PORTADOWN closed the gap on league leaders Queen’s to two points with a 2-0 midweek win over front of a great midweek crowd against league newcomers Mossley in the Legacy Wealth Management Ulster Premier.
Portadown took control from the off with Mossley forced to defend which they did resolutely until the end of the first quarter when Emily Adamson pounced on a ball and forced the excellent Mossley keeper into a rebound save from which Lara Wilson struck the ball home confidently.
Mossley had their best chance saved at the start of the second quarter and paid the price as Portadown extended their lead when Emily Adamson was given too much time at the edge of the circle. It needed to be a good strike to beat the keeper, and it was, with the ball fired low to the keeper’s right to make it 2-0. Lara Wilson saw another drive go just wide but, although Portadown continued to dominate, Mossley defended in numbers and space was at a premium. It was difficult for the Ports to find rhythm and fluency. A couple of penalty corners were well defended and Mossley netminder made one great save when she stuck out a leg to deflect the ball over the bar.
The third quarter saw the game became more stretched and there was more space for players. Mossley went close with a penalty corner while, for Portadown, Katie Herron slipped in Evie Girvan who cleverly redirected the ball past the keeper but a defender got back before the ball could cross the line. There was similar frustration when Emma McEntee did well to find Emily Adamson. She clearly lifted the ball past the oncoming keeper but a defender somehow managed to move the ball wide of the goal – great play from attackers and defender.
So, 2-0 it stayed as the Ports couldn’t capitalise on their possession and convert it into further goals.
Still, they will be happy to keep pace with leaders Queen’s on the same number of games played.
