A much better performance today at Stangmore Park in front of incoming manager Declan Devine. John Gregg WAS in charge to day and made 4 changes to the starting lineup from last week’s defeat to Loiughgall . One was enforced – the suspension of David Fisher – while Johnny Russell, Seanan Clucas and Daire O’Connor were rested. This meant Aidan Wilson returned at right back, Shay McCartan up front, and Aaron Wightman and Niall McGinn on the wings.
The Glens started on the front foot and on 12 minutes nearly took the lead when Swifts keeper eventually smothered the ball after a goalmouth scramble. But 3 minutes later the deserved lead came when – after excellent work by Wightman wide right, Niall McGinn was felled in the Swifts box. Shay McCartan made no mistake from the spot.
Shortly afterward the hosts could have been back in it. First Aaron McCarey saved well at the feet of Adam Glenny, then Paddy McClean made a telling tackle on ex-Glens striker Andrew Mitchell who was through on goal.
The Glens second came on 31 minutes. After good work by McCartan, McGinn and Singleton the ref awarded a left flank corner. From McGinn’s corner Aidan Wilson rose high to head past keeper Dunne. It appeared to be goalbound when Junior chested it over the line. Junior appeared to claim it.
In the rest of the half Glentoran hit the woodwork twice through the in-form McCartan then through Swifts defender Dean Curry.
Half Time: Dungannon Swifts 0-2 Glentoran
Glentoran were forced into a half time as the impactful Aaron Wightman picked up a knock and had to be replaced by Daire O’Connor. Daire and Paddy McLean both went close before the Glens made it safe on 59 minutes.
This time Junior stepped back from a low O’Connor cross to leave for McGinn who finished superbly and effortlessly. The Glens continued to dominate without adding to the score but there was a cheer on 73 minutes for Rhys Marshall who came on for only his 10th appearance of the season. Marshall replaced Shay McCartan who also received an ovation for his MOTM performance.
So a comfortable win that takes Glentoran back to 4th in the table with just 6 Sports Direct Premiership games to play. Plenty for Declan Devine to build on when he takes up his role on Monday morning.
Full Time: Dungannon Swifts 0-3 Glentoran
Glentoran: McCarey, Wilson, Singleton, McCullough (c), McClean, Sule (Lindsay 86), Burns, Wightman (O’Connor 46), McGinn (Clucas 83), McCartan (Marshall 73), Junior (McLaughlin 86)
Subs (Not used): Webber, Russell
Photography by PACEMAKER
