Image: Ally Innes

Match Report: Dave Ring

Cowes Sports 2–1 Portland United
Velocity Wessex Premier League, Saturday 13th December, 3:00pm
Ziltch Waste Stadium, Cowes, Isle of Wight

Portland United made the trip across the Solent knowing they were in for a stern test and, despite a spirited second-half display, were left frustrated as Cowes Sports edged a closely fought contest at the Ziltch Waste Stadium.

Cowes started the brighter of the two sides and enjoyed the bulk of possession during the opening exchanges. Portland were forced to absorb pressure and defend resolutely, but the home side eventually broke the deadlock in the 23rd minute when substitute Scott McFarlane found the net to give the Yachtsmen a narrow advantage at the interval.

Half time: Cowes Sports 1–0 Portland United

The Blues emerged with renewed purpose after the break and quickly began to assert themselves on the game. Their increased tempo and physical presence caused Cowes problems, and Portland’s persistence was rewarded when Corbridge fired home to deservedly bring the visitors level.

Moments later came the pivotal incident of the afternoon. Portland thought they had completed the turnaround when Sam Gadsby struck powerfully into the net, sparking celebrations and seeing the ball placed on the centre spot. However, with play about to restart, the linesman intervened, informing the referee of an alleged foul throw earlier in the build-up. To the disbelief of the Portland players and bench, the goal was chalked off and play pulled back, swinging the momentum away from the visitors.

Cowes capitalised soon after, as substitute Will Bridi produced a remarkable solo run from deep inside his own half before finishing emphatically to restore the home side’s lead just five minutes after his introduction. It was a cruel blow for Portland, who had been on top at that stage of the contest.

To their credit, the Blues refused to lie down and pushed hard for a second equaliser, throwing everything forward in the closing stages. Long throws, set pieces and sustained pressure tested the Cowes back line, but the hosts stood firm and defended in numbers to protect their slender lead.

Despite a committed and energetic second-half performance, Portland United were ultimately left empty-handed, with Cowes holding on to secure all three points on the Isle of Wight.

Full time: Cowes Sports 2–1 Portland United

Cowes Sports: Ed Hatt, Ryan Hughes, Charlie Hayward, Callum Chase, Ryan Oatley (C), George Colson, Jordan Cook, Finn Phillips, Jordan Browne, Charlie Maskell, Scott McFarlane
Substitutes: John MCKie, Ollie Flood, Harrison Taylor, Alex Rami

Portland United: Harry Foden, Sam Gadsby, George Stuttle, Jacob Coombs, Jamie Cleaver, Callum Corbridge, Archie Woodford, Josh Williams (C), Greg Bothwick, Hayden Scott, Jack Delves
Substitutes: Remus Nixon, Korey Andrews, Euan Joyce, Tom Peach