Cliftonville boss Paddy McLaughlin says he was happy to see the "ugly side" of his Reds as they earned a 1-0 win over Glenavon on New Year's Day.
was enough to preserve the Reds' three-point lead at the top of the Danske Bank Premiership.
Both defenses dominated the game at Solitude, but McMcLaughlin believes his side showed their title character by getting the all-important goal that sealed the win.
"You have to give the boys credit for rolling their sleeves up and showing some grit," McLaughlin told the BBC.
"We get praise for the nice football we play, but there is an ugly side to us as well and it is important we have that in reserve.
"You'll not always get to play nice football on good pitches. So when it is dry or sticky, or when teams set up well against us, like today, you have to show that determination.
"It is good to know we have that ugly side to us and that we can grind out results. It shows there are two sides to the way we can play."
McLaughlin praised the display of match-winner Maguire, who was introduced in the first half following an injury to captain Chris Curran.
"Thomas has that in his locker. He has been excellent over the festive season," the Cliftonville boss added.
"He is dangerous in the final third, and to have him come on and score the winning goal is great.
"He has kept his head down and worked his socks off in recent weeks and fair play to him. And today's goal is some reward."
Cliftonville went through the Christmas and New Year schedule with four straight wins, including victories over Coleraine, Crusaders and Larne before today's success against Glenavon.
McLaughlin admits he can have few complaints after coming through the "crazy schedule" unblemished.
"We have had a brilliant couple of weeks. Four wins is a brilliant return," he added.
"It is a crazy schedule that all sides have, and it is a big ask for every club and every set of players.
"But we are more than happy. You won't hear too many complaints.
"The lads will be out on their feet and only have two days to recover before the Irish Cup.
"We will enjoy this victory, and the good run. But we have to move on, quickly."
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