PORTLAND UNITED 4

TINTINHULL 0

PORTLAND United returned to winning ways with a convincing victory over mid-table Tintinhull.

The Blues entered the Magna Dorset Premier League encounter on the back of an energy-sapping defeat at the hands of title rivals Hamworthy Recreation – who now lead the way in the race for glory.

But Stuart Heath’s men responded in fine style with Tom Carter, Joe Toghill, Ben Skelton and Lewis Whyton all finding the net at Grove Corner.

The island chief said: “We were disappointed in the manner of the defeat on Saturday, with it being so late, so it was important we came back with a good performance and a good result. Fortunately we got both.

“The players have had a couple of setbacks during the season but every time they have responded in the right manner and I was really proud of the way we bounced back.

“Considering the difficult conditions, we played some really good football. We were slow to come out of the blocks but as soon as we got the first goal we settled down and played some good stuff.

“Tom scored the first goal and then Joe got a quick second to help settle us down even more.

“We were playing against the elements in the second half but our defensive display was fantastic again and to keep a clean sheet in those conditions was admirable.

“We went on to score two more, which we deserved, with the third coming from Ben and Lewis scoring the fourth from the penalty spot after he was brought down.

“It was a real team effort but young Ross Boatswain had an excellent game coming in. He has real potential, he just needs the confidence to play like that every week.”

The Blues remain second in the table, trailing Rec on goal difference but having played two games more than the current leaders.

Heath added: “We have got six tough games left and all we can do is pick up as many points as possible and take advantage of any slip-up.

“Saturday was our first away defeat of the season and to lose your first away game in April is a pretty good effort.”

Blues: Carroll, Grimason (Greatrex 70), Reader, Carter, Cranny, Carmichael, Litherland, Halloran (B Skelton 46), Boatswain, Whyton, Toghill (Pattison 75).

Attendance: 104