CHAMPIONSHIP TWO: Ports slip up at PSNI

Gary Taylor's side last tasted a win in early February, and despite putting up a good fight against PSNI on Saturday, the New Forge side grabbed two first half goals to secure all three points.

The visitors began the game well, Chris Donnell and Rowan Neill both standing out for the Seasiders. The pair put together a good move in the 12th minute, only to see Neill's shot going wide.

PSNI proved to be dangerous on the break, but Portstewart held their own.

McFadden had a good effort before Brian Tosh rounded the keeper to shoot wide.

Portstewart were to pay for this miss as PSNI opened the scoring soon after. One soon became two, as a defensive mix up resulted in the home side doubling their lead at the interval.

A resolute Portstewart emerged for the second half, and they should have pulled a goal back, when Neill went one on one with the keeper only to mis-kick.

James Peden, who joined his home town club on loan from Coleraine this week also had an effort tipped over the bar. Portstewart continued to dominate the second half with the defence being marshalled well by Mervyn Nicholl and keeper Hugh McAllister.

Graham Vauls had a great chance on 68 minutes, but his effort was saved by the feet of the PSNI keeper.

Tempers began to flare as the match entered the final stages, and PSNI were reduced to ten men when their keeper, Doherty was sent off for a challenge on Rowan Neill.

Mervyn Nicholl fired home from the resulting penalty, but it was too little too late for the Ports.

PORTSTEWART:McAllister, Ramsey, McFadden, J Peden, M Nicholl, Tosh, Vauls, Neill, Donnell, Todd, O Peden.