PORTLAND United manager Gary Bailey was not too concerned with his players’ performances after they were beaten 1-0 at Pewsey Vale on Saturday.

After lifting the Sydenhams Wessex League Division One title last weekend, Bailey picked a rotated side with both teams having little to play for.

However, the plan backfired for the visitors as they conceded with 20 minutes to go to consign them to just their fourth defeat of the season.

Despite the loss, Bailey felt there was a little to read into the narrow defeat, instead focusing on the season’s incredible success.

He told Echosport: “We didn’t get going. I think after last week when we were presented with the trophy and the celebrations, I think our season ended there to be honest.

“It was always going to be tough to go up there and get a result. I wanted to win and go out on a high but we couldn’t find any rhythm.

“But we’re not going to dwell on it for too long and it certainly won’t detract from what a fantastic season it has been.

“It was probably one too many games for us.”

Alex Godfrey had a couple of chances in the first half for the Blues but he couldn’t find the target – and when he did the home keeper was in the way of his

shot.

After the break, the intensity of the game did not increase and it allowed the hosts to take advantage.

With 20 minutes to go – and a goal down – Portland were unable to find a way back into the game.

Bailey added: “We had a few supporters and committee members come travel to the game and it would’ve been nice to see the game off with a win. We’re underperformed but I can’t be too negative. The game had nothing riding on it and I can’t be too critical.”

Four players from the reserves took to the field including teenage duo Josh Camp and Jack Will – who played alongside his brothers in the clash – and Bailey was pleased with their contributions.

The manager explained: “The game allowed me to take a good look at a few of the fringe players and they made a good account of themselves. They didn’t do themselves any harm and they got some good experience of the first team.”

After the game, Ashley Smith signed on for the club to go with the 13 that committed their future to the club last weekend, which means most of the first-team squad have signed on for next season’s Wessex League Premier Division campaign.

Blues: Lillington, Smith, Whyton, Bessant, M Camp, Ja Will (Jo Will, 65), G Will, Doidge, Zima (J Camp, 60), Godfrey, Jackson. Subs not used: None