'Le Jeu Avant Tout' - Yesterday's Heroes, Today.

[Gino]

In local football, Second Division side East Belfast appoint Thai Saravut Longsawang as their new manager. Newly promoted to the Senior leagues after success in regional football, Longsawang will have a real task on his hands if he is to keep the side in the Second Division for the foreseeable future.

The injuries are continuing to mount up, with Gary Smyth, Scott Gordon and Willie Hull all picking up knocks during the week’s training sessions. All three will miss next Wednesday’s visit of Portadown.

With the transfer deadline coming to a close, few Premier Division sides dip into the market. Cliftonville move to strengthen their side, bringing in young left-back Tom McKenna from Crewe United and striker Chris Traynor arrives at Institute from Annagh United. Despite attempts to convince the board, I fail to finance a move for long-term target George McMullan.

Three players are given places in the Northern Irish Under 21 squad for the forthcoming games with their Italian and Scottish counterparts. Sean Ward, John McAuley and sixteen-year-old Marc Wilson are all given places in Colin Quinn’s squad. Our representation is increased three days later when injuries lead to Gary Long’s call-up.

[Wag]

KUTGW this is great

[Gino]

Wed 08.09.04

Glentoran Vs Portadown – The Oval.

League Cup Grp 1 #3

Glentoran 5-3-2: Elliott Morris – Colin Nixon, Mark Glendinning, Chris Walker ©, Sean Ward, Jodie Hill - Gavin Melaugh, Darren Lockhart, Scott Young – Damien McLaughlin, Andy Smith.

Weather: Dry, 11°C

Despite the numerous injuries, we’re some how able to name the same side for the ‘bog’ clash with last season’s old foes Portadown at The Oval. Portadown have opened their campaign in disappointing fashion, with their opening day defeat at the hands of Institute followed up with a 2-2 draw with Limavady United. They’ll be keen to get their show on the road, and prove that they can respond from the disappointment of last season’s finish, today.

Their boys are obviously keen to make an impression, preferably with their studs with several rash challenges inside the opening twenty minutes earning the wrath of referee John Ferry. We’re soon on the attack, letting our football do the talking, but James Millar is in inspired form, keeping the scoreline at 0-0 going into the break.

Tommy McCallion and Michael Halliday are again introduced, with Andy Smith and Damien McLaughlin failing to find last season’s fine form. Portadown are playing a strong defensive game and we’re finding it difficult to create any room. Their quite keen to sit back and soak up the pressure, even more so when Vinny Arkins connects with a cross from the left to turn the ball home at the near post and give his side the lead on 72 minutes.

Scott Young has the perfect chance t equalise three minutes later, when a long ball over the top catches the Portadown defence square. Young does everything right, drawing the goalkeeper to create the angle, but his finish leaves much to be desired. The frustrations of the supporters are plain to see, and we fall to our first defeat of the League Cup group stages.

Glentoran 0 – Portadown 1

Goals: Arkins 0-1.

Attendance: 1,507

MoM: Vinny Arkins (Portadown) – A goal and a fine display of forward play gives the former Notts County man the award.

[Gino]

It’s a glorious day for Northern Irish football with a late Stephen Carson penalty earning Colin Quinn’s men a 1-1 draw in the San Siro against Italy. Filippo Inzaghi got the goalscoring underway before a late fight back saw Northern Ireland draw level. Unfortunately, Andy Smith was left on the bench.

Smith isn’t even on the teamsheet three days later when Northern Ireland meet Scotland at Windsor Park. However, it matters little as Paul McVeigh and Stuart Elliott find the net to continue Colin Quinn’s side’s unbeaten run with a 2-0 victory.

Sat 18.09.04

Glentoran Vs Institute – The Oval.

League Cup Grp 1 #4

Glentoran 5-3-2: Elliott Morris – Colin Nixon, Mark Glendinning, Chris Walker ©, Sean Ward, Jodie Hill - Gavin Melaugh, Darren Lockhart, Scott Young – Michael Halliday, Andy Smith.

Weather: Dry, 9°C

With Tommy McCallion added to the injury list, Michael Halliday is given a start for the second round of league cup group fixtures at ‘The Oval’. Since we met to open the group, Institute have had something of a mixed bag in terms of form, losing to Limavady United 3-1 and drawing 3-3 with struggling Portadown. The battle for the qualification spots are already heating up.

We start well, with Andy Smith striking a fine effort that Institute ‘keeper John Connolly did well to save. It’s a bright start that continues throughout the first half and we’re rewarded when Darren Lockhart heads home a Gavin Melaugh corner to make it 1-0. It’s just Lockhart’s fourth goal under my reign. Things get a little easier two minutes later when Halliday is again provider, this time for Andy Smith who gobbles up his first of the season to double our advantage.

Institute have chances to get back into the game early in the second period but a combination of good luck and fine keeping sees us collect our third victory of the group stage. With Portadown beating Limavady United, we need at least three points from our final two games to qualify for the second stage.

Glentoran 2 – Portadown 0

Goals: Lockhart 1-0, Smith 2-0.

Attendance: 1,529

MoM: Darren Lockhart (Glentoran) – An early goal obviously boosted Lockhart’s confidence and he was unfortunate not to add to his tally later in the game.

[Gino]

Mon 20.09.04

Limavady United Vs Glentoran – Limavady Showgrounds.

League Cup Grp 1 #5

Glentoran 5-3-2: Elliott Morris – Colin Nixon, Mark Glendinning ©, Stephen Gourley ©, Sean Ward, Jodie Hill – Paul Leeman, Paul Coulter, Scott Young – John McAuley, Andy Smith.

Weather: Dry, 11°C

With a game just two days after our clash with Institute, plenty of changes are made in order to keep everybody fit for the forthcoming league fixtures. Debuts are given to Stephen Gourley and Paul Coulter, with John McAuley and Paul Leeman also coming into the side.

We put in a dreadful performance for the first half, finding ourselves three goals down by the time we come out of our shell. Once we do, we suddenly start playing some decent football. John McAuley scores to bring us back into the game at 3-1 and when Andy Smith heads in a second with ten minutes left on the clock, things become irritatingly exciting.

Unfortunately, a late comeback is not to be and we find ourselves on the end of our second defeat of the league cup group stages. Today, we deserved nothing more.

Limavady United 3 – Glentoran 2

Goals: O’Kane pen 0-1, Maginness 0-2, Maginness 0-3, McAuley 1-3, Smith 2-3.

Attendance: 1,737

MoM: Andy Smith (Glentoran) – Another goal for Smithy who takes his tally to two for the season.

[Gino]

On Tuesday morning, an injury collected by young centre-half Jodie Hill means he’ll miss Wednesday’s top of the table group clash with Portadown. He’s also expected to miss up to two weeks of the soon to start league season. We also receive another knock-back with the appeal regarding Sean Ward’s one match ban being rejected by the Irish Football Association.

Wed 22.09.04

Portadown Vs Glentoran – Shamrock Park.

League Cup Grp 1 #6

Glentoran 5-3-2: Elliott Morris – Colin Nixon, Mark Glendinning ©, Stephen Gourley ©, Colin Walker, Paul Leeman – Gavin Melaugh, Paul Coulter, Scott Young – John McAuley, Andy Smith.

Weather: Dry, 8°C

With Ward and Hill missing, Paul Leeman and Colin Walker are drafted into the side for our final group clash with arch-rivals Portadown. With Leeman coming in at centre-half, Gavin Melaugh is brought back into the side into his trademark right-wing slot. Victory in today’s game is crucial, as defeat and victory for Limavady would see us slip out of the qualification places.

We start poorly and sloppy defending allows Gary Hamilton the chance to turn the ball home at the far post to give the home side the lead after just four minutes. After the restart, Scott Young tests goalkeeper Millar but a long clearance plays in Hamilton who is able to cross for Vinny Arkins to head Portadown’s second and give us a real mountain to climb.

Before long we’re back in it with Melaugh’s cross finding Andy Smith and his well-placed header leaves Millar with no chance.

Half-time news tells us that Limavady United are losing 1-0 at Institute, meaning a defeat here would still see us through, but I’m not happy to rest on our laurels, telling the players that we need desperately to get back into the tie to have any chance of qualification. The second half is a disappointing affair. Andy Smith has two chances to equalise but fails on both counts and a miss from Scott Young means we fall to a second consecutive defeat.

Thankfully, Limavady can only force a draw meaning we’re through to the knock out stages.

Portadown 2 – Glentoran 1

Goals: Hamilton 0-1, Arkins 0-2, Smith 1-2.

Attendance: 3,311

MoM: Andy Smith (Glentoran) – Despite finishing on the losing side, Smith again takes the accolade for another impressive display.

[Gino]

Just hours after the final whistle, news of the Quarter Final draw filters through to my office. Our opponents? Portadown!

On Saturday it’s Institute at The Oval. Miles Jacobson has been having a look at the Riverside Stadium club throughout pre-season and we’re expecting a tough game. However, on the basis of taking four wins from five meetings last season, the bookies have made us hot favourites to collect three points from the season opener.

Sat 25.09.04

Glentoran Vs Institute – The Oval.

Northern Irish Premier Division #1.

Glentoran 4-4-2: Elliott Morris – Colin Nixon, Mark Glendinning ©, Sean Ward, Colin Walker – Gavin Melaugh, Darren Lockhart, Scott Young, Michael Halliday – Damien McLaughlin, Andy Smith.

Weather: Dry, 19°C

I decide to make changes prior to the opening day clash with Institute. Having employed a 5-3-2 system for much of the past six months, we move back to 4-4-2, with traditional full-backs and wingers in Colin Nixon, Mark Glendinning, Gavin Melaugh and Darren Lockhart. ‘Stute are another side who have made big changes, with six players coming into the club over the summer period. Clearly the most notable arrival is that of former Russian international Omari Tetradze who joins as player/assistant manager from home country side Anzhi. Tetradze has over forty-two international caps and experience with both PAOK and AS Roma amongst others.

The game’s opening goal arrives shortly after the half-hour. Scott Young collected the ball and played in Gavin Melaugh on the right. His pass found Smith whose original effort was blocked, Smith gathered the rebound, shot high, and beat the Institute goalkeeper for his first league goal of the season.

Our domination continued for the rest of the first-half, with Young himself going closest to grabbing a second when his fine effort came back off Declan Devine’s crossbar. Darren Armour replaced Damien McLaughlin after the break and we continued to push for a second. Chris Walker almost opened his tally for the season when his header from a Gavin Melaugh corner just crept over and Darren Lockhart was unfortunate to see his low drive parried before being cleared to safety.

We needed a second goal and we didn’t have to wait long for it to arrive. Colin Nixon broke down the right flank and his well-placed cross was perfect for Armour to meet and head past Devine to make it 2-0. With an improved attendance inside ‘The Oval’ it was vital we put on a display and we did just that. Late chances for Smith and Young could have brought further addition to the score but Devine was strong, proving his reputation as a fine up and coming Irish ‘keeper. All in all, a fine start to the league campaign.

Glentoran 1 – Institute 0

Goals: Smith 1-0.

Attendance: 2,061

MoM: Mark Glendinning (Glentoran) – Whilst Smith took care of the scoring, Mark Glendinning was instrumental in making sure we kept things safe at the back with a real captain’s performance.

League Table – 1 Game: Ballymena Utd, Coleraine, Glenavon, Ards, Glentoran, Omagh, Dungannon, Linfield (3pts); Bangor, Larne, Cliftonville, Institute, Newry, Distillery, Limavady Utd, Portadown (0pts).

[Gino]

There were several shocks on the opening day, most notably at Mourneview Park where goals from Alain Emerson and a brace from Mark Moore gave last season’s strugglers Glenavon a 3-0 victory over Portadown. Arch-rivals Linfield got off to a solid start with a 1-0 victory on the road at Larne with Darren McKay finding the net and a last minute penalty cruelly denied newly promoted Bangor an opening day point with Dungannon Swifts winning 3-2.

Tue 28.09.04

Portadown Vs Glentoran – Shamrock Park.

League Cup Qtr Final.

Glentoran 4-4-2: Elliott Morris – Colin Nixon ©, Tim McCann, Sean Ward, Colin Walker – Gavin Melaugh, Darren Lockhart, Scott Young, Michael Halliday – Damien McLaughlin, Andy Smith.

Weather: Dry, 8°C

Tim McCann is drafted into the side for Tuesday’s cup clash at Portadown, with Mark Glendinning sitting out following a knock to his ankle collected in the morning’s training session. The League Cup may not be at the top of our priorities but after bowing out of the Champions’ League at the first hurdle, we’re desperate of some cup success, and where better than against our rivals?

We get off to the slow start with Vinny Arkins benefiting from some poor defending to poke his side into an early 1-0 lead. We’re soon back in it and good work from Andy Smith allows Damien McLaughlin to score his third goal of the season. The fight back continues into the second period and a well worked corner sees Darren Lockhart head us into a 2-1 lead, meeting a Gavin Melaugh cross from the left.

Darren Armour replaces Andy Smith but the scoring doesn’t stop. Another corner from Melaugh brings yet another goal, when Sean Ward gets up from the back to head past Millar to make it 3-1.

A late penalty from Vinny Arkins causes one or two edgy moments during the final few minutes but we have enough in the tank and are soon through the semi finals where we will meet Ards who advanced past Dungannon with a 2-1 victory.

Portadown 2 – Glentoran 3

Goals: Arkins 0-1, McLaughlin 1-1, Lockhart 2-1, Ward 3-1, Arkins pen 3-2.

Attendance: 1,516

MoM: Vinny Arkins (Portadown) – Two goals and a fine performance means one of the league’s hottest strikers is unfortunate to finish on the losing side. I’d love to have the money to bring him to ‘The Oval’.

[Gino]

There’s a ten-day gap between the cup-tie with Portadown and our second league game, away Limavady United. During the break there was news of the County Antrim 1st Round cup round, pairing us with last season’s old foes Ballyvclare Comrades, the side who knocked us out of the competition at this stage last year.

The squad for the Northern Irish Under 21 game with their Paraguay counterparts is named with four Glentoran player earning call-ups. Sean Ward, John McAuley, Andrew Kilmartin and seventeen-year-old Marc Wilson are all included.

Sat 09.10.04

Limavady United Vs Glentoran – Limavady Showgrounds.

Northern Irish Premier Division #2.

