Preparation key for trip to Dergview, says McAlinden

“I’ve been up there a few times, as a player with Carrick Rangers and also more recently with Cliftonville Reserves when I was assistant-manager there. I am well aware that it’s a long old journey and I know that preparation is key,” said the Inver Park boss, who says he will be making plans early in the week.

“Preparation definitely is important because these long journeys can sometimes affect performances otherwise.

“I went to see them (Dergview) playing Loughgall at the weekend and they did very well, drawing 1-1. Richard Clarke was sitting in midfield and orchestrating things.

“They play a similar sort of game to ourselves, trying to take the game to the opposition, so I suspect it will be a pretty good game on Saturday.

“There’s not a big lot between any of the teams in this division and there will are plenty of points to be picked for the teams who can exploits that sort of situation.

“Teams keep slipping up and then getting great results elsewhere and we are not different to the rest,” said McAlinden, who wouldn’t be drawn on how high his team might climb in Championship 1.

“I think the next month, especially, will throw up some interesting results and I’ll keep my cards close to my chest before making any predictions.”