Points of order for Jim

Jim Magilton acknowledged that, while there were aspects of Cliftonville’s performance that could do with some fine-tuning, yesterday’s clash with Glenavon was all about pocketing full points.

The Reds hadn’t previously tasted victory this Sports Direct Premiership season but a first-half strike from Joe Gormley sent them on their way on this occasion.

PJ Morrison’s wonderful save from Jack Malone’s free-kick ensured Cliftonville’s lead remained intact ahead of Harry Wilson opening his Club account with a curling strike just before the hour mark.

Though Francely Lomboto pulled one back to initiate a nervy spell for the hosts, Jonny Addis claimed the final touch on an untidy third goal that settled the issue.

“The 90 minutes was about winning the game,” said Magilton.

“It was all about trying to build confidence and that was an important first step. By winning the game, it’s objective met.

“How we play in the game is always important to us. It’s never who we play, it’s how we play – and for large parts of it, there was some really good stuff in between giving opportunities away, which we have to eradicate from our game.”

Reflecting on the period immediately after the Lurgan Blues had halved his side’s advantage, Magilton added: “If we’re being hyper-critical, those 15 minutes we can ill afford. We gave up possession of the ball, we retreated, we were careless with turnovers – things that we discussed at length.

“Those are the important elements if we can eradicate or lessen, we’re going to be more ruthless and clinical, which is the next step for us.

“All in all, though, I’m delighted with the three points. All that mattered was getting that first win and now that we’ve got it, we have to quickly move on and start building.”