Stuart King hailed Dungannon Swifts' performance at Seaview on Saturday as 'the best' he's seen from any Irish League side this season. Rodney McAree's men claimed a sensational 5-1 victory over Crusaders to climb up to second spot in the Irish Premiership.

It was the latest stellar moment for the Mid-Ulster side who continue to defy the odds. Their performances have earned plenty of praise, and new fans.

And former Carrick Rangers manager King is one of those supporters. He was in awe of their display on the Shore Road on Saturday, which included goals from John McGovern (2), Brandon Bermingham and Tomas Galvin (2).

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Speaking on BBC, he said: "I am not just saying this because Rodney is standing beside me, but that's probably the best performance I've seen in the Irish League this season.

"A team playing away from home, and a team that's done really well this season. You always want to do more and not get over confident, but from start to finish today they were phenomenal and they dictated the game and controlled the game possession wise and were a threat going forward.

"It was a top, top performance. I am sure Rodney is delighted but he won't rest on it. I know the man.

"But he should be really proud of his team today."

Dungannon boss McAree said he rated his side's performance as "up with the best" after watching them put Crusaders to the sword.

His only criticism was conceding a late goal to blot their copybook.

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McAree said: "I think you have to put it up there with the best. In saying that I looked at Crusaders and I think that's their eighth game in four weeks, and they have a few injuries.

"So you're looking at it that you might be coming here at a good time. But you still have to gt the job done.

"We were fantastic here earlier in the season in the first half and were 2-0 up, but ended up drawing the game 2-2. So we came here with a burning desire to put things right and get the points.

"But to do it as handsomely as we did, you are a very proud manager when it happens."

There is now talk of Dungannon pushing for European football this season, but McAree is refusing to look beyond their next game.

"We are looking forward to the next match and trying to pick up results. We want to finish as high as we can," he said.

"The disappointment today was not keeping a clean sheet. We gave away a slopping goal, but then Tomas Galvin scores with a superb free-kick.

"Our fans are enjoying it at this moment in time. Hopefully we can keep the ball rolling."

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