Darren Kelly gave POrtadown the lead at Newry

Darren Kelly gave the Ports the lead in the 10th minute when he tapped home Wesley Boyle's right-wing cross.

Newry fought back with Niall Creally twice going close as they made Portadown work hard in defence.

Paul Miller's side were again prominent in the second half, but a second goal by Aaron Baker gave Portadown victory.

Just before that second goal, Baker and Richard Clarke had rattled the woodwork while Darren King also hit a post and Kelly the inside of the crossbar near the end.

Baker's goal came 12 minutes from the end when he was put through by Gary Hamilton and his chip floated over Robert Robinson's head into the net.

Victory sees Portadown move in behind runaway leaders Linfield who now have a 15-point lead at the top following Glentoran's scoreless draw against Lisburn Distillery.