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Crusaders captain Colin Coates struck with five minutes left to secure a Premiership draw with Glentoran.

Crues midfielder Declan Caddell clipped the woodwork before Glens striker Andy Waterworth missed out with a header.

David Howland gave the hosts a 74th minute lead when his shot was pushed onto a post by Sean O'Neill before trickling into the net.

Coates equalised with a volley although the Crues have slipped to seven points behind leaders Cliftonville.

It was a case of missed opportunities in the first half with Caddell twice guilty before Waterworth and Richard Clarke squandered Glentoran chances.

Crusaders started the second half strongly and Jordan Owens headed over, Paul Heatley fired wide and Gary McCutcheon had a goal ruled out for offside.

Howland's first-time shot squeezed in but defender Coates showed his team-mates how to finish with a superb volley into the bottom corner.

Clarke went close to snatching a late win for the Glens with a long-range effort.

The draw takes the Glens up to third place on goal difference while Crusaders boss Stephen Baxter was upbeat despite losing ground on Cliftonville.

"I'm very pleased with the players and we've been on a great run - these are exciting times for Crusaders fans," said Baxter.