Ports manager Ronnie McFall still raging over two poor refereeing decisions at the Irish Cup Final

PORTADOWN boss Ronnie McFall is still fuming after two major decisions went against his side as Glentoran won a hugely controversial Irish Cup final at a wet and windy Oval yesterday afternoon.

It was a lack lustre first half by both teams as they battled against the torrential elements.

But the major talking point came shortly into the second half when Michael Gault appeared to be fouled by Willy Garrett as he headed goal bound.

It should have been a red car offence for a deliberate body check and trip

But referee Ross Dunlop ignored Portadown appeals and Glentoran scored on the break when Jordan Stewart played in David Scullion for a close-range strike.

Raged McFall: “It was a blatant trip and a straight red card. That’s the bottom line.”

Portadown’s level of frustration increased when a handball shout – off a Gary Twigg header – was also waved away in Glens penalty box.

Added McFall: “The referee and his officials were just not up to the mark. It’s as simple as that.Those decisions cost us dearly.”

Curtis Allen headed wide for Glentoran during the first opening but Portadown dominated first-half possession.

Robert Garrett was superb in the heart of midfield, with Peter McMahon’s control and skill putting the Glens on the backfoot.

Glentoran had long-range efforts by David Scullion and Barry Holland.

Portadown attempted to work openings from midfield but without success.

Elliott Morris pulled off a fantastic finger tip save in the final ten minutes as Portadown upped the pressure.

But the Marie Curie Cup went to Glentoran who have pocketed a £165,000 pay day by reaching the European qualifiers next season.

And whether manager Eddie Patterson will still be there or not is still a major talking point at the Oval even though he has won the Irish Cup twice in three seasons.

GLENTORAN: Elliott Morris, Willy Garrett, Marcus Kane, Calum Birney, David Scullion, Curtis Allen, Jordan Stewart, Niall Henderson, Stephen McAlorum, Stevie Gordon, Barry Holland. Subs: Fra McCaffrey, Aaron Hogg, johnny Addis, Kym Nelson, Danny McKee.

POTADOWN

: David Miskelly, Chris Casement, Ross Redmqan, KJeith O’Hara, Garry Breen, Peter McMahon,