I had to let pal McDaid get his treble: Donnelly

LARNE’S top goalscorer Martin Donnelly admitted he couldn’t deny team-mate David McDaid his hat-trick as the Inver Park men increased their lead at the top of the Bluefin Sport Championship to a massive 17 points.

McDaid hit a treble in 19 minutes to help Larne to a 5-0 win over second-placed Dundela.

Jeff Hughes put Larne 1-0 up after 15 minutes before they ran riot in the second half. David Scullion made it 2-0 eight minutes after the break and McDaid then hit his three, sealed with a penalty 10 minutes from time.

“He was on two goals and if he wants the penalty I’m not going to fight him for it,” said Donnelly.

McDaid added: “I’m delighted we won. For my confidence, it was good to get the goals.”

Third-placed Portadown went within two points of Dundela after they edged a seven-goal thriller against Knockbreda.

Sean Mackle put the Ports in front five minutes before halftime, but Knockbreda got level thanks to Darius Roohi.

Breda took the lead early in the second half when David Fearon netted from the penalty spot.

Mackle struck a second and a double from Adam Salley put the Ports 4-2 up before Conor Doran notched a late consolation.

PSNI were also 4-3 winners, away to Limavady United.

The Roesiders fought back after going 1-0 down to lead 3-1 at half-time. PSNI began their comeback when Dylan Wilson scored before two late goals from Tony Tumelty gave them the win.

Loughgall ended Ballinamallard United’s recent run of form with a 2-1 win at Ferney Park, H&W Welders also scored four as they got back to winning ways with a 4-1 victory over Carrick Rangers and Ballyclare Comrades made it four points in a week when they drew 2-2 at Dergview.