Glentoran 4-4-2: Elliott Morris – Colin Nixon, Mark Glendinning ©, Sean Ward, Colin Walker – Gavin Melaugh, Darren Lockhart, Scott Young, Michael Halliday – Damien McLaughlin, Andy Smith.

Weather: Gale, 8°C

Mark Glendinning was back in the side for Saturday’s trip to Limavady United, with Tim McCann returning to Jimmy Brown’s reserve team. The home side are another team we enjoyed the Indian Sign over last year, taking three wins from four meetings. Added to Limavady’s poor start to the season last weekend with a 3-0 away defeat at Ballymena United, we were firm bookies favourites for victory.

However, a poor start to the game saw Stephen Maginniss capitalise on poor goalkeeper from Elliott Morris and give his side an early lead. Despite having much of the play, we struggle to get back into the game. Goalkeeper Michael Doherty made two saves to keep his side in the lead. The second half brought a change in our fortunes and before long a cross from McLaughlin allows Andy Smith to gain a yard and head an equaliser to tie the game at 1-1.

It was a similar story throughout the remainder of the game with Limavady looking to hit us on the break. Andy Smith was a real livewire, creating chances both for himself and his team-mates but we couldn’t get that all important winning goal. The home side had chances of their own with Owens causing problems for goalkeeper Morris and Maginness proving to the Limavady’s made source of danger, spraying passes around Showgrounds with startling ease.

Limavady had much of the play following our equaliser, with a free kick allowing Scoltock to find Lynch. Things were becoming particularly scrapping with McLaughlin and Colin Nixon both getting involved with opponents with referee Jim Douglas having to branish his yellow card on two occasions.

Darren Armour was introduced in place of McLaughlin in order to make sure the young striker didn’t collect an unwanted red and the change did signal a change in our fortunes. Armour played in Smith with a fine ball from deep, Smith turned the ball into the area and Scott Young was unfortunate not to score what would surely be the winning goal.

Late chances for Armour and Maginness gave both sides chances to take victory but the ‘keepers made sure they came out on top, making sure the game finished with a 1-1 scoreline.

Limavady United 1 – Glentoran 1

Goals: Maginness 0-1, Smith 1-1.

Attendance: 1,731

MoM: Andy Smith (Glentoran) – Another fine performance, another goal and another man of the match award for the Northern Ireland international.

League Table – 2 Games: Linfield, Coleraine, Dungannon (6pts); Ards, Glentoran, Omagh (4pts); Ballymena Utd, Glenavon, Bangor, Institute, Portadown (3pts); Limavady Utd (1pt); Cliftonville, Larne, Newry, Distillery (0pts).

[Gino]

There was another ten-day break between the league game with Limavady United and the League Cup Semi-Final clash with Ards. Again injuries were the main concerns, with Paul Coulter and Tommy McCallion both requiring treatment on the physio’s table.

Kevin Keegan arrived back at ‘The Oval’ after spending a month at Carrick Rangers were he played seven times, scoring twice and creating four goals.

Tue 19.10.04

Glentoran Vs Ards – The Oval, Belfast

League Cup Semi Final.

Glentoran 4-4-2: Elliott Morris – Colin Nixon ©, Tim McCann, Jodie Hill, Colin Walker – Gavin Melaugh, Darren Lockhart, Scott Young, Sean Ward – Damien McLaughlin, Andy Smith.

Weather: Wet, 8°C

The mood around the club was good going into the Semi-Final with Ards and it was mirrored with a fine attendance of almost 8,000 supporters. The visitors had made a steady start to the league campaign with a victory and a draw, collecting four points, with young striker Andy Morrow having found the net four times.

We were given the ideal start when Andy Smith set us on our way after just seventy seconds. A ball from defence found Smith, who released McLaughlin down the left flank. Smith continued his run and timed it perfectly to meet the in-coming cross to dispatch it past Stephen Robertson!

The early goal was no fluke and we were soon on the attack looking for a second. We almost found one in bizarre fashion when an over hit cross from Darren Lockhart deceived everybody, striking the far post before being cleared amazingly by Ronnie Scannlon. Andy Smith crashed a header against the cross bar and Scott Young had two long range efforts that could have tested the Ards’ ‘keeper.

A Gavin Melaugh knock back allowed Young a third decent effort on goal, with his shot flashing wide of Robertson post but again the second goal proved elusive. We paid the price, with the second half just six minutes old when Colin Nixon held down Morrow inside the area and a penalty was awarded. Former West Ham and Cambridge United man Davy Williamson placed the ball down only to see his strike superbly saved by Morris!

Injuries forced both Smith and Young off the field shortly after the hour mark with Michael Halliday coming into midfield and Tim McCann coming on as a makeshift striker. Both were involved in one of our finest moves of the game with Halliday unfortunate not to find the net when Robertson saved well.

We wrapped up our passage through to the final with twelve minutes left on the clock. Colin Nixon brought the ball clear from the back, finding Halliday breaking from deep. The youngster galloped forward in possession, clipping a neat ball to release McLaughlin. He had all the time in the word to side step Robertson and roll the ball home to open up a two goal lead.

But that wasn’t the scoring finished with McLaughlin finding time to add a third and put the icing on the impressive cake with just sixty seconds left of normal time. Robertson could only look on as the ball deflected wickedly off his leg and nestled in the bottom corner.

Glentoran 3 – Ards 0

Goals: Smith 1-0, McLaughlin 2-0, Robertson og 3-0.

Attendance: 7,957

MoM: Damien McLaughlin (Glentoran) – After Smith’s withdrawal, we needed a man to stand tall and make sure we held on and being involved in the final two goals, Damien McLaughlin did just that.

[Gino]

Cliftonville and Omagh Town played out the second Semi-Final with Solitude side cruising to a comfortable 5-0 victory with goals from Lagan, Gilmore, Vernon and a brace from Barry Patton. With Cliftonville in such rampant form, the Final will be no walk in the park, that’s for sure. The game will take place on Tuesday 16th of November.

With Sean Ward collecting a training ground injury that would sideline him for three weeks, our training system was given a complete overhaul with myself and our coaches overseeing the changes. It’s hoped the new schedule will be somewhat more beneficial to the players’ health.

Sat 23.10.04

Glentoran Vs Bangor – The Oval

Northern Irish Premier Division #3.

Glentoran 4-4-2: Elliott Morris – Colin Nixon, Mark Glendinning ©, Chris Walker, Jodie Hill – Gavin Melaugh, Darren Lockhart, Paul Leeman, Michael Halliday – Damien McLaughlin, Andy Smith.

Weather: Wet, 14°C

Paul Leeman came into the starting eleven in place of Sean Ward for the visit of newly promoted Bangor. The Clandeboye Park side have made an impressive, promising start to their top flight campaign, collecting three points with a victory over Ballymena United and an unfortunate defeat at Dungannon. However, this was no time to allow they record to improve.

Colin Nixon was involved in the game’s first clear cut opportunity. His fine ball down the right flank found Gavin Melaugh who did well to beat Lennox and hit a find centre. The cross was perfect for Lockhart who fired a header in on goal from point blank range that Brown did well to clear. Nixon was involved in much of the early attacking play and another venture down the right wing saw his cross find Lockhart. McLaughlin flicked on into the path of Scott Young who rounded Brown and rolled the ball inside the post to make it 1-0 with his second of the season.

Young was having a good time of it in front of goal and was unfortunate not to grab a second when his near post header crept just wide of Brown’s goal just minutes after scoring his first of the afternoon. We were pushing hard for a second and with Bangor offering little in terms of attacking options there was well and truly only one side in it. Lockhart advanced down the left, crossing for McLaughlin whose header was only half cleared by Fisher. The ball fell straight to Leeman who crashed an unstoppable effort back past Brown for a certain ‘Goal of the Month’ contender.

The Bangor supporters inside ‘The Oval’ had to wait until just before the hour mark to see their side’s first attempt on goal. When it came, Morris simply watched as Creen’s strike flew high over the crossbar.

Substitute Michael Halliday had an immediate impact upon his arrival to replace Damien McLaughlin. Halliday’s cross found Smith who laid off a fine ball which Lockhart rifled past Brown to match Leeman’s earlier effort and confirm our victory at 3-0 with just sixty-time minutes played.

Robert McLaughlin scored late for Bangor but thankfully it was nothing more than a consolation goal with the final whistle coming just moments later.

Glentoran 3 – Bangor 1

Goals: Young 1-0, Leeman 2-0, Lockhart 3-0, McLaughlin 3-1.

Attendance: 2,727

MoM: Darren Lockhart (Glentoran) – A fine strike capped a fine display from the rejuvenated left-winger.

League Table – 3 Games: Omagh, Coleraine, Glentoran, Dungannon (7pts); Glenavon, Linfield, Portadown (6pts); Ards (5pts); Ballymena Utd (4pts); Larne, Bangor, Cliftonville, Institute (3pts); Limavady Utd (1pt); Distillery, Newry (0pts).

[Gino]

All the midweek football attentions turned to Europe where there were several high profile clashes in the UEFA Champions’ League. It was the Group Stages’ third round of fixtures, and Manchester United’s 3-1 Old Trafford victory over German giants Borussia Dortmund maintained their 100% record in this season’s competition. Up in Scotland, Glasgow Rangers were hammered 4-1 by Italians AC Milan with recent signing Thierry Henry showing just why the San Siro club were so keen to collect the French international hotshot on a Bosman transfer over the summer.

On Wednesday evening, a home victory for Arsenal also stretched their record to three wins from three with goals from Aliadiere and Grahn giving the Gunners a 3-0 victory over another Italian side, this time Lazio. Chelsea found life somewhat difficult, losing 3-1 in the Netherlands to a rampant PSV Eindhoven side with Kezman collecting a brace.

Sat 23.10.04

Dungannon Swifts Vs Glentoran – Stangmore Park

Northern Irish Premier Division #4.

Glentoran 4-4-2: Elliott Morris – Colin Nixon, Mark Glendinning ©, Chris Walker, Jodie Hill – Gavin Melaugh, Darren Lockhart, Paul Leeman, Michael Halliday – Damien McLaughlin, Andy Smith.

Weather: Wet, 11°C

For once we were able to get through the week without an injury to any member of the first team squad, though that didn’t stop reserve-teamer Willie Hull breaking his leg in a reserve fixture and missing for anything up to six months. Dungannon’s start to the season has been almost identical to ours, collecting two wins and two draws from their four opening fixtures. Portuguese left winger Miguel Chines has been the man in form in front of goal, hitting six goals with striker Shane Coney weighing in with five assists.

We had the ideal chance to open the scoring after just four minutes when neat football on the left saw Smith and McLaughlin combine well. McLaughlin broke free on Johnny Kelly’s goal but shot high and wide when the goal was gaping. In fact it could have been two-nil within five minutes with dogged play on the right flank from Gavin Melaugh allowing Scott Young a good effort on goal that Kelly did well to save.

We took the lead shortly before the ten minute mark. Pressing play from left back Mark Glendinning forced a corner and Melaugh’s floated cross was met perfectly by Andy Smith who sent a fine header past Kelly inside the near post to give us the start we all wanted. All ten outfield players gathered in front of the Glenmen behind the goal in a real show of togetherness. We continued to press on with Colin Nixon going close three minutes later before a weak header from Shane Coney let us know Dungannon weren’t ready to give us just yet. Morris did well to collect and clear up field. A flick on from Nixon fell into the path of Andy Smith and a snapshot of an effort almost caught Kelly off guard, crashing off the bar and away to safety.

Damien McLaughlin really should have doubled our lead on the brink of half time when good work in the corner from Nixon allowed Melaugh to cross into the area. McLaughlin met the ball with full force and crashed a header wide when it appeared easier to score. The chances continued to arrive but we just couldn’t the find the finish. In the end I withdrew McLaughlin, replacing him with youngster Michael Halliday, hoping his extra yard of pace might just change it.

Thankfully, it worked. A long clearance from Morris found Young, who collected and played in Halliday through the defence. The striker drew the ‘keeper, taking it wide and rounding him in one swift movement. With the goal wide open, he hit the ball firmly into the net to score his second of the season.

Dungannon Swifts 0 – Glentoran 2

Goals: Smith 1-0, Halliday 2-0.

Attendance: 2,577

MoM: Andy Smith (Glentoran) – Who-else?.

League Table – 4 Games: Glentoran, Coleraine (10pts); Portadown (9pts); Ards (8pts); Omagh, Dungannon (7pts); Larne, Glenavon, Linfield, Bangor (6pts); Ballymena Utd (5pts); Institute (4pts); Cliftonville (3pts); Limavady Utd, Newry, Distillery (1pt).

[Gino]

Tue 02.11.04

Glentoran Vs Ballyclare – The Oval

County Antrim Shield 1st Rnd

Glentoran 4-4-2: Elliott Morris – Colin Nixon, Mark Glendinning ©, Chris Walker, Jodie Hill – Gavin Melaugh, Darren Lockhart, Scott Young, Michael Halliday – Damien McLaughlin, Andy Smith.

Weather: Dry, 5°C

After bowing out of the County Antrim Shield against Ballyclare at this stage last season, we were determined to take victory and we got the ideal start when Scott Young nodded us ahead after twenty-one minutes. It was a lead that we thoroughly deserved, though our start had been no way near as frantic as it was at Dungannon last weekend.

Damien McLaughlin made it 2-0 from the spot three minutes before the interval from the penalty spot. Andy Smith had the chance to score before being bundled over and McLaughlin wrapped it up at 2-0. It was his fifth of the season.

Andy Smith got the goal he wanted in the second half, hitting a perfectly executed free-kick over the wall and into the Comrades’ net with ‘keeper Martin McKenzie having no chance of keeping it out. We were through to the Quarter Finals.

A fourth goal arrived twenty minutes from the end, when Smith played in his strike partner McLaughlin and a neat finish found McKenzie’s left hand corner. The ghosts of last season’s first round exit had been exorcised. However, it wasn’t all one-way traffic. Ballyclare’s Gary Bownes pulled a goal back with fifteen left on the clock.

Glentoran 4 – Ballyclare Comrades 1

Goals: Young 1-0, McLaughlin pen 2-0, Smith 3-0, McLaughlin 4-0, Bownes 4-1.

Attendance: 1,527

MoM: Damien McLaughlin (Glentoran) – Two goals and a return to form for the young striker.

[Gino]

Its Monday morning by the time news reaches me of our Quarter Final opponents. It gives me the opportunity to take in a new ground as we’re paired with Second Division club Wakehurst. Though league form suggests it’ll be a stroll in the park, Wakehurst did beat fellow Premier Division side Distillery convincingly in the 1st Round and will be looking to do the same to us when we meet at their Warden Street ground.

