ALDERHOLT 1 PORTLAND TOWN 2

PORTLAND Town’s gritty away performance yielded a closely-fought 2-1 victory at 10-man Alderholt in Dorset League Division One.

Town started slowly and a couple of speculative efforts from the hosts saw Chris Stones field well in goal.

After weathering a tough start Town got themselves in front when Nick Paul was hauled down in the box and Rob Townley lashed home the resulting penalty.

As Portland looked to assert themselves just 10 minutes later the hosts were level.

A misplaced pass from debutant Jack Weir was punished as Alderholt broke quickly to level as Archer White slotted past Stones.

Changes were made soon after another good Stones save and thereafter Town dominated up to half-time.

Callum Allison saw an effort cleared off the line while Kevin Witt saved from Andy Jones and Joe Watters when they should have scored.

Town were more resolute whilst still threatening in the second period, Watters found Allison at the far post but Witt saved well. Watters then failed to connect at the back post.

Frustration turned into hope for Town as Alderholt had Jack Leonard sent off for alleged dissent.

Town pushed on and Kieren Pinhey saw what looked like a good goal ruled out after good work from Watters.

Pinhey was not to be denied and the same two combined as Pinhey stabbed home Watters’ cross.

Alderholt were reliant on the counter-attack and two efforts kept Town on red alert, with Stones saving one attempt and another rattling the bar.

Town: Stones, Paul, Pettitt, Jones, Weir (Christopher), Townley, Sonner, Harvey, Allison, Watters, Clifford (Pinhey). Sub not used: Mould.

Man of the match: Callum Allison