Danske Bank Premiership, Glenavon FC v Ballinamallard United at Mourneview, Lurgan.
Ballinamallard’s Andy Crawford celebrates with Mark Stafford , Stuart Hutchinson and Cathal Beacom – Darren Kidd/Presseye.com
Ballinamallard manager Whitey Anderson knows Friday night’s result at Mournview Park was a massive three points for his side, particularly after the game against Cliftonville.
“I think we showed a great hunger and strength against Glenavon and it paid off with us going right to the end,” said Anderson.
“Going down a goal early on didn’t help us and the wet and windy conditions were difficult for both defences. They scored early from a corner and had the better of the play, but really I was happy only going in a goal down at the break,” he added.
Anderson said that even though his side went behind twice in the game his side showed great character to draw level twice.
“It was great that we went on to win it in the end too,” he said.
Four goals were scored from corners in Friday night’s game which showed how the conditions played such a big part.
Anderson admitted he would have gladly taken a point at 2-2, “but when we got the late late winner I was absolutely delighted.”
Earlier in the day full back Mark McConkey pulled out with flu and was replaced by Nigel Beacom. Cathal Beacom came in for the injured Jason McCartney and Ballinamallard were also without Alvin Rouse, suspended.
“Cathal Beacom played a big part in our three goals and Nigel did wellat full back and it shows that players coming into the side are taking the opportunity with both hands,” said Anderson.
“It’s still not clear who scored the winning goal, but the referee gave it to Josh on the night. I’m really pleased for him. He came on with 20 minues to go and made an immediate impact. He won a free kick for Cathal Beacom to score and in the final mellee on the goal line got the winning touch,” said Anderson.
“When you see the way the results went it shows how important that win was for us. The three points just lifted us into the middle of the table. But we have to keep digging out results like this. We were really looking for Ards to drop points on Saturday to increase the gap, but they had an excellent win.
“We know there is still a lot of fighting to be done this season, but we are all up for it,” said Anderson.