Championship 1: Larne 2 Dergview 0

The Reds showed real character in this game recovering from a below-par first-half to totally dominate.

“We were good in the second-half after a frustrating first-half,” said manager, Davy McAlinden. “The players knew they hadn’t done some things well in the first-half and I didn’t need to shout at them or anything at the break. Their manager just told me the best team had won which was nice to hear.”

“They have been doing really well and were difficult to break down but in the second half there was only going to be one winner,” he added. “We lost a few on the bounce, we are now on a good run but it can change very quickly. There will be ups and downs but to get the three points is very pleasing, however I will only discuss the league table next April.”

Dergview had the bulk of the possession in the opening half with Nathan Cashel twice firing over the bar when well placed, but it was the home side who went closest to going in front.

Ciaran Murray saw his shot scrambled clear before Stuart McMullan struck the crossbar.

With 66 minutes gone, Paul Maguire rattled the upright but substitute Gerard Gillan was on hand to grab the lead.

Within two minutes the advanatge was doubled. An in-swinging corner from Stuart King found Maguire and his glancing header flew inside the upright.

King was denied Larne’ third in the dying seconds. A firm shot from 12 yards beat the keeper but hit the post.

LARNE: Connolly, Todd (Scott 70), Davison (Smyth 60), McClean, Reynolds, McMullen, Irvine, King, E.Gillan (G. Gillan 46), Maguire, Murray. Subs not used: McCabe, Thompson.