IRISH LEAGUE: Glenavon support for Millar to extend 'as long as he needs'

The Irish Cup holders eased into the semi-finals under unique circumstances with an emphatic victory over main rivals Portadown.

However, the win was dedicated to Millar following news of the sudden death of the assistant manager’s son, Philip, on Friday.

Manager Gary Hamilton’s post-match views centred only on concern for the Millar family and his hope the players’ on-pitch tribute could ease, in some small way, the pain of such a personal tragedy.

“There was extra drive in everyone’s performance on Saturday because the motivation came from wanting to give something to Paul,” said Hamilton. “That was for Paul and he has an open door at this club to come and go as it suits his circumstances.

“Everyone is here for him and he knows he has our full support as whatever he needs for as long as he needs.

“Paul has done so much for this club and the Irish League overall across his career.”

Hamilton reflects on the weekend’s importance as beyond a football match but also accepts it proved the potential within the group.

“There is so much to play for and the games coming up provide extra motivation every week,” he said this week. “Everyone wants to be involved in the Irish Cup semi-final and everyone wants to be involved in big games to get us inside the top six and pushing for European football.

“The team will change with suspensions, injuries or if we opt to rest players due to the playing conditions.

“But it always comes down to producing and holding on to the jersey.

“We have Dungannon Swifts at home this weekend and must go in with the same desire to push on together.”

Kick-off at Mourneview Park will be 3 o’clock.