Getting ton to business

Though injury will keep her out of tomorrow’s Avenir Sports All-Island Cup clash, Vicky Carleton believes her Cliftonville Ladies team-mates are fully prepared to take on Shelbourne in their season-opener at Solitude.

Defeated in the Final of last year’s competition – one of four deciders the Reds reached during a memorable campaign – John McGrady’s side will bid to take their first step on the road to success this term by getting the better of a Shels outfit that has made an encouraging start to their SSE Airtricity Women’s Premier Division programme.

“I think pre-season as a whole has prepared the girls perfectly for the first match against Shelbourne,” says Carleton ahead of the Group B curtain-raiser.

“Everyone is well drilled and knows what they’re up against. League of Ireland opposition always bring a new and exciting challenge that all the girls love.”

Counting down the days until she makes her own return to action, Carleton has welcomed Cliftonville’s new arrivals since the end of last season and believes they can make a telling impact in the months ahead.

“My surgery went well and I’m back in full training the past week with no pain,” she adds. “It’s just about building my fitness and confidence back up and then I’ll be 100% ready.

“I think all the girls we’ve signed have come in and impressed. They all bring something different to the team which is exciting.”

Cliftonville Ladies v Shelbourne
Sunday, March 24 (2pm)
Adults: £5
Concessions: £2
Academy kids: Free

Matchday Partners
Match Sponsor: Denis McMullan
Matchball Sponsor: Jack Patterson