Billy Crellin, having had to prove his patience, is eager to now push forward at pace as the last line of defence in Glentoran’s bid for glory.

The 26-year-old former England youth international still within his first year of life at The Oval is expected to clock up a fourth consecutive appearances today when the Glens host Crusaders.

Six points and two clean sheets either side of a ‘Big Two’ derby defeat to Linfield over three Premiership tests with Crellin between the posts have marked an interesting start to the season – with the goalkeeper relishing the chance to keep grabbing gains.

“As a goalkeeper, only one of you can play, so you have to be patient and ready when your opportunity comes,” said Crellin. “Unfortunately, Andrew (Mills) picked up an injury before the league season started...although that presented me with an opportunity to play, I was disappointed for him because we are good friends and have a brilliant working relationship.

placeholder image — Glentoran goalkeeper Billy Crellin. (Photo by Glentoran FC)

“We always support each other and push one another hard in training because we know that healthy competition benefits the team.

“Elliott (Morris, goalkeeper coach) is always there for us as well and has been brilliant to work with since I joined Glentoran.

"It was great to see him back on the bench and kitted out again (in recent weeks) because he is such a legend, I think he enjoyed it too.

“I have really enjoyed the games so far – despite the defeat to Linfield – and I feel I have given a good account of myself.

“It is always about improving, maintaining high standards and continuing to push yourself every day.

“We all want what is best for Glentoran and are determined to do everything we can to help the club succeed.”

Crusaders share the Glens’ points tally of six points, having regrouped from last season’s relegation fight won ultimately via the play-off path against Championship-based Annagh United.

“It is still early in the season and there is very little between the teams, but we don’t want to find ourselves playing catch-up,” said Crellin. “We have to kick on again and make sure we get the results to back up our performances.

“I think Crusaders have kicked on this season after what was a difficult campaign for them last time out.

“The experience they gained from that has probably helped and made them even more determined not to find themselves in the same position again.

“They lost to Cliftonville on the opening night, which could have affected them, but they have responded in style...they recorded an excellent win against Ballymena and then picked up another three points against Portadown on Saturday.

“Those results will have given them plenty of confidence...they will come believing they can get another positive result.

“They have several players who can cause problems…we have to focus on ourselves and make sure our levels are where we want and need them to be.”

Glentoran have confirmed Rhys Walsh’s season-long loan move to Annagh.

The 20-year-old winger and former Academy graduate at Glentoran returned to the club on a long-term contract across the summer following over two years on the books with Sunderland AFC in England.