Gall problem

Jim Magilton says he’s seen enough of Loughgall to know that they will cause Cliftonville problems in tomorrow’s Clearer Water Irish Cup quarter-final showdown.

The Reds travel to Lakeview Park on the back of Sports Direct Premiership victories over Linfield and Portadown but Magilton – who attended the Villagers’ Playr-Fit Championship defeat of Warrenpoint Town last Saturday – says Darren Murphy’s men will be afforded the respect they are due for reaching this stage of the competition.

“We have to be really focused and our attitude and character will be put to the test,” he explained.

“I watched Loughgall last week and they’re going to give us problems but we have to come out and cope with those problems and come up with a few answers.

“We never, ever underestimate any opposition. We give every opposition the respect they deserve and we’re going to do that again.”

Loughgall boss Darren Murphy rung the changes for his side’s midweek reverse at the hands of Institute, while Magilton was forced into yet more chopping and changing against Portadown – a situation that he admits makes it difficult for a team to sustain any rhythm.

“Every Manager and every Club have injuries and that has an effect because consistency is key and team selection is key,” he added.

“We lost Luke Conlan and Brian Healy after the Linfield game last Sunday. Both have muscle injuries that ruled them out of Wednesday night at Portadown and we don’t know if they’re going to be fit for Saturday.

“We lost two players to injury at Dungannon a few weeks ago, then Kyle McClelland picked up a long-term problem in training, then we lost Harry Wilson after the Crusaders game so it’s obviously hard for us to get that consistency. We’re utilising the group and the one thing about them is that they’re all chomping at the bit to play.”

Loughgall v Cliftonville
Saturday, March 7
Adults: £15
Concessions: £10
Under-18s: £5 (cash turnstile)
Tickets: General Sale