Brain supreme

Jim Magilton lauded Cliftonville for having the “brains, confidence and courage” to perform as they did in yesterday’s victory over Carrick Rangers.

Ahead when Rory Hale stroked home after 15 minutes, the Reds doubled their advantage with a thumping header from Jack Keaney just past the hour.

PJ Morrison – who had earlier made an incredible save to deny Nedas Maciulaitis from point-blank range – turned Jack Scott’s late penalty over the bar to preserve the visitors’ two goal advantage and, though there was still time for Paul Heatley to bank a consolation for Carrick, Cliftonville stood tall during six minutes of injury-time to collect all three points.

“We recognised Carrick’s strengths and what they do really, really well,” said Magilton.

“They’ve got runners, they’ve got pace, they’ve got that physical presence and you have to match that. Then you have to have the brains, confidence and courage to play round that.

“I thought we did that really well but, as we always do, we made it difficult for ourselves.

“We had breakaways where if we get the final pass right and have greater care with the ball, we potentially run out easier winners, but it’s a fantastic three points and a very pleasing day.”

With Tom Lavery and Darien Wauchope the latest additions to the Reds’ casualty list, Magilton’s squad was further decimated by international call-ups for Conor Barr and Joe Sheridan, with the boss toasting the impact of those who got the nod to feature.

“We were down bodies,” he said.

“Jack Keaney has only passed a fitness test prior to the game and with others out, the lads that have come in have shown an appetite to do well. As I’ve said multiple times, it’s about competition and those lads that come in have to stake a claim and, credit to them, they really stood up and we’re delighted with the result.”

Though reluctant to single anyone out after a committed team effort, Magilton couldn’t help but offer words of praise for Morrison’s contribution.

“PJ has made a massive save at 1-0 and then, obviously, the penalty save is crucial,” he added.

“It’s another good performance to add to a lot of good performances from him and, when we talk about competition for places, let’s not forget that Lewis Ridd is a great young goalkeeper as well as he’s always pushing PJ to be better and they’re getting the best out of one another.”