Seniors suffer home reverse in league test

However, Kilkeel left Edenvilla Park with full points and a 3-1 scoreline following the hard-fought Premier League clash.

Gilmore recently returned to Portadown following time on the books at Banbridge.

Portadown entered the fixture sitting third in the standings after a positive introduction to top-flight hockey at domestic level.

Confidence proved high following slick passing and attacking play before Kilkeel managed to break the deadlock on 15 minutes.

It was 2-0 following another counter-attack but Portadown carved out openings in response for Adam Stevenson and Gilmore.

Kilkeel worked hard to protect the clean sheet thanks to a last-gasp clearance and slick save from the goalkeeper.

Gareth Titler stepped in to produce a second-half clearance off the line but Kilkeel eventually added number three.

Portadown hit back with a reverse-stick strike by Gilmore but it proved the sole reward.

Men’s weekend teamsheets are as follows:

Firsts v Instonians (league, away, start 2.30): J.Knipe, G.Titler, S.Bell, J.Brown, G.Morrison, G.Croft, Z.McClelland, S.Kirkland, G.Edgar, M.Winter, R.Scott, A.Stevenson, S.Johnston, N.Gilmore, M.Bennett.

Seconds v Instonians thirds (league, away, start 1 o’clock): Players to be confirmed.

Thirds v South Antrim fifths (league, away, start 4 o’clock): Players to be confirmed.

Portadown ladies’ Premier League date with Ballymoney was postponed last weekend due to adverse weather conditions.

The Edenvilla Park seniors are scheduled to entertain Randalstown tomorrow (Saturday) from 2.30.

The club’s seconds and thirds can also look forward to home tests - with the former taking on Ulster Elks at 1 o’clock and the latter meeting Belfast Harlequins from 4 o’clock.