Half measures

This afternoon’s results in the Danske Bank Premiership means just two teams remain in contention for the single vacant top-six spot.

Cliftonville are one of five sides – along with Linfield, Glentoran, Crusaders and Larne – to have already guaranteed a top-half berth and, while Coleraine are not yet a mathematical certainty to join them, it’s highly unlikely that Oran Kearney’s men will be denied.

The Bannsiders require just a single point from their next two League outings – away to Warrenpoint Town and home to Glenavon – to guarantee their place but even if they were to lose both matches, a goal difference of +15 would need to be overtaken in order for them to be usurped by the Lurgan Blues.

All of which means the Reds are poised to have two home fixtures after the split, with Linfield and Larne visiting Solitude during a programme that will see Paddy McLaughlin’s side take his team on the road to tackle Crusaders, Glentoran and – calamity aside – Coleraine.

To keep track of all opponents, home dates and away days for Cliftonville’s post-split schedule, simply click here for a periodically updated guide reflective of the latest standings.

Fans are, however, advised that the fixtures template remains subject to ratification and indeed amendment at the discretion of the NI Football League who, as has been the case in recent seasons, may resolve to release the schedule earlier than advertised to assist Clubs’ preparations.

Which teams have qualified for the Premiership’s top six?
1. Cliftonville
2. Crusaders
3. Glentoran
4. Larne
5. Linfield
6.

Which teams can still mathematically qualify for the Premiership’s top six?
1. Coleraine
2. Glenavon

Where will Cliftonville’s fixtures be played against all potential opponents?
Coleraine (The Showgrounds)
Crusaders (Seaview)
Glenavon (Solitude)
Glentoran (The Oval)
Larne (Solitude)
Linfield (Solitude)

When will post-split fixtures take place?
Numbers reflective of Premiership positions
Saturday, April 9 (3pm)
1 v 2
3 v 4
5 v 6

Saturday, April 16 (3pm)
1 v 3
2 v 5
4 v 6

Tuesday, April 19 (7.45pm)
1 v 4
2 v 6
3 v 5

Saturday, April 23 (3pm)
1 v 5
2 v 4
3 v 6

Saturday, April 30 (3pm)
1 v 6
2 v 3
4 v 5