Contrasting fortunes

Jim Magilton acknowledges there will be a “stark contrast” between what Cliftonville have already experienced this season and tonight’s Boyle Sports Premiership encounter with Linfield.

The Reds overcame Crusaders and Bangor in their opening two League games, but the Manager expects an entirely difference challenge at the Clearer Twist Stadium – not least because it will be his side’s first fixture of the campaign not to be played on a synthetic surface.

“There’s a stark contrast of playing at Bangor and then going to Windsor and playing on the grass,” said Magilton.

“We’ll look forward to it. It’s back to work for us.Players bounce off the good performances we’ve had and respond to that.They feel good about themselves. But our reality is we’ve got to focus on what will be a huge challenge. Every time you go there, it’s a huge challenge.

“The players should be confident and we will come up with a game plan to try and win.”

After suffering a 3-0 defeat at home to Ballymena United on the opening day of the season, the Blues bounced back by overcoming Glentoran last Saturday.

Having attended that encounter with United, Magilton says he wasn’t surprised to hear of Linfield’s better fortune against the Glens.

“I was at the game and for large parts, first-half especially, they dominated the game without taking their opportunities,” he explained.

“It’s amazing how many times they get written off and how many times they bounce back. They’ve got so many really top players with great experience, top Manager, top staff and no surprise, we’ll go there, we’ll relish the opportunity.”

Linfield v Cliftonville
Ticket sales
Friday, August 21: 3pm-6pm (Social Club)

Sale conditions
Club Members: Entitled to buy a maximum of three tickets
Season Ticket holders: Entitled to buy up to two tickets relevant to category
Family Season Ticket holders: Entitled to buy a maximum of four tickets

Ticket prices
Adults: £15
Concessions: £10 (Sold out)

Coverage
NIFL TV: Live broadcast outside of Ireland and UK (Buy here)
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