THE draw for the fifth round of the Clearer Water Irish Cup threw up only one all-Premiership tie, and indeed the tie of the round, with Coleraine hosting Cliftonville.
Jim Magilton’s men will be eager to avenge their 3-1 2018 final defeat against the Bannsiders when they travel to the Showgrounds on Saturday, January 6.
Holders Crusaders, who defeated Ballymena United in last year’s final, are eyeing a historic third consecutive triumph, and will face Championship challengers Ards at Seaview.
Current league leaders Linfield kick-start their quest with a home tie against Warrenpoint Town, while Larne, the reigning Premiership champions, are set for a rematch against H&W Welders at Blanchflower Stadium, revisiting last season’s 1-0 defeat in the quarter-final.
Under the helm of Warren Feeney, Glentoran are slated to take on Annagh United at the BetMcLean Oval.
Ballymena United, finalists in the last two editions, brace for a demanding away encounter against an ever-stubborn Queen’s University outfit.
Introducing a compelling narrative to the tournament, Premier Intermediate League representatives Ballymacash Rangers, making their debut appearance at this stage, are poised to face off against Oxford Sunnyside.
Rangers have already shown their calibre in cup competitions this season, having made the semi-finals of the Co Antrim Shield.
Round five draw
Oxford Sunnyside v Ballymacash Rangers
Glentoran v Annagh United
Crusaders v Ards
Ballyclare Comrades v Strabane Athletic
H&W Welders v Larne
Dungannon Swifts v Willowbank
Newington v Dundela
Bangor v Dergview
Linfield v Warrenpoint Town
Loughgall v Rosemount Rec
Queen’s University v Ballymena United
Institute v Crumlin Star
Carrick Rangers v Portadown
Newry City v Ballinamallard
Coleraine v Cliftonville
Knockbreda v Glenavon
All matches to be played January 5-6
