Dundela carve out Championship lead with tough victory over Knockbreda

William Faulkner's goal was the difference in Dundela's win over Knockbreda

Dundela opened up a two-point lead at the top of the Playr-Fit Championship, but basement club Knockbreda made them work for the points.

With 80 minutes left on the clock, Breda — 14 points adrift at the bottom of the table — looked set to claim their fifth point of the season. However, veteran midfielder William Faulkner broke the deadlock to seal victory for the League leaders.

Second-placed Institute —who defeated Dundela 2-1 on Tuesday — dropped two points away to Annagh United. The two clubs played out a forgettable 0-0 draw at the BMG Arena.

Third-placed Bangor kept the pressure on the top two with a 3-1 win over Newington at Inver Park.

Scott McArthur scored twice for the Seasiders either side of a Ben Arthurs strike. Francis Rice scored a late consolation goal for the Swans.

Portadown held onto fourth spot thanks to a 2-1 win over Harland and Wolff Welders at Blanchflower Park. January signing Ciaran Dobbin scored in both halves to help the Ports stay within six points of his old club Dundela.

Kyle Owens equalised in the 70th minute for the Welders, only for Dobbin to hit the winner two minutes later.

Fifth-placed Ballyclare Comrades kept pace with the top four thanks to a 3-1 win at Darragh Park over 11th-placed Dergview.

Darius Roohi, Gary Donnelly and Larne loanee Caolan Donnelly all found the net for the Comrades — who will not play a home game until March, with a 3G pitch set to be laid at Dixon Park. Padraig Lynch scored a late penalty for the Dergs, who are seven points behind Ards.

At Clandeboye Park, Ballinamallard United claimed a 1-0 win over the Red and Blues thanks to a James McGrath strike 10 minutes from time.