Lack of quality in East Antrim derby but draw is fair result

However Larne manager Davy McAlinden was disappointed in the lack of quality in his side’s play.

He said: “We couldn’t muster any sort of quality to break them down as I think they came for a draw. I don’t think there was any quality on show from either side. It is the first time I think we have gone two games without scoring which is very disappointing.

“We started well but then went back to hoofing the ball forward which is disappointing as a manager as that is not what we do in training and it is not our normal game. It looks as if the players maybe too anxious and want to get rid of it but we need to sort that out.”

Larne Captain Paul Maguire shared his manager’s concerns, he said: “I don’t think we deserved to win or lose so a draw was a fair result. I missed a few chances myself which I probably should have scored but when things are not going for you that is what happens.

“The heads are down a little but I don’t know the reason. Training has been great and even the warm up before the game was top class. Then we go into the game and it is like panic stations get rid of the ball and let someone else deal with it. We will keep working hard, work through it and get back on track”

Ballyclare Comrades manger Stephen Hughes was encouraged by the Ballyclare’s desire to play football, he said: “It wasn’t a classic but we knew it would be hard fought as it is a hard place to come. We have a turned a corner in the last three or four games and I thought we were good value for the point we got as we have great spirit in the team.

“Our keeper had only one real save to make whereas Billy Brennan made three outstanding saves. We have been encouraging the players to play football and we are bringing through young players. We will now keep focusing on our own games and not relying on other results as they are all big ones for us to the end of the season.”

Comrades’ goalkeepers Paddy Flood said: “The manager sat us all down and told us a few weeks ago we were facing nine cup finals and we have taken four points out of six in the derby games against Larne so we are very happy.

“I was delighted to get a point as it was a scrappy game but Larne almost snatched it at the end but I was able to make the save. I thought overall we had the better chances but Billy Brennan made some great saves.

“We are playing with a bit of confidence and every player is working hard and we are all enjoying it.”