Sean McCarron’s late brace edges Institute closer to Championship leaders Portadown

Sean McCarron scored twice in Institute's draw with Dergview

Two late goals from Sean McCarron salvaged a point at Darragh Park, as second placed Institute moved within two points Playr-Fit Championship leaders Portadown.

Before kick-off, Kevin Deery’s men would have viewed a draw against strugglers Dergview as a disappointment but when you consider they were two goals and one man down with less than 10 minutes to play, this 2-2 draw will be warmly welcomed.

Eleventh placed Dergview opened the scoring when Niall McGinley hit the net from the penalty spot a minute before the break.

It was 2-0 to Emmet Friars’ team when Shane McMonagle fired home.

It looked all over for Stute when Evan Tweed received a second yellow card in the 52nd minute, but McCarron pulled one back in the 83rd minute before scoring an equaliser in stoppage time.

Today sees League leaders Portadown travel to third placed Dundela, who sit just one point behind Stute and three points behind the Ports.

In form Ballyclare Comrades welcome Bangor to Dixon Park with Stephen Small’s men seeking their third win at their home ground in a week. Matthew Tipton’s Ards travel to Inver Park to play fifth-placed Newington.

Basement side Knockbreda make the short journey to Blanchflower Park to play Paul Kee’s Harland and Wolff Welders, who have lost their last two outings.

At Ferney Park, 10th placed Ballinamallard United host ninth placed Annagh United.