Glentoran defender Jonny Russell is determined to help the Glens extend their nine-match unbeaten run and secure a second cup final appearance of the season when they host Crusaders in the BetMcLean Cup Semi-Final on Tuesday 14th January (kick-off: 7:45pm).
Declan Devine’s side are currently unbeaten in their last nine matches across all competitions and go into Tuesday’s Semi-Final clash at The BetMcLean Oval having yet to taste defeat in any knockout tie this season.
A win on Tuesday night would see Glentoran reach their first League Cup Final since the 2009/10 campaign – a 15-year wait – when they famously overcame Coleraine on penalties after a 2-2 draw following extra time.
Glentoran’s BetMcLean Cup journey began with a convincing 2-0 victory over Dergview in the Round of 32, with goals from Charlie Lindsay and David Fisher. The Glens then produced a gritty 1-0 win over arch-rivals Linfield in the Last 16, courtesy of James Douglas’s dramatic late strike at Windsor Park.
Last week, Glentoran capped off their impressive run with a commanding 2-0 Quarter-Final victory against Ballymena United, thanks to a stunning long-range strike from Jordan Jenkins and a composed finish by David Fisher.
Academy graduate Jonny Russell, who made his first-team debut at just 17, sees Tuesday night’s Semi-Final as another important step toward delivering silverware for the club he’s been part of since childhood.
Jonny Russell said: “We’re on a great run – nine games unbeaten – and the entire dressing room is buzzing. Everyone is working incredibly hard in training to earn a spot in the starting line-up. Declan’s message is clear: focus on the next match, prepare meticulously for every opponent, and never allow our standards to slip.
“Crusaders are a strong side with threats all over the pitch, and we know they’ll be right up for it. But if we bring the same intensity and work rate that have defined our recent performances, stay solid at the back, and take our chances in front of goal, I’m confident we can get the result we need.
“Having come through the Glentoran Academy, it would mean everything to me to help the club reach another final – and hopefully bring some silverware back to the BetMcLean Oval for these unbelievable fans who have backed us every step of the way.”
Having signed his first full-time professional contract in 2023, Russell emerged as a standout performer last season, earning the Glentoran Player of the Year award. His excellent form also saw him earn international recognition, making his Northern Ireland Under-21 debut in a 2-1 victory over Serbia, followed by a substitute appearance against England.
This season, however, has presented new challenges for the 20-year-old. Injuries, illness, and the impressive form of Danny Amos at left-back have limited his opportunities, but the versatile defender has seized his chance in recent games by stepping into an unfamiliar right-back role.
Reflecting on his campaign so far, the Glentoran Academy graduate emphasised his willingness to play anywhere on the pitch to help the team achieve success.
Jonny said: “I’ll be honest: the first half of the season was tough. I had injuries and illness to deal with and Danny has been outstanding at left-back. But I’ve kept my head down and worked hard every day in training, so I’d be ready when my chance came.
“I started last week’s quarter-final against Ballymena United at right-back, which isn’t my natural position, but I’m happy to fill in wherever Declan and the coaching staff need me. Under Declan, everyone’s fighting for their spot, and that competition drives us on – if we let our standards slip or pick up a knock, there are players ready to step in immediately.
“Look at how Kodi has slotted into the backline with a string of impressive performances, or how JJ has banged in goals when given the chance – that shows nobody can afford to relax. That’s exactly what it takes at a club like Glentoran, and I’m determined to do my bit to help bring success back to this club.”
The defender also emphasised the crucial role of the Glentoran supporters at The BetMcLean Oval, insisting that the backing of a passionate home crowd can provide the decisive edge on Tuesday night.
Russell added: “Having home advantage is massive for us, especially in a game of this importance. The atmosphere our fans create at The Oval really lifts the team and helps us push through tough moments. When you hear them in full voice, it makes a huge difference on the pitch.
“We’ve seen time and again how important they are. We know they’ll turn out in numbers on Tuesday night, get behind us from the first whistle, and hopefully cheer us all the way to the final. These big occasions are for the fans, and we want to make it a night to remember for everyone connected to the club.”
Tickets for the BetMcLean Semi-Final match on Tuesday 14th January 2025 (Kick-Off: 7.45pm) at the BetMcLean Oval are available now at www.glentoran.com/tickets.