Sunday Mirror (Northern Ireland)
OUT ON HIS OWENS
CRUSADERS boss Stephen Baxter yesterday hailed two-goal hero Jordan Owens after the mauling of Glenavon at Seaview.
The reigning Danske Bank Premiership title holders bounced up to fourth place in the table, with Owens very much the tormentor in chief.
His striker partner Paul Heatley was also on the mark on a day the Shore Road boys could have hit double figures only for the brilliance of Glenavon goalkeeper Johnny Tuffey.
“Three goals didn’t reflect how one-sided the game was,” purred Baxter. “If it had have been six, seven, eight, nine or even 10, you would have said fair enough.
“Tuffey made some wonder saves. That’s as well as we’ve played for a couple of years now.
“Jordan was again at his best. His goals were simply top drawer. Paul also got a great goal, but he could well have gone home with two match balls.”
The Crues roared into the lead on 10 minutes with a gem of a goal from Heatley.
Owens delivered a wonderful cross from the right and the little striker volleyed past Tuffey from 12 yards.
Tuffey saved another low shot from that man Heatley before the Crues struck again on 18 minutes. In another lightning raid. Owens started and finished the move, which also involved Heatley and Ross Clarke, whose cross was bulleted home by head of the diving striker.
Rhys Marshall was perhaps fortunate to remain in the pitch after clashing with Michael Carvill, both players receiving a yellow card from referee Tim Marshall.
Owens sealed the victory 12 minutes from time. He picked the ball up after a long punt from goalkeeper Harry Doherty 30 yards out and, after a quick turn, sent in a sensational drive, which rocketed into the top corner.