Rust issues

Jim Magilton declared himself delighted with Cliftonville’s victory over Crusaders in last night’s Boyle Sports Premiership opener at Solitude.

Goals from debut boys Ben Quinn and Dean McMaster saw the Reds kick the new campaign off with North Belfast Derby joy and, while he acknowledged the 2-1 scoreline does not reflect the level of performance his team produced, the Manager was content to forgive some early-season rustiness after banking three points.

“I’m so pleased because so many lads were making debuts and getting a feel of the League, and that was important too,” said Magilton, who handed bows to five summer signings.

“I thought they were outstanding and the more they play together, the better they’re going to be.

“For the first game, there’s a lot of build-up, there’s always a bit of nervous tension and they coped with that. Once they got into their groove, I thought we played well at times; still lots to go and still lots to improve, but overall, just really delighted with the performance.

“We played some decent stuff, we can play better.

“It could have been more comprehensive. Were we a bit wasteful? Yes but it’s the first game of the season, so we’re still a bit rusty, there’s no question of that. The lads are still working on fitness and we’re building up confidence and trying to build up momentum but overall, I’m really very pleased to start the season with a win.”