Vinny Arkins scored the two first half goals for Portadown

It took two first-half goals from red-hot striker Vinny Arkins to secure the points against stubborn Reds outfit.

However, Portadown could have been out of sight by half-time with Mark McCann missing three gilt-edge chances.

Portadown's early pressure paid off in the 26th minute with McCann's low cross from the left finding Arkins who fired home from eight yards out.

Five minutes from the break, Portadown doubled their score with another move initiated from the left.

This time it was a Kyle Neil cross that saw Arkins rising high to send a forceful header past the wrong-footed goalkeeper John Connolly.

However, Portadown did not take advantage of their superiority and Cliftonville came more into the game, but without having a clinical finish.

Daily Mirror Irish Premier League results
Cliftonville 0-2 Portadown