Unbeaten run ends for MCA

Maiden City Academy......................2

Maiden City Academy travelled to Craigavon to play a very physical Portadown team and returned home with their recent nine match unbeaten run in tatters.

The visitors totally dominated the opening 20 minutes but had only a terrific long range strike from man of the match Robbie McDaid to show for their endeavour.

Doherty, Higgins, Martin and McIntyre all had opportunities to put this game beyond the reach of the home team.

Unfortunately, after a inspirational substitution by the Portadown management, they turned the game on its head with two quick goals just before half team to send their team in at the break, 2-1 ahead.

MCA came out fighting in the second and almost snatched an equaliser from Doran after some good play by McNeill and Duffy.

However, after some hesitancy in the MCA defence, Portadown extended their lead with 15 minutes left on the clock. MCA rallied again and after a cross from Higgins, Martin finished well at the back post.

MCA thought they had earned a penalty as Coyle was clearly brought down but the Polish referee waved play on much to the consternation of the MCA bench.

This was the last real effort for MCA as they were defeated for the first time in over two months.

Maiden City Academy: Mulcahy, Doran, McNeill, Duffy, McIntyre, Martin, McDaid, Higgins, Coyle, Porter, Daly. Subs: Wade.