What's it like being a footballer away from home at Christmas?

In one of the Irish League's biggest traditions, local derbies are played on 26 December every year

For many Irish League fans, it is as big, if not even bigger, than Christmas Day itself.

Glentoran's rivalry with Linfield is as fierce as any in the Irish Premiership, and they will meet for their latest festive firecracker at the Oval.

While Linfield sit top of the league, Glentoran have won all three meetings between the sides this season (two in the league and one in the cup).

"I've played in a number of derbies and I knew it was going to be a crazy atmosphere," added Gyollai.

"I've been told the Boxing Day game is the biggest one. We're yet to see that one but we're really looking forward to it."

While the others have played in derby matches before, Fisher is the only one of the quartet to feature in a Boxing Day derby.

Fisher added that while he knew it was a "massive rivalry", he didn't realise how big it was until he featured in one.

"I knew they were big, I just didn't think that they were this big," Fisher recalled of playing Linfield for the first time.

"I didn't realise the size of it until I was playing and I was thinking, 'oh my days, this is actually massive'.

"It was loud, I remember that last year. We know the fans will be here in full voice so hopefully that can help us over the line."

For the players and supporters, three points over your rivals on Boxing Day are the biggest Christmas present you can get.

Comments (0)
No login
gif
color_lens
Login or register to post your comment
Cookies on WhereWeChat.
This site uses cookies to store your information on your computer.