Glentoran are still in the title race but they're running out of road, says Paul Leeman

Former title winning Glentoran captain Paul Leeman fears his former club is running out of road as the Ovalmen attempt to play “catch-up” in the title race.

Linfield’s last gasp 2-1 win at Warrenpoint Town on Saturday saw the Blues ease four points clear of Cliftonville and eight above the Glens who both have a game in hand.

A win at home to Carrick Rangers on Monday night would keep the Ovalmen in touch heading into the remaining five post-split fixtures against the other top six sides.

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But Leeman, who skippered the East Belfast club the last time they lifted the Gibson Cup under the late Alan McDonald in 2009, accepts there’s no room for error heading into the final strait.

“Glentoran have given themselves a lot to do and in all likelihood they might need maximum points from their remaining six games,” he said. “They can’t afford any more slip-ups.

“It’s a big ask, but it’s not over yet. They still have to play Linfield and Cliftonville after the split so there are a lot of massive games to play.”

While Linfield and Cliftonville are both in a rich vein of form, the Glens have been pawing for momentum, taking just seven points from their last five Danske Bank Premiership outings.

“Linfield and Cliftonville have momentum when you look at recent results,” said Leeman.

“There’s no doubt the Glens are playing catch-up and that's a difficult position to be in. I’ve been there as a player and when it’s out of your hands, it’s tough.

“I remember losing the league title with Glentoran on the last day of the season (in 2002) when Portadown pipped us by one point at the top.

“We were chasing and all we could do was win our remaining games, which we did, but