Portadown Faces Carrick Rangers: Sports Direct Premiership Matchday 25 Preview
Portadown will host Carrick Rangers in the Sports Direct Premiership on the evening of January 28, 2026. The match will kick off at 5:30 PM at Shamrock Park, marking Portadown’s first home game of the year. Both teams are currently navigating contrasting seasons.
Recent Performance Overview
Portadown comes into this match after suffering a 1-0 defeat to Bangor two weeks ago. The team has played only two matches in 2026, dealing with recent weather-related postponements.
On the other hand, Carrick Rangers find themselves in a much better situation. They recently won their first senior trophy in 33 years, clinching the County Antrim Shield in a penalty shootout against Cliftonville. They followed this victory with a resounding 5-1 win over Dungannon Swifts in the Premiership last Saturday.
Previous Encounters This Season
The two teams have faced each other twice earlier this season at Taylors Avenue. Their October match ended with Carrick Rangers winning 1-0, thanks to a goal from Portadown native Luke McCullough. However, in November, Portadown secured a 2-1 victory with contributions from Ben Wylie and Eamon Fyfe.
- October 11, 2025: Carrick Rangers 1 – 0 Portadown
- November 22, 2025: Carrick Rangers 1 – 2 Portadown
Carrick Rangers’ Rise
Before their recent successes, Carrick Rangers went without a league win for 11 matches. Their turnaround began with a 4-1 victory against Cliftonville on January 17, which has since sparked a run of three consecutive wins.
Injury Updates
Carrick Rangers will be missing several key players for this match:
- Ethan Boyle (knee injury)
- Nedas Maciulaitis (knee injury)
- Cameron Stewart
- Seanan Clucas (knee injury)
- Nathan Gartside (quadricep injury)
Managerial Remarks
Portadown’s manager, Niall Currie, acknowledged the challenge ahead. He noted the confidence and quality present in the Carrick Rangers squad. Currie emphasized the importance of Portadown playing assertively at home.
Match Details
Referee: To be confirmed
Tickets: Available through Portadown Football Club
Man of the Match Sponsor: The Donaldson Family
Conclusion
This upcoming match promises to be competitive, given both teams’ current standings and performances. While Portadown seeks to regain momentum, Carrick Rangers aim to continue their impressive form. Fans can expect an exciting clash as both teams vie for crucial points in the league.
