Glentoran boss Declan Devine labels team’s performance as “embarrassing”

Glentoran boss Declan Devine did not mince his words after his side’s disappointing 2-0 defeat to Cliftonville, labeling their performance as “embarrassing.” The loss means that Glentoran can finish no higher than fifth this season, with the team now winless in their last five games across all competitions.

Devine expressed his frustration, stating, “Over recent weeks it has become quite evident the team is broken. I’m embarrassed about the performance, the [lack of] intensity and quality, everything about it, but it’s not surprising.”

The Glens’ last victory came at the end of March against struggling Ballymena United. Since then, they have suffered defeats in the Irish Cup semi-final against rivals Linfield and in three consecutive league matches against Coleraine, Larne, and now Cliftonville.

Devine acknowledged his role in the team’s poor form but also called on the players to take responsibility, saying, “This club has to mean more than that. It was quite evident in the performance levels that this squad is broken.”

With just one game left in the league season and the European play-offs on the horizon, Devine is hoping for a response from his players. He praised the impact of the young players who came on in the second half against Cliftonville but emphasized the need for a collective effort moving forward.

“The play-offs, we need to have a good look at ourselves because we don’t have a chance if we play like this,” Devine added. “Now it is back to the drawing board to see who wants to play and to fight for the club.” Glentoran fans will be hoping for a turnaround in form as the season draws to a close.