It is a quick return to action for Stuart King’s men, only three days after they defeated Warrenpoint Town at Milltown.
Having started the game poorly, the ‘Gers looked like they would go in a goal behind at the break following Luke Wade-Slater’s 41st minute strike.
However, a great ball over the top from Reece Glendinning on the stroke of half-time found the run of Alex Gawne who bursted into the penalty area and sent his shot through the legs of Conor Mitchell to level.
Gawne sealed his brace and his side’s three points nine minutes into the second half, getting on the end of Matty Carson’s drilled cross to finish first time at the back post.
That made it back-to-back wins for Rangers following victory over Dungannon Swifts the week prior, which has given the Club a real lift at such a crucial time in the campaign.
Understanding the importance of the post-split fixtures, Carrick fans have really got behind their side and supported them every step of the way, which has been appreciated by players and management alike.
Although the ‘Gers now find themselves ninth and seven points clear of the play-off spot, Manager Stuart King will not allow his team to lose focus until such time as Premiership safety is a mathematical certainty.
A win tonight and that mission will be accomplished, but opponents Glenavon are sure to be a stern test.
For starters, Gary Hamilton’s men will be looking to bounce back from a weekend defeat at Stangmore Park.
Having gone two goals behind, the Lurgan Blues responded through a Garry Breen own goal and a sublime free-kick from former Carrick winger Conor McCloskey.
But late on another own goal, this time from Matthew Snoddy, saw them leave empty handed on a disappointing day.
That result means they are just a point ahead of Ballymena United in the coveted seventh spot that brings qualification to the European play-offs.
Like Rangers, Glenavon know it is still in their own hands to secure that position so they too will come out full throttle in search of maximum points from this meeting.
The hosts will have in mind the last time the Mid-Ulster side came to the Loughview Leisure Arena, as two goals deep into second half injury time saw Carrick squander what would have been a vital win.
As for the meetings at Mourneview, an early season 4-0 success and a more recent 2-0 defeat mean it has been a very mixed bag of results against Glenavon this season…
Admission
A cash turnstile will be in operation, with the normal prices of £12 adults & £8 concessions applying.
Club Shop
The Club Shop will be open ahead of kick-off as our Spring Sale continues!
To find out about the products on offer, click HERE.
H2H Form (Last 5)
12/03/22 (A) // L 2-0 //
15/01/22 (H) // D 2-2 // Tilney, Gibson
11/09/21 (A) // W 4-0 // D. Kelly (2), Anderson, McMullan
25/05/21 (H) // L 6-3 // Chapman (2), Gibson
02/03/21 (A) // D 1-1 // D. Kelly
Officials
Referee: Chris Morrison
Assistant Referee: Ken Ross
Assistant Referee: John Doherty
4th Official: Ben McMaster
Keep up your unrelenting support for the lads as they battle for more points tonight!
