Glenavon go second after win over Carrick

Glenavon move up the Danske Bank Premiership into second spot after a 2-0 win over Carrick Rangers at Mourneview Park on Friday night.

Gary Hamilton's side endured a nervous night in front of goal before a Sammy Clingan penalty and a late strike from striker Andrew Mitchell sealed a deserved victory.

The Lurgan Blues should and could have had the points sewn up before the break as they dominated the first half, but failed to take their chances in front of goal.

Mark Sykes, Andrew Mitchell, Adam Foley and James Singleton all failed to find the Carrick net and as a result Carrick were still in the game as the teams went into the break scoreless.

It was a similar pattern after the restart with Glenavon firmly in control and it was no surprise when they eventually broke the ice on 65 minutes.

It came from a penalty after substitute Jordan Jenkins went down in the box after a challenge by Paddy McNally and referee Keith Kennedy pointed to the spot.

Sammy Clingan made no mistake beating Doherty in the Carrick goal to put Glenavon ahead 1-0.

Carrick had few chances on the night but could have snatched an equaliser when Stuart McMullan met a corner by Mark Edgar, but his effort flew over the bar.

Glenavon continued to dominate and after Josh Daniels hit the post, Mitchell secured the win on 86 minutes with a superb finish to end the contest.