Ballymena United manager Jim Ervin says the fact that his side kept a clean sheet in their 1-0 victory over Portadown pleased him at least as much as the victory which extended their winning league run to six matches.

Ethan Devine’s header just before half-time sealed victory for the Braidmen, who were forced into defensive duties for much of the game at Shamrock Park.

“We weren’t great, let’s be honest. First half, it looked like the two teams were nervous. We struggled to keep hold of the ball,” observed Ervin.

“We eventually scored, four or five passes down the left side, Josh [Carson] puts a great ball in and Ethan’s header was fantastic.”

“We told the boys at half-time that we needed to try and control it a wee bit better and when we regained possession try and keep the ball but for one reason or another we couldn’t do it.”

Despite bossing possession, the Sky Blues managed to contain the threat posed by the Ports in attack.

“Portadown had a lot of possession and it was like attack v defence in the second half but Sean O’Neill didn’t have too many saves to make.

“That means the guys in front of him are doing their job and defending with their bodies on the line.

“We’re delighted to get away with three points and I’m probably more pleased with the clean sheet today.”