DECLAN Devine is sure good times lie ahead for Glentoran.
Derry man Devine’s east Belfast giants beat Dungannon Swifts 1-0 at the Oval after a stunning last-minute strike by Danny Amos broke the deadlock – and Dungannon hearts.
That was enough to settle what was otherwise a dour struggle between the teams in second and third, with the Glens extending their lead over the Swifts to four points with two matches in hand.
Champions-elect Linfield – who drew 2-2 at Ballymena on Friday night – are 17 points clear at the top, having played two matches more than their fierce rivals.
Devine said: “A bit of magic from a magic player, Danny Amos is a very talented boy.
“It was a difficult game, a tough game.
“The team deserves huge credit, they are very resilient, they keep going right to the end. We didn’t play all that well but we won and that’s a good quality to have. There’s a real hunger and desire in this team.”
Glentoran already have the Co Antrim Shield in the trophy cabinet this season – thanks to victory over Larne last month – with the League Cup final against Cliftonville and an Irish Cup quarter-final at Championship leaders Bangor still to come.
Devine added: “The potential of this club is enormous. The following is incredible. The crowd really stayed with us against Dungannon – there was no anxiety from the crowd.
“There are so many kids coming to matches now – that’s so important. The fans come out in their numbers.
“There’s a brilliant rapport between the supporters and the players which is key. The players give everything. This club has so much growth still to come.
“If we can get this wonderful old stadium sorted out, you really give yourself a chance of having a brilliant future.”
Larne’s fast-fading hopes of a hat-trick of titles were dented further with a 1-0 defeat against Crusaders at Inver Park, Jordan Forsythe heading home the only goal after 31 minutes.
The defeat leaves Larne a whopping 22 points behind the Blues with five matches in hand, accrued due to European commitments.
The two teams clash at Windsor Park on Tuesday night (7.45pm).
Rhyss Campbell scored on 76 minutes to give Coleraine a 1-0 victory at Carrick Rangers.
Cliftonville face Portadown at Solitude on Sunday afternoon (3pm).