GLENAVON: Nothing artificial about Gary Hamilton's praise for Institute

Glenavon manager Gary Hamilon. Pic by INPHO.

Glenavon will visit The Brandywell determined to secure another three-point success on a 3G surface - however, there is nothing artificial about manager Gary Hamilton's admiration for rivals Institute.

The Lurgan Blues will get back into domestic duty after the international break by visiting newly-promoted Institute aiming to maintain the encouraging start to the Danske Bank Premiership campaign.

A tally of 10 points from five league fixtures has left Glenavon with a promising platform. Institute can point to a mixed return of two wins, draws and defeats over six senior appearances - but the successful overall transition from the Bluefin Sport Championship drawing praise from Hamilton.

“It used to disrupt our preparations and momentum but I think we managed to go unbeaten on 3G surfaces last season,” said Hamilton. “However, we can expect a tough test against an Institute side without defeat at The Brandywell and not having even conceded a single goal.

“I watched Institute against Cliftonville and they were excellent, with some really promising play in a defeat when the scoreline did not reflect the performance.

“The fact we have such a young squad now allows us to adapt better to a 3G pitch and prevent as much strain on muscle injuries.”

Glenavon’s youth boost arrives with some drawbacks, however, in the area of game management.