RUAIDHRI Higgins says his Coleraine side are preparing to face one of the best teams in the Sports Direct Premiership as they take on Cliftonville tomorrow afternoon…

The Bannsiders make the trip to Solitude for the second time this season after the two teams played out a goalless draw back in August.

Higgins’ men weren’t in action last weekend due to international call-ups for Larne but they did play a behind-closed-doors friendly against Limavady United on Tuesday night.

So, how is the squad feeling ahead of the trip to north Belfast?

He replied: “Aye, we’re really looking forward to it.

“We played Limavady on Tuesday night behind closed doors just to give people some minutes so we’re nice and sharp for Saturday.

“Aye, so we’ll be ready. As I said, it’s a really good fixture against a well-coached team and we’re excited about it.

“They’ve really talented players…some really talented young players as well.

“I think they’re a smashing team. For me, they’re one of the best teams in the league. That’s my opinion.

“I think they’re really well coached as well. Aye, it’s a game we’re really looking forward to.

“We want to take all three points but we know we’ll have to do our very best to do that.”

Higgins’ options have been boosted by the return of Ronan Doherty and Jamie McGonigle from injury – although the manager pointed out that the pair are several weeks away from being involved in competition.

As the Stripes hit a busy period on two different fronts, Higgins knows he’s going to need as many options as possible.

“We’ll need everybody over the next couple of weeks,” he added.

We’ll need everybody, but you’re right, we can’t lose our focus.

“We have to focus on the next game. We’ve a difficult enough job now on Saturday to go to Cliftonville and win but that’ll be our full focus.

“Jamie McGonigle’s back in training and Ronan Doherty’s back in training. He’s been out for a few weeks and both have been really good.

“I’ve been really impressed with Jamie’s attitude since his injury and the condition that he’s in. Obviously Ronan gives us something different as well so we’re glad.

“Listen, Jamie’s probably still a couple of weeks away from being involved but it’s great to have the two of them back on the pitch.

Supporters can get tickets for tomorrow’s game HERE.