Destiny beckons for Level 3 as they go in search of a third successive JMU Journalism World Cup triumph, and now they know who stands in their way following the draw for this year’s semi-finals.
Level 2 have been given the unenviable task of trying to depose the dominant reigning champions, while the freshers will take on veterans when Level 1 meet the Alumni in the other semi.
Liam Keen, who is hoping to lead his side to the title hat-trick, said: “We know they’re struggling for players, and if we can get to that final we’re confident of doing the business again. Playing the second years means we know what to expect to an extent, so we’re happy.”
Level 2 captain, Ross Crane, is desperate to guide the second years to their first victory, but doesn’t seem too hopeful, saying: “This is the draw we didn’t want. We’re going to have to learn how to defend this year, but maybe a miracle might happen.”
By contrast, Owen McKendry was in bullish mood as he looked ahead to the tournament debut for Level 1, with their captain clearly undaunted by the prospect of facing the Alumni.
YouTube: Looking back at the inaugural JMU Journalism World Cup (2010)
He said boldly: “It’s the easiest draw we could have asked for. The third years have been built up quite a lot and we were hoping to take them on because we want to play and beat the best.
“We have a good pedigree of lads who have played at decent levels. Fitness is our main concern, but we have a big squad so it shouldn’t be an issue.”
Alumni skipper Chris Shaw said: “It’s a step into the unknown for the evergreen Alumni – on two fronts. We’ll have to expect the unexpected as we face the new kids on the block, though I’m confident the wisdom and experience gathered during almost a decade of World Cup football will be a deciding factor in our favour.”
JMU Journalism World Cup semi-finals 2018:
Tuesday April 17th
Level 3 v Level 2 (3.30pm)
Alumni v Level 1 (5.45pm)
(Games to be played in April at LJMU IM Marsh Campus, Aigburth)
JMU Journalism World Cup archive >>
YouTube: JMU Journalism World Cup Final 2017