Cliftonville delivered a commanding performance against local rivals Crusaders, winning 5-2 at Solitude in the Irish Premiership. Brian Healy opened the scoring early, followed by Luke Conlan’s strike before the break. Micheal Glynn extended the lead in the second half, with Harry Wilson and Josh Kelly adding further goals to seal the rout. Crusaders, who haven’t won since January 3, managed two consolation strikes but remain rooted to the foot of the table.

Glenavon, also battling relegation, earned a vital 3-1 victory at Bangor. Conor Falls notched a brace for the visitors, who took the lead through his first-half finish and never looked back despite Bangor’s response. The result lifts Glenavon seven points clear of Crusaders, with seven matches left in the season.

The action continues Saturday evening. Portadown host mid-table Ulster rivals Dungannon Swifts at 17:30 GMT at Shamrock Park. Linfield then welcome Glentoran to Windsor Park at 18:00 GMT in a blockbuster derby, broadcast live on BBC iPlayer, the BBC Sport app and website.

Friday’s results shook up the title race. Leaders Larne suffered a shock 3-2 home loss to Carrick Rangers, squandering a two-goal lead in the final 20 minutes. Coleraine capitalized with a 1-0 derby win over Ballymena United, courtesy of a second-half strike from Matthew Shevlin. That cuts Larne’s advantage to two points, though Coleraine have played one more game.

With the split looming, every result counts. Cliftonville climb to fourth, five points off the European spots. Crusaders’ woes deepen, winless in 12 league outings. Glenavon’s boost came at a perfect time, as they eye safety. Portadown, fresh from a midweek draw, seek momentum against Dungannon, who sit 10th.

Linfield, second and four points behind Larne, need points from Glentoran to stay in the chase. The East Belfast side, seventh, have won just once in six. Larne regroup after Carrick’s upset, where David Odumosu’s late penalty proved decisive. Coleraine’s narrow success over Ballymena eases their drop fears.

Saturday’s outcomes could reshape the standings further. Portadown-Dungannon often delivers goals, with five in their last meeting. The Linfield-Glentoran clash has history—Linfield won 3-1 on Boxing Day. Fans pack Windsor for what officials call a ‘must-not-lose’ for the hosts.