FROM SEASIDE TO CHAMPIONSHIP

WARRENPOINT TOWN 2 PORTSTEWART 0 (19.4.25)

Warrenpoint Town winners of the Playr-Fit Premier Intermediate title celebrate their success at Milltown on Saturday Picture:Brendan Monaghan Sports/DNA

A two-goal first-half blast from league leaders Warrenpoint Town saw the seasiders take yet another three points at home and the Playr-Fit Premier Intermediate Championship title to boot at Milltown on Saturday.

A large crowd watched on as the town dominated visitors, Portstewart, with striker Declan Loye causing havoc at every opportunity. Loye was rewarded for his effort on 18 minutes when a pinpoint cross from winger Diarmuid O’Hanlon found the tireless striker six yards out and he headed home the opener for the blues.

Warrenpoint players Matthew Robinson and Michael Leddy congratulate Declan Loye after his opening goal against Portstewart on Saturday Picture: Brendan Monaghan Sports/DNA

Loye endured a tight hamstring not long after and was replaced by Eoghan Byrne. The bustling substitute didn’t take long to make an impact, and on 35 minutes, he found the net after a strong run put him clear of the Portstewart defense, finishing the job with the outside of his right boot.

Warrenpoint players celebrate with substitute and second goal scorer Eoghan Byrne (middle) on Saturday at Milltown Picture: Brendan Monaghan Sports/DNA

The second half brought little in chances with the Point players content to hold on to their 2-0 lead and Portstewart attack unable to break down the home side’s defensive structure.

Warrenpoint will now head back to the Championship, and after all the hard work done behind the scenes, the club will hope to hold their own in soccer’s second tier.