PORTLAND UNITED 3

FAWLEY 1

PORTLAND United continued their great start to life in the Sydenhams Wessex League Premier Division with a 3-1 victory over Fawley at Grove Corner.

A brace from Alex Godfrey and a Max Buckler strike earned the three points for the Blues.

The win sees them extend their unbeaten run to five games since the start of the season, which sees them sit top of the table.

After the game, manager Gary Bailey said: “The wind was a real game changer. It made it difficult for both sides, it helped you defend but it hindered our attack.

“But, I’m really pleased with the performance and the result.”

Buckler opened the scoring in the 27th minute with a lovely shot from the edge of the box.

The goal was richly deserved after the islanders had dominated the opening proceedings.

They added a second three minutes before the break.

The hosts broke down the left-hand side with Chris Clarke playing in Jamie Beasley and the winger squared the ball to Godfrey for an easy finish.

The second half followed a similar pattern to the first with the home side creating plenty of chances and they got their third goal of the game four minutes into the second half.

They broke quickly allowing Godfrey to score his second of the game.

Beasley had a couple of chances to extend their lead, but he couldn’t take them and Portland were given a brief scare as the visitors got a goal back with 20 minutes to go.

The howling wind played a part in the goal as an inswinging corner could not be dealt with and Fawley grabbed a consolation goal.

Bailey added: “I never felt we would relinquish the lead, but with the conditions it was a bit nervy.

“We saw it out well and we didn’t have many scares.

“It turned a bit scrappy but we were good value for the win.”

Godfrey may have been on the scoresheet, but it’s been a up-and-down start to the season for the striker.

He’s had to wait for his chances with Bailey opting to rotate his squad in a busy month of football, and the manager knows he can have a great influence on games.

The boss explained: “He’s been patient, he’s not started every game, but when he’s been called upon he has made an impact. Everyone has a big part to play.”

Portland: Lillington, Smith, Bessant, Doidge, Clarke, Watts, Buckler, Godfrey, McKechnie, Beasley (Morris 70), Richardson. Subs not used:Will, Mutch, Camp

Attendance: 154

Match Sponsors: Massage Weymouth - Gordon Sharp, Phil Way