Glenavon bounce back in style

Goals from Kris Lindsay, Guy Bates (2) and Ciaran Martyn gave the Lurgan Blues a 4-1 win over the visitors.

“We just wanted to bounce back from the League Cup defeat in front of our own fans and we did that emphatically,” said First Team Coach Nigel Law.

“From start to finish we dominated in terms of the energy levels, possession and certainly the chances in the game.

“We were disappointed to concede but we were pleased with how we responded.”

Among the goalscorers was Ciaran Martyn, who last week signed a new 18-month deal to stay at Mourneview Park.

“Ciaran’s arrival co-incided with our decision to reshape how we play and Ciaran’s role within that system has been pivotal,” the Glenavon coach added.

“He’s known up and down the land as a midfielder who likes to score goals.

“Off the ball his workrate is phenomenal and he adds balance to the team so we are delighted to have him.”

The hosts took a sixth minute lead after Kris Lindsay had been fouled by United’s Aaron Stewart. Guy Bates scored with the resulting free kick, 20 yards from goal, with the shot taking a big deflection on the way in.

Ballymena were level three minutes later when Jamie Davidson did well to hold Lindsay off, carrying the ball into the box and taking his chance well with a left-footed drive.

Glenavon were playing some fantastic fluid football as the half wore on and deservedly went back in front on 39 minutes. Niall Henderson delivered a free kick and Lindsay was left free to head his first goal for the Lurgan Blues.

The Lurgan Blues moved two goals clear when Martyn slotted home after the impressive Bates had backheeled a through-ball from Andy McGrory.

And the win was sealed on 85 minutes when Henderson slid a pass through for Bates to slot home.

Glenavon: Coleman, Hagan, Haughey, Lindsay (c), Turkington, McGrory, Martyn, Kilmartin, Henderson, Bates, Mitchell. Subs: McCashin, Greenaway, McDade, Ballard, Hamilton

Ballymena Utd.: Addis, Kane, Munster, Vauls, Black, Stewart, Jenkins (c), Surgenor, Cushley, Teggart, Davidson. Subs: Costello, Bingham, Foster, Lowry, McCabe.