A couple of sides around the Premier Division where going through something of an injury crisis. Four goals in six games made Dean Delaney Larne’s leading goalscorer but an injury sustained in training looked set to keep him out of action for two months whilst over at Omagh, first team left-back Nigel Farr tore a groin and faces a similar spell on the side lines.

Sat 06.11.04

Glentoran Vs Ballymena United – The Oval

Northern Irish Premier Division #5.

Glentoran 3-5-2: Elliott Morris – Jodie Hill, Mark Glendinning, Chris Walker – Paul Leeman, Scott Young, Gavin Melaugh, Darren Lockhart – Damien McLaughlin, Michael Halliday, Andy Smith.

Weather: Wet, 5°C

Winter seemed to have descended on East Belfast almost over night. A biting wind came in from behind the Main Stand and rain lashed down into the ever increasing puddles gathering around the playing surface. Ah, the joys of football outside the Premiership.

Ballymena came to The Oval on the back of a morale boosting win in the County Antrim Cup away at Carrick Rangers. Young striker Robert White had bagged two and Shea Campbell, a man who found the back of the net twice against us last season, scored the third. Both started the game, but neither would be celebrating come the final whistle.

The game started slowly, perhaps understandably considering the conditions. Neither side seemed too keen to push forward and the ball bounced around somewhere in the middle. We had to wait thirteen minutes for the first attempt on goal, with United ‘keeper Robinson making a smart stop from Scott Young. The resultant corner almost gave Chris Walker his first of the season, though the ball just crept wide.

It was a sign of things to come as just minutes later, Andy Smith raced clear before squaring for Michael Halliday to run in the game’s opening goal. It was the start of a frantic five minutes that saw both Mark Glendinning and Damien McLaughlin leave the field of play with injuries and McLaughlin’s replacement Darren Armour score our second with his first touch of the ball. Colin Nixon came on to replace Glendinning, taking the captain’s armband as he went.

Playing with confidence, Armour registered his second goal ten minutes before the interval. Halliday went clear and forced a corner off ‘keeper Robinson and Young’s ball in was thumped home Hollywood style from 18-yards out. It was arguably the goal of the season so far. There was however still time for Oran Kearney to pull a goal back for visitors, the attacking midfielder meeting Shea Campbell’s cross to divert the ball in off Colin Nixon’s knee.

In a small way I was thankful of the goal, it made sure we went into the half-time break knowing we’d have to fight during the second period to preserve our lead. Thankfully, thanks to some inspired rousing of the troops from stand in skipper Nixon, we emerged for the second half with renewed interest and further goals from Andy Smith and Darren Armour’s hat trick goal saw us complete a comfortable 5-1 victory, maintaining our early position on top of the table.

Glentoran 5 – Ballymena United 1

Goals: Halliday 1-0, Armour 2-0, Armour 3-0, Kearney 3-1, Smith 4-1, Armour 5-1.

Attendance: 2,204

MoM: Darren Armour (Glentoran) – Off the bench to score a hat-trick.

[Gino]

Physiotherapist Jim Weatherup’s post-match analysis told me Mark Glendinning had damaged his neck and would require at least three weeks rest. Colin Nixon would come into the side as his replacement. Further injuries were picked up through the week with reserve winger Chris Ward needed two months out having torn a groin in Monday’s session and star man Andy Smith twisting his knee during Wednesday evening’s meeting. Weatherup expected him to need at least a week, putting him out of Saturday’s game with Newry.

Sat 13.11.04

Newry Town Vs Glentoran – Newry Showgrounds, Newry

Northern Irish Premier Division #6.

Glentoran 3-5-2: Elliott Morris – Jodie Hill, Sean Ward, Chris Walker – Paul Leeman, Scott Young, Gavin Melaugh, Tim McCann – Damien McLaughlin, Michael Halliday, Darren Armour.

Weather: Dry, 14°C

There were three enforced changes for today’s clash. Out went Glendinning, Lockhart and Smith and in came Ward, McCann and Armour. Last season we took on Newry four times, winning twice and drawing twice though perhaps more importantly, we didn’t concede a goal and we scored four. We three key men out I knew it wouldn’t be easy.

Newry forced an early corner which came to nothing before McCann crossed for the now almost trademark Armour volley from 18-yards which was unlucky not to hit the back off the net, just grazing the crossbar and going over. We were beginning to exert ourselves and within moments it was 1-0. A slick move down the right saw Gavin Melaugh play in Armour. The big fellow forced his way to the Newry by-line and his pull back was accurate. Scott Young got in front of his man as he does so well and coolly rolled the ball into the unguarded net for his fourth of the year.

Less than four minutes passed before Newry ‘keeper Connolly was again retrieving the ball from the back of his net. A rare Town attack was broken down by Chris Walker and his quick thinking found McCann in midfield. He looked up and hit a forty yard ball to the advancing Armour. As the goalkeeper came to the edge of his area to narrow the angle, Armour lifted the ball high into the air, over the advancing keeper and into the roof of the home goal to double our comfortable lead. We were looking good for our money.

The three points were wrapped up two minutes before the break when Scott Young’s near post corner was met by Paul ‘Leeper’ Leeman who buried the ball beyond Connolly. Scoring right in front of the travelling Glenmen, he tore off his shirt and clambered over the advertising hoardings in celebration. It was his second of the year.

John Connolly really didn’t like staying on his goal line and it cost his dear again, as Tim McCann found Halliday and he was left with the simple task of shooting past the on rushing ‘keeper to make it 4-0 after the interval. The goal was signal to rest a couple of players with the League Cup Final looming so off came Melaugh and Walker and on went Nixon and Keegan. It did little to change the course of play and Armour collected his second and our fifth soon after the hour mark.

The home side pulled a goal back late on, former Leeds United youngster Steven Ferguson reaching a loose ball before Elliott Morris to toe-in. They also managed a second from the penalty spot. It didn’t change the outcome and we extended our unbeaten run to nineteen games.

Newry Town 2 – Glentoran 5

Goals: Young 1-0, Armour 2-0, Leeman 3-0, Halliday 4-0, Armour 5-0, Ferguson 5-1, Gillespie pen 5-2.

Attendance: 2,575

MoM: Scott Young (Glentoran) – A goal and an assist as well as another fine performance from midfield.

[Gino]

The following morning, Tommy McCallion went public voicing his displeasure in being left out of the starting line-up having had such a successful season last year. He had a point, but the exceptional form of Damien McLaughlin, Andy Smith and Michael Halliday were keeping him at arms length. I told him to keep working hard, resisted issuing him with a two-week fine and suggested it would perhaps be better for both of us if he kept his mouth shut in future. He’s not actually that far away from regaining his place from McLaughlin.

By Monday, McCallion had retracted his comments and issued a full and frank apology in the same newspaper.

Tuesday evening was cup final time.

Tue 16.11.04

Cliftonville Vs Glentoran – Windsor Park

League Cup Final.

Glentoran 3-5-2: Elliott Morris – Jodie Hill, Gary Smyth, Chris Walker – Paul Leeman, Scott Young, Gavin Melaugh, Tim McCann – Damien McLaughlin, Michael Halliday, Darren Armour.

Weather: Dry, 3°C

Last season’s cruel penalty defeat to arch-rivals Linfield in the semi-final of the League Cup still hurt, and if it still hurt me then I knew it hurt the players and supporters just as badly. Then of course there was last season’s disastrous Irish FA Cup Final defeat at the hands of Ballinamallard. There could be no repeat of that tonight. I simply wouldn’t allow it.

Cliftonville are a side we’ve met three times during my reign and like Newry, they’ve never managed to score a single goal against us. Perhaps the most satisfying victory was last year’s Fifth Round FA Cup tie at Solitude. Goals from McCallion and McLaughlin saw us comfortably through to the next round. A similar result would be gratefully accepted this evening.

Sean Ward was missing, so in his place came a reprieve for Glentoran legend Gary Smyth. Smyth had yet to appear this season in the Green and Red of the first team but he had a number of impressive reserve displays under his belt and at 34 years of age, I knew he wouldn’t let me down.

[Gino]

The atmosphere inside the ground was immense, arguably the most intense I’ve felt since the Linfield game. Over 18,000 packed into Windsor Park for this battle of the Belfast clubs and neither set of fans seemed willing to go home without a fight, quite literally in fact, as scuffles broke out up and down the terraces.

The game’s first clear-cut chance didn’t arrive until three minutes before half-time, mainly thanks to staunch defending from Cliftonville player/manager, Northern Irish international and former Rushden & Diamonds defender Barry Hunter. When the chance did arrive, neat play from Gavin Melaugh saw Darren Armour hit a low drive that was well saved by Ben Mohan. Half-time came and went with a 0-0 scoreline.

The hour mark approached, still no score. Substitute Kevin Keegan, on for Halliday who’d taken a knock, chased a lost cause down into the corner. Liam Fleming made a mistake, knocking the ball over the line for a Glentoran corner. Scott Young whipped it into towards the near post, Lockhart met it with a bullet header. Mohan had no chance, 1-0 Glentoran. 12,000 Glenmen erupted. Police batons were drawn.

Cliftonville had the ball in our net four minutes later though referee John Ferry was quick to rule it out for offside. Willed on by a sizable support of their own, Cliftonville wouldn’t give up. They were beginning to look threatening. Elliott Morris’ freekick was a poor one, Cliftonville came back, forcing Morris to pull of an acrobatic save to keep out lead intact and keep the egg off his face.

The game was becoming stretched. Cliftonville were throwing the men forward, allowing us to hit them on the break. Kevin Keegan was revelling in the space he was being provided and his turned fullback Fleming inside out on numerous occasions, showing a clean pair of heels just as often. We couldn’t find that vital second goal though with Mohan making two or three superb stops. He was beaten by our man Elliott Morris though, he kept us in the game and as the clock ticked down, looked to have won us the League Cup.

[Gino]

That was until a long, hopefully ball into the box caught youngster Jodie Hill on his heels. His moments’ hesitation had allowed Tim Whelan to get behind him and he was in on goal. The ground held it’s breath, there were only ninety seconds left on the clock. Whelan pulled back the trigger to shoot only to be felled by his tracker Hill. Whelan collapsed in a heap, referee Ferry pointed to the spot. Penalty to Cliftonville.

Though not Cliftonville’s regular taking (that was Mulvenna, off the field having been substituted), Tim Whelan manfully strode up to referee Ferry and collected the ball, placing it on the spot and never once looking up at Morris, who had a fixed gaze on the young winger. Whelan looked ready, Morris was ready yet still we had to wait whilst referee and linesman conveyed over who actually committed the foul. Finally he chose Hill and a yellow card was issued. Now it was time to face the music.

Whelan stepped up as 3,000 Glenmen did their best ape impressions behind the goal. He struck it well, very well and Morris had no chance. The ball nestled gleefully in the corner and Whelan charged off in celebration. We were going to extra-time.

[Gino]

Extra-Time

As the players gathered on the grass around me, I studied them. They didn’t look up for this. Their fight had been taken from them as Whelan’s spot kick hit the back of the net. Surely the cup competitions would stop being so cruel and we’d find a little bit of luck going in our favour, like in the league. I did all I could to raise the morale and it appeared to have worked, though Leeman came off complaining of tiredness so Colin Nixon was on to replace him.

Cliftonville were having all the possession, leaving us chasing shadows. Barry Hunter had the long ball off to a tee, hitting ball after ball into our territory to cause problems. Morris was immense, making two saves that he had no chance of getting to. We looked to be holding on for penalties. Half-time passed and they were getting closer and closer.

I glanced at my watch, eleven minutes left before the dreaded spot kicks. The crowd were getting anxious. Neither wanted that, Cliftonville felt they’d done enough to win it and the Glenmen knew we made England look fortunate when it came to shooting from twelve yards. Colin Nixon collected a loose ball and looked up, spotting Kevin Keegan making a run in behind his man. “Go on Col, Kev’s making a run…†my assistant Jimmy Brown bellowed. Nixon found him perfectly.

One touch was all it took of Keegan to bring it under control and, showing all the guile and ability of his namesake, rounded Mohan and rolled the ball into the unguarded net. We’d done it! The League Cup was ours!

Cliftonville 1 – Glentoran 2

Goals: Lockhart 1-0, Whelan pen 1-1, Keegan 2-1.

Attendance: 18,480

MoM: Ben Mohan (Cliftonville) – It could have gone to either goalkeeper.

[Gino]

Following the game it was back on the bus to make the quick dash over to The Oval were the party really started. It wasn’t quite as intense as last season’s title win (we have a game on Saturday remember!) but we did have a few celebratory drinks with staff and supporters alike.

The following morning, nursing a sore head, I received a call from Chairman Stafford Reynolds expressing his delight at last night’s events. He also informed me that the Irish FA had given us £6,000 as a reward. That was nice of them. Unfortunately, it didn’t go anywhere near to cancelling out the ever-increasing debt (now standing at £800k).

Things were quite as rosy for Chris Walker, as his booking in the final meant he’d collected 20 disciplinary points and would miss the next league game. We travelled to Glenavon this Saturday.

Sat 20.11.04

Glenavon Vs Glentoran – Mourneview Park, Lurgan

Northern Irish Premier Division #7.

Glentoran 3-5-2: Elliott Morris – Jodie Hill, Gary Smyth, Chris Walker – Paul Leeman, Scott Young, Gavin Melaugh, Tim McCann – Andy Smith, Michael Halliday, Darren Armour.

Weather: Dry, 11°C

A twisted knee kept Glenavon’s player/manager, former Ipswich Town, Southampton and Sheffield Wednesday man Jim Magilton out of the starting line-up for our first meeting of the season. His side were enjoying a good start to the season having finished 10th last year and were currently in fifth, having collected ten points from six games. I knew Magilton’s assistant, former Spurs man and Northern Ireland international Gerard McMahon was the man to watch, having fired five goals so far in the campaign.

We were fortunate to have Andy Smith returning to the starting line-up, meaning Damien McLaughlin dropped out of contention and into the reserves. Smith already had nine goals to his name in just fourteen appearances.

We took the lead early, Darren Armour continuing his hot streak to latch onto a flick on from Smith and bury the ball into the back of the Glenavon goal. It was nothing more than our start deserved and I fully expected to extend our unbeaten run in the league to 20 games. This feeling was only strengthened as a brace before half-time from Michael Halliday meant we went into the dressing rooms at the interval three goals to the good.

