Northern Ireland round-up: Linfield recovery stuns Portadown

Linfield FC did rivals and Northern Irish Premier Division leaders Glentoran FC a huge favour as they recovered from two goals down to inflict a surprise defeat on champions Portadown FC.

First-half dominance
The defeat was only Portadown’s second of the season, but had looked unlikely as the away side took control of the game in the first period, with goals from midfield player Richard Clarke and striker Gary Hamilton making the half-time score 2-0. A second-half fightback from Linfield seemed impossible, as they had won only twice in their previous 14 games, while Portadown were unbeaten in 19.

Dramatic comeback
However, Lee Feeney pulled a goal back seven minutes after the interval, scoring after Portadown goalkeeper David Wells failed to hold a Pat McShane free-kick, before Linfield drew level when Wells failed to gather a low Davy Lamour cross and midfield player Darren Murphy capitalised. The winning goal arrive six minutes from time, as another McShane free-kick was headed into the net by Glenn Ferguson to seal a win that moves Linfield up into fourth place.

Glentoran take advantage
Glentoran took full advantage of Portadown’s defeat, winning 1-0 at Lisburn Distillery FC to double their lead at the top of the table to six points. In-form striker Andy Smith continued his recent goalscoring run when he finished off a flowing move in the 13th minute. Glentoran defender Gary Smyth then had a goal ruled out, and the visitors had to settle for a single-goal victory.

Coleraine frustrated
Third-placed Coleraine FC extended their unbeaten run to 13 matches but will be disappointed as they were held to a goalless draw at bottom side Newry Town FC. Elsewhere, Newry's fellow strugglers Crusaders FC pulled away from trouble with a 2-0 home win against Omagh Town FC thanks to two goals from Jamie Willis, while Barry Patton, who had earlier hit the post for the visitors, was dismissed eight minutes from time.

Away win
The game between Ards FC and Cliftonville FC was postponed, while Institute FC took advantage of their rival’s inactivity to move into the top half of the table with a 2-0 win at Glenavon FC. Adrian Creane and Stuart Bratton were the scorers.