Bohs confirm Irish striker on trial with Lads

Irish football club Bohemians FC have confirmed that their young striker Stephen Ward is to have a trial with SAFC in the new year.

Bohs, who describe Ward as "...a huge favourite and bigger prospect" at their Dalymount Park base, say that the player will commence his trial with the Lads on Wednesday 5th January.

Ward, 19, is already a Schoolboy international; he won his first Under 19 cap in August 2003 and was then called into the U19 squad for the Euro qualifying tournament in San Marino the next month, scoring 3 goals including a last-minute winner v. Lithuania that ensured Ireland topped the group. Stephen joined Bohs in April from Portmarnock's Under 17 side and scored twice on his first team début when introduced as a sub against Skerries Town in the FAI Carlsberg Cup on 15 August 2003. He made his League début the following week v. St Patrick's Athletic and is now a regular in the squad.

(Thanks to Bohs FC for player info)

Preston v SAFC - ticket news

Supporters are advised that the New Years Day fixture at Preston North End is an ALL TICKET game and there will therefore be NO TICKETS available for purchase on the day.

Sunderland AFC have a limited number of tickets still available from the Stadium of Light ticket office until 12.00pm Friday 31st December 2004.

All supporters are advised NOT to travel without a valid match day ticket.

For further information please call ticket office on 0191-551-5151.

Cash turnstiles for SAFC v Gillingham (Mon 3/1/05)

Sunderland AFC would like to advise supporters that cash turnstiles will be in operation at the Stadium of Light for the Black Cats forthcoming game against Gillingham on Monday 3rd January, 3:00pm kick off.

Tickets will be available from turnstiles 7, 8, 39, 40, 47, 48, 55, 56, 63, 64 and 66

Tickets are also available in advance via the Club's official website www.safc.com, or by calling the ticket hotline on 0191 551 5151.

Fans are reminded that concessions will not be available on the turnstiles; however, the Stadium of Light ticket office will remain open until kick-off at 3:00pm.