Magilton hails benchmark

Cliftonville’s substitutes played a key role in keeping the team on track during yesterday’s topsy-turvy victory over Glenavon, according to Manager Jim Magilton.

After taking a third minute lead through Eric McWoods, the Reds were rocked when Jack Malone and Bridel Bosakani executed eye-catching finishes to put the visitors 2-1 up only for a madcap first-half to end with Joe Sheridan and Jonny Addis netting in quick succession to restore Cliftonville’s advantage.

A harsh second booking for Odhran Casey shortly after the interval threatened to open the door for a comeback by the visitors but Magilton feels the 63rd minute introductions of Conor Falls, Conor Barr and Adebayo Fapetu – who were later complemented by Shaun Leppard and debutant Eamonn Tohill – helped steady the ship.

“I thought the subs made a massive impact for us and kept the momentum and impetus in the game for us,” he said.

“It was an important fixture for us because it was a home fixture against the team that are bottom of the table, so all expectations are on us to win the game, so it was important we went out and won it, which I’m delighted with.”

Despite getting off to the perfect start, the Reds looked set to trail going into the half-time break, with Magilton particularly pleased that his players turned the tide before Glenavon could implement a strategy for defending their lead.

“Their first goal’s not good from our point of view defensively,” he added.

“The second one’s a worldie and you have to hold your hands up to that, but overall it’s really pleasing we went in at half-time 3-2 up and we’re able to regroup… and then we have to do it again because Casey gets sent off.”

Though he acknowledged referee Louise Thompson had no option but to show the defender a second yellow card, the Reds boss questioned the first which was issued for an innocuous challenge.

“I think once you give the first one, she has no choice for the second one,” said Magilton, whose side went on to wrap up a 5-2 success thanks to two late strikes from Jack Keaney.

“I don’t think Louise gives herself an option and it doesn’t help that – although we’d probably have done it too – the Glenavon lads are all around her. Albeit that shouldn’t influence the decision but I think it does now, but Casey has to go.”