Dean Smith Commends Loughgall’s Character in Glentoran Draw

Loughgall, who currently sit at the bottom of the Irish Premiership table, saw their manager Dean Smith commend his team’s “tremendous character” following their 2-2 draw against Glentoran at Lakeview Park. Glentoran took an early lead after just two minutes, with Dylan Connolly scoring against the league’s last-placed team. However, the home side swiftly equalized through Lewis Francis from close range. Nathaniel Ferris then gave Loughgall the advantage in the 22nd minute. Despite this, Charlie Lindsay secured a leveling goal for Glentoran, known as “the Glens,” in the 64th minute. Smith expressed satisfaction with the draw, considering his team’s recent difficulties. Speaking to BBC Sport NI, Smith remarked, “It was an old-fashioned blood and thunder game and when you go 1-0 down after 90 seconds you’re thinking ‘here we go again’ but tremendous character from the boys.” He added that “For long periods of the game we were every bit as good as Glentoran and on the counter attack we were really dangerous.” Smith acknowledged a degree of frustration regarding the goals his team conceded, noting their inability to maintain their lead for what would have been a valuable three points. He concluded by stating, “I’m disappointed with the goals we give away, but given the opposition we would have taken a point before the game so we’re happy.”