BANGOR Travel to the BMG Arena on Friday night with the opportunity to secure a place in this season’s promotion/relegation play-off.
An away victory will mean that the Seasiders are guaranteed a two legged play-off with Ballymena United, while a draw will also be enough as long as Institute fail to defeat newly-crowned champions Portadown on the same evening.
Should Annagh United defeat the Seasiders then it is they who will prepare to face Ballymena United for a place in next season’s Premiership.
Ciaran McGurgan’s Annagh side looked well off the pace for promotion when Bangor defeated them for the third time this season at the end of December. But a remarkable run of form could see the mid-Ulster side finish in a play-off place for the third season in a row.
Since that defeat to the Seasiders, McGurgan’s men have dropped just seven points out of 42, with a defeat on the road to Ballinamallard United last month being the only league reversal they have suffered in 2024.
That run of form has left Lee Feeney preparing for a tough task this Friday night.
“Annagh are on an unbelievable run of form and they have momentum behind them,” warned the Bangor manager.
“They are a hugely experienced side and they have been in this position the past two seasons so they know how to handle it.
“We’re going to have to handle the occasion better than they do as there will be a lot of tension for both sides on the night. I think we are playing well and creating plenty of chances, so if we can do that on Friday we’ll give ourselves a chance.
“It’s two good teams going head to head, and it’s going to be a fantastic end to an incredible season.”
Feeney also knows that the support he and his players get from Bangor fans can make a huge difference on Friday night.
The Seasiders have enjoyed playing in front of some huge crowds this season, particularly at Clandeboye Park, and the Bangor boss hopes that supporters travel well on Friday night and get behind his side.
“We’re going to need 100% effort on and off the pitch on Friday night,” he continued.
“Our supporters deserve so much credit for the backing they have given the players every week. We had a big journey last weekend to play away to Institute, and wherever we travel there has been a big backing behind us all season.
“People outside of the club are recognising the size of the support we have now, but most importantly the players recognise it.
“They have spoken about the supporters and what it means to everyone, so another big turnout can only encourage the players and help get us over the finish line.”
Should Bangor finish the league campaign well and secure a play-off place, they will take on Ballymena United at Clandeboye Park on Tuesday night. The second leg of the play-off will take place at the Ballymena Showgrounds next Friday night (May 3).
Full coverage of Bangor’s end of season games in next week’s Spectator.
