McDaid is ready to fight for title glory

Ex-Coleraine and Derry City striker David McDaid believes Saturday’s dramatic draw at Crusaders proves Cliftonville are up for the fight this season.
David McDaid.David McDaid.
David McDaid.

The Reds kept the title race interesting with some late heroics at the home of the champions.

Trailing 2-0 to Jordan Forsythe’s opener and Billy Joe Burns’ penalty, Cliftonville hit back with a superb free-kick from McDaid and an 88th-minute header from Jay Donnelly.

“If we had lost that gap would have been 11 points. That gap would probably be a bridge too far, especially with the way Crusaders are playing,” McDaid said.

“They are maybe not playing their best football, but they are scraping by the getting results. So it was important not to lose today and keep that gap at eight points.

“We just have to keep working hard – simple as that. We only drew, but to come from behind is a psychological boost.

“We will now go about our business against Warrenpoint on New Year’s Day. We showed great character, and we have big players in that changing room. It will give us a lift.”