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Glentoran boss Eddie Patterson declared himself content with a draw after his keeper Elliott Morris was sent-off in the fourth minute against Crusaders.

Sub keeper Aaron Hogg saved Michael Carvill's penalty and the Glens then went into the lead through a 30-yard wonder strike by Jordan Stewart.

Crues defender Josh Robinson equalised before half-time with a header but Stewart made it 2-1 from a penalty.

Crusaders front man Jordan Owens headed in to make it 2-2 on 63 minutes.

It was a first point for the clubs as they were both beaten on the opening day of the season.

The early penalty came when keeper Morris brought down Paul Heatley and Hogg went into goals.

The former Crues keeper pulled off a superb save to his right to deny Carvill.

"I have to be happy with the point as we played for virtually 90 minutes with 10 men," said Glens boss Patterson.

"Elliott Morris took him down so the referee got that one right. It was a penalty and a red card.

"But there were other situations when I thought he was wrong. Josh Robinson could have had a red card for leading with the elbow.

"I am happy because we had the hunger and desire tonight which was missing at Coleraine on Saturday.

"There was a good response from the players. The only disappointing thing is conceding two goals from two set pieces."