THE dates for this summer’s annual Joe Lennon Memorial Cup have been confirmed.

Holders Hakin United, Milford United, Milford Athletic, and Hubberston will again participate over two semi finals and a final.

The event is again being held at Hakin’s home ground at The Obs, with the first semi final taking place on Friday, August 7.

The second semi final is the following Monday, August 10, with the final to be held on Friday, August 14.

The draw for the competition is due to take place on the Radio Pembrokeshire Friday Night Sports Show later this month.

The tournament was first held in the summer of 2011 after Joe, who was renowned for his fantastic work with the Hakin United junior section, died aged 60 in December 2010 after a battle with illness.

And there was fairytale finish to the inaugural final, as Milford United beat the Vikings in the final after a penalty shootout, with Joe’s son Joff slotting the winning spot kick at Marble Hall after the teams had finished 1-1 at the end of the 90 minutes.

But Gary Dawes’ men got revenge in the 2012 final, beating the Robins 2-0 at the same venue.
In 2013 Milford Athletic reached the final for the first time, but again it was Hakin who claimed the silverware with a 3-0 victory.

Last year the tournament was switched from Marble Hall to The Obs for the first time, and the Vikings secured a third straight crown with a narrow 2-1 win over Milford United, thanks to a late winner from Steve Mathias.

The tournament has traditionally attracted large crowds, not surprising given Joe’s legendary status within local football, and it is expected to be the same this time around as people seek to pay tribute to a true character of the game.

This year, organiser Phil Marchant is seeking a new sponsor to help cover the costs of the event, after Dragon LNG confirmed they were unable to continue their support this year.

Marchant has said he is also looking for referees to officiate the three games. Anyone wanting to help can contact Phil on 07920 058057.