bright future ahead

Mark Sykes is one of the most promising young footballers Gary Hamilton has seen - lavish praise indeed from the Glenavon manager.
Mark Sykes - bright future says manager Gary Hamilton.Mark Sykes - bright future says manager Gary Hamilton.
Mark Sykes - bright future says manager Gary Hamilton.

Mark, along with many of the other promising teenagers at Mourneview Park, will continue to get get their chance to play Premier League football in the final three league games starting at Solitude on Saturday as the Blues take on title chasing Cliftonville.

“Mark is something special,” says Hamilton. “He has so much quality. Rhys Marshall has been fantastic for us since he made the step up in grade this season, but Mark is even better. If he continues to listen and learn then I have no doubt at all he will go far in the game.”

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Mark has already caught the eye with his performance in the 4-0 win at Glentoran and made an impact when he came on at Portadown last week.

“By finishing in the top six you know every game to the finish is going to be a tough one,” added Hamilton.

“We have Cliftonville first and Crusaders on Tuesday but I think we can get something from them.

“While I have more or less have my cup final squad in mind you never know what can happen and everyone must be ready to claim a place if those plans change.”

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Hamilton expects the title to be finally decided at Mournview Park.

“Liam Boyce and Joe Gormley give Cliftonville a big edge. They ran away with it last year but it is closer this time around. Linfield have vast experience in this type of situation. I can see it going to the final day and Linfield coming to us having to get a result.”

Free entry

Glenavon’s match against Crusaders on Easter Tuesday is at 2.30pm and there will be free entry for primary school kids.