PORTLAND United assistant-boss Sam Poole believes the Blues have looked “a different team” in recent weeks.

Picking up four draws along with a win and a loss has not told the story of improved performances for the islanders.

Cowes Sports and Bournemouth Poppies both scored in the 95th minute to deprive Portland of three points, while Bashley also turned the game on its head to win 2-1.

Portland’s latest outing – a 0-0 draw with Blackfield & Langley – saw the Blues end a near three-month wait for a clean sheet.

Poole told Echosport: “Performances over the past four or five weeks have been really good, excluding the Christchurch game.

“If you were a fan and you came and watched Portland at the start of the season, compared to coming to watch in the last few home games, you’ll see a different team.

READ MORE: Portland United 0-0 Blackfield & Langley - match report

“The boys are listening to what me and Frank (Clarke, manager) are telling them. They’re taking on all the information and doing what we ask of them.

“You can tell we are improving. We’ve got a bit of work to do, we know that. We’re a young group and we have been making mistakes, but we’re learning from them.

“What we’re trying to do is learn, don’t make the mistakes again and have a platform to build on.

“From now until next season hopefully these players will have more know-how and you never know, it could be an exciting season for us.”

Clarke added: “It’s just nice to see that we’re developing players, as well.

“The 16, 17 lads we’ve got now, we’re working with young, hungry players who want to improve.

“They’re now starting to believe and see that what we’re doing is working.

“The boys’ feedback is that they’re really enjoying it because the group’s come together. We’re more of a unit.

“We’re making little gains in the right direction.”