Man of Match

Turkington, who has recently been kept out of the starting line-up by the now injured Cameron Grieve, finally showed the sort of performance that earned him last year’s Player of the Season awards.

The full-back put in a series of vital challenges, most notably on Ryan Henderson when he looked set to punish Glenavon midway through the second half. Turkington also showed a lot of skill, looking calm on the ball on a somewhat bumpy surface and was unlucky not to have found himself on the scoresheet with his 81st minute header.

Substitute striker Andrew Mitchell also impressed after coming on.

The 18 year-old was strong and held the ball up well and also showed a quick turn of pace, always looking to run direct at goal. On another day he would have found the net and if he continues these sorts of performances, goals won’t be far away.

Boss Gary Hamilton was also delighted with the displays of both players, and tips Mitchell for a big footballing future.

“Mark Turkington was the best player on the pitch by an absolute mile. He was excellent in every way,” said the gaffer.

“I don’t think it’s any coincidence that it came in the first time Turk and Kyle Neill have played together since the win over Crusaders. They’re comfortable playing together. We played well in that Crusaders match and again on Saturday we created a lot of chances.

“Andrew Mitchell’s performance was very, very pleasing as well. Like myself, Andrew grew up supporting Glenavon and his parents are big Glenavon fans so it was a proud moment for his whole family.

“He did very well and was unfortunate not to have got a couple of goals. It wasn’t to be for him but he was a handful up top and it’s great for the club to have a young guy like him coming through.

“He did himself no harm and there’s a good chance he will play next week. He’s a young boy and he’s got to work hard because he’s got all the makings of a good centre-forward.

He can hold the ball up, win headers, he’s quick and he’s strong as well so if he works hard and listens, then he has a good future in front of him.”