Influential Glentoran midfielder Fuad Sule has challenged his teammates to deliver another big performance as they prepare to face Ballymena United in the Quarter Finals of the BetMcLean Cup at the Ballymena Showgrounds on Tuesday night.
Glentoran head into the tie on the back of an impressive 3-1 comeback victory over Crusaders at Seaview in the Sports Direct Premiership.

Trailing 1-0 at half-time, the Glens delivered a dominant second-half performance, with substitutes Jordan Jenkins, Charlie Lindsay, and Wassim Aouachria all finding the net to secure a memorable win.
Determined to secure their place in the BetMcLean Cup Semi-Final, Glentoran approach Tuesday night’s clash as an opportunity to build on their momentum and continue their impressive form in knockout competitions.
The Glens have already secured their spot in the ToalsBet.com County Antrim Shield Final, overcoming Ballymena United 2-0 last month with first-half goals from Dylan Connolly and Jordan Jenkins.
Their cup pedigree was further highlighted in the previous round of the BetMcLean Cup, where they claimed a dramatic 1-0 victory over fierce rivals Linfield at the National Stadium thanks to a late volley from James Douglas to seal their place in the Quarter Final.
Sule believes Friday night’s second-half performance against Crusaders provides a clear benchmark for the squad as they aim to maintain their momentum and deliver another strong display in the cup.
Fuad Sule said: “Friday’s win showed exactly what we’re capable of when we play with focus, intensity, and belief. To come from behind at a tough venue like Seaview and deliver such a commanding second-half performance speaks volumes about the character of this squad.
“The impact of the substitutes – Jordan, Charlie, and Wassim – all getting on the scoresheet in such a short space of time was outstanding. Add to that the contributions of players like Johnny and Kodi, who stepped in and delivered top class performances, and it highlights the hunger and attitude across the squad to make a difference when called upon.
“We now turn our attention to Ballymena United, and Tuesday night is another opportunity to show what we’re capable of in cup competitions. It’s about carrying the momentum from Friday night, staying disciplined, and delivering a performance that keeps us moving forward.”
As Glentoran prepare for the crucial cup tie, the squad will be bolstered by the return of James Singleton and Frankie Hvid, who are available again after serving suspensions.

Sule also took the opportunity to single out teenage midfielder James Douglas for special praise. Douglas has been a revelation this season, consistently delivering mature and composed performances, including a standout display in Friday’s victory over Crusaders
Sule added: “James has been phenomenal for us this season. For someone so young, his composure, work ethic, and ability to influence games have been outstanding. He’s stepped into the team with such confidence and consistently delivered when it matters most. Against Crusaders, he showed again why he’s such an exciting talent, and we’re all proud of how he’s developing.
“It’s not just James-we have a youthful squad featuring players like Frankie, Charlie, Finlay, Jonny, and Aaron, all in their late teens or early 20s. While our performances have been inconsistent at times this season, the last two games have highlighted the quality, character, and fight within the team. The focus now is on building momentum and delivering a strong run of results over the festive period, starting with Tuesday night.”
Tuesday night’s clash will be the third meeting between the two sides this season, with both teams claiming one victory apiece.
Ballymena secured a narrow 1-0 win at the Ballymena Showgrounds in the Sports Direct Premiership earlier in the campaign, while Glentoran responded with victory in the Semi-Final of the ToalsBet.com County Antrim Shield.
The most recent scheduled meeting, a Sports Direct Premiership fixture at The BetMcLean Oval, was postponed due to Storm Darragh.
Sule acknowledged the quality of Tuesday’s opponents but remains confident in the Glens’ ability to rise to the occasion.
Fuad concluded: “Ballymena are a tough side with plenty of quality, especially at home, so we know we’ll need to be at our best to get the result we want. This is a team we respect, but we also believe in our own ability. It’s about maintaining focus, sticking to our game plan, and making sure we rise to the occasion.
“Our fans have been incredible throughout our cup runs this season, and their support on Friday night at Seaview made a huge difference. Their backing is crucial, and we’re determined to reward them with another big performance on Tuesday night.”