Joe Thomson had the debut that dreams are made of, with a double strike, as Glentoran came from behind to defeat Loughgall 2-1 in this afternoon’s Sports Direct Premiership tie at Lakeview Park.
Thomson, who joined the County Antrim Shield winners from Larne just this week, had a day to remember.
The midfielder scored a stunning equaliser before adding a penalty with just two minutes remaining on the clock. The Glens move to second in the table after today’s exploits.
The game was far from a formality despite the nine places between the teams prior to kick-off. Basement side Loughgall had plenty of the opening period against a Glens side still harbouring title ambitions.
The Villagers’ Nathaniel Ferris bagged the opener in the 25th minute in stereotypical style. The big striker showcased his predatory instincts by turning home Ben Murdock’s precise low cross after Alberto Balde’s clever play.

Half-Time: Loughgall 1 – 0 Glentoran

Just when the hosts appeared to be closing in on a memorable victory, Thomson showed why Declan Devine brought him to the BetMcLean Oval.
The midfielder unleashed an unstoppable strike from distance that flew into the bottom corner with 13 minutes remaining before keeping his cool from the penalty spot after Murdock was adjudged to have handled the ball inside the area.
The hosts’ Robbie Norton saw his effort dramatically cleared off the line by Frankie Hvid before Daniel Gyollai pulled off a dramatic double save, which proved crucial in setting up Thomson’s heroics.
After securing the three points today, the Glens now look towards a meeting with Linfield in next Friday night’s Clearer Water Irish Cup sixth-round tie.
Full-Time: Loughgall 1 – 2 Glentoran
Glentoran: Gyollai, Lyons-Foster (Kane 71), Hvid, Palmer, Wassim (Thorndike 23), Thomson, Coll, Fisher, Lindsay (Douglas 57), Amos, Russell.
Subs (not used): Mills, Murphy, Johnson, Smyth