Irish Premiership: Portadown 1-2 Linfield
Last updated on .From the section Football
Premiership leaders Linfield remain two points clear of Cliftonville after Andrew Waterworth bagged a double in the 2-1 victory over Portadown.
Philip Lowry's shot hit a post and Waterworth despatched the rebound after just 18 seconds at Shamrock Park.
Portadown levelled before the break when Sean Mackle fired a superb 16-yard shot into the top corner.
Linfield dominated the second half and Lowry fired against the bar before Waterworth headed in from close range.
It was an impressive display from the Blues, coming four days after their Co Antrim Shield triumph.
Waterworth was perfectly placed to tap in the opener but the striker squandered another good opening by scooping over from six yards.
The hosts rarely threatened but Mackle made the most of his opportunity by slamming the ball past Jonathan Tuffey after 44 minutes.
Linfield seized control after the break but wasted a series of chances before Waterworth finally restored their advantage.
A deep free-kick was headed across goal by Lowry and the unmarked Waterworth had the simple task of heading in from a yard out.
Jamie Mulgrew and Aaron Burns went close for the Blues as Portadown failed to create any pressure at the other end.
