Positive note

Jim Magilton wants Cliftonville to retain their positive mindset going into tomorrow’s Sports Direct Premiership trip to Coleraine.

The Reds approach the clash at The Showgrounds on the back of four straight wins without conceding a goal and, as their hectic schedule continues, Magilton says he has been pleased with his players’ can-do attitude throughout what has been a testing period.

“Momentum changes in football can be such a big thing,” he says.

“Five games ago, we’re digging in and searching for answers. We’ve won a few games since then, we’re utilising every member of the squad, we’re using five subs three times a week and we’re going to have another body count before we go and present ourselves at Coleraine.

“It’s a tough ask for these lads. We’re nursing people through certain ailments and, at this time of year, nobody’s playing perfectly at 100% – people are carrying injuries but they all want to play, which makes it easier for us.”

While he acknowledges that an away date against the Bannsiders will provide a thorough examination, Magilton – who hopes to have both Brian Healy and Sean Robertson available for selection following recent injury-enforced absences – wants his men to embrace the challenge.

“It’s a big game against a really top side but it’s one that we’ll go into with confidence after a really big effort from the players,” he adds.

“We approach this the same way we approach every game. We’ll do our homework and obviously give Coleraine all the respect they deserve but we’ll try and go and play. At the moment, we’re in that vein of form where we’ve been winning games, which builds confidence. We know that Coleraine have major strengths but we’ll go there and try to stand up to them.”

Coleraine v Cliftonville
Saturday, March 14
Adults: £15
Concessions: £10
Primary School kids: £5
Tickets: General Sale