Daniel Larmour insists the result is all that matters when Glentoran host Linfield at the BetMcLean Oval in the first post-split fixture this Saturday (Kick-off 3pm).

After overcoming their ‘Big Two’ rivals in the Boxing Day clash at the Clearer Twist National Stadium the Glens have lost the last two meetings against the Blues by a solitary goal, including the recent BetMcLean Cup final.

And while Declan Devine’s side are determined to put an end to their recent winless streak against Linfield Larmour says it’s not about revenge but rather to keep alive their Irish Premiership title hopes.

“Of course no-one likes losing to your rivals and we will be determined to bring that run to a halt, but it’s not about our recent results against Linfield, we need the points to keep the pressure on Larne,” said Larmour.

“With them winning at Glenavon last week and us drawing against Coleraine they have increased their lead at the top, but it’s only four points and there’s another 15 still to play for.

“We just have to go out and try and win as many points as we can between now and the end of the season and see where it takes us.

“We certainly won’t be giving up on anything. We are determined to take this all the way and that means keeping the pressure on by winning our games.

“It doesn’t matter who we play whether it be Linfield, Larne or Coleraine, we will be going out to try and get all three points.

“At this stage of the season the result is all that matters and we have to make sure that we do all we can to pick up as many wins as we can between now and the end of the season.

“Saturday was the first points we have dropped in the last six games and our aim has to be that those are the last we drop between now and the end of the season.

“We know it won’t be easy as we have five tough games left, but we have to challenge ourselves and make that our target as we know we are going to have to be at our best if we are going to overhaul Larne.”

Despite coming away with nothing to show for their efforts in the last two games against Linfield, Larmour believes Glentoran showed enough to prove they have what it takes to get a result against David Healy’s side this Saturday.

“It was obviously tough on us to lose those last two games against Linfield, but what made it even tougher was that we played well in both matches and arguably should have won,” said the 27-year-old.

“I thought we carved out the better chances but unfortunately we ended up on the losing side on both occasions.

“Ultimately that’s all that matters come the final whistle. It doesn’t matter if you have created more chances, it’s all out who wins the game.

“I know come Saturday I think we would all take the win over anything else, but I think the fact that we played well and created so much in those last two games will stand us in good stead.

“We know how good we can be and we have a lot of momentum behind us given our recent results in the league.

“There hasn’t been a lot to choose between us and Linfield in our previous four meetings this season, and I think it will be the same come Saturday.

“Given the way the other games have gone, the first goal will be important. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to get the goal when we were on top in the last two games but hopefully we can put that right come Saturday.”

Saturday’s game against Linfield is one of three home fixtures for the Glens in the final five matches. Larmour is hoping they can use that to their advantage and has backed the fans to continue to show their support for the team.

“These last five games are going to be intense with so much still at stake,” said the centre-back.

“Not only is the title still up for grabs but teams are also fighting it out for the automatic European spot as well as the play-off positions.

“Obviously we are determined to take the title race all the way to the wire but we know that is going to take a big effort from us all and that includes the fans.

“It’s a big plus for us to have the majority of our games at home as we have been very strong at the BetMcLean Oval all season.

“The fans have also been amazing for us all season too and I know they will continue that over these last five games.

“They can really help get us over the line as they have done all season. There have been a few games when we have maybe been trailing but the fans have given us a lift to go again and win the game.

“We’re going to need that in every one of these games as we know how tight it is going to be. It’s going to be fine margins as it has been in the other games against these sides already this season.

“So we have to look at whatever advantage we can get and having the fans behind us will make a huge difference for us I have no doubt.

“We still have to perform as well but the mood in the squad is high and there is a determination to go out and give this everything we have to see where it takes us.”

For Glentoran fans planning to attend Saturday’s Sports Direct Premiership fixture against Linfield, match tickets are available to purchase at:  https://www.glentoran.com/tickets/home-tickets/