Blue blazes

Jim Magilton says that, as much as Cliftonville will this evening bid to build on the buoyancy generated by Saturday’s win over Loughgall, the challenge of facing a wounded Linfield side must be met head on.

The Reds produced their best performance of the season to put five goals past the Villagers at Lakeview Park, whereas the Blues were slipping to a first defeat at the hands of Larne – and Magilton is well aware that the visitors will be seeking a response at Solitude tonight.

“The reality is we’re facing a Linfield side who will be smarting after losing at the weekend and we have to be prepared mentally and physically for the challenge that lies ahead for us,” he says.

“They’re always big games against Linfield and we’ll look forward to it. They’ll be chomping at the bit, too. It’s a big game and, even though it’s still the early part of the season, it’s an important game.”

Magilton was pleased with the manner of the victory at Loughgall and, while he expects a much sterner examination this evening, he is naturally keen for his players to kick on from that display.

“We talk about building momentum and rhythm,” he adds.

“Although we got off to a great start with three wins, we didn’t play particularly well in the games. We afforded the opposition too many opportunities – other than Portadown, where I felt we controlled large chunks of the game – and we always knew we could do better.

“Obviously we’ve added a few new signings towards the end of the transfer window and we’re working to bed those players in, but we know what we want to do and it’s just a case of trying to build on what’s gone on before.”

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