Inver a tough task: Magilton

Jim Magilton says Cliftonville are primed for one of the toughest tests in Irish League football tomorrow.

The Reds travel to Inver Park for a Sports Direct Premiership showdown with a Larne side who, since contesting UEFA Conference League action in Slovenia on Thursday night, have formally welcomed new Manager Nathan Rooney into his role – but Magilton expects it to be business as usual on the pitch.

“They’re a top quality side with fantastic players and, regardless of the changes that have gone on, the players are still the same, so the challenge we’ll face will be just the same,” he explains.

“There is no perfect time to face Larne, they have a big squad and I don’t believe they will be sidetracked. This is a big fixture and they will refocus quickly.

“We’ve prepared for a tough game against a quality team because that’s what we expect to face.”

After seeing their winning run ended by Ballymena United a fortnight ago, Cliftonville got back on track with a convincing victory over Loughgall last time out and Magilton will be looking for continued improvement at Inver.

“We had a blip against Ballymena, but we showed real glimpses of quality and control,” he adds.

“Some lapses haven’t been so pleasing and we have discussed it. This is a massive game which will show us where we are at. There is still massive room for improvement.”

Larne v Cliftonville
This is an all-ticket fixture
Adults: £15
Concessions: £10
Under-11s: £1
Tickets: General Sale