IRISH LEAGUE: Eddie Patterson sacked as Glentoran manager following 2-0 win over Carrick Rangers

Carrick's Gary Browne brings down Glentoran defender Marcus Kane

Eddie Patterson was sacked as Glentoran manager following Saturday’s 2-0 win against Carrick Rangers.

Late goals from Stephen McAlorum and Conor McMenamin saw the Glens record back-to-back victories for the first time this season.

But despite the quick-fire double over Carrick – who they defeated in the JBE League Cup in midweek – the axe has fallen on Patterson.

It brings to an end Patterson’s three-and-a-half-year reign at The Oval, where he won the Irish Cup in 2013 and ‘15.

Director of Football Roy Coyle will take over until a permanent successor is found.

Former players Paul Leeman, Gary Smyth and Pat McGibbon have all been linked with the post.

In a statement, Glentoran blamed disappointing performances and the club’s Premiership position – they currently lie seventh – for Patterson’s exit.

“The club wishes to thank Eddie for his commitment and contribution to Glentoran over the past four years,” the statement read.

“He assumed the position at a period of serious challenge and transition for the club and the two Irish Cup victories achieved during his tenure will ensure that Eddie has claimed a positive place in the long history of Glentoran.

“However, the Board of Directors are concerned at league performances this season so far and deterioration in our league position in each of the last three seasons. Glentoran is a club where supporters reasonably expect year on year progression with our league position and to be challenging for Europe through the league. Unfortunately this has not happened.

“The club will now seek to appoint a new manager who will build for both this season and the future through focus on the progression of our Development Squad and our exceptional Academy as well as the first team. We will also expect the next manager to develop a coherent succession plan that will see Glentoran succeed through the next few pivotal years and beyond.

“We are sure all Glentoran supporters will thank Eddie for his efforts and wish him the very best for the rest of his career both in and out of football.”

Patterson - who signed a new two-year deal in the summer - signed off with a 2-0 win over Carrick on Saturday.

Captain McAlorum broke the deadlock in the 83rd minute with a cool finish.

Substitute Conor McMenamin completed the victory with a left-foot finish in stoppage time.

GLENTORAN: Morris, Garrett, Kane, Holland, Scullion (Smith 81), Allen, McCaffrey (McMenamin 62), McAlorum, Addis, Gordon, Gray (Gibson 46).

Subs not used: McCullough, Hogg.

CARRICK: Neeson, Traynor, Surgenor, Cherry (McCaul 73), McCloskey, Kane, Johnston (Roy 87), Doyle, Browne, Taggart, Miskimmin (Dick 80).

Subs not used: McNeill, Keenan