Glenavon head into their second festive away fixture of the season tomorrow night, this time travelling to Seaview, where they face Crusaders in the second of three meetings between the two in a five-week period.

The game was originally scheduled for 23 October, however, a COVID outbreak in the Crusaders squad saw them being unable to field a full side.

Glenavon have upped their game in recent weeks, knocking down Coleraine and Crusaders with late winners, and despite the latest result, they have high hopes of continuing their run.

A poor start to the game on Friday night against Glentoran took its toll on the Lurgan men. The hosts took advantage and were leading 2-0 by the break.

“It’s going to be a tough game.

“A mid-week game against full-time sides, it’s difficult, make no mistake about it, but we’ll go again.

“Hopefully we start the game better this time. We didn’t start well enough tonight.

“Hopefully on Wednesday night we’ve learned from our lesson and we can go about it differently and hope for a result.”

Haughey, McCloskey, O’Mahony and Doran still miss out on selection through injury, whilst a decision will be made tomorrow regarding Calum Birney’s availability. Snoddy will miss the game through suspension after picking up his fifth yellow against Glentoran on Friday night.

LAST TIME OUT

A late goal from Matthew Fitzpatrick saw Glenavon defeat 10-man Crusaders at home at the start of the month.

The late goal wasn’t the only drama as Evan Boyce mistakenly sent Robert Weir off in the 70^th minute, allowing Glenavon to take advantage and bag a winning goal.

A late equaliser scared the Lurgan support after Heatley’s effort on goal trickled past the post.

MATCH OFFICIALS

Referee: Christopher Morrison

Assistant Referees: Gareth Eakin, Ryan Kelsey

Fourth Official: Peter McGrath