CLIFTONVILLE legend Stephen Small - a title winner with the Reds back in 1998 - will be targeting a promotion push after his Ballyclare Comrades side cooled the Welders’ ambitions with a 2-0 win at Blanchflower Stadium.
Second half goals from Brian Healy and Michael Morgan did the damage, with the hopes of Paul Kee’s side hindered by the late dismissal of Craig Harris.
Ballyclare’s victory follows on from an impressive 1-0 success away to Limavady and the east Antrim side are now just six points off the promotion play-off place.
Newry City - relegated from the Sports Direct Premiership last season - beat fellow strugglers Newington 3-1 at the Showgrounds.
Dundela defeated Ards 1-0 at Wilgar Park, Institute were 2-1 winners over Ballinamallard at the Brandywell while Armagh City and Limavady United drew 2-2 at Holm Park.
Bangor are three points clear of the Welders at the top after Friday night’s 2-1 victory over Annagh United at Clandeboye Park.