Glentoran boss Mick McDermott offers frank verdict on post-split performances

Mick McDermott insists Glentoran will "regroup" after missing out on the title and automatic qualification for Europe.

The Glens have picked up just two points from a possible nine during the split including Tuesday night's goalless draw with Larne.

The miserable run - which included a humbling 4-0 defeat to Crusaders - means the East Belfast club can't finish in the top two this season.

Glentoran boss Mick McDermott baffled by Larne midfielder's 'game-changing moment'

McDermott says they will now turn their focus to finishing third and entering the play-offs, and potentially playing in the Irish Cup depending on this week's arbitration ruling.

"It is clear now, Your options diminish and it becomes more clear what you have to do," McDermott told Glens TV.

"We now know we are going to be in a play-off. We are currently in third and we want to stay in third, no doubt about that.

"The others have qualified for Europe now and they will be happy with that. It is still tight for those two so they will fighting those last couple of games.

"As for us, as of now we are still in the Irish Cup. The decision is this week. If that goes for or against us, that changes things as well.

"All we can do is regroup and get ready for Coleraine on Saturday."

McDermott accepts Glentoran's post-split results fell short of what was required to challenge for the Gibson Cup.

Their hopes started to unravel with the heavy defeat to Crusaders, with successive draws highlighting improved performances but scant reward in terms of points.

McDermott added: "Are we happy with the first game where we lost 4-0 to Crusaders? No.

"We had a hard game at the National Stadium which I thought we should have won. The boys put in a great effort.

"And against