We keep going: Magilton

Jim Magilton could barely find the words to toast his players’ application after Cliftonville summoned up yet more last-gasp heroics to see off Carrick Rangers.

With the clock ticking down on a goalless draw at the Loughview Leisure Arena, Odhrán Casey pounced with a 94th minute winner to spark yet more jubilation among the Red Army – scenes that were echoed in the visiting dugout.

“Unbelieveable character and resilience,” was how the boss summed his team’s efforts up.

“Credit to Carrick. When we were speaking to the players beforehand, we said about how much they stay in the game, they’re dogged – especially here; it’s always a tough place to come.

“We’ve shown courage and real character on what was a difficult night for us. I thought we controlled the game but without having enough shots, enough crosses or creating enough. But in the end, what can you say – it was a fabulous end to the game for us and a massive three points.”

Just a fortnight has passed since Casey’s fellow central defender Jonny Addis racked up an injury-time winner at Newry City and Magilton made clear that a  never-say-die approach has been well and truly instilled into the side.

“We reiterate in every training session that you’ve got to keep going, you’ve got to keep going,” he added.

“Even if you’re not having a great night or whatever, you just keep going until the very end no matter how long that is and, again, they showed that. I’m just really delighted for them.

“In this game, anything can happen. The late, great Brian Clough used to say ‘it only takes a second’ and that’s what happened. We had to make changes, young Ryan Corrigan came on and did great. It’s notoriously difficult down here but in the end, it’s three points and I’m overjoyed for the players. They’ve been fantastic, they’re a fantastic bunch.”