Committed to the Case

Odhran Casey says Cliftonville must build on the resilience they showed in Gibraltar last week if they are to overcome St Joseph’s in this evening’s UEFA Conference League first qualifying round tie.

Under serious pressure in the aftermath of having Jack Keaney sent off, the Reds emerged from Europa Point Stadium with a 2-2 draw that ensures the contest is delicately poised going into tonight’s decisive showdown at Solitude.

“When you go down to 10 men, normally you drop deep and look to just defend the crosses and I thought we did alright,” says Casey of the late storm Cliftonville had to weather last time out.

“They peppered us with crosses, they knew what to do, but we dug in deep to make sure we didn’t lose the game.

“It’s only half-time and I think both teams will fancy their chances, but we’re looking forward to the second leg because we believe we have a performance in us.

“Both teams know a bit more about each other now and it’s a game we’ll go into believing we can get the result that will take us through to the next round.”

You can read the full Casey interview in tonight’s souvenir edition of our Matchday Magazine, which will be on sale at Solitude for £3.

Featuring pre-match views from the Manager’s Office, The Red Eye’s second issue of the campaign reflects on the continental history of both teams and assesses Cliftonville’s disciplinary record on the European stage – plus plenty more besides.

Cliftonville v St Joseph’s
Tickets
McAlery Stand: Sold out
Main Stand Lower: Sold out
Bowling Green Stand: Sold out

Live stream
Available: Here

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