Glenavon boss Gary Hamilton believes Coleraine are firm favourites going in to today’s Tennent’s Irish Cup semi-final – because of their current form.
And he feels his side will need to be firing on all cylinders if they are overcome the Bannsiders at Ballymena Showgrounds (5.15pm start).
“I believe we will have to be at the top of our game to get a result. However, it is cup football so anything can happen,” he said.
“I also believe we have the ability to get a result. Every game I go into I want to win.”
Glenavon are the current cup holders – they defeated Linfield 2-0 in last season’s decider – but memories of 2016’s cup heroics have been banked by Hamilton. He says he is not interested in retaining the Tennent’s Irish Cup, just winning it again.
“Last year is history. This is another year and there is a cup up for grabs. It’s about winning it rather than retaining it.”
The Glenavon boss, who has a full squad to choose from for today’s semi-final in Ballymena, says he has been impressed by Coleraine this season. The Bannsiders are currently on a 14-game unbeaten run, which includes league and Irish Cup games.
Hamilton pointed out: “They are a good team. They are similar to us in that they have younger players and experienced players, and the younger players have no fear. We are among the few clubs giving younger players a proper chance. And I believe that is good for the league and good for clubs.”