INSTITUTE: McLaughlin felt players grinded out deserved win

Niall Currie’s side went into the game off the back of an empathic 6-1 win at Larne and they sat just a point behind leaders Harland & Wolff Welders, but McLaughlin is hoping the deserved three points will be a spring board for the Waterside men.

“It was a fantastic three points for us and it was a fantastic performance from the boys,” he said.

“I don’t think outside of the changing room too many people would give us much of a chance because Ards were doing so well and on paper it looks like we are having a tough season, but although the results haven’t been going for us, the performances have been.

“The work-rate has always been there and I’m just glad that the wee bit of luck went our way on Saturday, in regarding taking our chances when they came and defending really well whenever we were under the cosh a bit.

“But yeah it was a great result for us and the win is a great lift for the young squad.

“It’s great to see that they can grind out results get tough and direct teams, such as Ards.”

In truth Stute had chances to win by a bigger margin but McLaughlin was happy with the out-come at a rain soaked Bangor Fuels Arena and he felt that centre-back Mark Scoltock produced a man of the match display.

“I don’t think too many people from the Ards camp could complain about the result,” he added.

“I think the first half we really bossed things and controlled things and then when it was time to defend our lead we did that really well.

“You can’t really single too many people out but I think Mark Scoltock was fantastic, he really stood up and was counted, especially when we went down to ten men.

“When Stephen (O’Donnell) was sent-off, which I felt was harsh, when you are looking for people to roll their sleeves up and dig in for you when you are down to ten men.

“I think the big man produced a fantastic performance and that comes after all the other stuff which he did before the red card.”

McLaughlin also paid special praise to the travelling support and conceded their cheering and encouragement played a part in the three points.

“The supporters were brilliant and for a Championship side I don’t think I have ever heard any of the away fans coming to Drumahoe and make the noise our fans did on Saturday,” he said.

“They played a massive role in getting us over the line, because when we were really under the cosh, they really got behind the team and it definitely helps the players.

“Their support gave them a wee lift, that 10 or 15 per cent adrenaline you get when you heard the supporters cheering you on helps.

“So fair play to them as they definitely helped us over the line.

“They definitely deserve a mention because they played their role just as much as everybody else did.”