IRISH LEAGUE: Euro play-off still within Ballymena United's grasp says David Jeffrey

The former Linfield favourite had a frown on his face for the first time since moving into the Sky Blues hot-seat following the 4-1 defeat by Warrenpoint Town at Milltown in midweek.

It was United's first defeat in seven games - a run of results that coincided with Jeffrey's arrival.

However, his remit was to save the club from relegation, which was achieved prior to their visit to County Down.

It meant that Dungannon Swiffs nudged ahead of Ballymena in the Danske Premiership table . . . although Rodney McAree's team are not eligible to feature in the Euro play-off, if they remain in that position at the end of the campaign.

With Whitey Anderson's relegation haunted Ballinamallard United due to arrive at the Warden Street Showgrounds on Saturday, Jeffrey knows nothing other than three points will be good enough to keep their European dream - and a potential money spinner - alive.

"Yes, we had a setback at Warrenpoint . . . a team fighting for their lives at the bottom of the table," declared Jeffrey, who will be without Michael Ruddy for the game following his dismissal in midweek.

"But we have two home games remaining, so we must make sure we take full points from both and hope Dungannon slip up.

"I know the players will be determined to get that defeat out of their system. But we again face a team that are doing all they can to stay in the division."