Image courtesy: Michelle Carr.

Match Report Dave Ring.

FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round
Hythe & Dibden 3 – 1 Portland United
Saturday 2nd August | Hythe Garage Services Stadium | 3:00pm KO

On a scorching Saturday afternoon at the Hythe Garage Services Stadium, Portland United’s 2025/26 FA Cup journey came to an abrupt end with a 3–1 defeat to a lively and well-organised Hythe & Dibden side.

The first half was an even affair, with both teams probing but failing to land any decisive blows. Portland carved out a few half-chances and enjoyed spells of possession, but couldn’t quite find their rhythm or assert any real dominance. The warning signs were there, though, and after the break, the hosts struck with intent.

Hythe & Dibden’s Harrison Fay opened the scoring in the 50th minute, capitalising on a lapse in concentration from the Blues who were caught flat-footed at the back. The goal sparked the home side into life and they doubled their lead 15 minutes later with a precise, well-placed finish by Marcel Laptas that left the Portland keeper with little chance.

Looking for a response, assistant manager Jamie Symes rang the changes on 66 minutes, Josh Camp replaced the industrious Greg Borthwick, while Hayden Scott came on for the hard working Marcus Smith in an effort to reinvigorate the Blues. Shortly after, Freddy Beale entered the fray in the 72nd minute, taking the place of the impressive James Coat.

But it was Hythe & Dibden who struck again, sealing the win with a third goal in the 75th minute by the lively Harrison Clarke, clinical, composed, and a just reward for their control of proceedings.

To their credit, Portland continued to battle, and in the third minute of stoppage time, they grabbed a consolation. A cracking Remus Nixon strike from just outside the box nestled into the top-left corner, arguably the goal of the game, but it was too little, too late.

Despite some spirited moments and a handful of chances, Portland never truly looked in control. It was a frustrating afternoon where effort wasn’t in doubt, but execution fell short. The Blues will need to regroup and quickly refocus as they prepare for their league opener away at Wincanton Town on Tuesday evening.

Not the start they hoped for in this historic competition, but the league campaign offers the perfect chance to bounce back. Credit to Hythe & Dibden, who were worthy winners on the day. We wish them all the best in the next round.