Billy Crellin says Glentoran must build on their victory over Ballymena United when they return to The BetMcLean Oval to face Crusaders on Saturday (kick-off: 3pm).

The Glens returned to winning ways against the Sky Blues as late goals from Aaron McEneff and Marcus Kane sealed a 2-0 victory at The Showgrounds.

The result gave Glentoran a second win from their opening three league games, and Crellin is determined to see the team kick on.

“It was a massive game for us against Ballymena United on Friday night, coming off the defeat to Linfield,” said Crellin.

“Ballymena are obviously a very good side who recruited well during the summer. They were also looking to bounce back in front of their own supporters in their first home game of the season.

“There were a lot of factors in their favour, but I thought we handled the situation very well. It would have been easy to play within ourselves from the outset.

“We didn’t do that. We went there with a positive mindset and were determined to put things right. We showed a lot of character.

“It looked as though we might have to settle for a point as we moved into the closing stages, but we kept pushing and got our reward.

“What a penalty it was from Aaron. It sums him up perfectly because he is such a player and so cool under pressure. Moko then capped a very special night for him personally with the second goal.

“You could see how much it meant to us all at the end. We were hurting after the Linfield game, but rather than feeling sorry for ourselves, we were determined to put it right on the pitch.

“That kind of character is so important and will stand us in good stead for the season ahead.

“Now we have to build on that result and performance at Ballymena because we want to keep the pressure on at the top of the table.

“It is still early in the season and there is very little between the teams, but we don’t want to find ourselves playing catch-up.

“We have to kick on again and make sure we get the results to back up our performances.”

Crusaders are next for Declan Devine’s side and arrive in East Belfast level with the Glens on six points following consecutive victories.

Crellin expects a difficult test from the Crues when the sides meet on Saturday afternoon.

“I think Crusaders have kicked on this season after what was a difficult campaign for them last time out,” said the goalkeeper.

“The experience they gained from that has probably helped and made them even more determined not to find themselves in the same position again.

“They lost to Cliftonville on the opening night, which could have affected them, but they have responded in style.

“They recorded an excellent win against Ballymena and then picked up another three points against Portadown on Saturday.

“Those results will have given them plenty of confidence. They will come to The BetMcLean Oval believing they can get another positive result.

“They have several players who can cause problems. Adam Brooks scored a hat-trick on Saturday and was unlucky not to get a couple more, which shows how dangerous they can be if you allow them opportunities.

“We have to focus on ourselves, though, and make sure our levels are where we want and need them to be.”

Friday night’s victory was Crellin’s third consecutive appearance between the posts and brought his second clean sheet of the campaign.

The 26-year-old had to be patient for regular first-team football and is determined to make the most of his opportunity.

“As a goalkeeper, only one of you can play, so you have to be patient and ready when your opportunity comes,” said Crellin.

“Unfortunately, Andrew picked up an injury before the league season started. Although that presented me with an opportunity to play, I was disappointed for him because we are good friends and have a brilliant working relationship.

“We always support each other and push one another hard in training because we know that healthy competition benefits the team.

“Elliott is always there for us as well and has been brilliant to work with since I joined Glentoran. It was great to see him back on the bench and kitted out again because he is such a legend. I think he enjoyed it too.

“I have really enjoyed the games so far, despite the defeat to Linfield, and I feel I have given a good account of myself.

“It is always about improving, maintaining high standards and continuing to push yourself every day.

“We all want what is best for Glentoran and are determined to do everything we can to help the Club succeed.”

For Glentoran fans planning to attend Saturday afternoon’s Irish Premiership fixture against Crusaders, match tickets are available to purchase at: https://www.glentoran.com/tickets/home-tickets/