Ballinamallard slipped to a second successive league defeat as they went down 2-1 at home to Portadown.

Portadown had taken a 2-0 lead with goals from Darren Murray and Ken Oman but Liam Martin pulled a goal back before half time for the Mallards.

However, despite pressing after the break, the Mallards could not find an equaliser as Portadown held on for the win.

There was little in the way of chances in the opening 25 minutes of the contest but the game was to spring to life after this as Portadown struck for two quick-fire goals.

Striker Darren Murray drilled a low shot to the bottom corner after being set up by Mark McAllister in the 26th minute. And Ronnie McFall's side doubled their advantage five minutes later as Ken Oman headed to the roof of the net from a Ross Redman corner after Murray had a shot pushed around the post by Alvin Rouse.

Whitey Anderson's charges though finished the first half well and pulled a goal back in the 42nd minute when Martin got on the end of a Jason McCartney cross from the left to steer the ball home.

And on the stroke of half time Ports goalkeeper Billy Brennan tipped over a Michael McCrudden free kick.

The second half saw the Mallards enjoy the better of things and McCartney twice went close, firing a volley wide and seeing a well struck drive sail just over the bar.

However, the Mallards weren't able to find the equaliser as Portadown saw out the remainder of the contest to win.