Glentoran’s unbeaten home league run came to an end at The BetMcLean Oval as Dungannon Swifts claimed a 1–0 victory in the Sports Direct Premiership.

An unfortunate second-half own goal from James Singleton settled a contest short on clear chances, with the Glens unable to convert sustained pressure into an equaliser before Jonny Russell’s late dismissal.

The hosts made a positive start and worked the better openings in a cagey first half. Danny Amos’ set-piece deliveries caused problems for the visitors, and Glentoran almost profited when a corner broke inside the six-yard box, only for Declan Dunne to react sharply to prevent Tiarnan Kelly turning the ball into his own net.

Dungannon’s best moment before the break came from a James Knowles free-kick, which Cahal McGinty headed straight at Andrew Mills.

After the interval, Glentoran, with the introduction of Joe Thomson began to take control. Amos went close shortly after the restart when a loose ball sat up for him on the edge of the area, the full-back’s rising effort clearing the crossbar.

Minutes later, Glentoran appealed strongly for a penalty when Singleton appeared to be caught by Danny Wallace inside the box, but referee Shane Andrews allowed play to continue.

Dungannon swift made the breakthrough at the opposite end on 68 minutes. Knowles delivered a corner from the left and, in a crowded goalmouth, the ball glanced off Singleton and crossed the line despite Mills’ attempt to claw it clear.

Devine’s side responded well and created a good opening when Pat Hoban met a cross from the right, but the striker’s header arrowed over from close range.

Mills then prevented the visitors from doubling their advantage with a fine save to tip over a curling effort from Sean McAllister.

Glentoran’s task became harder ten minutes from time when Russell, introduced moments earlier, was shown a straight red card for halting a Swifts’ counter-attack with a tactical foul inside the visitor’s half.

Despite pushing forward late on, the Glens were unable to find a way through a compact Dungannon defence and will look to respond quickly as they continue their pursuit of the top positions.

Full-Time: Glentoran 0–1 Dungannon Swifts

Starting Line-up: Mills, Cooney (Kelly 24), Palmer, Hoban, Stewart, Coll, McEleney, Burt (Thomson 46), Amos (Russell 72), Singleton, Jenkins (Fisher 72).

Unused subs: Crellin, Pattison, Kamara.