This Saturday, the Men’s EYHL gets underway with Banbridge and Lisnagarvey being joined by newly promoted Cookstown as the Ulster representatives this season.
Having won seven of the last eight league titles between them, Banbridge and Lisnagarvey are both expected to be amongst the title contenders once more this year.
Meanwhile, in their first season back in the division, Cookstown will be hopeful they can consolidate their place for next year.
Last season’s title winners Lisnagarvey have seen little in terms of incomings and will instead be relying on their talented pool of youth players if they are to retain their trophy.
During the off-season, youngster Milo Thompson was involved in the Ireland senior setup for the first time against India, whilst John Cunningham helped lead the Irish U18s to cup success in Turkey.
Erroll Lutton‘s side won the title for the first time since 2022 last season and led the division for goals, netting a staggering 83 goals in their 18 league games, 22 more than second-best Banbridge.
If they are to defend their league title, they will be hoping Andrew Williamson and Ben Nelson can continue their fine goal-scoring form from last season, when the pair netted a combined 35 league goals.
Elsewhere, 2023/24 champions Banbridge have capitalised on Annadale’s relegation from the division, recruiting a number of new players to bolster their options.
Allen Lyons, Adam McCallister and Callum Robson have all joined Scott McCandless‘ side from the Belfast club, whilst youngster Lukas Moles has returned following a year at Queen’s University.
Last season, Ban ranked second for goals scored and third for goals against in the division as they secured a third-place finish and went on to claim the Champions Trophy.
They get their season up and running with a top of the table clash against Leinster giants Three Rock Rovers on Saturday afternoon. The sides met on several occasions last campaign, but it was the Ulster club who came out on top, winning 4-2 in Dublin, with the result ultimately costing Three Rock the title.
The final team involved in EYHL action, Cookstown, cruised to the Men’s Premier League title last campaign and now return to the All-Ireland league after a two-season absence.
Just two summer recruits have joined the club, with James Evans (Banbridge) and Kent Irwin (CI Annadale) both making the move to Mid-Ulster.
They get their league season up and running with a difficult home tie against a strong Monkstown side.
