Soccer

Bonis to the four for Larne as title race hots up

Reds and Blues win too while Declan Devine ‘feeling very positive’ after first match in charge of Glens

Lee Bonis
Larne's Lee Bonis celebrates the first of his four-goal haul against Glenavon at Inver Park (Desmond Loughery/Pacemaker Press)

LEE Bonis was the four-goal hero for Larne in the 6-1 win over Glenavon at Inver Park, a match that was over midway through the first half with the home side 5-0 in front.

Larne’s fellow title contenders Cliftonville and Linfield won 3-2 at Loughgall and 6-0 at home to Newry respectively, meaning the defending champions remain two points clear of the Blues with the Reds a further five points back.

Cliftonville and Larne clash at Solitude on Easter Tuesday in the clubs’ next league match, just three days after meeting in the semi-finals of the Clearer Water Irish Cup at Windsor Park.

Glentoran’s new interim manager Declan Devine was delighted with his side’s 3-0 victory at Dungannon Swifts.

Former Derry City boss Devine departed Bohemians last weekend and is initially in charge of at the Oval until the end of the season after Warren Feeney’s exit on Friday.

“I encouraged the players before the game to showcase their talent and thankfully they did that,” said the former Glentoran goalkeeper.

“There were a lot of good performances and it’s a very positive start.”

On his new role, the Derryman said: “It’s exactly what I need at the minute - I don’t need long-term strategies. I’m looking forward to the next seven-eight weeks and that’s what my remit is.

“I was probably more surprised than anybody that the call came [from Bohemians] - then within a few days you get another phone call and get involved with another monster football club.

“It was a no-brainer for me. Pressure is a privilege and and I’m here to help. I feel I can be an asset for the club.

“There’s a very talented group of players here, there’s lots of potential and lots to play for.

“I just want harmony and if everyone’s pulling in the same direction we can have a good end to the season.”

Crusaders drew 1-1 with Coleraine and Carrick defeated Ballymena 2-0.