We weren’t long into the second period before Armour converted an only impossible looking chance to score his second and wrap up all three points, making it 4-0. Glenavon weren’t finished however, and highly rated young Irish striker David Scullion hammered the ball past Morris to make it 4-1. Scullion is a player the whole league knows about following his recent inclusion in the national Under21 squad and if I had any sort of money available then I’d be sorely tempted to make an offer myself.

Not that we were struggling in front of goal. Michael Halliday wrapped up his hat-trick with a neat turn and flick leaving Karl Keating grasping at thin air. The travelling fans were having a party behind Morris’ goal and I honour their request of “giving them a wave!â€

Victor Hill pulled a goal back for the home side but any hopes of a late comeback were dashed when Halliday grabbed his fourth of the afternoon to make it 6-2, another comprehensive display.

Glenavon 2 – Glentoran 6

Goals: Armour 1-0, Halliday 2-0, Halliday 3-0, Armour 4-0, Scullion 4-1, Halliday 5-1, Hill 5-2, Halliday 6-2.

Attendance: 4,277

MoM: Michael Halliday (Glentoran) – Four goals and an assist, Halliday won’t have many better afternoons.

[Gino]

A quick check in my office told me that Sean Ward’s booking meant he’d miss the next league game, though with Chris Walker returning, this wasn’t quite as bad news as it might have been. Stafford Reynolds was again on the phone to offer his congratulations and even UTV were in touch asking me to be a guest on their weekend football show. I was happy to oblige.

UTV – The Football Show

JF – “Hello, I’m John Ford and this is The Football Show, the only place you can see all the action and reaction of the Smirnoff Irish Football League. Today we’re joined by Glentoran manager Stanley Ginozola and First Division Lurgan Celtic’s boss Barry Douglas. Thanks for joining us gents, now starting with you Stan, you collected your sixth win from seven leagues games yesterday with a thumping 6-2 win over Glenavon, you collected your first cup on Tuesday evening and you’re the bookies favourite to take the title for a third consecutive season, do things get any better than this?â€

SG – “Thanks John… it’s been a pleasing start to the season. Everybody at the club is geared to doing well and I’ve never known at atmosphere like it. Tuesday was a very special evening for me. We all know what went on last season with the defeat to Linfield and then the Irish Cup Final but we put our cup hoodoo to rest in the best possible way.â€

JF – “…And you’ve done it without spending any money…â€

SG – “Well I was very fortunate to have a strong squad when I took over from Roy Coyle so it’s been mainly a case of extending his good work and making sure the younger lads are brought in to continue once the older lads can’t.â€

JF – “The future of Andy Smith is one of the biggest talking points in the game at the moment. Only last week it was rumoured that English club Burnley were interested in taking him to Turf Moor.â€

SG – “Andy Smith is a Glentoran player and I see no reason why he won’t be for a long time to come. Obviously, we’re not going to stand in his way if the right offer both for ourselves as a club and Andy himself comes along but we’ve had no contact from Burnley or any other club as a matter of fact.â€

JF – “I’m sure the Glentoran fans will be delighted to hear that. A lot has been made of Darren Armour’s recent run of good form.â€

SG – “Darren has been outstanding, but he’s an outstanding player. First team chances haven’t always been available to him, and the same goes for Michael Halliday and Kevin Keegan but the chance arrived and they’re jumped at it.â€

JF – “Only last week, Tommy McCallion was in the national newspapers complaining of a lack of first team opportunities. He even suggested he might look elsewhere if they don’t arrive.â€

SG – “Well Tommy wants to play football and he’s not getting the chance to do so at the moment but he’s still a big part of my plans at Glentoran and I’ve told him so. He knows he should have kept his mouth shut but he’s a passion guy and he cares about his game. He’s still very much part of my plans.â€

JF – “Now, we’re going to take a look at yesterday’s Premier Division goals and when we return we’ll be talking to Lurgan Celtic boss Bobby Douglas about his side’s recent charge up the First Division table. Thanks for joining us Stan.â€

SG – “Its always a pleasure, John.â€

[Gino]

Tue 23.11.04

Wakehurst Vs Glentoran – Warden Street, Ballymena

County Antrim Shield Qtr Final.

Glentoran 3-5-2: Elliott Morris – Jodie Hill, Gary Smyth, Stephen Gourley – Marc Wilson, Scott Gordon, Richard Stanfield, Kevin Keegan – John McAuley, Jason Hill, Tommy McCallion.

Weather: Dry, 5°C

The County Antrim Shield meeting with Wakehurst gave me the opportunity to give a number of first team fringe players a run out. Elliott Morris continued in goal and Stephen Gourley came into defence. In midfield, highly rated youngster Marc Wilson was given his first team debut whilst Scott Gordon, Richard Stanfield and Kevin Keegan played across the middle. Gordon and Stanfield both featured heavily in last season’s title campaign but have yet to feature this season. In attack, John McAuley, Jason Hill and Tommy McCallion lead the line in what in reality was the reserve team strike force lining up for the first team.

Wakehurst’s form hadn’t improved since the draw and they remained wedged to the foot of the Second Division table, but as I said at the time, they beat Distillery 4-1 in the last round so we’d have to be on our guard. We were firm favourites in the bookies eyes though, with odds of 50-1 available for Wakehurst causing an upset. Surely not.

Definitely not. Even an under strength Glentoran side were too much for the Second Division club to handle and within twenty minutes we were three goals to the good. Tommy McCallion looked keen to impress and quickly rattled in two goals with John McAuley scoring a third. Chris Guiney pulled a goal back for the home side to make it 3-1 going into the interval. Minutes into the second half, he scored again and for five uncomfortable minutes things were a little too close for comfort until McAuley grabbed a second to restore our two goal lead.

The only dark spot of the evening was the sending off of Marc Wilson, guilty of a professional foul on Wakehurst striker Conor Warren. It was a little harsh but he was the last man so had to go. We finished the game with ten men and John Annett scored Wakehurst’s third deep into injury time but referee David Malcolm brought a close to proceedings as soon as the restart was taken. We were through the semi-finals.

Wakehurst 3 – Glentoran 4

Goals: McCallion 1-0, McCallion 2-0, McAuley 3-0, Guiney 3-1, Guiney 3-2, McAuley 4-2, Annett 4-3.

Attendance: 963

MoM: John McAuley (Glentoran) – Lead the line perfectly.

[Gino]

On the coach back to Belfast I received a call from a reporter at the Belfast Telegraph informing of interest being shown in Scott Young from Premiership side Southampton. The Saints were apparently keen to take the 27-year-old midfielder across the water to the English Premiership and after I informed Scott, I could see he was flattered by the interest. I didn’t want to lose him, and though no formal offer had been made, I wanted to make sure I received the correct price for his talents.

The draw for the semi final of the County Antrim Shield took place at the IFA headquarters and our reward for beating Wakehurst was another meeting with fellow Belfast side and Premier Division rivals Cliftonville. The game would take place at Linfield’s Windsor Park ground on Wed 09.02.2004.

Stafford Reynolds called to inform me that Paul Leeman’s contract was up for renewal in three months time. ‘Leeper’ has played a far more important role this year than he did last and I wasted no time in telling Stafford to begin negotiations immediately. The last thing we needed was to lose one of most important players midway through the season.

[Gino]

Sat 27.11.04

Glenavon Vs Larne – The Oval, Belfast

Northern Irish Premier Division #8.

Glentoran 3-5-2: Elliott Morris – Jodie Hill, Sean Ward, Chris Walker – Paul Leeman, Scott Young, Gavin Melaugh, Darren Lockhart – Tommy McCallion, Michael Halliday, Darren Armour.

Weather: Dry, 3°C

In an attempt to get Andy Smith back into the side, physiotherapist Jim Weatherup and his assistant put the injured striker through his paces in a hastily arranged fitness test prior to today’s clash with Larne at The Oval. They returned to the dressing room within ten minutes of leaving and I could tell from their faces that the news wasn’t good. I ordered Tommy McCallion to get changed because he was starting.

Larne are a club close to the hearts of Glenmen, simply because they pulled off the shock result in last season’s final game which allowed us to take the title ahead of Portadown. Their survival has given the club a boost and their early season form has been particularly impressive. Victories over Institute and Bangor amongst others have lifted the Inver Park club to third place, two places above Portadown and three above our arch rivals Linfield, who sat in sixth.

We had the better of the opening half and also the lion’s share of the chances but a culmination of lacklustre finishing and an impressive display from Larne ‘keeper Paul Wilson made sure the scores were locked at 0-0 as the half-time whistle blew. Tommy McCallion appeared to be struggling so much to his disgust I replaced him with Kevin Keegan. I also brought Tim McCann into the action in place of Michael Halliday in a bit to give us the kick up the backside that we obviously needed.

The move worked. Ten minutes after the break, a long ball forward from Chris Walker caused a mix-up in the Larne defence. Darren Armour capitalised and his low cross was rolled home by Keegan himself. The crowd went wild as Keegan celebrated in the corner. The scoring wasn’t to end there and goal number two arrived on the hour mark from the trusty boot of Scott Young. A neat interchange of passing between Young and Gavin Melaugh sent the midfielder clear and his cool lob left Wilson with no chance.

We were well in the driving seat by now and cruised to another fantastic three points. With news filtering through of Coleraine’s win away at Institute, a glance at the updated tables told us just how vital our win was. We sat atop of the table, level on points with Coleraine with 22. A seven point gap had opened from the chasing pack, with Linfield in third place on 15.

Glentoran 2 – Larne 0

Goals: Keegan 1-0, Young 2-0.

Attendance: 2,354

MoM: Scott Young (Glentoran) – The man just gets better and better. Southampton, hands off.

[Gino]

Paul Leeman sent a message on Monday morning confirming he would signing the new deal as soon as he could meet with Chairman Stafford Reynolds. With December arriving, I began to search for potential Bosman signings before the February/March rush. One player who had caught my eye was Portadown’s 25-year-old winger Wesley Boyle, a former trainee with Leeds United. Boyle’s deal at Shamrock Park came to an end on the 1st of July 2005 and if I could tempt his across to The Oval I’d be delighted. For now, I’ll sit tight and see how the situation progresses.

A new deal was also sorted with experienced centre-half Chris Walker, keen to stay at the club where he’d spent his entire career.

There was another welcomed piece of news on my desk from club historian Alan Wells. According to him, our 2-0 victory over Larne made it ten victories on the bounce, a new club record. The Belfast Telegraph ran a story covering the feat and it was nice to stamp my own little piece of history on this famous old club. Now all we had to do was keep it going.

Despite winning the League Cup and going unbeaten in the league, Coleraine’s Marty Quinn was given the nod for the November ‘Manager of the Month’ award for November. We did receive some recognition though, with Darren Armour’s lob against Newry earning him the ‘Goal of the Month’.

[Gino]

Sat 11.12.04

Distillery Vs Glentoran – New Grosvenor Stadium, Lisburn

Northern Irish Premier Division #9.

Glentoran 3-5-2: Elliott Morris – Jodie Hill, Sean Ward, Chris Walker – Paul Leeman, Scott Young, Gavin Melaugh, Darren Lockhart – Andy Smith, Michael Halliday, Darren Armour.

Weather: Wet, 3°C

The New Grosvenor Stadium was a dark, miserable and no place that anybody wanted to play much football as we took on Distillery following a fortnight’s break from league action. During the time, injury to reserve team goalkeeper Ronan Skelton meant Steven McGrath was drafted in from local football, registered with the league and was on the bench as backup. We had to hope that nothing happened to Elliott Morris.

Distillery were having a miserable season. Not only were they dumped out of the County Antrim Shield by Wakehurst, they sit cemented to the football of the First Division with just three points to their name. A repeat of last season’s ninth placed finish is looking increasingly unlikely. Home boss Paul Kirk has moved to strengthen his side with the signing of Portadown goalkeeper Martin Rea but injuries have limited him to just two appearances, and even then he conceded five goals. The signs don’t look good for survival.

We had other thoughts on our mind. Coleraine were at home to Limavady United but it was still too early to get wrapped up in what other teams were doing. We had to aim for three points and leave the worrying until later in the season. As long as we were in a position to challenge in March I was confident that a similar strong finish to this season as last would see the title stay at The Oval.

Andy Smith was back in the line up with a disappointing Tommy McCallion back in the stiffs. His return to the side had been a big let down, despite two goals in the cup against Wakehurst. It was pleasing to see ‘Smithy’ back and the travelling support gave him a great welcome as he entered the field to warm-up. He was a real crowd favourite.

It was easy to see why. Four minutes had past when he chased a loose ball and crossed for Darren Armour to head the game’s opening goal and then again, four minutes later, another ball into the box caused mayhem and Armour had made it 2-0. It was a frantic start and Distillery had yet to catch their breath. I was in no mood to let them up for air either.

It wasn’t all one way traffic and as the game progressed, the home side came back into it as a contest. Chris Coffey tested Elliott Morris and Conor Downey, I player I’d cheekily attempted to bring to The Oval on loan earlier in the campaign, showed his class with a couple of jinking runs. They were beginning to cause problems and Nathan McConnell’s goal in the 26th minute surprised nobody. Regardless, we carried on playing football and before long were rewarded when Paul Leeman did just what he does best, meeting a Scott Young corner to power in our third, 3-1 at the break.

The second half was a similar story, though this time we managed to keep the home side out. Darren Armour wrapped up his second hat-trick of the season in the 78th minute and as Distillery pushed for an unlikely comeback; Michael Halliday pounced to make it 5-1. With Coleraine beating Institute, we hung on to our place on top of the table, albeit thanks to goal difference.

A quick check of teletext told us that with 11 goals, Darren Armour was now the league’s joint leading goalscorer alongside Shea Campbell of Ballymena United.

Distillery 1 – Glentoran 5

Goals: Armour 1-0, Armour 2-0, McConnell 2-1, Leeman 3-1, Armour 4-1, Halliday 5-1.

Attendance: 4,727

MoM: Darren Armour (Glentoran) – Another hat-trick.

[Gino]

On Monday lunchtime, Stafford Reynolds and my assistant Jimmy Brown accompanied me to the Irish FA’s headquarters for the Irish Cup Fifth Round draw. We didn’t have to wait long; in fact we were the third ball out of the hat. It was a good draw, a home tie with First Division Armagh City. I was quietly confident of progressing. Before I left, BBC Belfast’s ‘Sports View’ wanted my views on the draw.

