Glenavon look to stay in driving seat for play-offs

Glenavon take on Ballymena United on Saturday, knowing that a win will keep them in the driving seat for a European play-off spot.

The Lurgan Blues are a point ahead of Carrick Rangers in the race for seventh, with the Sky Blues six behind Gary Hamilton’s men.

Defeat for David Jeffrey’s side would virtually put them out of the running for European qualification through the league – although they still have an opportunity of making it through the Irish Cup.

Glenavon are unbeaten in their last four and have won their last three on the bounce, including their most recent victory last week against Coleraine.

“After sitting down in eighth or ninth over the last number of weeks and things turning sour for us, to come back in the way we have has been brilliant,” Glenavon assistant boss Paul McAreavey said.

“We’re sitting in seventh going into the last game before the split and hopefully we can keep it going.

“The results have been outstanding but you also have to look at the shape of the team and the performances, which have been excellent.

“Hopefully we can keep that going. It gives us a lot of confidence going over the final hurdle of the season.”

Glenavon will be without Aaron Prendergast, Jamie Doran and Harry Lynch due to their international call-ups, but Jordan Stewart will be available for selection after completing his suspension.

United face a goalkeeping crisis following Jordan Williamson’s dismissal last week against Larne. Sean O’Neill has been missing in recent weeks through injury, meaning they may have to rely on 16-year-old Marcus Thompson to fill in between the sticks.