Portrush Seconds’ promotion hopes are dented

THE promotion hopes of Portrush Seconds took a turn for the worse on Saturday when they lost to South Antrim Fourths in a top of the table clash at Lisburn.

The Portrush lads lost by one goal to nil in an evenly contested game in which both sides showed a determined spirit.

Both sides strengthened their panels for the game such was the importance of the fixture, but it was South Antrim who prevailed in the end much to the huge disappointment of the visitors.

Portrush began the game with a flourish but if South Antrim were caught on the hop they soon responded and got the only goal of the game after about 20 minutes.

The goal itself was a scrappy affair coming from a free hit. The ball was moved about between the forwards before it was struck past goalkeeper Trevor Kirkpatrick.

Portrush found themselves under siege and only for some excellent goalkeeping by Kirkpatrick, the home side would have scored further goals.

The second half saw Portrush dominate, but couldn’t find a way past South Antrim who adopted a policy of packing their defence with virtually the whole team.

Craig Henry came close to equalising but the slightest touch by a defender deflected the ball wide.

Even though the defeat dents Portrush’s hopes of promotion there is still some hope. However, they have to depend on other teams losing if they are to achieve success.

PORTRUSH SECONDS: T. Kirkpatrick, J. McMullan, P. McMullan, T. Cartmill, J. Hutchinson, A. Douglas, C. Henry, B. McMullan, A. Dalzell, G. Christie, A. Christie. Subs – C. McKeeman, A. Kerr, P. Kerr, P. Linton, C. Hogg.