All-square at Seaview after Daniels wonder goal
Birthday boy seals point for Glenavon with volley
Crusaders 1 Glenavon 1
Josh Daniels celebrated his 23rd birthday last night – in some style.
The Glenavon winger (main pic) secured a point for his side at Crusaders after a spectacular volley late in the game.
It was no more than Gary Hamilton’s side deserved after falling behind to a powerful David Cushley (below)strike at the end of the first half.
Glenavon looked the more likely to score in the second 45 – and had it not been for the brilliance of Crues keeper Sean O’Neill, they may have bagged all three points.
The away side pressed for an equaliser from the start – with Andy Mitchell going close twice, his second shot striking the post.
But then on the 78th minute after some neat build-up play started by Reece Marshall, Daniels volleyed home that goal.
Sub Robbie Norton went close with a couple of long-range efforts as the visitors pushed for a winner.
Then Hamilton brought himself on with just a few minutes left on the clock.
The result leaves Crusaders in third spot – with their hopes of retaining the title all but gone. They are eight points behind leaders Linfield having played two more games.
Ballymena are in second spot – six points adrift with a game still to play.
The top two come face to face this afternoon at Windsor Park – the second time the two sides have met in a week.
Last Saturday, they contested a closely-fought BetMcLean League Cup final – with an Andy Waterworth strike sealing victory for the Blues.
Elsewhere today, Coleraine take on Glentoran with Institute hosting Dungannon Swifts.
Warren Feeney takes charge of bottome club Ards for the first time as they entertain Newry City – in a must-win game for both sides.
Finally, Warrenpoint are at home to Cliftonville.
Kick-off 3pm.