Drawing focus

Jim Magilton says the fact that Cliftonville have registered just a single point from their two meetings with Glentoran so far this season is an indicator of how tough a challenge they will face at The Oval this evening.

On their last visit to east Belfast, the Reds saw a plethora of chances come and go before the hosts claimed the only goal of an evenly-matched contest, while December’s Solitude showdown almost yielded a dramatic last twist only for an injury-time effort from Rory Hale to be ruled out by an offside flag.

A smile creeps across Magilton’s face when he recalls that 2-2 draw as he explains: “I’m still not sure about that offside, you know!

“We played ever so well that day and we thought we’d won it and Rory’s goal – to me, it was a good goal but it was a fantastic match that both teams really contributed to.

“I thought we should have got a draw at The Oval but we were undone with a little moment of quality and that’s the sort of threat that Glentoran possess. At Solitude, it was similar in that we switched off for a very brief spell and we were punished with two goals and that’s just a wee reminder of what Glentoran are capable of.

“We’ve had two really great battles with them this season and, as much as we feel that our performances have deserved more than just one point, the facts are that a point is all we got out of either of them and some of that is down to what Glentoran brought to the table and the capabilities that they have.

“Obviously we have to look after ourselves in terms of taking chances and staying focused defensively, but everything’s pointing towards another really good game and it’s one that we’re looking forward to.”

Cliftonville supporters are reminded that, while tickets for this evening’s match remain available online, purchases made for the fixture’s original December 30 date remain valid.

Glentoran v Cliftonville
All-ticket
Adults: £13
Concessions: £9
Buy online: Here
Tickets purchased for the fixture’s original December 30 date remain valid