Irish League: Newry City relegated as Portadown win Championship

Portadown earn an immediate return to the top flight after winning the Championship despite a 1-1 draw at Shamrock Park.

Tipped for promotion at the start of the season, Portadown overcame a poor run mid-season to put in a late charge to secure the title.

Knowing victory would wrap up the title, it was a nervy performance from Portadown in front of home a support who were providing a carnival atmosphere.

Chances were few and far between in the first half, and Dundela had the best chance through Mark Patton’s free-kick, which was well saved by Gareth Buchanan.

After Dundela stopper Lewis Hunter produced two strong saves to deny Eamon Fyfe and Brandon Diau, there was lift off at Shamrock Park when Mayse fired into the bottom corner after finding space in the area.

However, Dundela pressed and Jenkins, the Championship’s top scorer, scored at the second time of asking with 13 minutes to play.

Dundela looked the likelier to find a winner and came close when Lee Rea smashed an effort against the post in the closing stages.

They missed out on the win, but Bangor’s 1-1 draw with Institute, where Oisin Devlin’s effort was cancelled out by Ben Cushnie, gave the Ports an unassailable four-point lead with one match to play.

After waiting for the full-time score to come through at the Brandywell, an emotional Niall Currie sat in the dugout as players and fans celebrated on the Shamrock Park pitch.