SV – “Stan, a home tie with Armagh City of the First Division. You must be pleased with that tie.â€

SG – “Well it’s a home tie, so we’re pleased with that but to have made the Fifth Round you have to have something about you. Armagh are a strong side, pushing hard for promotion so it won’t be easy.â€

SV – “I expect you’ll be sending a scout down to Holm Park to see what they’re all about.â€

SG – “I expect so, but they’ll be doing the same with us. We’ll make sure we’re ready. Last season’s Final defeat still hurts.â€

I managed to complete a signing on Tuesday. After months of us tracking his progress, striker Rick Adair joined for £1,000 from local non-league Belfast side Knockbreda Parish. Adair, a Glentoran fan “from birth†has 6 goals to his name so far this season. It’s difficult to see him forcing his way into the first team year season but he’s still on 21, so has plenty of time to develop. He also becomes the first player that I have paid a fee for.

Transfer In:

Rick Adair (S C, 21) – £1,000 from Knockbreda Parish.

Kevin Keegan picked up a training ground knock on the eve of Saturday’s trip to Cliftonville, and an inspection from Jim Weatherup revealed he’d sprained his ankle and would need at least two weeks away from the game to recover. Damien McLaughlin took his place on the bench.

[Gino]

Sat 18.12.04

Glentoran Vs Cliftonville – The Oval, Belfast

Northern Irish Premier Division #10.

Glentoran 3-5-2: Elliott Morris – Jodie Hill, Sean Ward, Chris Walker – Paul Leeman, Scott Young, Gavin Melaugh, Darren Lockhart – Andy Smith, Michael Halliday, Darren Armour.

Weather: Dry, 5°C

Since our last meeting in the League Cup Final, Barry Hunter had completed the signing of Crewe United’s young left full-back Tom McKenna. He did, however, start today’s game on the bench, with John Lynch continuing in that position. Cliftonville had gone unbeaten since the Final, and with striker Anthony Lagan in form, went in search of revenge at The Oval.

Things didn’t start as they planned though, as with just 37 seconds on the clock, Darren Armour shot from twenty yards to give us the dream start and knock Cliftonville onto the back foot. It was a goal right out of the top drawer and Armour wasted no time in charging over to my dugout to celebrate with myself, Jimmy Brown and the rest of my backroom staff and players.

Cliftonville were back level pegging before half-time, with Lagan scoring his third goal in three games. Jodie Hill was perhaps guilty of inexperience as Lagan raced around him and lashed a shot that Morris had little chance of stopping. Suddenly things weren’t going our way any longer and they got worse with Andy Smith needing to come off after a heavy challenge from a defender. McLaughlin was sent on in replacement. Before half-time, Lagan scored again and we found ourselves in the unfamiliar position of being behind.

Things didn’t improve in the second half. Chances came and went but in all honesty they were difficult to put away. The game’s best chance for a goal arrived deep into injury time, with Darren Armour heading point blank at goalkeeper Ben Mohan. On any other day it would have gone in, but today Mohan clawed out a hand and the ball came out. Our unbeaten run came to an end, Coleraine went top with a draw in Bangor and Cliftonville had exacted the revenge they wanted.

Glentoran 1 – Cliftonville 2

Goals: Armour 1-0, Lagan 1-1, Lagan 1-2.

Attendance: 5,700

MoM: Darren Armour (Glentoran) – Try as he might, he couldn’t quite force an equaliser but it was a fine performance regardless.

[Gino]

Wed 22.12.04

Ards Vs Glentoran – New Castlereagh Park, Newtownards.

Northern Irish Premier Division #11.

Glentoran 3-5-2: Elliott Morris – Jodie Hill, Sean Ward, Chris Walker – Paul Leeman, Scott Young, Gavin Melaugh, Darren Lockhart – Damien McLaughlin, Michael Halliday, Darren Armour.

Weather: Wet, 3°C

It was perhaps a blessing that the league scheduled a league date in for the Wednesday evening before Christmas as we were given immediate opportunity to make amends for Saturday’s defeat at home to Cliftonville. We’d already met Ards once this season, beating them 3-0 in the Semi-Final of the League Cup at The Oval back in October. On that occasion, both Andy Smith and Damien McLaughlin were on target. It was a different story today as McLaughlin replaced Smith who sat out with his groin strain.

Ards had one or two players in their squad with experience at a much higher level. Midfielder Davy Williamson had played for both Cambridge United and Motherwell before returning to his homeland and striker Lee Feeney had spells with Glasgow Rangers and Linfield before returning to his hometown club. In addition, 38 year old winger Steve Penney had 17 caps for Northern Ireland. Striker Darren Fitzgerald is a former Glenman, playing over fifty games in the three seasons prior to my arrival. He also had experience with Scottish giants Glasgow Rangers.

Thankfully, there was to be no repeat of Saturday’s defeat as we managed to get back to winning ways but it was a little too close for comfort in places. Darren Armour continued his astonishing run of form with his third hat-trick in as many months and further strikes from McLaughlin and Gavin Melaugh’s first of the season saw us run out 5-3 winners. Ards performed admirably, having by far the better chances and the most possession. However, we had a striker who is bang in form and if he continues to score at the rate he is now, he’ll easily manage to outshoot Andy Smith’s total of 24 from last season.

Despite the win, we spent Wednesday evening in second, one point behind Coleraine who managed a fine 3-0 win over Dungannon Swifts. There was now a nine point gap between us and third placed side Larne, with Linfield lying in fourth, just a point behind. It’ll certainly be an intriguing few weeks over the Christmas period.

Ards 3 – Glentoran 5

Goals: Armour 1-0, Melaugh 2-0, Hunter 2-1, Armour 3-1, McLaughlin 4-1, Fitzgerald 4-2, Gregg 4-3, Armour 5-3.

Attendance: 5,700

MoM: Darren Armour (Glentoran) – Armour takes it again, and it’s easy to see why with another hat-trick.

[Gino]

We trained on Christmas Eve, it was only a light session but Darren Lockhart still managed to twist knee in a game of five-a-side. He’d required two weeks rest and was expected to miss the games with Omagh, Linfield, Coleraine and perhaps even Institute.

Darren Armour’s contract had six months left to run, and considering his explosive form, negotiations for another deal started immediately. £175p/w was enough to tempt him to sign and he did, for another three seasons.

Wed 29.12.04

Glentoran Vs Omagh Town – The Oval

Northern Irish Premier Division #12.

Glentoran 3-5-2: Elliott Morris – Jodie Hill, Sean Ward, Chris Walker – Paul Leeman, Scott Young, Gavin Melaugh, Scott Gordon – Damien McLaughlin, Michael Halliday, Darren Armour.

Weather: Dry, 3°C

With both Darren Lockhart and Tim McCann, a rare start was given to Scott Gordon. Gordon featured fourteen times in the run-in to the title last year but has since struggled to get a game with the first team. He did play in the cup against Wakehurst and I’m hopefully he’ll be ok today as we take on Omagh at The Oval. Omagh manager Roy McCreadie would be pleased with the way the season was going. They were currently in ninth position, though had a sufficient points tally to perhaps launch a charge up the table.

After a slow start to the game, we opened the scoring in the nineteenth minutes. McLaughlin broke off down the left-wing, his cross was over hit but Michael Halliday managed to retrieve it. Again the ball came into the box and this time Armour was on hand to head his sixteenth of the year. Unfortunately, Omagh were soon back in the game. The players seemed to be suffering from a severe lack of confidence, and Andrew Crawford punished us, shooting low from 16 yards to beat Elliott Morris instead his post.

Before long Omagh had a 2-1 lead. Our defending was appalling as we allowed Michael Ward time and space to get a cross into the area. Morris half punched, Jodie Hill attempted to hack it clear but only managed to find Ian Clanachan who duly dispatched the ball hard ad low past our stranded goalkeeper. Half-time was welcomed.

I made a change at the interval. Off came McLaughlin and on went Tommy McCallion. I hoped McCallion hustle and bustle style of play would shake the Omagh defence up a bit. It certainly did just that, but any hopes of a late equaliser were dashed. Gavin Cullen was unbeatable between the posts saving from both McCallion and defender Jodie Hill. A late flurry of chances brought nothing and referee David Best called time on our second home defeat on our second home defeat on the trot. That seemed almost unthinkable a month ago.

The table was beginning to make painful reading. After such a fine start, Coleraine were beginning to pull away and Linfield were gaining ground. The gap between ourselves and the leaders had stretched to four, whilst six points were all that separated us from our arch-rivals. All the more importantly, Linfield were next up at The Oval in three days time.

Glentoran 1 – Omagh Town 2

Goals: Armour 1-0, Crawford 1-1, Clanachan 1-2.

Attendance: 2,891

MoM: James Stevenson (Omagh Town) – The Omagh midfielder had the better of Scott Young.

[Gino]

First Division club QUB made an offer for reserve teamer Chris Ward. Well, they actually offered to take him off our hands. In a bid to cut the wage bill, I’d made several reserve team members available for transfer free of charge and QUB were taking advantage. As long as they could come to an agreement over terms, Wards would be off to the Queens University.

There was more bad news on the injury front ahead of the big clash with Linfield. Tommy McCallion suffered a thigh strain in training and would be out for at least a week. Excluding McCallion, we now had Darren Lockhart, Tim McCann and several reserve teamers sat out with injury. Things were beginning to get difficult.

One player who wouldn’t be receiving a new deal when his current one came to an end was veteran defender Mark Glendinning. Mark’s deal ends in June and, after four fine years of service, I have decided that it’s time he found a new club. With youngsters coming through the ranks, Glendinning would struggle to get a place in the side.

Manchester United’s Cristiano Ronaldo collected the World Player of the Year award for 2004. Valencia’s Robert Ayala and Pablo Cavallero of Celta Vigo were runners up. Coleraine’s Marty Quinn again took the ‘Manager of the Month’ award.

With the transfer window opening for a short period, a number of transfers were able to be completed. Firstly Rick Adair finally arrived from Knockbreda for £1,000 and elsewhere Dungannon signed Paul Muir from Distillery. Also in the Premier Division, Ballymena took Glenn Bovaird from Omagh Town on a free transfer, Limavady United winger Mark McDaid dropped down to non-league Rathfriland due to work commitments, Moyola Park signed Limavady’s Davy Patton and Newry’s experienced centre-back Donal Broughan moved to Portstewart.

[Gino]

Sat 01.01.05

Glentoran Vs Linfield – The Oval, Belfast.

Northern Irish Premier Division #13.

Glentoran 3-5-2: Elliott Morris – Jodie Hill, Sean Ward, Chris Walker – Paul Leeman, Scott Young, Gavin Melaugh, Scott Gordon – Damien McLaughlin, Michael Halliday, Darren Armour.

Weather: Dry, 7°C

On the Friday evening before the game, myself and Linfield boss Stephen Young appeared on national television to appeal for calm before, during and after the highly fraught fixture at The Oval. However, as usual, our appeals fell on deaf ears and trouble marred the build up to the game with trouble both around the ground and in Belfast city centre. Pride of the city was at stake, and having beaten Linfield so convincing in this fixture last season (5-0), they were out for revenge.

Rick Adair was given a taste of things sooner than he could have possibly imagined as with McCallion missing, he took a place on the bench. Linfield were without leading scorer Paul Dalglish, missing with a broken shoulder sustained in a league game two weeks earlier. Also missing was forward Darren McKay, thought to have had a training ground bust-up with Young earlier in the week.

Neither side wanted to lose this one, and the start to the game showed signs of both sides looking to size each other up. The game’s first chance came our way shortly after the twenty-minute mark. McLaughlin sent Melaugh away down the right, he checked his run and returned the pass to McLaughlin who by now was on the edge of the area. He shot low, and goalkeeper Mannus did well to clear.

McLaughlin went close again and forced pressure nearly allowed Gordon the perfect goalscoring opportunity but it wasn’t to be, not this time anyway. Linfield were soon on the attack themselves with Collier’s long ball finding Aaron Black who tested Morris from twenty yards. Morris did well to hold on and save.

The first half’s best chance fell to Damien McLaughlin, as had the majority of our opportunities in the opening period. Scott Young played him one-on-one with Mannus, but the goalkeeper’s legs won the battle and he hacked the ball to safety. McLaughlin had lost his nerve. The pressure coming down from the stands was intense.

The fans were clearly anxious, and it showed as scuffles broke out up and down the sectioned off area that separated the two sets of supporters. Reinforcements had to be brought in from Belfast police and order was restored, for the time being at least.

The second half wasn’t at all as frantic, and the game turned into a dire midfield battle. Chances were scarce. Time ticked by and with just two minutes on the clock Darren Armour had the ball in the Linfield goal. The ground erupted only for the linesman’s flag to call an abrupt end. Judging by the tension in the air, he was a brave man. The game finished soon after. Linfield will be far happier with the 0-0 scoreline then us.

Glentoran 0 – Linfield 0

Goals: None.

Attendance: 6,918

MoM: Alan Mannus (Linfield) – The goalkeeper kept his side in the game and earned them a point.

[Gino]

Despite signing a new one-year extension earlier in the week, by Friday I’m confronted with an offer from Glenavon for midfielder Andy Kilmartin. He’s hardly featured during my time at The Oval, and with £6,000 on the table, I tell him he’s free to go. Kilmartin leaves to talk with Jim Magilton.

Wed 05.01.05

Coleraine Vs Glentoran – Coleraine Showgrounds.

Northern Irish Premier Division #14.

Glentoran 3-5-2: Elliott Morris – Jodie Hill, Sean Ward, Chris Walker – Paul Leeman, Scott Young, Gavin Melaugh, Scott Gordon – Andy Smith, Michael Halliday, Darren Armour.

Weather: Dry, 3°C

Just days after the clash with Linfield, we’re involved in another crucial game with our first meeting of the season with league leaders Coleraine. Due to the last’s few week’s lack of form, Coleraine have opened a six point gap at the top of the table so three points this afternoon are crucial if we’re to close the gap anytime soon. Andy Smith is a welcomed addition to the line-up, with Damien McLaughlin dropping back into the reserve team. Smith has been out of sorts in recent weeks, though injuries have hindered his last few months.

The game is just seven minutes old and we find ourselves a goal down, and to be fair to Coleraine it’s a mighty fine goal at that. Left-back Lee Flynn brought the ball forward, hitting a long searching ball that found David Moffatt on the edge of our area. His flick-on was to perfection and Dominic Sheppard lashed the ball past Morris on the volley to give the home side the ideal start.

