Glentoran winger Christie Pattisson accepts 'challenge' after savouring Shield success
New signing Christie Pattisson believes Tuesday's County Antrim Shield success is "just the beginning" for Glentoran as he insisted the "challenge" was now to become serial winners.
The East Belfast club lifted their first trophy in five years following a tense penalty shootout win over Larne, with Pattisson netting the decisive spot-kick at Seaview.
It saw Declan Devine's men extend their unbeaten run to 11 games across all competitions, form that has lifted the mood around Mersey Street.
Pattisson - a January signing from Waterford - insists the Glens are determined to build on their trophy success.
The 27-year-old said: “Winning my first trophy at Glentoran so quickly is an amazing feeling. Seeing what it meant to the fans, staff, and everyone connected to the club was unforgettable.
“But as the manager has said, this is just the beginning. The Shield win is something to celebrate, but now we have to use it as motivation to push on for the rest of the season.
"We’ve set high standards with this unbeaten run and the Shield victory, but the challenge is to maintain that consistency and keep building.
“We’re competing at the top end of the table, and with the BetMcLean Cup Final in March and a massive Irish Cup tie against Linfield later this month, every match is crucial. Our aim is to challenge for trophies, secure European qualification and give our supporters even more to cheer about.
“Personally, I’m enjoying my football here, but I know there’s more to come. As I improve my fitness, settle into the team, and get to know how everyone plays, I’m confident I can contribute even more.”
“The league is demanding, and every game brings a tough test, but I’m loving the intensity and the passion that come with playing for Glentoran. The fans have been incredible and you can see just how much this club means to them.”
Next up for Glentoran is Saturday's trip to Lakeview Park to face Loughgall. The last time the sides met at the venue ended in a 2-2 draw back in November.
Winger Pattisson said: “The manager has been clear - there’s no room for complacency. At a club like Glentoran, winning should be the minimum expectation. We’ve set high standards with our unbeaten run and the Shield victory, but now it’s about carrying that momentum into every game.
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“But there’s still so much more to fight for. We’re competing at the top end of the table, and with the BetMcLean Cup Final and a massive Irish Cup tie against Linfield on the horizon, every match is crucial.
“This squad has an incredible mentality. We push each other every day to keep raising our standards, and the support from the fans drives us on. There’s so much to fight for this season and we’re determined to keep building on the progress we’ve made.”
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