Jim wants fans at full blast

While Jim Magilton says any underestimation of Ards will be “stamped out” of his players, he has urged the Red Army to take a similar mindset in their approach to this evening’s Irish Cup semi-final.

Cliftonville travel to Windsor Park bidding to reach a second consecutive showpiece in the competition and, having experienced the highs of overcoming Larne and Linfield at the same venue en route to lifting the trophy last season, Magilton has called on Reds supporters to ensure they don’t dial down their passion simply because tonight’s opponents ply their trade in the Championship.

Ards’ ability to upset the odds has not only been demonstrated in an Irish Cup run that has seen them dump Premiership sides Ballymena United and Loughgall out, but also courtesy of League form that has yielded three wins over title-chasing Limavady United as well as a recent away day triumph over Harland & Wolff Welders.

They were also desperately unfortunate not to eliminate Cliftonville from the County Antrim Shield at Solitude back in September, so Magilton is well aware that plenty of warning bells have been sounded.

“Ards are 100% capable,” he says.

“They showed enough here earlier in the season, when they missed two penalties that would have put them through.

“We know it’s going to be extremely difficult – it’s a semi-final of the Irish Cup and the importance of that will strike home to our players. If any player is under the illusion that they think they can just turn up, that will be stamped out categorically.

“We are in the midst of a team that are flying and when you’re flying and confidence is high, you don’t fear anybody and that’s exactly what Ards will do when they face us. We’ve got to use our experience and quality and hopefully come out on top.”

On the influence the Red Army can have on proceedings, he adds: “Our fans have got to go and drive us on.

“Last year, they were simply magnificent in the semi-final against Larne and they have to do the same – and I know they will. They’re going to come out in numbers and we’re going to need them and our players are well aware of that. They know that this Club means so much to them and that was emphasised at the League Cup Final. We spoke about that before that game; how they become a twelfth man and that’s no exaggeration. They come and they sell out Windsor and they come in their thousands – and the thousands that can’t get in are watching.

“Now we’re in an Irish Cup semi-final, regardless of the opposition, under no circumstances will anyone take this lightly.”

Cliftonville v Ards
Ticket information
Adults: £15
Concessions: £10
Tickets: General Sale