Meeting of minds

Paddy McLaughlin is well aware of the size of the challenge that Linfield will present this evening but insists it makes no sense for Cliftonville to deviate from the mindset that has served them well so far this season.

The Reds travel to Windsor Park aiming to build on an encouraging start to the campaign but will come up against a buoyant home side fresh from an impressive 3-0 victory over Glentoran in midweek.

Though the televised clash has generated plenty of hype in the build-up, McLaughlin says he and his players must focus on the task at hand just as they have done throughout the term.

“Windsor’s a good place to go and play,” he said.

“It’s a good surface which suits our style of play. It’s set up for a great game but we don’t look forward to playing Linfield any more than we looked forward to Warrenpoint or Dungannon.

“Every game takes on its own significance and own importance, so we won’t prepare for this match any differently than we have done up until now.

“All games in the Irish League are tough and we’re shown that every week. We all know how tight the League is and results can go either way at times, so there’s no sense in going into this game with a different mindset.”

Supporters information
Cliftonville’s allocation of tickets for this game has sold out.

Supporters who were not fortunate enough to secure a seat can, however, watch the action live on BBC 2, the BBC Sport NI website and the iPlayer.

Fans attending the game are, meanwhile, kindly asked to familiarise themselves with the spectator protocols that will be in place by clicking here, with particular emphasis on the request to please wear a face covering whilst moving around Windsor Park’s concourses and vomitories at all times unless you have an exemption. Supporters are also advised that no food or drink concessions will be available within the stadium.