Hamilton rings changes for Ballymena game

Both teams are smarting after opening day defeats, United beaten 4-0 by Linfield and the Lurgan Blues going down 1-0 at home to Cliftonville.

“We will certainly have to produce a much better performance if we stand any chance of getting a result,” said Hamilton.

“We have talked about what went wrong and ahead of the game tonight we will emphasise again what is required. To be fair the players did learn from their mistakes last season and bounced back and we are hoping they will do so again.

“There will be changes. To be honest because of what players I have available some players will be lucky to get another chance and it is up to them to make the most of it.

“We have to be better in key areas, win more second balls and be prepared to work for 90 minutes.

“They will be keen to put Saturday’s defeat to Linfield behind them so we know it will be a tough encounter from start to finish.”

In a full Premiership programme the other games include: Ballinamallard United v Dungannon Swifts; Carrick Rangers v Linfield; Cliftonville v Coleraine; Glentoran v Crusaders and Portadown v Warrenpoint Town.

Kick-off for all games is 7.45pm.