Match Report: Dave Ring.
Portland United FC Under18s 3–1 Holt United FC Under18s
Sunday 14th September, Camp & Satherley Stadium (2:00pm)
A wet and blustery afternoon greeted both sides at the Camp and Satherley Stadium, with heavy rain beginning just before kick-off and continuing throughout the match. The conditions were far from ideal, but both teams adapted well and produced an entertaining contest despite the slippery surface.
Portland started brightly, moving the ball with confidence and creating early pressure on the Holt back line. Their positive approach was rewarded after 20 minutes when in-form striker Corey Roy, who has already built a reputation as the team’s goal machine, opened the scoring with a well-taken finish.
Barely five minutes later, the Blues doubled their advantage. Preston Hepburn spotted an opening from distance and struck a fine effort that flew past the visiting goalkeeper to make it 2–0. It was no more than Portland deserved after dominating the early exchanges.
Holt, however, showed plenty of resilience and pulled one back on 35 minutes with a tidy finish of their own, giving them a lifeline going into the break. The half-time whistle blew with Portland holding a slender 2–1 lead, setting things up for a competitive second half.
At the interval, Portland freshened things up, bringing on Jacob English for Sam Gregg and Elson Ellis for Jack Ansell. The changes added energy in the wide areas, with the home side looking to press home their advantage despite the worsening weather.
As the game wore on, the rain continued to lash down, making control and footing difficult for both teams. On 56 minutes, Portland introduced Max Fisher in place of the hard-working Archie Lampard, and soon after Jack Ansell came on, replacing Elson Ellis.
That change proved to be an inspired one. With 75 minutes played, Ansell made his mark, capping off a flowing Portland move with a fine strike to restore the Blues’ two-goal cushion. His finish gave the hosts much-needed breathing space as Holt looked to find another way back into the game.
Portland made their final switch on 80 minutes, with Roy reintroduced in place of Hepburn, ensuring fresh legs up front for the closing stages. Despite Holt’s efforts, the Blues stood firm, defending solidly and managing the game well until the final whistle.
In the end, Portland’s attacking quality and squad depth proved decisive. It was a hard-fought victory in testing conditions, and one that keeps confidence high within the Under18s squad.
Final Score: Portland United FC Under18s 3–1 Holt United FC Under18s
Portland United U18
Sam Gregs, Cameron Squibb, Ellis Moyes, Anthony Smith, Archie Lampard, Harvey Davies, Elson Ellis, George Ross-McKenzie, Corey Roy, Adam Rodgers, Preston Hepburn
Substitutes
Jacob English, Hayden Burrows, Cyrus Ellis, Max Fisher, Jack Ansell
Holt United U18
Mat Terzic, Liam Pitwood, Dylan Tipper, Lucas Phillips, Archie Pounton, Sammy Manners, Jack Woolley, Henry Von Renngsen, Jack Perry, Ryan Donald, Harry Excell
Substitute
Ru Small
Referee
Alan Dennis
