Chris Towell of Ards is challenged by Glenavon's Davy McAlinden

Midfielder Kieran O'Connor scored the only goal on 11 minutes, blasing past keeper Ian Lester after Shea Campbell had played the ball in from the left.

Glenavon defender Johnny Montgomery was shown a straight red card by referee Paddy McFadden on 34 minutes for a challenge on Brian Adair.

Then home boss Jimmy Brown was sent-off for arguing with match officials.

Glenavon could have been two up in the first half but Marty Verner saw his shot cleared off the line by Ryan Davidson.

The best Ards effort was Jason Hill's free-kick which went over the bar.