Multiplayer server generated using 1.4.1 and then updated to 1.4.2. The portals were not constructed until after the 1.4.2 update.

When a player enters a portal, travelling to or from the nether, they exit facing a different direction.

For example, player enters portal facing east and comes out facing west or the player enters facing south and exits facing west.

the screenshots demonstrate travelling to and from the nether.