While the Irn-Bru Cup final takes centre stage today, there are two important games with repercussions at both ends of the table.

Title-chasing Cliftonville take on Carrick Rangers at Seaview, with Michael Hughes’ side only two points above basement battlers Glenavon who travel to managerless Donegal Celtic.

The Carling Premiership season drifts from one remarkable story to the next as not only have seven managers left their posts, but no-one could have predicted Gary Hamilton taking charge at Glenavon or Hughes calling the shots at Carrick Rangers.

“I’m delighted with the commitment the players are showing and they should have renewed confidence and belief as they have come a long way,” said former Northern Ireland star Hughes.

The DC players deserve a lot of credit for sticking to their task, despite all the off-field upheaval.

Former manager Paddy Kelly has vowed to never go back to the club’s ground and there must be genuine fears for the future of the west Belfast side unless harmony is restored.

The club's first team coach Sean Hawkins has been acting as caretaker boss since Kelly's departure.

Carling Premiership fixtures: Carrick Rangers v Cliftonville; Donegal Celtic v Glenavon (both 3pm).