Portadown's Josh Ukek has joined Larne in the Irish Premiership, following the expiry of his contract at Shamrock Park. The forward made 61 appearances for the Ports and scored 15 goals during his two campaigns. Ukek signed for the Ports from Bala Town and was a key player for the team. He will now join Larne, who are aiming to build on last year's success when they lifted the Gibson Cup for the third time in the past four seasons. This news follows the announcement that prolific striker Andy Ryan had left Larne to return to Scotland. Ukek said following the announcement, 'Ever since I spoke with Gary Haveron, I knew this would be my destination.' He added, 'Larne are the champions, the best team in the country, they've had so much success over the last few years and my mind was set when I spoke to Gary.' Haveron said Ukek must 'make the most of the opportunity' as he makes the move to the Antrim coast. He added, 'Josh is a player who has caused us problems any time we've faced him. He's a big, quick, powerful lad and he gives us a different option to what we have in the building at the minute.'