Gary gives Whites New Year hope

His exploits could not have come at a more crucial time as the Whites take on fellow strugglers Glenavon in Lurgan on Saturday.

Manager John Cunningham revealed a little pep talk with his striker reaped dividends.

“I had a chat with Gary about his overall performances and told him while goals come easy to him we need him to do much more and he really worked and played superbly on Saturday,” said Cunningham.

“It was a big game to win and ended that long wait for a victory in the league but we must use this as a stepping stone.

“We have been playing well over the last six or seven weeks without getting the rewards. We have taken points off the top teams but we must beat those in and around us.”

The last visit to Lurgan saw the Whites crash to a 5-2 defeat. “That gave them a big lift at the time, but they have not really moved on from that. Hopefully we will not make the same mistakes this time and if we work hard and stick to our jobs then we have every chance of getting something from the game. Every game is going to be a battle from here on in,” added the boss.

Cunningham has yet to appoint a replacement for his number two following the departure of Glenn Ferguson to Ballymena United.

“I have had a chat with a couple of people but as yet that is as far as it goes,” said the Whites’ boss.

Cunningham also said he would like to add some ‘strength and depth’ to the squad during the transfer window.

“I have a couple of players in mind that I would like to bring in but we will have to wait and see how things develop during the transfer window.”

Lisburn Distillery supporters thank Glenn Ferguson for his help over the past few years, as a player and as assistant manager.

The Lisburn Distillery Supporters Bus is on the road again this Saturday for the game at Glenavon.

The bus will leave Lisburn Train Station at 2pm. Visitors welcome.