Taggart ready for battle with former team-mates

But never before has the ever-reliable campaigner prepared for a match where he could go up against up to seven of his former Carrick team-mates.

Ards players Davy McAlinden, Paul McDowell, Jimmy McIlhagga, Darren Nixon, Kyle McDowell, Ben Browne and Andy Smith have all pulled on the amber jersey at one stage and they welcome Carrick to Clandeboye Park tomorrow. And, if selected, it’s a scenario Taggart says he’s looking foward to.

“It’s going to be a very difficult game for lots of different reasons,” he said. “Obviously, Ards have won six out of six in the league which has been a great start for them. Then when you add into the equation the fact they have quality players like Davy McAlinden, Craig McMillan and Jimmy McIlhagga - all ex-Carrick players - it, perhaps, makes it an even bigger task.

“They have assembled a good squad with large numbers and I think they are similar to us in that they are strong through the spine of their team. They have also got pace out wide and up front; but, I’m confident.

“Up until three or four games ago we had been getting the results without playing overly well. But, I definitely feel there has been a massive change in our last few games and we have really dominted teams. We have been relentless with our closing down and the amount of chances we have created. I’m confident, but at the same time, we have to respect Ards’ record in the league this year.”

Taggart admitted he has never played in a match where he has come up against so many ex-team-mates.

“I think one year The Welders had three or four ex-Carrick players in their team and I remember playing Dromara Village in a friendly and they had five or so former players, including Liam Hartley and Phil McDonagh.

“It’s very weird because, first and foremost, they are good guys I played with but I think you just have to be professional. I always remember playing against McIlhagga after he left Carrick. We had a bit of banter on the pitch, but that’s only when the ball is out of play. As soon as it’s in play again you have no friends in the opposition.”

With only a few exceptions, Carrick boast a young, vibrant squad packed full of burgeoning talent. Ards, on the other hand, are blessed with a depth of experience which is a real positive factor for them. “Experience is the thing I think Ards have in their favour,” said Taggart. “I think they are strong contenders this year because their manager has been there and won the League with Loughgall, and there is no doubt he has assembled that squad because many of them have won things.

“But Alan Campbell, a former Carrick manager, said you only gain experience by playing in big matches. I don’t think Saturday will be a problem for the younger members of our squad because I think they have hit the ground running this year.”