CORFE MULLEN 2

PORTLAND 6

ALEX Counter scored four times as Portland Town gave a polished performance against Corfe Mullen in the Veterans' Western Division.

Marc Dalley was also on target twice as the islanders started the game full of purpose and desire.

The visitors were efforts were rewarded after just two minutes when a ball from John Chester was put on a plate for Dalley who fed fellow striker Counter for 1-0.

Just two minutes later, Counter bagged his second, this time from the spot, after Dalley was clearly tripped in the box.

With just five minutes on the clock and cruising, disaster struck for the islanders when centre-back Dan Pickering popped his knee and was unable to continue. A trip to Poole Hospital later confirmed ligament damage.

Paul Barber stepped in to the fray in Pickering's place.

The delay in play seemed to hinder Town while energising Corfe and it remained 2-0 at the break.

The visitors soon made it 3-0 after the break with Counter completing his hat-trick.

Dalley then got in on the act after 60 minutes with a goal of his own after setting up the previous three.

This was his first for the club.

At 4-0, Town introduced Justin Hunt for Chris Raza and new signing Dan Thomas for Tony Morris.

Town were unfortunate to concede a penalty shortly after as Lee Whisselle was adjudged to handle the ball in the box.

Counter soon restored the lead and notched his fourth and his side's fifth.

Corfe still pushed forward and a long ball over the top let in their striker for 5-2.

Dalley then lobbed the keeper for the second time to seal the win at 6-2 but not before Town keeper Nick Gregg pulled of a fine save.