Cliftonville FC vs Glenavon FC Match Recap - Dec 13, 2025

Cliftonville FC Dominates Glenavon FC 5-2, Solidifying Their European Aspirations

Cliftonville FC's emphatic 5-2 victory over Glenavon FC not only showcased their attacking prowess but also highlighted the stark contrast in form between the two sides. With this win, Cliftonville solidifies its position in the top half of the table, now sitting sixth with 25 points, while Glenavon remains mired in relegation trouble, languishing in twelfth place with just 9 points.

Cliftonville FC has been on a roll, extending their unbeaten streak to six matches across all competitions. The offensive firepower was evident as they scored five goals, a testament to their attacking depth. Keaney, who netted twice, continues to be a key figure in their resurgence, building on his recent form that saw him score crucial goals against Portadown and Dungannon Swifts. His ability to find the net consistently is becoming a defining trait for Cliftonville as they push for European qualification.

Glenavon FC's struggles were laid bare once again, conceding five goals and continuing a troubling trend of defensive frailties. Despite scoring twice, their inability to contain Cliftonville's attack proved fatal. Malone and Bosakani found the net, but their efforts were overshadowed by a defense that has now leaked 16 goals this season. With only three wins from 19 matches, Glenavon's situation is dire, and they must find a way to shore up their backline if they hope to escape the relegation zone.

The match also highlighted the contrasting trajectories of individual players. For Cliftonville, Sheridan and Addis both contributed significantly, with Sheridan continuing his impressive run of form after scoring in previous matches. His knack for being in the right place at the right time adds another layer to Cliftonville's attacking threat. Meanwhile, Casey's red card in the second half could have been a turning point, but Cliftonville's resilience shone through as they maintained control despite being a man down.

Glenavon's recent form has been a rollercoaster ride, with their last five matches yielding only one win. The victory against Ballymena United seemed like a turning point, but this defeat against Cliftonville has raised more questions than answers. The inconsistency in performance is alarming; they need to find a way to build momentum rather than succumb to the pressure of relegation battles.

Cliftonville's tactical approach was evident throughout the match. They averaged 15 shots per game in recent outings, and this match was no different as they capitalized on their chances effectively. Their ability to transition quickly from defense to offense has become a hallmark of their playstyle, making them a formidable opponent for any team in the league.

Looking ahead, Cliftonville will face Bangor next, where they will aim to continue their winning ways and further solidify their European aspirations. Glenavon, on the other hand, must regroup before facing Linfield, where every point will be crucial in their fight against relegation.

This match serves as a stark reminder of the gulf in quality between teams at opposite ends of the table. Cliftonville's confidence is soaring, while Glenavon's struggles deepen. The narrative of this season continues to unfold, with Cliftonville looking to capitalize on their momentum and Glenavon desperately seeking a lifeline.