Glentoran winger Christie Pattisson says he’s ready to “kick-start his season” as the Glens travel to the Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium on Tuesday 7 October 2025 (Kick-off 7.45pm) for their BetMcLean Cup First Round clash with Institute.
After serving a nine-game suspension carried over from last season, Pattisson returned to the matchday squad for the 2–1 victory at Coleraine and is now targeting his first appearance of the new campaign.
Declan Devine’s side head into the tie in excellent form, having taken six wins from eight Sports Direct Premiership fixtures to sit top of the table, despite recent postponements against Larne and Cliftonville due to adverse weather.
Pattisson, who made 19 appearances and scored twice last season following his move from Waterford, admits he’s delighted with the team’s start but eager to contribute on the pitch once again.
Christie Pattisson said: “It’s been a frustrating few months personally. I’ve worked hard all summer to stay fit so that when my opportunity came, I’d be ready to go. The team have been fantastic so far this season, unbeaten in the league and playing some brilliant football, but as a player you always want to be involved, so I’m desperate now to get back out there and contribute.
“I was buzzing to be back in the squad for the win at Coleraine. That was a massive result and now I want to build on it, get minutes, create chances and score goals. Being back amongst it has given me a real lift and I just want to make an impact whenever I’m involved. Whether it’s starting games or coming off the bench, my goal is to make a difference and help the team keep progressing.
“Declan keeps reminding us that it’s a squad game. We push each other every day in training and that competition drives standards. We all know it’s going to be a long season and the only way we’ll keep improving is by working hard and maintaining our focus. We can’t control what other teams are doing; we can only control our own performances and make sure we’re at our best every single week.”
Since joining Glentoran in January, the 28-year-old has shown flashes of his pace and direct attacking play and he’s determined to make a bigger impact as he pushes for a regular starting role under Declan Devine.
Christie added: “Since I came here, the supporters have been brilliant with me and I really appreciate that. I know I haven’t quite hit the levels I’m capable of yet, but I’m confident in my ability and determined to show my best form this season. It can be difficult joining a new club midway through a campaign. Personally, I was still settling in, trying to find my rhythm and get back to full fitness and that can take a bit of time.
“This season feels completely different, despite the ban. I’ve had a full pre-season with the squad, I know the players, the style and the standards expected every day. I feel sharper, stronger and more confident in what I can bring to the team. I’m determined that the fans will see a different version of me this season.”
With competition fierce across every area of the pitch, Pattison says the strength in depth within the Glentoran squad has been one of the biggest factors behind the team’s strong start to the season.
Pattisson added: “The quality throughout this squad is incredible. Every position has at least two players who could easily start and that pushes everyone to stay at their best every single day. The new lads who have come in over the summer have lifted the standards and the atmosphere around the group is brilliant. Training is intense, competitive and full of quality as nobody wants to miss out on a matchday.
“The standards the manager and his coaching staff have set mean there is no room for complacency. You have to be switched on in every training session, every game and every recovery session. That level of competition keeps us sharp and brings the best out of everyone. We’re under no illusions that when you get an opportunity in this team, you have to take it. That is what drives us all on and that is exactly what I intend to do when my chance comes.”
Having reached the BetMcLean Cup Final last season, where they were narrowly beaten by Cliftonville after extra time, Glentoran begin this year’s campaign determined to go one better and bring the trophy back to East Belfast.
With the first-round trip to Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium presenting a tricky test against NIFL Championship opposition, Pattison says the players are fully focused on delivering a performance and booking their spot in the next round of the competition.
Christie concluded: “We’re all really looking forward to the game, especially having not played a competitive match in a few weeks because of the postponements against Larne and Cliftonville. Everyone’s hungry to get back out there and keep the momentum going.
“After coming so close last season in this competition, we want to go one better this time around. Every game matters and if we want to be lifting trophies come the end of the season, we have to earn the right to do that in every match we play.
“Institute are a good side and they’ll be right up for it in front of their home supporters. Going to the Brandywell will not be straightforward and we’ll be giving them full respect. At the same time, our focus is on performing to our own standards and making sure we get the result we want.
“The support we get from our fans, home and away, is incredible. It’s a long journey for a midweek fixture, but we know they’ll be there in their numbers, just as they always are. As players, that means everything. Hopefully we can give them a big performance on Tuesday night and send them home happy.”
For Glentoran supporters planning to attend Tuesday night’s BetMcLean Cup Round One tie with Institute at the Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium, tickets can be purchased via the links below:
- Adult: https://www.klubfunder.com/Clubs/Institute_FC/TicketSales#Adult_Away
- Concession: https://www.klubfunder.com/Clubs/Institute_FC/TicketSales#Concession__Away
