Report By Glenn Kelly
Shay McCartan struck a second-half double as Glentoran ran out 2-0 winners against Belfast rivals Crusaders.
McCartan’s first sparked controversy as he appeared to use his hand to knock the ball into the net as he jumped to head the ball at the back post. Fierce protests followed from the visitors, however referee Tony Clarke allowed the goal to stand. There was no disputing McCartan’s second, a long range free-kick which settled the contest.
The first half was largely uneventful with Crues midfielder Jude Winchester coming closest to scoring. His cross-come-shot striking the far Glentoran post just beyond the head of Declan Caddell.
Glentoran only needed two minutes of second half action before taking the lead. McCartan appeared to have headed home from close range, however, a second look showed the ball struck the hand. Crusaders were furious but their protests were in vein as the goal stood.. Just six minutes later, McCartan was at it again. This time there was no controversy as the Glens’ man made it 2-0 with a free-kick from 25 yards. Jonny Tuffey in the Crusaders goal got a hand to the ball but he wasn’t strong enough to keep it out of the net.
The remainder of the match before a tetchy and bad-tempered affair with bookings for either side. No more goals followed and the game finished 2-0 to the hosts. The win was the third in a row for new manager Rodney McAree as his charges moved 6th. Crusaders lose ground on the leaders and will hope for improvement in their next game against Bangor this weekend in the Irish Cup.