Football: Coleraine turn up the Gas

PAUL GASTON'S late goal took Coleraine within striking distance of Premier League leaders Portadown and saw off derby rivals Limavady United.

Flame-haired Gaston lit up the title race when he headed in Stephen Beatty's 85th-minute cross to help Marty Quinn's men narrow the gap at the top to a single point and deny United a share of the spoils.

There was more late drama as defender Stewart Clanachan and United's striker Paul Brown were red-carded by referee John Fielding.

Little Limavady, whose fortunes have been on the up since former international keeper Tommy Wright took charge a month ago, looked set to steal a point when Vincent Sweeney struck at the near post after 74 minutes.

Gaston said: "I've always liked scoring goals although I'm supposed to keep them out at the other end.

"This one was important as Limavady were really up for it in the second half."

Coleraine were given a great start by Tony Gorman's fantastic first-half goal. The midfielder rattled a right-foot free-kick past keeper Michael Doherty from 23 yards after Justin McNerlin tripped Rory Hamill outside the box.

But instead of dominating after the break, Coleraine let United turn up the heat.

Tempers became frayed after United pulled level. Clanachan was dismissed for a challenge which left Ryan McIlmoyle having to be carried off.

Then as United striker Brown tangled with Rory Hamill, he too was sent off.

Deep in stoppage time, home keeper Davy O'Hare produced a sensational saveto deny substitute Davy Patton.

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