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Larne equaliser salvages point as Glentoran hit with two reds

BBC Sport •
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League leaders Larne salvaged a point at Inver Park when a 95th‑minute strike forced a late equaliser against Glentoran. The match ended 2‑2, but the home side saw two red cards handed to their players in the final minutes, leaving the visitors with ten men as the whistle blew.

Paul O’Neill put Glentoran ahead after converting a 21st‑minute penalty, but Pat Hoban responded with a brace that turned the tide. Hoban’s second goal was followed by his dismissal for a second‑half offence, and in stoppage time Andy Ryan slotted the rebound from another penalty to level the score.

Glentoran boss Declan Devine described the dismissals as “ridiculous”, arguing that refereeing decisions have become so frequent that “three or four players are sent off in every game”. He also condemned Ryan Cooney’s post‑match straight red for an altercation with referee Shane Andrews, calling the ruling an absolute farce.

Larne manager Gary Haveron disputed Devine’s claims, insisting his side deserved a second penalty after Jarlath O’Rourke appeared to handle the ball on the line. With both clubs still chasing the title – Larne atop the table and Glentoran unbeaten in five – the contentious decisions could influence the final league standings.