updated pre-season progamme (please note date changes for some fixtures)

Sat 22 July 2006 - Banbridge Town v Lisburn Distillery (3.00 pm)

Mon 24th July 2006 - Kilmore Rec v Lisburn Distillery (7.15/7.30 pm)

Weds 26th July 2006 - Lurgan Celtic v Lisburn Distillery (7.15/7.30 pm)

Sat 29th July 2006 - H+W Welders v Lisburn Distillery (3.00 pm)

Sun 30th July 2006 - Drogheda Town v Lisburn Distillery (Oriel Park, Dundalk 2.00 pm)

Tuesday 01st August 2006 - PSNI v Lisburn Distillery ((7.15/7.30 pm)

Sat 05th August - Saintfield Utd v Lisburn Distillery (+ possibility of a second game against Rosario)

Monday 07th August - Ballymacash Rangers v Lisburn Distillery

We will advise you of any changes once we receive them.