Make belief

Jim Magilton says Cliftonville will approach tonight’s BetMcLean Cup clash with Glentoran in confident mood.

The Reds head to The Oval for a quarter-final showdown on the back of a well-earned victory at Portadown on Saturday which stretched the team’s unbeaten run to eight games.

While he acknowledges the quality within the Glens’ ranks, Magilton will urge his side to set about their challenge with belief.

“It’s a fantastic game for us,” he says.

“They’re a really top side with lots of good players but we’re going there in a rich vein of form. We have to stand up and be counted of course, but we’ve got to go and play our game in the manner in which we’re playing at the minute.

“It’s another big game and one where we’ll again be asking the players to believe in themselves and those around them.”

Belief has played a key part in the recent resurgence that has seen the Reds climb the Sports Direct Premiership table and reach the County Antrim Shield Final. Bidding to maintain their grip on the BetMcLean Cup this evening, Magilton says the messaging will be the same.

“Every matchday and every training session, we reaffirm the positives,” he explains.

“The players know that never changes with me. Myself and the coaching staff have faith in these players and it’s been about making sure they’ve got that belief in themselves; the belief to go out and play the way we all know they can.

“We know we’re in for a tough fixture but that belief and confidence is the very first thing we have to bring out onto the field with us.”

Glentoran v Cliftonville
Tuesday, December 2
Adults: £15
Concessions: £10
Tickets: General Sale