Fired up to have the Final say

Jim Magilton says Cliftonville won’t be lacking in motivation when tomorrow’s Clearer Water Irish Cup semi-final showdown with Larne gets under way.

The Reds’ bid to reach the decider requires a big display against in-form opposition at Windsor Park and, as respectful as he is of the Invermen’s quality, Magilton insists that his players won’t be found wanting when the occasion demands.

“These are the games you look forward to,” he says.

“They should motivate you rather than intimidate you. The theme of the whole week has been motivation, the desire to go and a win a game and try and get into another Irish Cup Final.

“I know the heritage and the history of the Cup with Cliftonville. The fans are so passionate and care so much for the Club. If we can deliver an Irish Cup, it would be fantastic.”

The Reds go into the game on the back of a somewhat stop-start March, having played just one match since their quarter-final victory over Portadown four weeks ago.

Last weekend’s Sports Direct Premiership tussle with Larne was postponed due to international call-ups and, having seen Odhrán Casey and Sean Stewart thrive for Northern Ireland’s Under-21s alongside both Ryan Corrigan and Keevan Hawthorne performing on the Under-17 stage, Magilton is delighted to have everyone back for some vital late preparation.

“Hopefully we get all the lads back with no injuries and we get ready for what is a top class side in Larne,” he adds.

“Whilst it is fantastic for the lads, it can be very disruptive for us. We want everybody there and everybody focused on the job in hand.

“We go into the game prepared for the qualities that Larne are going to bring to the table, and we have to withstand that and then come out with our own qualities – which we have in abundance too.”

Cliftonville v Larne
All-ticket
Adults: £13
Concessions: £9
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