Travel slickness required, says Paddy
Paddy McLaughlin says Cliftonville are looking forward to what promises to be a high-stakes Sadler’s Peaky Blinder Irish Cup Quarter Final with Dungannon Swifts tomorrow.
The Reds are on the road for the first time in this season’s competition and, up against a side that claimed a battling draw on Danske Bank Premiership duty at Solitude just three weeks ago, will travel to Stangmore Park knowing there’s no margin for error.
“It’s a big game, there’s no doubt about that, and both teams will be well up for it,” says McLaughlin.
“It’s not that long since we’ve played eachother so both teams know what the other’s all about, so I’m sure it’ll be tight, it’ll be a test but it’s a game I believe we can come out on top in.
“Obviously Dungannon have been going very well over the last few weeks and months. Kris (Lindsay) signed well in January which steadied the ship and they’ve kicked on from there. We saw what they can do when they came to play us not that long ago, so we’re well aware of the challenge we’re going to face.
“We might be away from home, but we’ve done very well away from Solitude this season so we won’t be going down to Stangmore with any fear. We’ll travel with the belief that we can get the win and it’s one we’re looking forward to.
“Our fans play such a big part on days like this, especially when we’re away. Our fans can give the players an extra 15-20% and I know it will give them all a big lift if they see a big crowd getting behind them when they step out on to the pitch.
“Our strength is in playing on the front foot and we’re always better when we get men forward. Getting our key players on the ball in good areas is going to be important and, if we can get that side of our game right, we’ve got every chance of making it through.”
Supporters Club Buses
Social Reds (Solitude, 1.30pm)
Adult Bus Tickets: £10
Concession Bus Tickets: £5
(Pints on sale for £2.50 beforehand)
North Belfast Reds (Cassidy’s Bar, 1.45pm)
Adult Bus Tickets: £10
Concession Bus Tickets: £6