The first half was a scrappy affair, with the ball spending much of the time in the air, and the game bearing a closer resemblance to head-tennis than to football. Both the best chances in the first half fell to Coleraine debutant Mark Guest. The on-loan Englishman made a favourable impression in Greg O'Dowd's spot on the right wing and if he continues his good start, he may have a role to play in the League campaign to come.

The second half saw the introduction of Johnny McIvor for the now-tiring Guest. However, this was not one of Johnny's better days. His crossing was poor and his dribbling failed to get started. The second half followed the pattern of the first, with neither side really threatening to break the deadlock. At last, with about 10 minutes to go, Coleraine began to realise that a goal was needed to stay in the competition. Portadown, too, recognised that if Coleraine scored then they themselves would be eliminated, and the Ports produced the first real chance of the second half. Paul Carlysle crossed for Martin Rusell to head past Wes Lamont, but Ollie McAuley cleared off the line. This seemed to spur Coleraine into action and three good chances were suprned in the last 5 minutes. First Sam Shiels broke clear only to see his shot squeeze past the base of the post. Then Brendan Aspinall headed over from close range. Then came the miss of the season. Robbie Brunton delivered an inch-perfect cross onto the head of Paul Gaston. Gacky headed back across the goal, presenting Andy Ramage with an open goal from about 2 feet. Mario composed himself, swept back his hair, and deftly touched the ball high over the crossbar.

1. Wesley Lamont

Not tested very often, but looked secure. (7)

2. Oliver McAuley

Another useful performance from Ollie. (7)

3. Robbie Brunton

Good delivery going forward and always solid at the back. (7)

4. Brendan Aspinall

Man of the Match. Hardly gave Haylock and Smith a look in. (8)

5. Paul Gaston

Forming a very tight defensive partnership with Aspinall. (7)

6. Eamon Doherty

Seemed to be feeling the effects of Tuesday night. Tired in the second half and was withdrawn (6)

7. Sam Shiels

Didn't have many chances to shine, but worked hard as usual. (7)

8. Mark Guest

The best performance of the first half, but tired after the restart. (7)

9. David McCallan

McCallan is not firing on all cylinders at the monent. (6)

10. Pat McAllister

Not the usual all-action performance from the skipper. (6)

11. Michael Surgeon

Not one of Surgey's best. Frequently misplaced passes. (6)

sub Johnny McIvor (for Guest)

Poor crossing and almost no running with the ball. (5)

sub Andy Ramage (for Doherty)

Despite the unbelievable miss at the end, Andy played quite well when he came on. (7)