The 2023/2024 season fixtures have been revealed for the new Playr-Fit Championship!
Following the announcement on Tuesday that Playr-Fit are the new title sponsors of the Championship, excitement is already building in the race for promotion.
Twelve Championship clubs will compete in the 38-match campaign, which sees 33 regular season games completed before the league splits for the final five rounds, with the league champions earning a place in the top-flight and the runners-up merit a crack at the promotion play-offs.
In the opening round of matches - all eyes will be on Niall Currie’s Portadown side as they look to bounce back to the Premiership at the first attempt as they start their journey away to Dergview.
Last season Annagh United were only one win away from promotion to the top division for the first time in their history; Ciaran McGurgan’s men will look to go one better as they face a stern opening task as Dundela are the visitors to kick off the new campaign.
Bangor returned to the second tier for the first time since 2016 and Lee Feeney’s side start the season with an away trip to Ballyclare Comrades.
Paul Kee rejuvenated Harland & Wolff Welders in the second half of last season – could they finally take their place at the top table? The East Belfast men face Ballinamallard United, led by the experienced Harry McConkey, in the opening weekend.
Kevin Deery returns to Institute as manager and he starts his second spell at the club with an opening game against Knockbreda, whilst Ards begin their season by welcoming Newington to Clandeboye Park.
Opening Playr-Fit Championship Fixtures
Saturday 5 August 2023
Annagh United v Dundela
Ards v Newington
Ballyclare Comrades v Bangor
Dergview v Portadown
HW Welders v Ballinamallard United
Institute v Knockbreda
Key Dates