After falling behind to an Eamon Fyfe strike on 27 minutes, Glentoran levelled matters through MJ Kamson-Kamara just before half-time on Tuesday evening.
Ace marksman Pat Hoban kept his cool from the spot to put the hosts in front before the hour mark before they shut out their opponents to secure another valuable three points.
Full-back Cooney was delighted to see the Glens show their defensive qualities after getting in front and he also praised fellow defender Kamson-Kamara for popping up with the vital equaliser before the break.
Ryan said: “MJ has been superb since coming in, he’s such a strong player and a real leader. He made a superb block in the first half, which really epitomises what he’s all about.
“I was delighted to see him grab the goal, not only because it brought us back into the game at a crucial time, but also because he deserved it and he had a couple of chance earlier in the game against Portadown.
“It’s important as a team that we all chip in with goals and it’s not just left to the forward players. We created some good chances on Tuesday night so I’m glad we managed to take a couple of them to get the win.
“I know the winner came from the penalty spot, but we created the pressure which forced them into the mistake, which is vitally important. And when you have someone like Pat who is so clinical from the spot it is such a bonus. He is ice cold in those situations and he stuck it away with no problem at all.”
As we prepare for the first game of 2026 Cooney is hoping Glentoran can kick on and continue to put pressure on the teams above them in the table.
The former Crewe Alexandra defender knows there is a big four months coming up with plenty to play for.
Cooney concluded: “We’re just over halfway through the season and it’s all to play for really. Obviously, like every team, you would like to have more points, but we have 18 league games left to play and that’s a lot of points up for grabs.
“Nothing is decided now, the most important thing is we focus on keeping this run going for as long as possible. Every team will drop points over the next few months and it’s important that we put ourselves in a position that we can take advantage if and when that happens.
“The mood in the camp is very good and we are determined to make the most of every game we play in. The Irish Cup gets underway in the next couple of weeks as well and we want to push on as far as we can in that competition too.
“Our fans have been brilliant all season and have really stepped up when we needed them. We want to give them something to cheer about over the next few months. There’s a real determination in the squad to kick on and end the season in a positive note.”
For Glentoran fans planning to attend Saturday’s Sports Direct Premiership fixture against Carrick Rangers, match tickets are available to purchase at: https://www.carrickrangers.co.uk/tickets.aspx
