EXTRA-TIME with Ciaran Donaghy

Saturday’s Irish Cup defeat against Ballyclare left us gutted. We conceded two sloppy goals early on, and, for the second time in the space of five days, had the uphill task of trying to come back from 2-0 down.

We were able to do it against Harland & Wolff Welders in the league, but it just wasn’t to be on Saturday at Dixon Park. We can’t afford to be giving teams that kind of start in games now we’re at the business end of the season.

It would’ve been nice to get a cup run going and pit our wits against some Premiership outfits but the main focus is, and always has been, promotion from Championship 1.

We’ve managed to climb our way to the top of the league and while, from a personal perspective, it’s been disappointing that we haven’t kept many clean sheets. But with the quality in the team going forward, we will score goals and that always gives us a chance of winning matches.

This weekend our attention switches to a ‘home’ game against Loughgall as we look to open up some breathing space at the summit of the table.

As leaders we are there to be caught and with some of the chasing pack having games in hand over us, it’s vital we pick up three points this weekend.

Finally, I have to mention the support of the ‘Amber Army’, who, all season long have been fantastic - especially given the fact we haven’t played at Taylor’s Avenue since September. From a player’s point of view, it is much appreciated.

That extra bit of vocal support from the sidelines always helps spur us on, and it’s very much welcomed by the squad. The added touch of a sense of humour from the fans has also been well received.

My father, Mal, attended the match at Ballyskeagh against Lisburn Distillery and found some of the chants quite funny. Hopefully we’ll see and hear the Amber Army in full voice on Saturday at Inver Park!