Marc McCann scored Portadown's first half goal

Marc McCann struck Portadown ahead in the 31st minute but Jason Hill superbly levelled before half-time and Marty Hunter then gave Ards a shock lead.

Vinny Arkins levelled for Portadown with his first goal in nine games in the 80th minute.

Darren Kelly headed in Portadown's winner four minutes from time.

Portadown's win was marred by an injury which meant Wesley Boyle had to be stretchered off in the second half.

McCann opened the scoring for Portadown in the 31st minute by hammering home the rebound after Kyle Neill's effort had been blocked.

Neill then went close for Portadown while Andy Waterworth and Jason Hill had half-chances for Ards.

Ards did get on terms four minutes before the break when Hill struck a glorious left-foot volley.

The north Down side then had the temerity to go ahead 10 minutes after the break when Marty Hunter ran on to a Gary Wray pass and slotted the ball into the net.

Things then seemed to go from bad to worse for Portadown when Wesley Boyle had to be stretchered off.

However, Portadown kept battling and Arkins headed the equaliser 10 minutes from time and Darren Kelly supplied the winner six minutes later.

Portadown's win keeps them within three points of leaders Linfield. Ards are now two points adrift at the bottom of the table.