Northern Ireland round-up: No stopping Portadown

Champions Portadown FC moved six points clear at the top of the Irish League Premier Division, but the two big Belfast clubs, Linfield FC and Glentoran FC, continue to show ominous form.

Hard-earned victory
Portadown had to work hard for their 4-2 win at Lisburn Distillery FC after seeing a two-goal lead disappear in as many minutes. Two goals from top scorer Vinny Arkins seemed to have put the visitors in control, but two quick John Martin strikes on the hour-mark levelled for Lisburn. However, substitute Kyle Neill restored Portadown’s advantage, and Gary Hamilton sealed the win seven minutes from time.

Linfield go second
Linfield leapfrogged opponents Omagh Town FC into second spot on goal difference thanks to a 3-1 victory at Windsor Park. Hugh Dickson and Stephen Shaw gave Linfield a 2-0 half-time lead, and although Omagh pulled one back, Omagh midfield player Colm McCullagh put through his own goal to confirm Linfield’s victory.

Resounding win
Glentoran recorded a fifth consecutive league victory with a 5-1 win at Institute FC. The hosts actually took the lead when Paul McLaughlin scored with a spectacular overhead kick, but goals from Scott Young and Andy Kilmartin put the visitors ahead before the interval. Andy Smith then extended the lead, before goals from Paul Leeman and a second from Young sealed a miserable day for Institute.

Coleraine win a point
Coleraine FC moved back up into fourth spot after rescuing a 2-2 draw at Glenavon FC. Stephen Beatty gave Coleraine an early lead, but the home side hit back through George O’Boyle before taking the lead with a wonderful strike from Norman Kelly. However, Rory Hamill salvaged a point for Coleriane 13 minutes from time.

Away win for Ards
Ards FC increased the problems facing Crusaders FC, winning 2-0 away thanks to goals from Peter Lowry and a David Young penalty.

Newry bottom
However, Crusaders are no longer bottom of the league, as Newry Town FC suffered a 3-0 home defeat at the hands of Cliftonville FC on Friday night to slip into bottom spot on goal difference.  Second-half goals from Ronan Scannell, Gerard Lyttle and Keith Mulvenna condemned Newry to a heavy defeat.