Linfield's five-match winning run in the Irish Premiership was halted by a 1-1 draw at Portadown. The Blues had to settle for a point after a late penalty from Ben Kennedy cancelled out Kyle McClean's first-half opener at Shamrock Park.
The result leaves David Healy's side second in the table on 22 points from nine games, three points behind leaders Coleraine.
How the draw unfolded
McClean gave Linfield the lead in the 26th minute, finishing a move involving Ethan McGee and Kobei Moore. The visitors had chances to extend their advantage, with Sean O'Mahoney King hitting the post and Chris Johns making a key save to deny Finn Flanagan early on.
Portadown, who had lost their first six league games, grew into the contest after the break. The decisive moment arrived with eight minutes remaining when referee Steven Gregg penalised Dane McCullough for handball. Kennedy stepped up and slotted his penalty low into the bottom-right corner for his first goal of the season.
Linfield manager David Healy was blunt in his assessment. "I'm hugely, hugely disappointed with the performance," he told the club's media channels.
What comes next
The Blues must now regroup for their next league fixture at home to Bangor on Saturday, 10 October. The draw at Portadown means Linfield's margin for error in the title race has narrowed, with every point now vital in their pursuit of Coleraine.
Background and full detail: aol.com
