Michael Collins insists that he wants to leave the Irish League

Portadown 2-1 Glenavon

Portadown midfielder Michael Collins repeated his desire to quit the Irish League after Saturday's 2-1 victory over Glenavon at Shamrock Park.

Collins produced a low-key performance on his return to the Ports team after a seven-match suspension.

Afterwards, Collins admitted that he had faded somewhat in the second half after showing some impressive touches in the opening period.

"I got into the game early on but I died a bit in the second half," Collins told BBC Radio Ulster.

"As regards the future, I still want to get out of the Irish League but Ronnie isn't letting me go anywhere.

"I wanted to go to Derry City but Ronnie wasn't having any of that".

Portadown's victory cut Glentoran's Irish League lead to seven points.

Arkins' 32nd goal

The Ports will have been relieved to have claimed the points against a battling Glenavon outfit.

Goals from Vinny Arkins (25) and (60) Cullen Feeney seemed to have put Portadown in control but Stephen Hynds ensured a nervy finish for the home side when he scored 13 minutes from time.

Early on, John Convery went close for the Ports with a shot which Glenavon goalkeeper Paul Rice tipped over.

Arkins scored his 32nd goal of the season in the 25th minute when he rose unchallenged to head to the net.

Glenavon battled back before half-time and George O'Boyle went close and Portadown goalkeeper Davy Wells did superbly to keep out a Marc McCann effort.

Feeney added the second Ports goal on the hour before Hynds replied for Glenavon after good work by Conor Forker.