Port nerves calmed by early strike

Gary Pews - Gary Pews • Last updated 21 May 2008 09:17

PORT GLASGOW 3 DUNIPACE 0

WITH the league championship and promotion at stake, an early goal was vital to settle the nerves in Port Glasgow"s final league match of the season at Ravenscraig on Saturday.

After sustained pressure in the opening exchanges, it duly arrived in just 14 minutes. A Stewart Jack cross from the left was cleverly dummied by Andy Monaghan to create the space for James Best to score from eight yards out.

With Dunipace virtually non-existent in attack, the Port went in search of more goals against a team with the worst defensive record in the league. But the second didn"t come until well into stoppage time at the end of the half, when Andy Monaghan netted after a goalmouth scramble.

With word coming through from Lanark that the home side were 4-0 up against Glencairn, Port knew they could not afford any slip-ups.

Top scorer Scott Nugent, now sporting a blonde hairstyle, replaced Alan McIntyre, and made an instant impression with a glorious drive from outside the box in 51 minutes.

Game over, the title secured! Nugent almost added to his season"s tally with a shot that was deflected just over the bar, and saw another attempt slip just wide.

There were a few other near things but Brian Heron"s men were content to see out the time remaining until the shrill whistle of referee Stuart McMillan, who had an excellent game with no bookings, sparked scenes of celebration.

Out came the champagne, and the party began!

l Port Glasgow: Graham, A. Banks, Coyle, Walton, S. Banks, Taylor (Temporal 70), Beckley, Jack, Monaghan (McKay 85), Best, McIntyre (Nugent 48). Sub not used: Brown

Port Glasgow Juniors are sponsored by Renfrewshire Electronics and the Senit Group.

Kit sponsored by Swordfish Signs and Remax Gourock.

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This article appeared in Greenock Telegraph 19 May 08

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