Momentum in time

Gerard Lyttle says Cliftonville must generate momentum to carry them into whatever challenges the remainder of the season has in store.

Following tomorrow’s Sports Direct Premiership encounter with Carrick Rangers at Solitude, the Reds face Ards on Clearer Water Irish Cup semi-final duty before embarking upon a post-split League programme that will see them bid to nail down a European Play-Off spot amid stiff competition from a number of competitors.

Assistant boss Lyttle was encouraged by what he saw in the midweek draw at Coleraine and has urged the players to build a positive run of form in the weeks ahead.

“This Club has been used to challenging every season, whether it is Europe or whether it is Cups or whether it’s for Leagues,” he says.

“It will be no different. We’ve been in those positions before and it is a good group of boys. They will keep going and they are honest.

“Our next focus is Carrick and trying to get a win on Saturday and with that win, carry momentum. It’s momentum that we probably need to finish strongly for the end of the season.

“Obviously, the next game is the most important game.

“It’s just small wee things that we can tidy up on. We’re still playing good football and working hard.

“The boys are grafting and if seventh spot is the next best thing for us in terms of giving us an opportunity to qualify for Europe, then I think that will have to be the way forward.”

Cliftonville v Carrick Rangers
Saturday, March 22 (3pm)
Adults: £15
Concessions: £10
Tickets: General Sale
Cash turnstiles in operation