After last years success in the Arsenal Supporters Club 5 aside tournament, hopes were high as this years team of finely honed athletes set foot on the hallowed turf at the Emirtates Stadium.

The draw was not kind to the Fermanagh squad who ended up in the group of death along side the likes of Italy, Hungary and last but not least the might of Gloucestershire. It was now up to team manager Mick Moran to use all his motivational skills to pump up the team to ensure a winning start. This is essential in any of these high profile tournaments and Fermanagh got off to a flyer with a 1-0 victory over their Gloucester counterparts. Graham "the cat" Fivey again showing why Wenger was keen to let Lehman go, with an impressive goalkeeping display.

Unfortunately this was as good as it got for the local Gooners as they were dismantled 2-0 in the next game by the highly gifted Hungarians. No disgrace this as Brian "Chippy" Fivey again rolled back the years with a tremendous display while Don Williamson showed glimpses of days gone by. Indeed the Magyars would go on to win the tournament, at this their first attempt.

The final game was against the Azzurri. Fermanagh threw everything bar the kitchen sink at the Italians but couldn't make the breakthrough and then as has happened so often over the years, Italy scored, shut up shop and Fermanagh were out. Indeed if Reg hadn't hit the post from about six inches out with a header things could have been so different. If only he had gone to specsavers!!

Although disappointed with the outcome, this team is going through a transitional period and will surely come good when these youngsters get a bit more experience.

Special thanks again to Karlo Rooney for transferring his allegiances for the day and to Mick's nephew Terry Moran who scored our only goal.

Please note that the AGM will take place in Blakes of the Hollow on Tuesday 8th July at 8.00 pm. All new members welcome.