Glenavon FC secured a key 1-0 victory over Championship leaders Newington at Mourneview Park on Saturday. The win, sealed by a late own goal, lifts the Lurgan side to fifth in the table with 14 points from eight games.
Michael O’Connor’s team dominated possession for long spells but found Newington goalkeeper Ethan Carry in stubborn form. Mark Byrne made a diving save to deny Darren Stuart’s early header, while Carry produced a full-length stop to keep out a Paddy Burns effort and later saved from Ethan Devine.
Jordan McMullan and Ryan Waide also went close for the hosts, but the breakthrough arrived in the 76th minute. Substitute Deaglan Healy sent Jude Johnson clear down the right and his driven cross was turned into his own net by defender Aodhfionn Casey under pressure.
Newington pushed for a late equaliser, winning two corners and a free-kick 25 yards out, but Glenavon held firm. Manager Michael O’Connor said his side collected a thoroughly deserved three points.
The result sees Glenavon close the gap to the top of the Championship to just three points. Their recent form shows two wins, two draws and one loss from their last five outings, a sequence you can review on our standings page.
Alex Watson and substitute Matthew Henderson received late yellow cards for the hosts. Referee Finton Coyle also booked three Newington players.
Glenavon now turn their attention to a home fixture against Loughgall on Friday, 25 September.
Further reading: Glenavon Football Club
