LIMAVADY United boss Paul Owens feels Saturday’s superb extra time Irish Cup victory over Premiership champions Larne at the Showgrounds can help propel his team towards a place in the top flight – starting on Friday night.
The Roesiders – second in the Playr-Fit Championship – make the long journey to face leaders Bangor at Clandeboye Park (8pm), with Owens insisting an Irish Cup run is a big positive to have alongside their promotion hopes.
Limavady trail Bangor by six points but showed their quality with that shock 1-0 win over Larne to set up a last-16 clash against Crusaders at Seaview on February 1.
Bangor too have Irish Cup ambitions after beating Newington 2-1 after extra time at Clandeboye Park and in the last 16 will host Annagh United, shock 3-2 winners over Portadown on a great day for Championship clubs with Ards also getting in on the act by beating Ballymena United.
Owens said: “Hopefully the win over Larne can be a real springboard to a great end to the season.
“Crusaders away is a tough draw but we’ve league games to concentrate on before then starting with a tough game at Bangor.”
In Saturday’s fixtures, third placed Dundela host Annagh United in the early kick-off (2pm) while in the 3pm starts Ballyclare Comrades welcome Newry City, Armagh City are at home to the Welders, Ballinamallard host Newington and Institute tackle Ards at the Brandywell.