Argyle Learn SuperCupNI Opponents
A young Argyle side are preparing for next month’s visit to Northern Ireland in the annual SuperCupNI, and have now found out their group stage opponents.
The prestigious tournament is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, and Argyle have been regular visitors to give prospective future Pilgrims a taste of tournament football.
In this season’s competition, an Argyle side led by James Bradley will be in the Junior section, for players born on or after 1 January, 2009.
Beginning on Monday, 24 July, the Young Pilgrims will play Charlton Athletic, County Fermanagh and St Mirren, with results determining their opponents at future stages.
The SuperCupNI can call on an extraordinary list of superstars who have taken part in the tournament. Manchester United have been represented by the likes of Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes and Marcus Rashford; World Cup winners Sergio Busquets and Mats Hummels represented Barcelona and Bayern Munich respectively; and all-time Manchester United leading goalscorer Wayne Rooney played in the Supercup when in Everton’s Academy.
Zak Baker, Jack Endacott, Oscar Halls and Will Jenkins Davies, a quartet recently graduated from Argyle’s under-18s to the first team, have all worn the green shirt in Northern Ireland in recent years, following players such as established first-teamers Michael Cooper and Adam Randell.
"The annual trip to Northern Ireland for the SuperCupNI is always a highlight of the year," said Argyle Academy Manager Phil Stokes. "It is a prestigious tournament and tremendous experience for young players who aspire to be professionals. We believe tournament football is an important part in a players development.
"Lots of players have represented Argyle in the competition and gone on to play for our first team. This group now have the opportunity to test themselves against teams across the world."
SupercupNI Fixtures
Monday, 24 July – Charlton Athletic, The Warren, Portstewart, 3pm
Tuesday, 25 July – County Fermanagh, Chimney Corner, Antrim, 2pm
Wednesday, 26 July – St Mirren, Parker Avenue, Portrush, 3pm
