MONS OUT FOR KIL’ AT STATION ROAD
Monaghan United continue their FAI eircom League of Ireland campaign by travelling to Kildare County next Friday night. Kildare County have often been a tricky side for United and last season they served up 2 defeats and 2 draws to Monaghan in the league.

So far this season Kildare have suffered a 3-1 defeat at the hands of Shelbourne and drew against Wexford Youths. Their game against Athlone Town was called off due to a waterlogged pitch so Kildare County are sitting in the bottom half of the table with only 1 point to their credit.

United’s season has started off better but Cooke will be very aware of the threat that Kildare County pose and will have to field a strong team if he is to overcome the “Thoroughbreds”.

Kick off at Station Road, Newbridge is at 7.45pm as Kildare try out Friday night football for the 2008 season.

ATHLONE NEXT AT KINGSPAN CENTURY PARK
Monaghan United’s next home game will be against midland side Athlone Town at Kingspan Century Park in the FAI eircom League on Friday 4th April. Kick off 8pm.

A “GOOD FRIDAY” FOR MONS
Monaghan United put in a gutsy performance on Friday night last with a 1-0 win over visitors Shelbourne at Kingspan Century Park. An early goal from Paul Whelan, who headed home James Hand's free-kick, was enough to take all 3 points.

Shelbourne could have equalised shortly afterwards, when Anto Flood was released on goal, but his effort was straight at Kennedy in the United goal.

Monaghan United almost doubled their lead in early in the second half when a superb James Hand volley from Stephen McCrossan's free-kick hit the outside of the post, but thereafter United had to withstand a second-half onslaught from the visitors.

Both teams were reduced to 10 men with Mons midfielder shown a straight red for a tackle on Mark Rutherford and Shelbourne captain Greg O'Halloran getting a second yellow in the aftermath of the tackle.

It was a much improved performance for United and gave them 6 points out of a possible 9 from the first 3 games of the season.

CONGRATULATIONS
Monaghan United would like to congratulate Sean McCaffery and former Monaghan United player Mark Connolly on their successful progression to the UEFA Under 17’s finals last week. This was a magnificent achievement for Sean and Mark and it is wonderful to see the many years of hard coming to fruition.

Monaghan United are also delighted that United goalkeeper Aaron McCarey was part of the Malta Cup Republic of Ireland Under 16’s squad. Well done Aaron.

WOMEN’S NOTES
The Monaghan United Women’s team continue their preparations for the season with training on Saturday at 4.30pm.

All ladies interested in playing should bring runners and football boots.

MINI LEAGUES BACK
Monaghan United’s much loved Monaghan Credit Union Mini Leagues resume this Sunday after the Easter break. Children aged 5-8 play from 11am to 12pm and boys and girls aged 9-11 play from 12 to 1pm. No football boots allowed. Last day of registration.