Northern Ireland round-up: Glentoran falter

Glentoran FC remain at the top of the Irish League despite a 1-0 defeat against title challengers Portadown FC.

Portadown poised for challenge
The second-placed side closed the gap on Glentoran to mere goal difference with a victory at Shamrock Park, and with a game in hand, Portadown are now poised to challenge for the title.

Keenan foils Glentoran
Gary Hamilton grabbed the game's only goal after 27 minutes, firing in a left-footed shot from the edge of the penalty area from a low centre by left-back Keith O'Hara. Earlier, Portadown's veteran goalkeeper Mickey Keenan was fortunate when his poor clearance fell to Tim McCann but he chipped it wide of the unguarded goal, and he atoned for his error with a superb save from McCann late in the game.

Linfield march on
Elsewhere, champions Linfield FC continued their title challenge with a 3-1 win away against Crusaders FC. The home side opened the score after eight minutes when the wind carried a goal kick over the Linfield defence and Colin Magill nipped in to lob Robert Robinson. However, a Glenn Ferguson penalty and two goals from Chris Morgan saw the visitors home.

Thriller at Mourneview Park
Omagh Town FC earned a 4-3 win against Glenavon FC in a thrilling game at Mourneview Park while Newry Town FC secured a 2-0 victory away at Cliftonville FC. Coleraine FC’s game against Ards FC at the Showgrounds was postponed.