Weatherup Double as Glens Seconds Hit Four at Portadown

Glentoran Seconds strengthened their position at the top of the NIFL Premiership Development League with an impressive 4–2 victory over Portadown Reserves on Monday night at Shamrock Park.

The Glens went into the fixture four points clear at the summit on 46 points and, against a strong Portadown side on a heavy pitch, delivered a performance full of intensity, composure and attacking threat.

Glentoran started on the front foot and went close inside the opening minutes when Caolan Hardy’s driven effort was sharply turned behind by the home goalkeeper.

Despite that early pressure, it was Portadown who struck first on 27 minutes, a long-range effort finding its way through and into the net.

The Glens’ response was excellent and they drew level just before the break. A dangerous delivery into the box found Cal Weatherup, who produced a superb finish to make it 1–1 at half-time.

Glentoran took control after the interval and turned the game in their favour on 63 minutes. A superb pass from Jack Faloona released Cillian McCann, who was brought down in the area, and Weatherup stepped up to confidently convert the resulting penalty.

The Glens then extended their advantage on 72 minutes as substitute Rory Magee made an instant impact, smashing home after a well-worked move involving Faloona, Daniel Beatty, Jake Drennan and Finlay Grummit.

Portadown pulled a goal back five minutes later following a scramble in the box, but Glentoran responded in style to restore their two-goal cushion. Magee grabbed his second of the night after linking up with Reece Bell, Grummit and substitute Charlie Campbell to make it 4–2 and seal a deserved win.

In truth, the Glens could have had more, creating a number of clear openings across the 90 minutes, and every player, including those introduced from the bench, played their part in an outstanding all-round display.

Next up for Glentoran Seconds is another away trip on Monday 26 January, when they face Ballymena United Reserves at the Ballymena Showgrounds.

Full-Time: Portadown Reserves 2–4 Glentoran Seconds

Starting XI: Beimers (GK), McCann, Hardy, Rogers-Duffy (C), Drennan, Faloona, Bell, Nelson, Weatherup, Magowan, Beatty.

Substitutes: Dolan, Campbell, Bailie, Grummit, Magee.