Ballinamallard’s Jason McCartney contests possession with Crusaders’ Gavin Whyte.
The pressure of the Premier League is eased on Saturday when Ballinamallard United turn their attentions to the Irish Cup.
But that in itself creates another type of tension. Because they had such success in the League Cup, getting to the semi-final, the Ferney Park boys want to experience another cup run.
Manager Whitey Anderson believes it’s not the same kind of pressure as the league.
“We had a great run in the League Cup and we’re looking to continue that in the Irish Cup. We reached the semi-final and there is no reason why we can get a run going in this one to make the latter stages. We would love to go one step further.”
Anderson knows it’s going to be tough against Dungannon Swifts. They went there on Boxing Day, didn’t perform and came away with a 2-0 defeat.
“They beat us well on their own ground that day. We will have to perform though, if we are to make the hat for the next round. We know what to expect up there. We must rely on ourselves and knuckle down to making it through this one.
“But if we get the attitude right and give the same determination we did against Cliftonville then we can go through.
“They will be up for it too after their good draw against Cliftonville. I know they will be champing at the bit and they are at home. Our players must have the right attitude though and if they have then I’m confident we can get a good result,” said Anderson.