Glentoran hat-trick hero Conor McMenamin believes the league leaders sent out a title warning with Saturday's dramatic 4-2 win at Mourneview Park.
The 26-year-old striker bagged his second treble of the season and was unstoppable as Mick McDermott’s boys returned to the top of the Danske Bank Premiership table.
Glenavon led twice through Matthew Snoddy and Peter Campbell, but with McMenamin in devilish form, and Jay Donnelly chipping in, it was the East Belfast team’s fans who were dancing with delight at the end.
“Glenavon really put it up to us and we fell behind on two occasions, but the character of this team is never in question," said McMenamin
“We have been behind so many times this year and we just don’t know when we are beaten, especially away from home. Once we levelled, we just felt we could go on and win the game.”
McMenamin reckons Saturday's fightback could be the springboard to a big end of the season for Glentoran.
The Big Two giants are chasing their first league title since 2009 and have an Irish Cup quarter-final at home to Newry City this weekend.
“Our strike force is up there with the best in the League,” said McMenamin. “The gaffer (McDermott) always says if we can keep clean sheets, we’ll win games.
“We knew it would be a battle but the gaffer said before the game, he doesn’t care how we do it, but we must leave with three points. That’s what it’s all about.
“Yes, it’s nice to play with a bit of flair, but getting the win at this stage of the season is vital. Every week is a battle and you have to scrap it out in every game for three points.
“The win was great, but it’s three points and nothing else. We may be sitting at the top of the table, but we know there are plenty of big challenges up ahead, we’ll not become carried away.”
Glenavon boss Gary Hamilton said: "We didn’t get what we deserved. Up until they scored their second goal, we were the better team. When you play against the top teams and give them chances, they will punish you.”
Glentoran lie a point clear of Cliftonville, who beat Crusaders 3-1, and three above Linfield who didn't play at the weekend.