The early goal wasn’t a fluke either, and the game continued at a rapid pace. We weren’t out of the races just yet and a neat ball from Scott Gordon found Armour in space inside the area. He shot high and cleared the crossbar. A month again it would have nestled in the top corner. Another chance arrived four minutes later, only for Andy Smith to slide the ball wide of the far post. He made no mistake seconds later though, as he coolly rounded Stewart Ingham and rolled the ball into the back of the Coleraine net to tie the game up at 1-1 after 14 minutes.

The game was shaping up to be a real cracker, played at 110mph. Smith broke away clear down the right, exchanged passes with Armour and hit the by-line. His ball back into the box was good, defender Flynn could only half clear and Armour smashed the ball back past Ingham to give us the lead. 2-1.

It certainly wasn’t a good that Alan Hansen would enjoy watching. The defending from both sides was awful and before long Coleraine had equalised through Rory Hamill. At 2-2, I hoped we’d have enough left in the tank to go again in the second half, and perhaps go for the win. The sending off of Scott Gordon changed things though Coleraine were there for the taking if we could just tighten things up at the back but it wasn’t to be. They galloped away, with Neil Mallon and Dominic Sheppard extending the home side’s lead and sending us back to The Oval with our tails firmly between our legs.

Coleraine 4 – Glentoran 2

Goals: Sheppard 1-0, Smith 1-1, Armour 1-2, Hamill 2-2, Mallon 3-2, Sheppard 4-2.

Attendance: 4,012

MoM: David Moffatt (Coleraine) – Lead the line well.

[bjorn]

It's nice to see that this story is still going, Gino.

One of the best reads on the board IMO.

[Gino]

Thanks bjorn

The win extended Coleraine’s lead at the top of the table to nine points, whilst Linfield shortened the gap to third to just three. We needed a change of fortune, and quickly. With Gordon and Sean Ward sent to miss games through suspension, I couldn’t see where it would come from. Meanwhile, midfielder Andrew Kilmartin left the club, signing a three-year deal with Glenavon.

Sat 08.01.05

Institute Vs Glentoran – Riverside Stadium, Drumahoe

Northern Irish Premier Division #15.

Glentoran 3-5-2: Elliott Morris – Jodie Hill, Gary Smyth, Chris Walker – Paul Leeman, Scott Young, Gavin Melaugh, Darren Lockhart – Andy Smith, Michael Halliday, Darren Armour.

Weather: Dry, 4°C

“Glentoran returned to winning ways in fine style this afternoon with a thumping 4-0 victory away at struggling Institute. No win in three league games represents something of a slump for success hungry Glenmen, and today they made sure they bounced back, doing so in fine style.

With Sean Ward and Scott Gordon both out through suspension, recalls to the side went to both Gary Smyth and Darren Lockhart and it was the inclusion of Lockhart that seemed to add some much needed guile to the midfield. Glentoran manager Stan Ginozola spoke before the game of wanting his players to show that they were hungry for a third successive title and he’ll have been delighted tonight by what he saw.â€

Glentoran took the lead after 17th minutes through Andy Smith. Paul Leeman sent a ball over the top, aimed at Darren Armour. The Glens’ leading scorer won the header and Smith galloped clear, defying calls of offside from the ‘Stute defenders. His rifled strike from 18-yards left Declan Devine grasping at thin air and Glentoran were ahead.

Three minutes later and they’d scored again. Armour was again involved, hitting a slide rule pass inside the ‘Stute left-back allowing Andy Smith time to draw Devine before rolling the ball across goal to the grateful Scott Young who tucked away his seventh of the campaign.

The game was won before the interval with Armour getting a goal to go with his two assists. Jodie Hill hit a ball over the top, Armour controlled and turned Geoff Healy inside out and shot past Devine to make it 3-0. Scott Young nodded in a corner from the right before the half-time whistle blew and Glentoran had themselves a fine victory. With Coleraine beating Distillery, Glentoran’s win took on even more importance with the gap staying at nine points.â€

Institute 0 – Glentoran 4

Goals: Smith 1-0, Young 2-0, Armour 3-0, Young 4-0.

Attendance: 2,602

MoM: Scott Young (Glentoran) – Two goals from midfield.

[Gino]

Following England’s dismal display in Portugal at Euro 2004 and the subsequent sacking of Swede Sven Goran Eriksson, the Football Association appoint Steve McLaren as the new man at the helm. Upon taking the job, McLaren promised comfortable qualification for the World Cup held in Germany in 2006.

Wed 12.01.05

Glentoran Vs Limavady United – The Oval, Belfast.

Northern Irish Premier Division #16.

Glentoran 3-5-2: Elliott Morris – Jodie Hill, Gary Smyth, Chris Walker – Paul Leeman, Scott Young, Gavin Melaugh, Darren Lockhart – Andy Smith, Michael Halliday, Rick Adair.

Weather: Dry, 8°C

The second half of the league campaign gets underway at The Oval, with Limavady United the visitors for the 16th game of the season. The visitors come to East Belfast on the back on two fine victories, beating both Newry Town and Ballymena United comfortably to lift them three places up the Smirnoff Premier Division to 10th.

Despite Sean Ward back available for selection after a one-game ban, I continue with Gary Smyth. He performed admirably at Institute and deserves another chance to make a shout for a more permanent place in the side. It’s a dry night, and not as chilly as in recent weeks and the weather appears to have tempted a few more supporters down to the ground. There’s a good atmosphere as the players emerge from the tunnel, and before long the ground is alive with noise. The biggest cheer of the night is given to debutant Rick Adair, in the side for his full debut in place of the injured Armour.

We almost get off to the perfect start, from an unlikely source. Rick Adair broke down the left-wing and cut a ball back across the area. Scott Young swung off his marker and laid the ball into the path of the oncoming Chris Walker who blazed a stinging drive against the Limavady crossbar. Doherty was well beaten but unfortunate it cannoned away and behind for a goal kick. We didn’t have long to wait for the opening goal though.

It arrived from debutant Adair, and what a goal it was. Gavin Melaugh’s deep cross was only half cleared and Adair jumped high and acrobatically slammed the ball past Doherty with a sublime overhead kick that would have taken the goalkeeper’s hands off had he been daft enough to get in the way of it. Adair’s celebration was one of sheer delight. A Glenman scoring on his full debut at the Oval, the supporters took to him instantly.

Despite losing Jodie Hill to injury (replaced by Mark Glendinning), we built on our fine start with Adair grabbing his second. It wasn’t as flashy as his first, a simple tap-in following neat work from strike partner Andy Smith but it meant just as much as he charged over the perimeter hoardings to celebrate with his own.

The game was wrapped up with three minutes to go with Andy Smith making it 3-0 with a near-post header. It was a good thing he did, as deep into injury time Gerard Moore scored a consolation goal from eight-yards out. Still, we took the three points. Back in the dressing room, I discovered Coleraine and Linfield had both won, so it was another case of status quo as far as the league was concerned.

Glentoran 3 – Limavady United 1

Goals: Adair 1-0, Adair 2-0, Smith 3-0, Moore 3-1.

Attendance: 2,029

MoM: Andy Smith (Glentoran) – Back to his best.

[Gino]

Coleraine’s 1-0 win over Cliftonville was their sixth straight league win on the spin.

Sat 15.01.05

Portadown Vs Glentoran – Shamrock Park

Northern Irish Premier Division #17.

Glentoran 3-5-2: Elliott Morris – Sean Ward, Gary Smyth, Chris Walker – Paul Leeman, Scott Young, Gavin Melaugh, Darren Lockhart – Andy Smith, Michael Halliday, Rick Adair.

Weather: Wet, 3°C

“It’s fair to say Glentoran have the Indian Sign over Portadown at the moment. Fed will have forgotten last season’s titanic race for the title that ended with The Glens pipping Portadown on the final day of the season. Today, Glentoran once again showed that they can perform when the going gets tough, and came out with an extraordinary 5-2 victory from a game in which they fell behind after just twelve minutes.

With Jodie Hill missing with injury, Sean Ward was back in the side at sweeper. It was a move that seemed to suit Ward and he looked comfortable bringing the ball out of defensive on numerous occasions, however, he was at fault for the game’s opening goal.

Perhaps that’s a little harsh. Conor Forker danced down the right flank, and after beating Gary Smyth for pace, encountered Ward who’d come across to cover. Forker slipped the ball past the on rushing defender, who slipped and allowed Forker a free run on goal. Out-numbering the rest of the Glen defence, Forker shaped to slide the ball to Gary Hamilton before shooting himself and beating Morris inside his near post.

Thankfully, Glentoran didn’t let it affect their game plan, though Stan Ginozola was clearly pulling his hair out on the touchline. Before long, they were back in the game. Michael Halliday collected a free-kick taken by Walker, turned well and fed in Andy Smith. Smith bore down on goal, goalkeeper David Wells came out, and last season’s leading goalscorer simply lifted the ball over him and into the back of the Portadown net. 1-1.

Despite drawing level, Portadown enjoyed the remainder of the first-half. Kyle Neil was proving to be a real threat for the Shamrock Park club, and it was his cross that allowed Richard Clarke time and space to nod just his second goal in 23 games. Again, Glentoran didn’t let their heads drop, and a quick burst down the left flank early in the second half saw Cullen Feeney hack down Gavin Melaugh and the referee had little option but to issue a game changing red card.

With the extra man, Glentoran had the upper hand. Using the extra space to their advantage, they shuffled the ball around menacingly, waiting for the right time to strike. It arrived three minutes later, as Sean Ward collected a pass from Melaugh and shot low to equalise.

Portadown weren’t finished and Elliott Morris had to be alert to keep the scores level, though it wasn’t like that for long, with Rick Adair making it three in two as he headed past Wells to give his side the lead. Again, the passion in Adair’s eyes was clear to see and the Glentoran supporters chanted his name almost as often as they sang the praises of Andy Smith.

Portadown were well beaten and offered little idea as to how to get back into the game. Scott Young was beginning to find more and more space from midfield and after having a tester that rattled Wells’ crossbar, he fired two late goals, almost the mirror image of the other, that gave the game a comprehensive 5-2 scoreline. Yet again though, scores around the league didn’t go Glentoran’s way with Linfield and Coleraine both winning yet again. Status quo was maintained."

Portadown 2 – Glentoran 5

Goals: Forker 1-0, Smith 1-1, Clarke 2-1, Ward 2-2, Adair 2-3, Young 2-4, Young 2-5.

Attendance: 4,248

MoM: Scott Young (Glentoran) – Two more goals to add to the midfielder’s impressive tally.

[Gino]

Reserve-team member Chris Ward completed a move to local Second Division side East Belfast on Monday morning. He linked up with the Inverary Playing Fields club for three months during which time he’ll help them stave off relegation. At 21, Ward hasn’t quite developed how many at The Oval would have liked and a spell of first-team action might well do him some good.

A new deal was offered to Darren Lockhart, who had six months left to run on his current deal. If accepted, Lockhart will stay at the Oval for another three seasons at least. The Glentoran supporters were understandably delighted.

A couple of first team squad members collected niggling injuries during the week. Substitute goalkeeper Ronan Skelton was back on Jim Weatherup’s treatment table having damaged a foot (2 weeks) and experienced centre-half Gary Smyth suffered a setback to a recurring shoulder injury and like Skelton would require two weeks rest from action. On Thursday evening, Jodie Hill goes over on his ankle, needing three weeks treatment and with Chris Walker out through suspension, we’re suddenly left missing three key components of our defence.

Full-back Colin Nixon was becoming increasingly concerned about his first-team place, announcing the fact to the country in an article in the Belfast Telegraph. Nixon hasn’t featured for some weeks, mainly due to the fact that the formation doesn’t allow it. I tell him he’s still a part of my plans but that he’s free to move out on loan should there be sufficient interest. One player who is going out on loan is young goalkeeper Ian Mannus, allowed to join Ards Rangers on a three-month deal.

[telstar]

Enjoyed the story at work a lot hehe. Been somewhat of a slow day. Very nice read. You have to get into Europe to get out of the debt otherwise it won't work. There are no big bucks in Norhtern Irish Football

[UBoy 2001]

are we going to see anymore Gino of this great story

[Gino]

Hi guys, thanks for the interest. I've moved into a new house in Manchester so not been around on the net much. Now I'll sorted I'll try and post a bit more often.

Sat 22.01.05

Glentoran Vs Armagh City – The Oval, Belfast

Irish Cup 5th Round.

Glentoran 3-5-2: Elliott Morris – Sean Ward, Mark Glendinning, Stephen Gourley – Paul Leeman, Scott Young, Gavin Melaugh, Darren Lockhart – Andy Smith, Darren Armour, Rick Adair.

Weather: Dry, 11°C

There were a number of enforced changes for our first taste of Irish Cup action in the 5th Round. First Division strugglers Armagh City were the visitors and our patched-up defence was made up of Sean Ward, Mark Glendinning and youngster Stephen Gourley. Darren Armour also came back into the side, replacing Michael Halliday who dropped out of contention. Armour lined up alongside Andy Smith and the in-form Rick Adair. I hadn’t intended to play the new boy so soon but his form forced my hand.

And I was glad it did. Just ten minutes in and a long throw from Gavin Melaugh was flicked on by Andy Smith and Adair finished with his right instep to put us into an early lead. He was making this goalscoring lark look easy. He almost had a second on the half-hour, when good work from Scott Young provided a chance but Johnny Poole did well to save and keep his side in the game at the interval.

Trialist goalkeeper Neil Smith was on the bench due to Skelton’s injury and for a few nervy moments it looked as though he was going to be needed on the field when a stray Armagh boot caught Elliott Morris right between the eyes. He was a little shaky for a few moments but thankfully brushed himself down and returned to his goal. Smith’s chance to impress would have to wait.

Scott Gordon replaced Paul Leeman in the second period as we pushed for the second goal that would put the result beyond doubt. Adair almost found it with his second but Poole was again a match. Armagh’s forward line were barely featuring, and had yet to register a shot on target. On the hour, Poole’s long goal kick was flicked on by Adrian Larkin and as the ball bounced up at Mark Glendinning it appeared to strike his arm. Referee David Ross was on the spot and a penalty was awarded. Fortunately, Craig Martin’s effort came back of the post and we maintained our lead.

