Crusaders boss Declan Caddell said that Portadown were “lucky” to edge his side and claim a 1-0 victory at Shamrock Park.
Steven McCullough scored the only goal of the game for the high-flying Ports as the Crues rattled the woodwork four times.
And Caddell was frustrated that his side slipped to a third straight league defeat in a game he felt they should have won.
“Very disappointing, both teams weren’t at their best, but we created the better opportunities four times we hit the woodwork and if we take those chances, it’s a different game, he told BBC Sport NI.
“Then, it’s the story of our season, they have one opportunity and McCullough slots it in and it trickles over the line against the run of play.
“It’s the opposite of the last few games where I questioned my players work rate and desire, we saw loads of that today so today is a tough one to take. Portadown are lucky to get away with the win.”