LARNE FC: McAlinden expecting a big battle with Welders

“I had heard all about the fact that The Welders were Larne’s jinx team and then we beat them twice, only to be told on Saturday that the East Belfast team always do well at Inver - because those two victories last season came away from home,” stated the team manager.

There are eight points between the teams in the Championship 1 table as they prepare for battle on Saturday in what promises to be a memorable confrontation between two teams seemingly on top of their form at the moment.

“Yes, they had a terrific result against third-placed Annagh United, while we were 6-1 winners away to Donegal Celtic, so I think we will be looking at one another’s results and appreciating that it’s going to be a tough test for each of us,” assured McAlinden.

“Having only conceded four goals in their six outings to date, with five wins and a draw, the Welders are obviously the team to beat and we fully know what to expect on Saturday.

“But another supporter told me on Saturday that we have now gone 11 matches without losing over 90 minutes, so we have pretty impressive credentials going into the big match.

McAlinden also said he was happy with the Steel & Sons Cup quarter-final draw.

“All you can hope for in a cup draw is to get home advantage and Lady Luck smiled on us,” he said. “Albert Foundry are a top amateur league side and we have played them pre-season for the last few seasons and know how good they are.”