Elebert impresses on first league start

His partnership at the back with Simon Kelly bodes well for the future if their display against the Reds is a marker.

David, who also got his first 90 minutes in, was delighted with the result.

“It was a great performance from all the lads,” said David. “The gaffer told us before the game we had not won at Solitude under him so it was great to come away withthe points especially as they are a decent side.

“We were well on top at 3-0 but they are a good side and you expect them to have a period in the game when they put you under pressure.

“Maybe we took our foot off the gas a bit and we perhaps gave them a soft goal, but I thought in those latter stages everyone defend well to see the game out.

“We started well and played some good football and the pitch is perfect for footballers like Kevin Braniff who I thought was excellent.

“For me I need games. I’m glad to get 90 minutes in for the first team. It’s a different tempo playing for the reserves and in the last 20 minutes I began to feel it a little bit, but that is to be expected when you have been out for a good while.

“The main thing was for the team to get three points and we will keep aiming for that from here on in.”