Rick Adair wrapped the game and our progression through to the Sixth Round up with five minutes left on the clock, and as the game drew to a close, Andy Smith added a third for good measure. It was a fine win, and our reward was a tasty clash with Portadown at The Oval in what was certainly the tie of Round Six, set to be played on Saturday 19th February.

Glentoran 3 – Armagh City 0

Goals: Adair 1-0, Adair 2-0, Smith 3-0.

Attendance: 4,407

MoM: Rick Adair (Glentoran) – Goals 4 and 5 of his Glentoran career gave him the award.

[Gino]

Wed 26.01.05

Bangor Vs Glentoran – Clandeboye Park, Bangor

Northern Irish Premier Division #18.

Glentoran 3-5-2: Elliott Morris – Sean Ward, Mark Glendinning, Chris Walker – Paul Leeman, Scott Young, Gavin Melaugh, Darren Lockhart – Andy Smith, Darren Armour, Rick Adair.

Weather: Breezy, Wet, 3°C

Chris Walker was back in the side to face Bangor on Wednesday evening. Stephen Gourley had performed well against lower league opposition but with the league campaign heading towards the crucial stage of the season, we couldn’t afford to slip up. I knew the run-in like the back of my hand, but I paid little attention to the league table. We knew all we had to do was keep on winning, that’s all we could do. With Coleraine opening a nine point gap, we had to hope they slipped up before we did.

It wasn’t the best conditions for football at Bangor’s dark, dank Clandeboye Park. A good few hundred Glenmen had made the trip, praying for three points and they were housed behind Elliott Morris’ goal to my left. They were making good noise and I felt we had to win this one for them. I certainly wouldn’t pay to stand in the open air in weather like this, that’s for sure.

A couple of early chances came our way, though the blustery wind wasn’t making things easy for the lads. Darren Armour’s shot came back off the post and Andy Smith tested Ryan Brown but it was that man Adair that opened the scoring, turning Andy Smith’s cross in at the near post for his sixth goal in four games. We looked to build on the lead and despite losing Gavin Melaugh through injury, Andy Smith made it 2-0 six minutes before half-time. We’d been well in control and looked good for our lead, so it was a pain when Kris Watson’s cross-cum-shot eluded Elliott Morris and nestled in the top corner.

Bangor’s late first-half goal gave them some much needed hope and they showed they were willing to fight as the second half got underway. Morris made a couple of stops but was beaten in the 56th minute when Wayne Patterson beat the offside trap and slotted the ball into the bottom corner to tie the game up at 2-2. Despite our strong start we were beginning to struggle and it was no surprise when Watson scored his second of the evening to give the home side a 3-2 lead.

I was furious as it was a simply case of lack of concentration. The frustrations were beginning to show on the field and after being penalised for a foul on Mark Crean, midfielder Scott Young kicked the ball away earning a second booking and his first red card of the season. I turned round in anger and sent six Lucozade bottles spinning back into the Dugout, just missing assistant manager Jimmy Brown who was making his way down the touchline to meet with Young who was on his way down the tunnel.

I’d given up all hope of taking anything from the game but the phrase “oh ye of little faith†rang true as just two minutes later Rick Adair had conjured up an unlikely equaliser. Michael Halliday broke down the right and his hopeful ball into the area was controlled by Adair, defender Lennox slipped and Adair dispatched the ball past Brown for his second of the evening. 3-3 with a quarter-hour left on the clock!

Suddenly the Glentoran found their voice and began to gave their side the support they needed. Straight from the centre a hopefully pump forward provided us with a throw-in on the edge of our area. Mark Glendinning took it, giving it to Chris Walker who fairly whacked the ball back up field. Adair gave chase, more out of hope than anything and he was rewarded when the slippery surface caught Lennox’s trailing leg and sent him spinning over onto the slick turf. Adair gathered the ball and sent a great ball into the box, right onto the head of Darren Armour. We had the lead, 4-3!!!!

Bangor threw everything at us as the minutes ticked by and we looked to have survived until Stuart MacPherson lashed a shot past Morris in the third minute of stoppage time. It was a cruel, cruel end to the game though having been behind with ten men, I was pleased to take the point. It made the table difficult reading as Coleraine’s 5-1 win over Ards saw the gap open up to 11 points.

Bangor 4 – Glentoran 4

Goals: Adair 0-1, Smith 0-2, Watson 1-2, Patterson 2-2, Watson 3-2, Adair 3-3, Armour 3-4, MacPherson 4-4.

Attendance: 3,511

MoM: Rick Adair (Glentoran) – Who else.

[Gino]

Sat 29.01.05

Bangor Vs Glentoran – Clandeboye Park, Bangor

Northern Irish Premier Division #19.

Glentoran 3-5-2: Elliott Morris – Sean Ward, Mark Glendinning, Chris Walker – Paul Leeman, Michael Halliday, Gavin Melaugh, Darren Lockhart – Andy Smith, Darren Armour, Rick Adair.

Weather: Dry, 14°C

Scott Young’s place in the side went to Michael Halliday, slotting into midfield instead of his favoured striking role. Halliday had played in the position previously and had all the right attributes to be a success there so I thought I’d give it a try rather than risk someone from the reserves. Dungannon Swifts were in town, fresh from a draw at Ballymena United. The Swifts sat in 9th position, keen to see off the threat of relegation into the First Division as soon as possible.

Our thoughts remained at the other end of the table for now, and an early injury to Dungannon defender Scott Wilson made things a little easier as we went on the hunt for our thirteenth win of the league season. The game wasn’t quite as open as Wednesday evening at Bangor, but after Andy Smith forced Johnny Pollock into a fine reaction save Darren Armour powered home the rebound and we had the lead yet again. This time we were determined now to throw it away.

However, throw it away we did with former Linfield winger Miguel Chines taking great delight in beating Mark Glendinning to a loose ball and giving Elliott Morris no chance to make a save. He celebrated in arrogant fashion, cupping his hand to his ear and pointing at the name on his back. Police had to be brought in to calm down the Glentoran fans in his immediate vicinity.

The second half saw chance after chance fall our way though we failed to convert any. Rick Adair had arguably the best when played through in the 72nd minute but today he must have left his golden boots at home as he dragged his shot wide of the left-hand upright. The game looked destined for a draw until Mark Glendinning pulled down Chines and the referee pointed to the penalty spot. With four minutes left, I couldn’t think of anything worse.

Jonathan Torpey the ball on the spot and after drying his hands on his blue shirt, turned and hit the ball to Morris’ right. The former West Bromwich Albion goalkeeper guessed right, beating the ball away from goal. Conor Devine met the rebound only to hit it high over the bar and into the stand. We’d survived.

Glentoran 1 – Dungannon Swifts 1

Goals: Lockhart 1-0, Chines 1-1.

Attendance: 2,089

MoM: Miguel Chines (Dungannon) – Took great pleasure in scoring and had a fine game throughout.

[Gino]

The training curse continued with winger Kevin Keegan fracturing a jaw and requiring surgery and three weeks rest. Keegan had been pencilled in to replace the suspended in Wednesday’s clash with Ballymena United. Two days later Mark Glendinning broke a toe and would have to sit out at least three games. I was beginning to question my training techniques.

Having managed to go unbeaten all season, Coleraine’s Marty Quinn took the Manager of the Month award yet again, this time for February.

Wed 02.02.05

Ballymena United Vs Glentoran – Ballymena Showgrounds

Northern Irish Premier Division #20.

Glentoran 3-5-2: Elliott Morris – Sean Ward, Stephen Gourley, Chris Walker – Paul Leeman, Scott Young, Gavin Melaugh, Darren Lockhart – Andy Smith, Darren Armour, Rick Adair.

Weather: Dry, 3°C

With Glendinning missing and Michael Halliday back in the reserves, calls were made to Stephen Gourley and Scott Young and both were back in the side to take on 12th placed Ballymena United at the Showgrounds. With ten games remaining and a 13-point gap to close, this was the start of a series of ‘must win’ encounters.

We made the ideal start as with just three minutes on the clock Darren Armour raced into the Ballymena box before squaring to Andy Smith who lashed a shot past Robert Robinson and the travelling Glenmen erupted. It was just what we needed so early in the game and the perfect tonic for our fraught nerves. Goal two wasn’t far behind with Scott Young finishing off a slick move in the 20th minute for his tenth of the season. We simply had to hold onto it.

Things got even easier when Rick Adair returned to the scoresheet in the 28th minute, heading a Scott Young corner past Robinson and into the United goal. With the half-time news from Newry suggesting that Coleraine were trailing, we suddenly had reason to get a little bit excited. Adair’s second after the break increased the excitement further and with Newry extending their lead to 2-0, this was perhaps the one week where things went our way.

Darren Armour’s 20th of the season completed the win before Andy Smith’s second put the icing on the cake and assistant manager Jimmy Brown raced back into the dressing room to check the incoming scores on the radio. Newry had held on and done us a favour. With nine games remaining and a trip to Coleraine still to come, the game shortened to ten points.

Ballymena United 0 – Glentoran 6

Goals: Smith 1-0, Young 2-0, Adair 3-0, Adair 4-0, Armour 5-0, Smith 6-0.

Attendance: 5,158

MoM: Scott Young (Glentoran) – A goal and a hand in two others in another dominant midfield display.

[Gino]

I was beginning to expect injuries in training now, and Thursday and Friday’s session took care of both Paul Leeman (3 weeks, damaged shoulder) and Tommy McCallion (9 months, cruciate ligament damage).

Sat 05.02.05

Glentoran Vs Newry Town – The Oval, Belfast

Northern Irish Premier Division #21.

Glentoran 3-5-2: Elliott Morris – Jodie Hill, Stephen Gourley, Chris Walker – Sean Ward, Scott Young, Gavin Melaugh, Darren Lockhart – Andy Smith, Michael Halliday, Rick Adair.

Weather: Dry, 10°C

“With nine games of this Smirnoff Premier Division season remaining, Glentoran are again hoping a late charge is enough to claim the title. However this season, it might just not be enough, despite this impressive win over Newry Town extending their unbeaten run to eight league games. Coleraine have so far been simply too good and have been beaten just once, drawing twice.

Injuries are beginning to blight Glentoran’s run-in but Stan Ginozola continues to get the best out of his troops. Today’s injury list read like a who’s who of the Glentoran squad photo. Paul Leeman, Mark Glendinning, Kevin Keegan, Tommy McCallion, Damien McLaughlin, Richard Stanfield, Willie Hull and Jason Hill all played their part in last season’s title win as well as a big part this season though all are currently out injured. Somehow, Glentoran are marching on.

Today it was Newry Town’s turn to get turned over, starting in the fifth minute when a Gavin Melaugh cross gave Rick Adair his tenth goal for the club, amazing considering the short time he’s been here. He was soon backed up by striker partner Andy Smith who, keen to show supporters he was still the man, dispossessed Gareth McKeown and hit a low drive into the bottom corner.

The game was won before half-time with Andy Smith grabbing his 21st of the season. A corner from the right was diverted into his path and he made no mistake from twelve yards.

Elsewhere in the Smirnoff Premier, league leaders Coleraine saw off Glentoran’s nearest rivals Linfield with a 2-0 win at the Coleraine Showgrounds. At Ards, the home side climed to 4th with a 2-1 home win over Institute whilst at the other end of the table, Distillery boosted their hopes of survival with a 2-0 home win over Bangor.

Glentoran 3 – Newry Town 0

Goals: Adair 1-0, Smith 2-0, Smith 3-0.

Attendance: 2,147

MoM: Andy Smith (Glentoran) – Back to his best with a fine display and a two-goal game.

League Table – 21 Games: Coleraine (56pts); Glentoran (46pts); Linfield (39pts); Ards (35pts); Portadown (31pts); Limavady Utd (30pts); Cliftonville, Omagh (29pts); Larne, Dungannon (27pts); Bangor (25pts); Institute (24pts); Ballymena Utd (22pts); Newry (18pts); Glenavon (17pts); Distillery (15pts).

[Gino]

Northern Ireland Under21 boss Colin Quinn names his squad for the forthcoming game with Bulgaria and three Glentoran players are named in the twenty-two. Sean Ward will be looking to add to his two caps whilst both Marc Wilson and Jodie Hill will be looking to make their debuts.

In the first of the two County Antrim Shield semi-finals, Crusaders beat Ballymena United 2-0 to go through to the final. We play tomorrow against Cliftonville.

Two days after the Under21 squad is named, Andy Smith and Gavin Melaugh are called into the National squad. Andy Smith already has six caps and two goals to his name but its Gavin Melaugh’s first call-up and its nothing more than the quiet man deserves.

Wed 09.02.05

Cliftonville Vs Glentoran - Windsor Park

County Antrim Shield Semi-Final.

Glentoran 3-5-2: Elliott Morris – Jodie Hill, Gary Smyth, Stephen Gourley – Sean Ward, Tim McCann, Conor Walsh, Conor Dawson – Andy Smith, Jason Hill, Rick Adair.

Weather: Dry, 5°C

KL – “Hello and welcome to The Football Show on BBC Radio Belfast, 98.9FM with me Kenny Leeman. Tonight it’s cup semi-final time with Glentoran taking on Cliftonville at Windsor Park for a place in the final of the County Antrim Shield. We’ll keep you bang up to date with all the goings on as Glens boss Stan Ginozola looks to make his third cup final in just two seasons. Our man at Windsor Park is Gary Rogers and we can go live to him now. Gary, Stan Ginozola looks to have named an under-strength side for tonight’s game.

GR – “It’s looking that way Kenny, simply because of the recent injury crisis at The Oval. With so many first-team players out injured, he can’t afford to lose more at this stage of the season. Rick Adair starts however, so I’m sure Stan is confident his side can progress.

KL – “And he’s given debuts to Conor Walsh and Conor Dawson?

GR – “He has, both are tenacious midfielders. Conor Dawson has played once before, a late substitute in an end of season game during Roy Coyle’s final season at the club but it’ll be his first start under Ginozola. Dawson has been out on loan at Dergview and Loughall already this season, he’s well thought of at The Oval and he’ll have the chance to shine tonight. There are a good number of Glentoran fans at Windsor Park already.

