Rangers come into the new season looking to build on last year’s 7th placed-finish in the league and have added a trio of recruits in the summer with that aim in mind.
Midfielder Seanan Clucas joined the ‘Gers in May and was followed a month later by his ex-Glentoran teammate Luke McCullough who bolstered Stuart King’s defensive options.
Most recently, Paul Heatley reversed his retirement decision to re-join the Club 12 years on from his first spell.
While King will be excited by the new additions at his disposal, he also has a handful of unavailable players for this afternoon’s campaign opener.
David Cushley, Reece Glendinning and Ben Tilney make up the injury list while Steven Gordon is suspended and Andy Mitchell is unavailable due to work commitments for the foreseeable future.
Today’s opponents, Glenavon, have also strengthened their squad in the off-season as they too look to climb up the table following a 10th-placed finish last campaign.
Rhys Marshall’s return to Mourneview Park was followed by the defensive additions of James Caroll and Barney McKeown and the attacking signings of David McDaid and Michael O’Connor.
The capture of midfielder Keith Ward from Shelbourne rounded off the Lurgan Blues’ transfer business to date.
However, new recruit McKeown is currently sidelined with injury alongside Calum Birney and Issac Baird, while midfielder Jack Malone is suspended.
Prior to kick-off in today’s game, a minute’s applause will be observed in memory of former referee Peter McGrath who recently passed away following a lengthy battle with illness.
Admission
Tickets can be purchased online by clicking HERE.
A cash turnstile will also be in operation for both home and away supporters, with admission of £15 standard & £10 concession.
H2H Form (Last 5)
27/04/24 (A) // W 2-1 // Cushley (pen.), Allen
13/01/24 (H) // L 2-0 //
28/10/23 (H) // L 3-1 // Allen
16/09/23 (A) // L 2-1 // Gibson
22/04/23 (H) // L 3-1 // Maciulaitis
Officials
Referee: Declan Hassan
Assistant Referee: Kristian Hanna
Assistant Referee: Jason Millar
4th Official: Shane Andrews
