No Lough of respect

Jim Magilton says that the means by which Loughgall have adapted to the Sports Direct Premiership commands “full respect”.

Tipped by many observers for an instant return to the Championship following their promotion last summer, not only are Dean Smith’s side some 17 points clear of the relegation zone, they are also within touching distance of securing a top-half place with just two fixtures remaining until the top-flight’s split.

The Villagers were also the first visiting team to emerge from Solitude with any points this season and, ahead of Cliftonville’s trip to Lakeview Park tomorrow, Magilton has revealed his admiration for the County Armagh side’s achievements.

“They are a fantastic advert,” he said.

“I’ve huge respect for what they do up there. Dean Smith deserves so much credit.

“For a team that has come up from the Championship and played in the manner in which they’ve played, they’ll get our full respect.”

A fortnight on from their last game, the contest marks the Reds’ first Premiership outing in three weeks and Magilton admits he has been grateful for the opportunity to spend some extended hours on the training pitch.

“A lot of the lads have played a lot of minutes,” he added.

“We want to be consistent in our selection and consistent in terms of our methods. It was a week to regroup and look at everybody. There was a few tired legs and a few injured bodies and getting everybody back has been good for us.”

Loughgall v Cliftonville
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