7.54pm

KL – “There’s been a goal at Windsor Park, and it’s gone Glentoran’s way. Gary Rogers…

GR – “Indeed it has Kenny, and it’s big Gary Smyth who’s scored it. A corner on the right from Conor Dawson was only half-cleared, he got it back and with Smyth still lingering in the middle, whipped in a fine ball and all the big man had to do was nod it past Ben Mohan. A fine start for Stanley Ginozola’s men.â€

8:10pm

KL – “Now, last we checked Glentoran were leading 1-0, let’s see how things stand now with Gary Rogers…

GR – “It’s still 1-0 Glentoran and to be honest the goal has been the only high point of the game so far. Cliftonville are struggling to get the ball out of their own half. Rick Adair has come closest to a second goal, though he could only drag the bal wide from the edge of the area. It’s still Glentoran one, Cliftonville nil.â€

8:32pm

KL – “It’s half-time at Windsor Park, Gary Rogers…

GR – “The game has opened up slightly since my last report and Cliftonville have come back into the game. Anthony Lagan, always a threat from the right side, showed just why he’s so highly thought of with a neat run and shot that tested Elliott Morris though Conor Dawson did have the chance to double Glentoran’s lead seven before the break. A long ball from Gourley broke to the young midfielder on the edge of the area but again Mohan was equal to the shot. I’ll keep you informed but for now Glentoran still lead by one goal to nil.â€

9:15pm

KL – “Goal at Windsor Park, Gary Rogers…

GR – “It’s substitute Andy Smith who’s scored with what was surely his first touch. On to replace Darren Armour, he made his way straight to the back post as Conor Walsh’s corner was floated it. It missed everyone and Smith was on hand to turn the ball back towards goal and Ben Mohan was beaten. It’s surely game over now with just fifteen remaining, Glentoran through to the County Antrim Shield to face Crusaders.â€

9:24pm

KL – “News of a sending off at Windsor Park, let’s get over to our man Gary Rogers…

GR – “No one is too sure just what happened but as a long ball came over the top of the Glentoran defence, Gavin Gilmore dropped to the floor like a sack of spuds. Gary Smyth was closest to him and after consulting with his linesman, John Ferry issued a straight card. He was gesturing elbow so that might be the reason but for now Glentoran have thirteen minutes to hang on. It’s still Glentoran one, Cliftonville nil.â€

9:38pm

KL – “The final-whistle has gone at Windsor Park, but are Glentoran through?

GR – “They certainly are Kenny, but they made it hard for themselves. The sending off of Gary Smyth changed the game and Cliftonville threw everything at Elliott Morris’ goal. He held strong until deep into injury time when Anthony Lagan pulled a goal back but it wasn’t enough to force extra-time and Stan Ginozola will be pleased to advance through to the County Antrim Shield Final, especially after bowing out in the First Round last season on penalties to Ballyclare Comrades.â€

Cliftonville 1 – Glentoran 2

Goals: Smyth 0-1, Smith 0-2, Lagan 1-2.

Attendance: 13,467

MoM: Elliott Morris (Glentoran) – Made some outstanding saves to see us through.

[Gino]

Sat 12.02.05

Glentoran Vs Glenavon – The Oval, Belfast

Northern Irish Premier Division #22.

Glentoran 3-5-2: Elliott Morris – Jodie Hill, Stephen Gourley, Chris Walker – Sean Ward, Scott Young, Gavin Melaugh, Darren Lockhart – Andy Smith, Michael Halliday, Rick Adair.

Weather: Breezy, Wet 5°C

Glenavon came to town needing three points to help stave off the threat of relegation, though they had about as much chance of doing that as we had our overturning Coleraine’s ten point lead. We named what I considered our strongest side in recent weeks, with only Paul Leeman out due to injury. In his place came Stephen Gourley, slotting into defence as Ward covered Leeman in midfield.

The Glenmen were once again their in their numbers, praying for the impossible. They saw us get off to the ideal start, with Darren Armour linking well with Darren Lockhart to slot the opening goal past Karl Keating in the Glenavon goal from twelve yards. It was nothing more than we deserved and 1-0 became 2-0 in the 24th minute with Sean Ward latching onto a poor clearance to slam the ball home from twenty-five yards giving Keating no chance.

Glenavon’s chances for a comeback took a further denting in the second period with Wayne Ruddy pulling down Rick Adair when the young striker was sent clear by Armour. Referee Leslie Irvine had little option but to issue a straight red card. The visitors were making their game plan clear and a crude challenge on Darren Armour from player/manager Jim Magilton should really have been the game’s second dismissal. Only a yellow was shown and Armour was forced off the field on a stretcher.

Though I insisted we keep calm, Rick Adair couldn’t resist his own little dig and a late challenge caught Magilton late. A fifteen man brawl ensued though thankfully Irvine chose only to issue Adair with a yellow card. We finished the game by far the stronger side, fully deserving the late goals from Andy Smith and Scott Young that wrapped the game up at 4-0.

Back in the dressing room I flicked on BBC Belfast’s ‘Sports Report’ and listened in disbelief as Kenny Leeman read out the afternoon’s results. Portadown had thrashed Coleraine 6-0, giving the league leaders only their second defeat of the season.

Glentoran 4 – Glenavon 0

Goals: Armour 1-0, Ward 2-0, Smith 3-0, Young 4-0.

Attendance: 3,352

MoM: Stephen Gourley (Glentoran) – The young defender is taking to first-team football like a duck to water and making the place his own by right.

League Table – 22 Games: Coleraine (56pts); Glentoran (49pts); Linfield (42pts); Ards (36pts); Portadown (34pts); Omagh (32pts); Limavady Utd (31pts); Cliftonville, Dungannon (30pts); Larne (27pts); Bangor (26pts); Ballymena Utd (25pts); Institute (24pts); Newry (18pts); Glenavon (17pts); Distillery (15pts).

[Gino]

Speaking to the Belfast Telegraph after the game, I told chief Sports reporter Scott Davies that I was delighted with the way we had performed in recent weeks but wouldn’t be drawn into a prediction about who’d finish the season on top of the pile. In true Alex Ferguson-esqe mind games, I insisted I believed Coleraine were big enough and strong enough to maintain their lead, despite still having to come to The Oval before the season came to a close.

During the week, Darren Lockhart was added to the Northern Ireland squad for their forthcoming World Cup Qualification game with Romania. Lockhart’s addition meant we now had three players in Colin Quinn’s squad, the biggest percentage of any other club and most for an Irish league side in over thirty years.

Sat 19.02.05

Glentoran Vs Portadown – The Oval, Belfast

Irish Cup 6th Round.

Glentoran 3-5-2: Elliott Morris – Jodie Hill, Stephen Gourley, Mark Glendinning – Sean Ward, Scott Young, Gavin Melaugh, Darren Lockhart – Andy Smith, Michael Halliday, Rick Adair.

Weather: Breezy, Wet 4°C

The Irish Cup came around at the wrong time, giving both us and Coleraine a break from league action. Coleraine would be glad of the break, with the game against Cliftonville one that they would surely see as the chance to get back to winning ways. Meanwhile, our recent league form had been so impressive that the pressure was beginning to tell on the leaders and a defeat against Portadown could scupper our plans of another late assault on the title.

Portadown were in supreme form having beaten Coleraine so comfortably a week previous and it simply added to the spice already generated of a Glentoran Portadown clash. We last met in January a month earlier, where two late goals from Scott Young had given us a comfortable 5-2 victory. A similar result today would be tremendous. It wouldn’t be easy though, with Mark Glendinning in to replace Chris Walker who sat the game out with a thigh strain.

We had the better of the opening exchanges and deservedly took the lead after just eight minutes with a cross from Gavin Melaugh finished off by Rick Adair. It was a lead we were in no mood to give up and a twenty-five yard strike from Andy Smith, a change from his trademark poacher’s goal, sent us in at the break two goals to the good.

I made a couple of changes as the hour mark approached with Andy Smith giving way to Michael Halliday and Paul Leeman returning to action in place of Stephen Gourley. We continued to impress and a late penalty from Sean Ward following a foul on Melaugh saw us progress to the Quarter Finals with an impressive 3-0 win.

Glentoran 3 – Portadown 0

Goals: Adair 1-0, Smith 2-0, Young pen 3-0.

Attendance: 6,741

MoM: Rick Adair (Glentoran) – Another good performance backed up by his first Irish Cup goal as a Glentoran player.

[Gino]

The Irish FA faxed the results of the Quarter Finals draw to my office on Monday afternoon and we were drawn to face fellow Premier Division side Dungannon Swifts, fresh from beating Institute 1-0 in the 6th Round. Elsewhere, Distillery would meet with Coleraine, Limavady United played Larne and the winners of the Newry Vs Ballymena United would play the only remaining team outside the top flight still in the competition, Lurgan Celtic.

Wed 23.02.05

Glentoran Vs Lisburn Distillery – The Oval, Belfast

Northern Irish Premier Division #23.

Glentoran 3-5-2: Elliott Morris – Jodie Hill, Stephen Gourley, Chris Walker – Sean Ward, Michael Halliday, Kevin Keegan, Darren Lockhart – Andy Smith, Darren Armour, Rick Adair.

Weather: Breezy, Wet 3°C

Both Scott Young and Gavin Melaugh sat out the midweek league clash with Distillery, though Chris Walker was back in the side in place of Mark Glendinning having shaken off a thigh strain. Kevin Keegan and Michael Halliday lined up in midfield with Darren Armour back in attack. Distillery’s miserable run of form showed little sign of improvement and relegation to the First Division seemed inevitable.

We needed an early goal to kill off Distillery and we were fortunate to find one when a mistake from Distillery ‘keeper Phillip Matthews gifted Darren Armour with perhaps the easiest finish of his 22 goals scored this season. The second goal four minutes later was no fluke however, with Michael Halliday skilfully lobbing Matthews from the edge of the area. Both goals were greeted as though they were cup final winning strikes with the home supporters knowing just how crucial they could turn out to be.

Those in the home ends with radios would know that Coleraine were still drawing 0-0 away at Limavady United, as a disastrous own goal from Tony Bell increased our lead to 3-0. Only two or three fine stops from Matthews made sure things didn’t get embarrassing before the half-time whistle arrived. During the fifteen minutes interval, the PA announcer made everyone in the ground aware that Limavady had taken the lead.

The second half saw another impressive display. I chose to give Andy Smith the rest of the game off, bringing on John McAuley for a rare first-team appearance. The youngster had a hand in our fourth of the afternoon, flicking on into space for Rick Adair to chase, round Matthews and slot the ball into the unguarded net to put the icing on our cake.

Paul Leeman replaced Sean Ward, off in a purely precautionary substitution as we saw out the game with ease. McAuley added a fifth with his first senior league goal of the season (though he already had 3 in the County Antrim Shield) and the game was won. Over at Limavady, a late fight back saw Coleraine come from behind to secure a vital 3-2 victory with Gary Woods scoring the winning goal three minutes into injury time. We’d have to wait to make further ground on the league leaders.

Glentoran 5 – Lisburn Distillery 0

Goals: Armour 1-0, Halliday 2-0 Bell og 3-0, Adair 4-0, McAuley 5-0.

Attendance: 2,735

MoM: Michael Halliday (Glentoran) – A superb performance from midfield.

League Table – 23 Games: Coleraine (59pts); Glentoran (52pts); Linfield (45pts); Ards (36pts); Portadown (34pts); Omagh, Dungannon (33pts); Limavady Utd (31pts); Cliftonville (30pts); Bangor, Larne (27pts); Ballymena Utd (25pts); Institute (24pts); Glenavon (20pts); Newry (18pts); Distillery (15pts).

[Gino]

I was delighted with the win, and my feelings were backed up by Chairman Stafford Reynolds who went on record in the Belfast Telegraph signing the players’ praises. It wasn’t all sunshine and roses as Stephen Gourley’s booking meant he’d miss the next fixture, an away trip to Cliftonville, through suspension.

The defeat was bad news for Distillery boss Paul Kirk, with the Distillery board thought to be losing patience with their man. The Belfast Telegraph speculated that a poor result in the next game may well seal his fate. Elsewhere around the country, Ballymena’s replay win over Newry Town saw them through to face Lurgan Celtic in the Quarter Finals of the Irish Cup.

Sat 26.02.05

Cliftonville Vs Glentoran – Solitude, Belfast

Northern Irish Premier Division #24.

Glentoran 3-5-2: Elliott Morris – Jodie Hill, Gary Smyth, Chris Walker – Sean Ward, Scott Young, Gavin Melaugh, Darren Lockhart – Andy Smith, Darren Armour, Rick Adair.

Weather: Dry, 14°C

The pleasant weather makes a welcomed return as we cross town to Solitude, home of Cliftonville. Changes are again the order of the day with Gary Smyth coming in in place of Stephen Gourley, Scott Young replacing Michael Halliday and Gavin Melaugh back in the side instead of Kevin Keegan.

Early goals have occurred often in recent matches but there was no of that today with Cliftonville fighting for every inch of possession. We have the chances, particularly Scott Young who balloons over the bar on two occasions when released by Melaugh and Darren Lockhart. Half-time arrives with the game deadlocked at 0-0.

Cliftonville’s season appears to be heading towards acceptable mid-table obscurity so there is little reaction to Scott Young’s goal four minutes after the break, as he finally gets it right and drives low past goalkeeper Ben Mohan to give us the lead. It’s just what we require and we soon build on it with Rick Adair meeting a Lockhart cross to double our lead. Minutes later, Chris Walker is again replaced with Paul Leeman coming onto the field. The captain’s armband is passed back to Elliott Morris.

Another change is required when Gavin Melaugh comes off worst in a challenge with sixteen year-old Neil McFarland. John McAuley comes onto the field with Darren Armour moving back into Melaugh’s role on the right of midfield. We continue to show our dominance with Smith and McAuley both having opportunities to extend our lead though neither are taken. The late sending off for defender Tom McKenna kills off Cliftonville’s fight and we see out the game with a 2-0 scoreline. It’s a terrific win over our arch-rivals.

Over at Coleraine, Bangor have held the league leaders to a 0-0 draw so we claw back two points closer to the title.

Cliftonville 0 Vs Glentoran 2

Goals: Young 1-0, Adair 2-0.

Attendance: 2,978

MoM: Rick Adair (Glentoran) – Another goal, another fine performance, another £10,000 on his asking price.

League Table – 24 Games: Coleraine (60pts); Glentoran (55pts); Linfield (48pts); Portadown (37pts); Ards, Omagh (36pts); Dungannon (33pts); Limavady Utd (31pts); Cliftonville, Larne (30pts); Bangor, Ballymena Utd (28pts); Institute (24pts); Glenavon (23pts); Newry (18pts); Distillery (15pts).