Jim Magilton praise for 'outstanding' Cliftonville star after fine Irish League start

McMaster, who joined the Reds from Scottish side Airdrieonians ahead of the current campaign, is quickly establishing a reputation as a set-piece specialist.

The 23-year-old has now scored three goals from free-kicks this season, adding to strikes against Crusaders and Carrick Rangers by equalising in Saturday’s showdown with Glentoran – Cliftonville went on to lose 2-1 late on.

Scottish midfielder McMaster arrived at Solitude with significant experience having made over 100 appearances for Airdrie and has played every minute for Magilton’s men so far this term.

On McMaster’s immediate impact, Magilton said: “He has (had a great start to life in the Irish League).

"He's an outstanding player, he's a fulcrum of our team, he works so hard too and he's quality on the ball.”

Cliftonville fell to a second consecutive Premiership defeat on Saturday and will hope to get back on track at Limavady United this weekend.

However, Magilton was unable to take any positives from his side’s most recent outing and insists they have to improve defensively.

"Not really (any positives),” added Magilton. “I just don't like how we defended, I really don't.

"Yeah, we had moments but not acceptable, not acceptable at all.

"I think they're (goalkeepers) overly protected but I definitely think it was a foul (on PJ Morrison for Glentoran’s winner).

"They won first contact a lot of the time in our box. Our centre halves didn't want to head it and as a result when balls are bouncing around...you've got to get first to the ball.

"Set pieces are so important in the game, defensively and offensively, and I thought they won every header, especially late on.

"We didn't get anywhere near first contact and games can be decided on set pieces, as I've outlined many, many times, and especially now in the modern game.”