Glentoran manager Declan Devine expressed satisfaction in securing what he believes could be “a hugely important point for us in the end” following Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Coleraine at the Oval.
Trailing Irish Premiership leaders Larne by four points, the Glens head into the post-split fixtures following a thrilling encounter in east Belfast.
After a lengthy stoppage due to an injury to Coleraine striker James Akintunde early in the match, Jamie McGonigle put Coleraine ahead in the 44th minute. However, the visitors were reduced to 10 men shortly thereafter when Rowan McDonald was sent off for a challenge on Pat Hoban.
Jordan Stewart then equalized for Glentoran, but Hoban’s penalty was saved by Ryan Schofield.
“It was crucial that we didn’t lose this game. While we would have preferred to score the penalty, you have to credit their goalkeeper for an outstanding save,” Devine remarked to BBC Sport NI after the match.
“Pat put a lot of power behind it, and the character our players demonstrated was immense. We were disappointed at halftime, but the energy we showed in the second half made it worth taking the point.”
Devine also commended goalscorer Stewart and the overall effort of his team.
“Jordan Stewart displayed his quality numerous times, and getting to the back post to score was huge for us,” he noted. “The players deserve commendation for their effort and commitment over the past week. While we may not have been as fluid, you can’t underestimate this team’s determination to keep pushing until the end.”
On the opposite side, Coleraine manager Ruaidhri Higgins felt his team deserved more from the match and voiced his “disgust” over the decisions that led to his side’s red card and the penalty awarded against them.
“I’m really proud of the players, but I am disgusted once again at the Oval considering everything that happened,” Higgins stated. “This is our livelihood, and our players and staff are full-time professionals. The last time we played here, we were ahead and comfortable before a red card and penalty went against us; this time we faced similar situations.”
“We were in full control on a challenging pitch against two good sides, scored a brilliant goal, and truly deserved more. The penalty save offered a bit of justice, and I strongly disagree with both the penalty and the red card decisions.”