Image courtesy of Vic Holland: – Freddy Beale (Sponsored by Paul Knight) receiving his Man of the Match award from Portland United supporter Jim Hinde.

Match report by: David Ring.

Christchurch 4–1 Portland United
Saturday, M.A. Hart Stadium

Portland United brought the curtain down on a testing season with a 4-1 defeat away at Christchurch on Saturday afternoon.

The Blues found themselves behind in the 18th minute when Addwell was played through on goal and finished calmly past Lucas Goad.

Christchurch had a golden opportunity to extend their lead from the penalty spot not long after, but Goad produced an excellent save to deny Joe Freak and keep Portland in the contest heading into the break.

Unfortunately, the hosts came out strongly after half-time. Just four minutes into the second half, Jake Dove doubled the lead with a well-taken strike. The Blues were then punished further in the 69th minute, as Jamie Webber rifled home from close range after a low cross from the left.

Portland gave their travelling supporters something to cheer in the 82nd minute. A pinpoint cross to the back post was met by Josh Camp, who headed in smartly to make it 3-1.

However, any hope of a late comeback was short-lived. Just three minutes later, Joe Freak found the net to make amends for his earlier penalty miss and round off the scoring at 4-1.

On a warm afternoon at the M.A. Hart Stadium, it was a frustrating end to the campaign for The Blues, who struggled to find rhythm against a sharp Christchurch side.

Man of the Match: Freddy Beale – a relentless effort and wholehearted display across the 90 minutes.