THE MATTHEW TIPTON COLUMN

Published on 08/04/2012 09:19

“WE are entering the home straight now with regards to games available and the remaining five fixtures should be considered cup finals for the club.

“Every one is a tough game but that is something we must relish and it is certainly far better to have something to aim for at this stage of the season rather than just playing out games.

“Of course, our aim now is to finish as league runners-up and I am sure the prospect of second in the table and European football should inspire everyone connected to the club.

“The bottom line is we now enter the final 450 minutes of football this season.

“Although I should clarify at this point that I have never agreed with the view of simply playing out games.

“There is always something to play for and that certainly is the case when it comes to Linfield on Saturday.

“We do not want them to win the league against us, having spent the majority of the season putting up a title fight.

“Then you look at Crusaders next week and they have been going strong this season in the Setanta Sports and Irish cup competitions.

“Players with the Crues will be looking to impress the club management with so many showpiece games coming up.

“Cliftonville will be aiming to pip us to second spot so have a strong finish to the season as the target.

“Coleraine, I am sure, will still view a move up the table as a real goal and have the added bonus of a televised game on Sky Sports.

“Glentoran, the final team in the top six, have more to play for in many ways than the other teams and they will want to use the remaining fixtures to impress the new manager and prove the club is moving forward.

“On top of these facts, every individual will have something to play for at this point in the season, whether it is someone coming out of contract, playing for an improved deal or maybe aware they will have to try and impress another club.

“Plus personal targets become important, such as goals or clean sheets.

“Finally, let me offer congratulations to Neil McCafferty on his engagement to Leona – I know the lads are all looking forward to the stag!”

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THE MATTHEW TIPTON COLUMN

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