Indeed, this was the third time this season Eddie Patterson's side have beaten the Eagles following their CIS Insurance Cup double over Gary McKinstry's charges.

The Reds might have opened the scoring after 18 minutes when home defender Chris Walker conceded a penalty only for keeper Gavin Cushley to produce a superb save to deny the normally deadly Chris Scannell.

As it was Cliftonville had to wait a little while longer to move in front courtesy of a David McAlinden free-kick right on the stroke of half-time.

They then doubled their advantage on 67 minutes when Liam Fleming pounced to turn home the rebound after a George McMullan shot was cleared off the line by Mark Gracey.

Armagh pulled a goal back after 80 minutes through Shea Campbell who displayed his true potential with a superb individual effort which saw him dart past three defenders before beating John Connolly.