Although the result on Boxing Day was not what we would have wanted, it was still very important to the legions of supporters of both Glentoran and Linfield that the match - always the top attended league match in the NIFL season - went ahead. At various stages on Boxing Day this looked like a major challenge so the Chairman and Directors of Glentoran FC would like to thank the following for their exceptional work on the day in getting the game played:
- Our groundsman William Kirkwood for his exceptional work, not just on Boxing Day but, in keeping the pitch in great condition throughout the past month of consistent rain
- The vast number of volunteers who worked tirelessly to make the pitch and its surroundings playable. The Glentoran Family at its best!
- The Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service for their work in removing the water surrounding the pitch
- The Referee amd match officials for their positive and patient approach to the two afternoon inspections
- NIFL for agreeing to the delay in kick off to 4pm
- The PSNI for facilitating the 4pm kick off
- Linfield FC for agreeing to participate in the later game
- Security & Safety Personnel
- Coaches, players and parents from the Glentoran Academy for helping make the pitch playable and to the 4-6 year olds from the Academy who entartained the fans at half time
- Peter and Andrew in the Glentoran Social Media Team for their many updates to supporters throughout the afternoon
- Players from both teams for participating in an entertaining game despite the result.
Finally we would like to thank supporters of both the "Big Two" for their patience and behaviour throughout the afternoon.
Happy New Year and le jeu avant tout.
Photographs by Thomas Sewell