Coleraine made light work of Portadown on Thursday night, running out 3-0 winners in a Premier League fixture that confirmed the visitors' position at the summit of the table. The result extends the hosts' winless run to four games without finding a point, while Coleraine move further clear at the top with 10 points from four matches.
M. Shevlin opened the scoring after just four minutes, catching Portadown without thinking. S. Devine doubled the advantage before the quarter-hour mark, and won a penalty at the 72nd minute to complete his brace and put the game beyond doubt.
Portadown offered little in return. They registered zero shots on target and had just 39 per cent possession, though their 113 attacks suggest they threw everything at the problem and found no answer.
The visitors were far more clinical. Coleraine managed 11 shots on target, compared to Portadown's five off target, and converted their chances without fuss. They also won 13 corners to the hosts' three, controlling the tempo throughout.
Portadown's recent form tells the story — losses to Crusaders, Derry City and Carrick Rangers before this defeat. Coleraine have been more consistent, with three wins and a draw in their last four league outings, including victories over Rangers and Derry City.
The result leaves Portadown bottom of the table with zero points and four defeats. Coleraine, meanwhile, sit four points clear at the top and look increasingly comfortable in their pursuit of the title.
