Gary Hamilton has urged his players to be buoyed by their recent good performances when they take on Coleraine tonight at the Showgrounds (kick-off 7.45pm).

Despite the results not going their way, the Lurgan Blues have earned praise for their displays against the league’s three full-time teams in recent weeks.

With Oran Kearney’s side having been a thorn in the Lurgan Blues’ side over the years – Glenavon are without a win against the Bannsiders since December 2018 – Gary knows his team will have to be at their best on the night.

“It’s another tough game, travelling to Coleraine on a Friday night won’t be easy,” said Gary.

“They’re a great side. They always have been when Oran Kearney has been in charge of them.

“They’ve done really, really well over the last few years and Friday is going to be no different.

“However, as I keep saying to our boys, they have to take confidence from the fact that they can compete with the top sides – they have done in the last three games.

“There is no reason why they can’t go on Friday night, put in a performance like they have done in the last three games, compete against Coleraine and get a result.”

If they are to get the job done, they are going to have to do it without a number of key defensive absentees.

James Singleton remains out of action, while Mark Haughey joined the injured list last week.

“Hawks went off [against Glentoran] with a bit of damage to his tendon. Hopefully it isn’t that serious but he could be out for a couple of weeks, going by the first diagnosis of it,” explained Gary.

Calum Birney, who had been in fine form over the last couple weeks, could be a doubt too as his partner is due to give birth.

Conor McCloskey is still injured, while Andrew Doyle remains suspended, while the club will assess the risks of playing Michael O’Connor on the new 4G pitch which was recently installed at the Ballycastle Road.

For any supporters wishing to attend the game, tickets can be purchased by clicking here.

LAST TIME OUT: The Lurgan Blues secured a good away point away to title challengers Coleraine on a sunny Saturday afternoon.

After battering Coleraine in the first half, it was the Bannsiders who went closest in the second half to breaking the deadlock – but another clean sheet was most welcome by Gary Hamilton.

MATCH OFFICIALS

REFEREE: Lee Tavinder

ASSISTANT REFEREES: Kristian Hanna, John Doherty

FOURTH OFFICIAL: Steven Gregg