Rangers pull out of County Antrim Shield

Gary Haveron’s men were set to host Danske Bank Premiership outfit Crusaders in the opening round of the competition on September 23 but issued a statement on Tuesday to say they won’t take part in this year’s competition.

According to Carrick, the County Antrim FA said it would not be possible to switch the game to Seaview, despite an offer from the north Belfast club.

“With the County Antrim FA requiring floodlight facilities for invited teams, we are unable to meet the required criteria at this point. The club had examined the possibility of purchasing floodlights on a temporary basis but, unfortunately, the financial cost would be too significant,” the statement read.

Rangers also revealed their plan to install new floodlights at their home ground ‘has been delayed with October now the expected completion date’.

The club added: “We look forward to participating in the County Antrim Shield in future and thank those who offered their assistance in the recent weeks, namely the County Antrim FA and Crusaders FC.”