In a heated European play-off clash, Carrick Rangers manager Stephen Baxter didn't hold back his frustration after a controversial red card decision cost his team dearly. "The referee got it completely wrong," Baxter said, referring to Shane Andrews' dismissal of goalkeeper Nathan Gartside during their defeat at Dungannon Swifts.
The drama unfolded just past the half-hour mark, with Carrick already trailing 1-0 to Leo Alves' well-taken free-kick in the 21st minute. Gartside was sent off for handling the ball outside his box while attempting to cut out a pass—a call that left Baxter fuming. "The television will reveal that the red card should never have stood," he insisted, adding that his side should have also been awarded a penalty in the opening five minutes.
Despite being down to 10 men, Carrick showed remarkable resilience. Luke McCullough leveled the score in the 38th minute, giving the visitors hope. But Dungannon's second-half surge, powered by goals from Caolan Marron and Kealan Dillon, ultimately secured their spot in Saturday's semi-final against Cliftonville—and ended Carrick's European dreams.
"It's hard enough to play 11 men when you're away from home, but playing for an hour with 10 makes it all the more difficult," Baxter lamented. He didn't shy away from calling for change, either. "The referees clearly need help with making big key decisions, particularly in big games. I don't mind VAR, provided it comes in and it's used in the right manner."
Yet, amid the disappointment, Baxter found reason to celebrate. Carrick Rangers ended a 33-year wait for a trophy this season by lifting the County Antrim Shield—a milestone that speaks volumes about the team's growth. "I'm thrilled at the improvement," he said. "There's lots of stuff going on behind the scenes that we've been working on for ages. It doesn't happen overnight."
For fans and players alike, this season has been a testament to hard work and determination. While the European play-off exit stings, Carrick's journey is far from over—and the foundation they've built promises even bigger things ahead.