Match report: Dave Ring.

Portland United U18s 1–2 Christchurch U18s
Venue: Camp & Satherley Stadium.
Sunday 3th November (2:00pm)

Portland United U18s were edged out 2–1 by Christchurch in a hard-fought contest at the Camp & Satherley Stadium, a game that swung on a controversial moment rather than any gulf in quality.

Portland named a strong side, lining up with Ellis, Moles, English, Rodgers, Wash, Ross-Mackenzie, Fisher, Wareing, Smith and Squibb. Ansell, Bament and James stepped in from the bench later on, while Lampard and Syrus Ellis went unused.

The Blues struck first, on 4 minutes when Ellis Moles, sharp and composed, punished a defensive slip to take an early lead. Christchurch didn’t sulk, they responded with purpose.

The second half was tight and cagey, both sides trading blows without giving much away. Christchurch eventually drew level midway through the half. The introductions from the bench gave the Blues fresh energy, and they pressed hard for another goal, but Christchurch stood firm under the late pressure and scored a winner late on against the run of play.

Portland may not have taken the points, but there was enough grit, quality and intent on show to take into next week’s trip to Westland Sports U18s, a chance to turn performance into reward.