Testimonial for Kildare star Ryan

A testimonial match is to be held in honour of Kildare's recently-retired centre back Glenn Ryan on New Year's Eve.

The fixture, initiated by the Kildare County Board the Kildare Nationalist newspaper, will be held at St. Conleth's Park in Newbridge, with December 31 the provisional date.

The County Board and the Kildare Nationalist have moved to turn the annual White Stars v Kildare challenge match into a tribute to the famed Round Towers defender, who captained Kildare to Leinster titles in 1998 and 2000.

The 34-year-old Ryan is to select the charities for which the proceeds of the game will go to.

County Board chairman Syl Merrins confirmed: "It's going to be a great occasion. It's fantastic to be able to honour Glenn after all his years of outstanding service to Kildare.

"We're also honouring his fine season for Towers and all he's done for them year in, year out."

Kildare manager John Crofton is sure to select a strong line-up for the tie, while the mentors for the White Stars will be the winning managers from the Kildare senior, junior and intermediate championships.