Following a hard fought 0-0 draw in Dublin last week, Glentoran are in a reasonable position going into the second leg of the first round of the Setanta Cup against St Pat's Athletic. The match in Dublin was a game of few chances but St Pat's controlled the majority of possession. This week Glentoran will look to use home advantage to take control and hopefully get the all important goals required to send us through to the next round.
Similarily with last week, only two days passing since our last fixture can lead to a number of tired legs. Last Monday we were feeling the effects from a difficult playing surface at Bangor on the Saturday and this week isn't much better either having played our Big Two derby against Linfield on Saturday. Last week saw Stephen Carson and Colin Nixon rested whilst Richard Clarke and David Howland didn't travel with the squad. Sean Ward, Andy Waterworth and Jimmy Callacher were all left on the bench as well. This week may see a return for some of those faces however David Howland and Calum Birney missed out on Saturday's game against Linfield so are extremely doubtful for tonight as well.
Our visitors St Pat's will be in search of the all-important away goal which could say the tie become very difficult for Glentoran. These Setanta Cup games are the first in The Saints fixtures for the season and an opportunity for them to show how far they have come over pre-season. With a number of new faces in to the club, their fans will no doubt be looking forward to seeing what their side can offer.
Kick-off for tonight's game is a 7.45p.m. It would be fantastic to see a big crowd come down to The Oval to support the side following an admirable draw last Monday in Dublin. Glentoran Football Club would also like to wish a safe, enjoyable trip to the St Pat's players, officials and fans making the trip north to East Belfast this evening.