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Gareth McKeown's late winner against Portadown means second-placed Crusaders are now just six points behind Premiership leaders Cliftonville.

McKeown blasted in the 85th-minute winner from Paul Heatley's pass seconds after Portadown's Keith O'Hara had been sent-off for two yellow cards.

There was confusion as referee Alan Black showed O'Hara the second yellow but did not follow it with a red.

However, after consulting an assistant, the ref dismissed the Ports skipper.

Match official Black upset the visitors in the first half when he disallowed a Tim Mouncey goal.

Mouncey had headed in at the back post from a Ross Redman corner in the 27th minute but it was ruled out for a foul.

In the second half, McKeown glanced a header wide and Jordan Owens was also off target with a couple of headed efforts.

"I think we were on top for most of the game," said defender McKeown afterwards.

"It was a big game for us. We had to be patient and it paid off as we got the goal.

"We have been trying to make Seaview a fortress and we enjoy playing for the fans here."