Second-half success in front of goal for Town

The home side held the upper hand against Rangers in terms of possession but sights of goal proved limited before the break.

Kyle Cousins’ control off an upfield punt resulted in a shot against the crossbar before half-time.

Rangers enjoyed a strong finish to the first half but hard work restricted the attacking threat to efforts from distance.

Goalkeeper Conor Ward proved sharp between the posts on his debut and Lurgan Town increased the pressure after the interval.

The hosts dominated possession across the second half and the opening goal arrived when Jamie Weir skipped past his marker and delivered a cross into the danger area.

David Hamilton’s knockdown was turned home with a close-range finish by Johnny Hoey.

Lurgan Town moved the ball around the pitch and crafted a second goal when Cousins gained the crucial touch on James McNally’s free-kick delivery.

Hoey then whipped across a teasing ball which Weir headed home with a powerful attempt. Robin Carson also claimed a decisive touch on the goalbound effort.

“It was a solid performance by Lurgan Town,” said a club spokesman. “We managed to avoid a potential banana skin.

“It gets us back to winning ways after a couple of difficult cup games.”

Lurgan Town officials would like to thank McAteer Car body repair of Dromara (Terry 07709179982) for sponsorship.

The Mid-Ulster Football League transfers for September were as follows: Paul Hobson (Downshire YM-Lower Maze), Darreen Marshall (Downshire YM-Lower Maze), Jamie Burns (AFC Craigavon-Craigavon City), Dylan Mateer (Knockbreda-Lower Maze), Lee Haire (Annagh Utd-AFC Craigavon).