Portadown Mens’ 1st XV vs Lurgan Mens’ 1st XV
Portadown hosted local rivals Lurgan in the second league derby game of the season on New Year’s Eve.
Portadown started the game well and put Lurgan under early pressure. That pressure nearly gave the opening try as a wayward pass went behind Young Charlie Logan who had the line at his mercy. But they were quickly on the attack from the Lurgan kick-out.
Portadown got on the board first when from a lineout a resulting maul towards the Lurgan line led to second row Taylor Tweedie crossing the line. The score was converted by Mat Neil to give Portadown a 7-0 lead. Portadown continued the pressure and it was another forward effort finished of again by Taylor Tweedie. It was the forward dominance in the early game that put Lurgan under great pressure. Lurgan defended gallantly holding back a number of attacks before Tweedie’s second row partner Danny Alexander dived over to give Portadown a 17-0 lead at the break.
Portadown continued their dominance into the second half and it was now the wide passing play by the backs that stretched the Lurgan defence. A great strike move from the backline saw fullback Mat Neill cross the line for the bonus point score for Portadown. Shortly after that the combination of forward rucking and backs passing movements gave another great individual score to wing Toby Gribben. This gave the score an unassailable lead for Portadown.
It was then the packs turn to get involved again and a great line out and maul by the forwards saw hooker Sam Close drive over for a score. This gave Portadown a 34-0 lead.
But Lurgan fought hard throughout with movement of their own. And it only the strong tackling by Portadown that denied them scores. But their perseverance paid off when they managed a late score to bring the game to 34-5 and that’s how it finished. This now leaves Portadown Joint league leaders with Academy as well as a game in hand over Academy it is hoped 2023 is a good year.
Portadown travel to Larne this Saturday 7th January. Kick off at 2:30.