Transfers and treatment table gains giving Irish League's bottom side increased hope looking forward
Glenavon may still be looking up at the rest of the top-flight teams but, thanks to progress on the transfer front and treatment table, manager Michael O’Connor is now also looking forward.
Trailing Carrick Rangers in the Premiership relegation places by 11 points having played an extra game still makes the numbers game look bleak for the Lurgan Blues.
However, October appointment O’Connor is starting to feel the numbers finally add up towards a boost in the bid for senior survival.
Having walked into a Glenavon side rock bottom in terms of points and morale following 11 consecutive defeats, former Coleraine assistant coach O’Connor will return to The Showgrounds tonight aiming to pick up a first reward on the road.
With each of the four wins secured under his management all coming at Mourneview Park, O’Connor’s bid to take down high-flying Coleraine will at least have support from increased options.
"The squad's looking really good now...but we need to start getting points on the board,” said the Glenavon boss, reflecting on a busy January transfer window that featured a number of exits and arrivals. "You think the players that have left...three centre-forwards with (Francely) Lomboto, (Michael) O'Connor and (David) McDaid.
"Corey Smith went to Duncannon, Bridel Bosakani went back to his club...attacking players left, we had to get players in.
"Obviously we'd Nathaniel Ferris and Charlie Lindsay not available (last weekend against parent club Glentoran).
"But it just shows you the strength-in-depth...they'll be available so we'll have to leave players out of the squad, which I want to be doing that so there's competition for places.”
O’Connor introduced Peter Campbell off the sidelines last Saturday as the playmaker followed up his midweek cup goal and key cross with a league assist.
"We're managing Peter,” said O’Connor. "Peter's plan (in the Irish Cup) was to play 45 minutes but there was extra-time so he had to play an extra 30...we knew (against Glentoran) we'll give Peter the last 30, 35 minutes.
"We’re looking at the bench now if we need to change and have players who can come and do it."