Newry City's result in the BetMcLean Cup 'sends another message out', says Stuart King as they eliminate another Premiership opposition

An early goal by Keith Dalton proved to be the difference as City made it a Mid-Ulster double after ousting Portadown in the previous round.

Glenavon, who are bottom of the Premiership, were restricted to very few opportunities as their dismal start to the season continued.

But it was joy for Newry as they are now in the hat for the quarter-final draw, and when asked to sum-up his thoughts on the victory, King told the club’s social media platforms: “It's phenomenal...I genuinely think the lads have been outstanding the last load of weeks.

"They've now beat two Premiership teams – it's ridiculous, to be honest with you. I've told the lads, with great respect, this club hasn't won many Premiership games in recent times.

"Really good, started off really well, scored an unbelievable goal, but limited Glenavon to very little. I don't think Jason Craughwell had a save to make.

"We've had one or two really good opportunities where we could have won a wee bit easier, but listen, it's a massive result for our club. It sends another message out.

"We're in the quarter-final of one of the biggest competitions in the country, so, listen, they deserve massive praise. They've been phenomenal.

"Their attitude, their endeavour, the will to win...even the will to keep clean sheets at the minute, honestly it's top drawer.”

King took the reins at the Newry Showgrounds in the summer following their relegation to the Premier Intermediate League.

A host of new players also joined as they plot their way back to the Championship and the City chief believes the togetherness and team spirit is there for all to see.

He explained: “All fans want to be proud of their team and of people who work hard. If you work hard, then you'll always have fans on side.

"I generally think that my lads are producing the goods, of course they are, but it’s the togetherness, the small things.

"Going for breakfast on Saturday, getting the bus together, having a beer, which I don't mind that if they get results.

"We had a bit of banter on the bus on the way home on Saturday and it's carried through to today.

"You can see the desire to keep the ball out of our net. Credit to Glenavon they came out second half and they moved the ball a lot quicker, they went forward a lot quicker, but we won first and second headers, and first and second balls.”

So, who does King want a rattle at in the final eight of the competition?

He responded: “I do know, but I'm not going to tell you because I might get egg on my face. Of course, there's someone I want.

"I genuinely didn't think we'd be in the quarter-finals of the League Cup. It's all credit to my players and at this point, we'll take anybody at home.”