PORTLAND UNITED 1 STURMINSTER M 0

PORTLAND United took a step closer to retaining their Dorset Premier League crown with victory over lowly Sturminster Marshall at Grove Corner.

The Blues dominated the clash but had to rely on a Sam Clarke strike to gain all three points. The win, coupled with Westland Sports’ defeat to Hamworthy Recreation, puts the islanders firmly in the driving seat for back-to-back titles.

And manager Stuart Heath was delighted to see his men return to winning ways after a midweek defeat at local rivals Chickerell United.

He said: “The players were outstanding and I’m very proud of them after the disappointment of losing on Tuesday night. The players showed a lot of character in the way that they responded to Tuesday’s setback.

“The scoreline though didn’t really reflect how much we dominated the game. We had a lot of chances but their keeper was outstanding.

“Our defenders don’t often get a lot of credit but Sam Clarke got the goal and I was pleased for him because he was superb and he’s been our most consistent player since he returned from injury.”

Portland have just two league fixtures remaining while the majority of their title rivals have games in hand, but six points will guarantee the championship for Heath’s side.

He added: “Results elsewhere means that the destiny of the title is back in our own hands, we’ve just got to stay focused. If we get six points from our last two games then we’ll win the league.

“It’s still going to be close as teams will be waiting for us to slip up, which we can’t afford to do. These last two games will prove if we’re good enough to win the league.”

Blues: Carroll, Cranny, Perkins, Clarke, Dailey, Lamb (Dixon 65), Marshallsay, Litherland, Halloran, Whyton, Reader (P Lambert 75). Sub not used: Why.