The ambitious forward reckons Oval club must aim to win the lot – starting with defence of their County Antrim Shield title
David Fisher says Glentoran are determined to relive the glory of last year’s County Antrim Shield success as they kick-off their defence against Ards at The Oval on Tuesday night.
Declan Devine’s side lifted the Shield last season after a dramatic penalty shoot-out victory over Larne at Seaview, ending a five-year wait for silverware.
And having gone unbeaten in their opening five Premiership fixtures this term, the Glens are determined to build on that solid form against the visitors from the Championship.
Fisher – who has had a stop-start beginning to the new campaign due to niggling injuries – said: “The lads have made a brilliant start, the mood in the dressing room is outstanding and I just want to play my part in keeping that momentum going.
“Ards have started their Championship campaign strongly and will see this as a chance to test themselves, but our focus is on showing our quality and making sure we begin the defence of our title in the right way.
“Playing at the BetMcLean Oval in front of our supporters is always special. The lads are determined to put in a performance, set the tone for this and every knockout competition and book our place in the next round.”
The 23-year-old attacker soldiered through the pain barrier for much of the second half of last season and was rewarded when he played an important part in the club’s County Antrim Shield final victory.
He admits the memory of that night remains a huge source of motivation.
Fisher added: “Winning the Shield last season was an amazing experience. It had been five years since this club had lifted a trophy and to finally bring silverware back to the BetMcLean Oval was a massive moment for everyone connected with Glentoran.
“To play my part in the final is something I’ll never forget. The celebrations with the fans afterwards were incredible.
“You could see in their faces and hear in their voices just how much it meant to them. That connection between the players and supporters is what makes this club so special.
“Nights like that give you a taste for success and make you hungry for more.
“Declan and his coaching staff have been clear from day one that we approach every competition with the ambition to win it and that mentality drives us all.
“We know the standards expected at Glentoran and with the quality and depth we have in this squad, every player has a responsibility to contribute.
“Last season’s Shield victory has to be the starting point and as a group we are determined it will be the first of many trophies we bring back to this club.”
Co. Antrim Shield first round ties (7.45pm Tuesday September 2nd, unless stated):
Cliftonville v Crusaders, Ballymacash Rangers v Dundela, Glentoran v Ards, Carrick v Bangor, Ballyclare Comrades v Ballymena United, Larne v Queen’s University, Linfield v H&W Welders, Newington v Knockbreda (tomorrow 7.45pm)
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