Ballymena take on Cliftonville for a place in the final of the League Cup
In the Danske Bank Premiership, Crusaders can go clear at the top
There’s a huge night ahead of local cup and league football action.
Holders Ballymena take on Cliftonville at the Showgrounds for a place in the final of the Bet McLean Cup.
The winners will play Dungannon Swifts who knocked out favourites Crusaders.
Swifts boss Rodney McAree says he is not fussed about who they will face because both teams are equally formidable.
He told Downtown & Cool FM: “No matter which won of the two you play they have a lot of strengths they have a lot of qualities.
“They are two very good teams – both these teams have a wealth of attacking options and that is obviously something we will have to be mindful of when we get to the final.
“But as for preference for one or the other? I don’t have a preference – I am just delighted we are there.”
Cliftonville striker Joe Gormley is on a goal run at the moment.
He told us though that the team deserve much more credit for their performances.
“It is about time that people started appreciating us and giving us the respect we deserve,” he said.
Meanwhile, in the league, Crusaders have a chance to pull clear at the top of the Danske Bank Premiership. They are away to Carrick tonight.
Crues boss Stephen Baxter says they will give their all as usual.
“We will get up and get on with the next game and we will give our very best and we will always give our best,” he said.
“We will never short-change the fans – they are a very honest group – you cannot ask any more of them.”
Elseewhere, Glentoran play Ballinamallard and Warrenpoint are at home to Linfield.
Blues captain Jamie Mulgrew is set to make his 500th appearance in that one.
There is one other local game tonight with Glenavon taking on Championship side, Newry in the final of the Mid-Ulster Cup.