Northern Ireland round-up: Derby joy for Glentoran
Monday, October 14, 2002
Article summary
Glentoran FC came from two goals down to secure a 3-2 win over Linfield FC in the Belfast derby.
Article body
Glentoran FC came from two goals down to secure a 3-2 victory over Linfield FC in the Belfast derby at the weekend with the former Northern Ireland international Michael O'Neill getting the winner.
Looking bleak
Things were soon looking bleak for Glentoran who were bottom of the Irish league after being deducted 12 points for fielding an illegible player. Linfield were quickly into their stride and took a two-goal lead through Stephen Collier and Ryan McCann.
Halliday header
However, striker Michael Halliday started the revival with a header and moments later the east Belfast side were level when Andy Smith got on the scoresheet. And the scoring and the comeback were complete before half-time when the 33-year-old O'Neill arrived at the back post to guide home the lively Smith's overhead kick. "It was nice to come back from a dreadful start," O'Neill said, "and better still for me to score the winner in my second-ever Belfast derby."
Portadown hit six
The victory lifts Glentoran to third from bottom, eleven points behind the champions Portadown FC, who beat their neighbours, Glenavon FC, 6-0 at Shamrock Park. It was a sensational performance from Ronnie McFall's side outfit.
Arkins double
Peter McCann opened the scoring and captain Vinny Arkins twice hit the target as Portadown took top spot on goal difference from Omagh Town FC who beat Coleraine FC 1-0. Andy Crawford scored the game's only goal after a defensive error to put further strain on Coleraine manager Marty Quinn.
Institute beaten
In the weekend's other action, Ards FC beat Institute FC 3-0 at Taylor's Avenue as the Drumahoe team's away form continues to let them down. Institute FC remain in third place, three points behind Portadown and Omagh Town. Newry Town FC's new manager Jim O'Rourke enjoyed his first league win, the home side beating Lisburn Distillery FC 1-0. Damien Curran got the only goal. Finally, in the North Belfast derby, bottom of the table Crusaders FC beat Cliftonville FC 1-0 with Gavin Arthur scoring the decider.
