Ballinamallard 2-1 Carrick Rangers

It was tough going at times, but character came to the fore for the Mallards who recorded a vital victory over relegation rivals Carrick Rangers tonight.

That result moves us off the bottom of the table and two points ahead of Rangers with two games remaining.

Shane McGinty, who put in a sensational performance, opened the scoring on 40 minutes when he turned in midfield, drove forward and smashed a shot into the net from 25 yards giving goalkeeper Harry Doherty no chance.

It got even better for Ballinamallard 9 minutes after half time when Sean Noble pounced on a defensive error to score from an acute angle for his sixth goal since signing in January.

However with 25 minutes remaining Darren Henderson pulled a goal back for the visitors, sliding the ball under Richard Brush. That goal lifted David McAlinden's side who then had a goal ruled out for offside whilst at the other end, Matthew Smyth seen his header cleared off the line.

With the clock ticking down nerves started to kick in but the Mallards stood firm to take the 3 points!

After the game McConkey commented, "It's just another 3 points and brings us closer to a playoff. They have to chase us now but our focus turns to Ards on Saturday"

"I thought we deserved the win tonight, but it was tough and the players character came to the fore"

"Gavin made some important signings and he deserves credit for that. I've tried to add to that and I'm thrilled with our progress, but we won't get ahead of ourselves"