The club programme was pleased with Lacey's debut: "The acquisition of Lacey seems to be likely to develop into a move in the right direction, for the Irishman is a genuine performer, and against the Tee-siders infused a vigour and virility into the attack that has been sadly lacking in many of their previous games. But the most prominent feature of Lacey's play was the sheer determination he exhibited when within shooting range. He alone of the forwards displayed any ability to test Williamson with a thrilling drive, and it is this lack of enterprise on the part of the members' of the front rank that has led to the Reds retrogression since the quartet of victories obtained during the Christmas holidays."