Barry Spence was on target for Crusaders from the penalty spot

Eamon Murray put Glenavon ahead at Seaview with a third-minute goal but Barry Spence levelled on the stroke of half-time from the penalty spot.

Stephen Coulter scored the winner on 66 minutes after Jonny Cowan's miskick.

Crusaders dominated thereafter but they were grateful to Aaron Kerr's late save which denied Stephen Magennis.

Murray put the visitors into the lead in the third minute after taking a fine pass from Conor Walsh.

Crusaders had a chance to equalise on the half-hour but Glenavon goalkeeper Tuda Murphy blocked Rainey's pointblank effort.

Spence's penalty was a massive blow to Glenavon who looked set to go into the interval a goal to the good.

The penalty was awarded after Adrian Harper had fouled David Rainey.

Cowan will want to forget his horrible error which gifted Coulter Crusaders' winner in the 66th minute.

Crusaders took a grip on the contest after Coulter's goal and the same player, Eamon Doherty and Rainey all missed chances to extend the home team's lead.