GARY: IT’S BRAID TO MEASURE

GLENAVON boss Gary Hamilton fears a Braid backlash ahead of today’s showdown with Ballymena United at Mourneview Park.

The Lurgan Blues, who lie second in the table, handed out a 6-1 spanking to the Sky Blues at the Showgrounds back in August.

Hamilton is bracing himself for a sterner test this afternoon but he’s eager for his side to hit back after suffering a surprise 4-0 defeat to Ards in the Betmclean League Cup on Tuesday.

“Ballymena are a very good side and have come on leaps and bounds under David (Jeffrey) so we know it’s going to be a difficult game,” he said.

“To get a positive result, we’ll have to show the right mentality and put that defeat by Ards behind us. If we don’t, we’ll be on the end of another bad result.”

Elsewhere, Glentoran boss Gary Haveron insists he isn’t pressing the panic button after a run of three defeats in four games.

The Ovalmen head to Dungannon Swifts for a 5.30pm kick-off and Haveron said: “There is no panic because we are exactly where we expected to be and we still have everything to aim for and play for.

“A good start to the season lifted expectations, but I’m realistic about where we are. There has been progress and we are moving in the right direction.”

Elsewhere, Ballinamallard – who are still seeking their first league win of the season – host Carrick Rangers.