Glentoran forward Jordan Jenkins is determined to fire his team to victory and stake his claim for a regular starting spot as the Glens prepare to face Cliftonville at Solitude on Saturday 21st December 2025 (Kick-off 3pm) in the Sports Direct Premiership.
Jenkins has already proven decisive against Cliftonville this season, netting a stunning early winner in Glentoran’s hard-fought 1-0 victory at The BetMcLean Oval in September. Now, the striker is eager to replicate that performance and help his side secure a crucial three points in North Belfast.
The 24-year-old heads into the match after making a decisive impact in last week’s 3-1 comeback win over Crusaders at Seaview, coming off the bench to score the equaliser and set the team on course for a memorable victory.
Jordan Jenkins said: “Scoring for Glentoran is always a proud moment, and getting the winner against Cliftonville earlier this season was a big highlight for me. They’re a strong side, but that game showed what we’re capable of, and we’ll need to bring the same fight and focus to Solitude.
“As a striker, I always want to make an impact on the game by scoring goals. Coming off the bench to score the equaliser against Crusaders was a great example of being ready to step up and make a difference when the opportunity comes.
“Declan and the coaching staff have been clear about the importance of being ready and taking your chance in the team. I’ve been working hard in training every day to show I’m prepared, and hopefully that performance puts me in contention to start against Cliftonville.”
The Glens head into the game on the back of two consecutive wins, including a dramatic 1-0 BetMcLean Cup victory over Linfield earlier this month. With both teams sitting on 31 points, a win at Solitude would see Glentoran leapfrog Cliftonville in the table, though the Reds hold a game in hand.
Reflecting on the team’s recent performances, Jenkins highlighted the growing positivity within the squad and the determination to continue climbing the table.
Jenkins added: “The mood in the squad is brilliant right now. Everyone is putting in the work, and you can see the difference it’s making. We’ve got a young squad that’s really starting to gel, and that’s created a sense of belief. The determination to push up the table is clear, and we’re all focused on building on our recent results.
“We’re building something strong here, and you can feel that positivity growing, not just among the players but also from the supporters. After the win over Crusaders, celebrating with the fans was incredible. Their support gives us that extra push when it’s needed most, and we’re determined to keep giving them reasons to cheer.
“Saturday is another chance for us to show what we’re about and deliver a performance our fans can be proud of. A big win would send them into Christmas smiling and buzzing for the Boxing Day clash against Linfield.”
Glentoran will be boosted by the return of James Singleton and Frankie Hvid, who are available after suspension. However, Jay Donnelly begins a two-match ban and will be unavailable.
With the festive period bringing a challenging schedule, Jenkins believes a victory on Saturday could be the springboard the Glens need to sustain a strong run of form.
Jordan concluded: “This is a massive game for us. Cliftonville are a quality side, and playing at Solitude is always a tough test, but we know what we’re capable of when we stick to the game plan and play the way we know we can.
“The festive period is packed with big games, and it’s crucial we start this run with a strong performance. A win on Saturday would give us momentum and confidence heading into these important fixtures.
“As a squad, we’re focused on taking it one game at a time, but we know how important this period is for climbing the table and giving our fans plenty to cheer about. Saturday’s game is a massive opportunity to leapfrog a rival, and we’re determined to make the most of it.”