Comrades get bye in Steel & Sons

After having been favoured with a home draw against Ballinamallard United in the Co-operative Insurance Cup, they have received a bye in the first round of the coveted Steel & Sons Cup.

East Antrim rivals Larne and Carrick Rangers have not been so fortunate, but both have home advantage against Donard Hospital and Brantwood respectively.

There is a tasty Newtownabbey local derby with FC Ballynure from the Ballymena Intermediate League paired with Jamesy Kirk's Nortel from the Amateur League Division 1A.

Meanwhile, Ballynure Old Boys have received a bye, but Kilbride Swifts fared worst of all having to face a trip to Groomsport.

In the second round Comrades travel to the winners of the Lisburn Distillery II v Ballynahinch tie on Saturday, August 28.

The bye in the cup means that Comrades have a home league fixture against Bangor on Monday August 16, after opening their Championship I campaign in Loughgall on Saturday 7.

Meanwhile, Ballyclare manager Gordon Chambers has secured the signature of Mark Hadden, a right full back who has had experience with Carrick Rangers and Ballymoney United.