Portadown Keeper McCarey Reflects on Fine Margins After Heartbreaking Late Defeat

In the latest clash of the Irish Premiership, Portadown goalkeeper Aaron McCarey found himself reflecting on the fine margins that can define a football match. After a rollercoaster game against Glentoran at Shamrock Park, McCarey was left disappointed as his team succumbed to a last-gasp 93rd-minute goal from Niall McGinn. This late strike, which took a wicked deflection, snatched victory from the jaws of a well-deserved point for Portadown, a team newly promoted to this competitive league. The match began with Glentoran taking an early lead just nine minutes into the game, sending the home fans into a mix of excitement and concern. However, Portadown showed resilience as Ryan Mayse netted an equalizer in the second half, sparking hopes of a potential turnaround. McCarey, reflecting on the game, expressed how crucial it was for his team to capitalize on this momentum. "I think the equalising goal was full value, and we're probably thinking at that stage we can go on and win it," he said, lamenting the late disappointment that left them empty-handed. The goalkeeper pointed out a critical moment in the match that contributed to their downfall, emphasizing the need for better defensive organization. "First and foremost, our set-up from the throw-in is very poor. You can't allow a player of Niall McGinn's quality to go inside and get onto his right foot," he noted. McCarey's admission that he "knew from the minute it took the wicked deflection" he would struggle to stop the shot encapsulates the difficulties faced by Portadown as they navigate the early stages of their season. With tough fixtures already behind them, including matches against established teams like Cliftonville and Glentoran, McCarey remains hopeful but realistic about his team's prospects. "If we're being realistic everyone outside would have said Portadown are getting nothing out of them," he acknowledged, showing an understanding of the challenges that come with being a newly promoted side. However, he insists that the team had different expectations and a strong mindset: "We thought we could get points." Looking ahead, the goalkeeper remains determined as Portadown prepares to face Loughgall in their next outing. "The season is in its infancy, it's a big game on Tuesday, and we need to get points on the board as soon as possible," he stated firmly. The urgency to secure points is palpable, as the team seeks to establish itself in the league and avoid being drawn into a relegation battle so early in the campaign. As the season progresses, Portadown's resilience and adaptability will be put to the test. With McCarey’s leadership in goal and a drive to improve, the team will look to turn their fortunes around in the coming matches. The journey is just beginning, and the hope is that they will soon find the consistency needed to compete effectively in the Irish Premiership.