Glentoran take a break from the Danske Bank Premiership and face Larne tonight at The Oval in the County Antrim Sheild First Round. Glentoran have a rich history in the competition having won it on twenty five occasions with our best run being over the turn of the Millennium where Glentoran lifted the infamously huge trophy five straight seasons. The Glens last won the competition in 2010-11 where Matty Burrows was the hero with Grant Gardiner securing the victory late in stoppage time. Our last final was one year later in 2011-12 when Cliftonville comfortably defeated us on way to their first Irish League title of the century.
It might not be the most prestigious competition in the calendar year but every win is a step in the right direction and following a run of disappointing form Eddie Patterson will be hoping his side can start to improve and pick up some momentum. Traditionally The Co Antrim Shield offers opportunities to a number of non-regular starters so it is expected Patterson will make changes with the likes of Danny McKee, Jim O'Hanlon, Willie Garrett and Stephen Gordon all looking at potential starts.
Elliott Morris has returned for The Seconds this weekend so may play but Jay Magee and Kim Nelson are unlikely to feature.
Admission is £7 for Adults and £5 for concessions tonight and kick off is 7.45pm. Please note season tickets are NOT valid