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Match Preview: Glentoran v Larne

Thu, 27/10/2022 - 21:34

Friday 28th October 2022

Kick Off 7.45pm

On Friday we have a very exciting and important top of the table six pointer when the two teams with a currently unbeaten record so far in the Danske Bank Premiership Meet at the Bet McLean Oval.

Similarly to us, Larne have been in excellent form since the opening day 0-0 draw between the sides at Inver Park. With eight wins and one draw (against Crusaders at Seaview) in that time, Tiernan Lynch’s side have steadily climbed to the top of the table, scoring twenty goals and conceding just four along the way. Despite the setback of a shock League Cup exit away to Championship side Annagh United, Larne have progressed to the Semi Final of the County Antrim Shield and won their last six league matches. Particularly impressive in that run have been their previous two results; crushing fellow challengers Cliftonville 4-0 at Inver Park before turning over current Champions Linfield 4-2 at The National Stadium last weekend.

Larne will have a strong squad to choose from, with only young central defender Nick Aretzis and former Patrick Thistle midfielder Shea Gordon on the long-term injury list. There may also be a doubt over full back Aaron Donnelly, however, as he had to be substituted early in the first half of the game at The National Stadium. The experienced Jeff Hughes was brought on to replace him and is likely to start if the former Cliftonville man does not recover in time. The main attacking threat for Lynch’s side will be our former striker Paul O’Neill. Since arriving in the summer from Cliftonville, Paul has netted seven goals from the opening ten games and formed a formidable partnership with record signing Lee Bonis, who has continued four goals himself to date.

Mick McDermott: “The Newry game unsurprisingly proved a difficult encounter, primarily due to the pitch conditions on the day. However we got the three points and at the moment that’s what matters.

It was a game that reinforced what we always tell the players, We need to take our chances when they come, and always be vigilant as every team in this league will create a chance to score at some point in the game. Newry City’s opportunity came in the 92nd minute but thankfully, Aaron, Paddy and our defence stood up when it was most needed and we managed to clear it and take the win..

Larne will be a different type of game. The Oval pitch is in pristine condition and two teams who are each capable of playing good football should make for a positive spectacle for our fans.

Larne have been in impressive form of late and are coming off two big results, wins over Cliftonville and Linfield. But our players have also performed well and are on a very positive run, so no doubt they will aim to keep our positive run going in front of a big, enthusiastic and noisy Friday night crowd.

I am sure both teams will be going all out for the three points.”