Former Portadown defender recalls facing Red Star Belgrade in European Cup 35 years ago
As Irish Premiership champions Larne prepare to face Red Star Belgrade in Champions League qualifying, former Portadown defender Alfie Stewart reflects on his club's 1991 European Cup tie against the then-holders. Portadown lost 8-0 on aggregate, but Stewart describes the experience as a 'chance in a million.' The first leg was played in Hungary due to security concerns in Yugoslavia. Stewart recalls the hostile atmosphere, the physical prowess of Red Star's players, and the skill of future Lazio star Sinisa Mihajlovic, who scored two late free-kicks. The second leg at Shamrock Park featured 1991 European Golden Boot winner Darko Pancev. Stewart calls the occasion a tremendous reward for fans and a historic moment for Irish League football.
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