Match report: Dave Ring
Hamworthy Recreation Reserves 3 – 1 Portland United Reserves
Meyson Properties Stadium – Saturday 4th October 2025, 3:00pm
On a blustery afternoon at the Meyson Properties Stadium, Portland United Reserves battled hard against a strong Hamworthy Recreation FC Reserves side but ultimately left empty-handed, falling to a 3–1 defeat.
The fierce wind played havoc throughout the match, making controlled football difficult and forcing both sides to adapt their usual passing styles. Portland, lining up with captain Ash Smith marshalling the midfield, worked tirelessly to keep their shape and limit Hamworthy’s chances early on.
Hamworthy broke the deadlock on 29 minutes when Elliot Birtwistle capitalised on a loose ball in the box to put the hosts ahead. Just three minutes later, Curtis Lane doubled the advantage with a well-taken finish following a swift counter-attack.
Portland responded well and were rewarded on 35 minutes when Harvey Davies fired home after some neat build-up play involving Norman, Smith and Whitehead, a goal that gave the Blues renewed belief heading into the break.
However, any hopes of a comeback were dented shortly after half-time when Chris Lane made it 3–1 on 47 minutes, finishing clinically to restore Hamworthy’s two-goal cushion.
Portland introduced Billy Hathaway, Ellis Moles, and later Sebastian Bobora-David in search of a spark, but Hamworthy used the wind advantage effectively, pinning the visitors back and managing the game well in the closing stages.
Despite the defeat, there were positives for Portland — particularly the tireless work rate in midfield and the leadership shown by captain Ash Smith. Goalkeeper Alfie Watts also produced several fine saves to keep the Blues in contention as the game wore on.
The result leaves Portland frustrated but not disheartened, knowing that with better fortune and a little more composure in front of goal, they can turn performances like this into results.
Portland United Reserves:
Watts, Warwick, Hanger, Butcher, Payne (Moles), Smith (C), Davies, Norman, Clark (Hathaway), M. Bobora-David (Sebastian Bobora-David), Whitehead.
Unused: Gould.
Goal: Davies.
