Larne is on the brink of securing their third Irish Premiership title in four years, with manager Gary Haveron assuring that his players will be “fully prepared” for the crucial match against Dungannon Swifts this Saturday.
As they head into the game, Larne controls their own fate, needing only to avoid defeat against the Irish Cup finalists to reclaim the Gibson Cup.
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A loss for Larne, combined with a decisive outcome in the match between Coleraine and Glentoran, could see the winner of that encounter at the Showgrounds take the title on goal difference.
Nevertheless, Haveron emphasizes that the title is “in our own hands,” and the team will treat this match just like any other.
“At the start of the season, this is the scenario you want heading into the last game,” Haveron told BBC Sport NI. “Everyone aims to win the Gibson Cup, but being so close, with one hand on it, is significant. If we get a result on Saturday, it’s ours to keep.”
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“We recognize the magnitude of this game, and we will be fully prepared for it.”
‘It feels like a fairy tale at Larne’
After celebrating league title victories in 2023 and 2024 as part of Tiernan Lynch’s coaching staff, Haveron noted that sealing the title this time would feel different for him.
Following the unexpected departure of Nathan Rooney in August, Haveron temporarily took charge and was officially appointed as the permanent manager in October.
Despite such turbulence, Haveron, who has been closely associated with Larne since becoming the academy director in 2019, found the transition “much easier.”
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This season has also seen significant changes at Larne, including the acquisition of a 50% stake in the club by Redball Global FC, represented by Nick Giannotti and Eric Perez.
“They advised me to aim for as many good results as possible, and that has been my focus,” Haveron said regarding his discussions with them. “Although they’re not present daily, their influence is felt, and they are just a phone call away, allowing us to build on past successes.”
“At the beginning of the year, I heard doubts about whether Larne would finish in the top four and concerns about the club after Kenny’s departure. However, he ensured the club’s future by bringing in Nick and Eric.”
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“While other clubs have increased their spending, we’ve managed to cut budgets for sustainability, which is something we’re proud of since our quality on the pitch hasn’t diminished.”
Larne’s recent rise has energized not only their supporters but the entire community, with Haveron acknowledging, “the positive impact on the wider community is immense, and everyone takes pride in the football club.”
With a significant match ahead to secure that third league title, Haveron believes that the “belief” gained in recent years has only intensified the hunger for further success. “It’s a fairy tale at Larne, and I hope it continues for a long time.”