Ports have to make do with a draw

The home side started the tie well creating a lot of pressure.

Chances from Sam Boylan and Gary Quinn were easily defended by Chimney Corner.

Boylan and Hamilton teamed up to put the Seasiders in front on 35 minutes. A free kick taken by Boylan on the edge of the box found Hamilton who headed home much to the delight of the home supporters.

After this Chimney Corner seemed to lie back, and didn’t create much, as Portstewart went in 1-0 up at the break.

Chimney Corner came back into the tie in the second half, but the Portstewart defence held firm.

On the hour, a defensive mix up saw the visitors pulling a goal back.

This was the wake up call Portstewart needed, and they pressed forward in search of a winner.

An effort by Boylan found the post, while Quinn forced the keeper into a good save, but as the final whistle went, Portstewart had to make do with a draw.

Assistant Manager Aaron Forgrave described the fixture as ‘disappointing’.

“We created enough chances to win the game and we were missing key players like Craig Ramsey and James Peden.

“We have three games left - Ballymoney (a), Knockbreda (h) and Dundela (a). Three tough games, but to be fair to the players we have they have worked hard this season. We’ve dropped points against teams we should have been beating and done well against the better teams, it’s just been one of those seasons.

“At the minute we’re doing some ground work for players for next season. It’s not easy, there are so many teams in the area, and some are offering money, but I have no doubt that we’ll get in a few players to strengthen things.

“Portstewart are a very young team, we need a few experienced players in, who will talk to the younger boys. That would be a big help and it would help the younger boys in their development, so it’s just a case of wait and see,” admitted Forgrave.