IRISH CUP: Glenavon chief Gary Hamilton warns players of complacency ahead of Loughgall tie

The Lurgan Blues – who lifted the prestigious trophy in 2014 – have been installed as massive 2/9 favourites against the Championship 1 underdogs.

The Premiership side are expected to prevail at Mourneview Park and book their place in the semi-finals, but Hamilton has warned his players of complacency ahead of the tie.

“We can’t afford to assume we’ll progress to the semis simple because we’re playing a team from the division below,” he said.

“If you think that way for a moment, you’ll end up with egg on your face.

“Loughgall can come here and play without fear, whereas all the pressure and expectation will be on us to progress. We have to ensure we are professional in our approach and produce a really focused performance.

“We know we have quality in our side, but on a day like this you also have to work extremely hard. No cup tie is won on quality alone, it also takes a high work ethic.”

Hamilton admits the lure of a semi-final berth is an attractive one for Glenavon.

“It’s a massive incentive to reach the semis, but we know we have to play to our full potential to get there,” he added.

“We have to show the same desire we would if we were playing Linfield, Crusaders or Cliftonville.”

Glenavon will be missing striker Eoin Bradley who continues his ban, while forward Daniel Kearns and defender Simon Kelly are both struggling to shake off a virus.