Some top half measures

Though Cliftonville’s attentions are firmly focused on Saturday’s Clearer Water Irish Cup sixth round tie with Loughgall, cliftonvillefc.net today takes a timely opportunity to remind supporters of the various permutations at play in the race for a top-half finish in the Sports Direct Premiership.

The division’s two-way split will take effect following the 33rd round of fixtures on Saturday, March 23, when sides in the respective halves of the table will compete with one another for the Gibson Cup, European qualification and the fight against relegation.

With three teams currently confirmed for top six berths, the Reds will have away fixtures against both Linfield and Larne, with the location of the other three matches to be determined by the final participants, while the specific order of fixtures will be confirmed in due course.

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.