With Rangers having already secured European football for next season and Glenavon’s relegation confirmed, there was little riding on the contest beyond finishing the campaign on a high.
The opening half offered few clear-cut opportunities as both sides settled into the game, with the tempo disrupted by a series of fouls and bookings in an increasingly physical encounter.
The hosts took the lead in the 42nd minute when Nathaniel Ferris latched onto a ball over the top of the Carrick defence and was brought down by Lorcan Donnelly after rounding the Rangers goalkeeper. From the resulting penalty, Paddy Burns made no mistake, converting from the spot to hand Glenavon a 1-0 advantage heading into the break.
Carrick emerged with renewed purpose after half-time and levelled in the 57th minute. Paul Heatley showed trademark determination to win a free-kick in a dangerous area, and Aiden Steele delivered an inviting ball into the six-yard box for Adam Lecky to convert and restore parity.
The visitors turned the game on its head 15 minutes later when another well-delivered set piece caused problems for the Glenavon defence, allowing unmarked Jimmy Callacher to volley home at the back post and make it 2-1.
Glenavon responded and looked to have rescued a point in the 85th minute when Alfie Pollock volleyed home after Carrick failed to fully clear a corner.
But the ‘Gers would have the final say. Deep into stoppage time, Danny Gibson reacted quickest after Jacob Carney parried an effort into his path, with the midfielder slotting home from close range to secure a dramatic 3-2 victory.
The result ensures Carrick Rangers finish the season on a winning note as attention now turns to preparations for the Club’s upcoming European Play-off campaign.
