Match Report: Dave Ring
Hamworthy United Reserves 2, Portland United Reserves 0
Saturday 14th February, 2:00pm
Played on the 3G pitch at the County Ground
Portland United Reserves made the short trip to the County Ground on Saturday afternoon but came away empty-handed after a 2–0 defeat against Hamworthy United Reserves.
The Blues started brightly and looked comfortable on the 3G surface in the opening exchanges. Captain Ash Warwick marshalled the side well from midfield, with Preston Hepburn and Josh Grace solid in the heart of defence in front of Andy Ennals. Early spells of possession saw Sonny Cleeton and Alax Halloran working hard to link play, while Mike Powell led the line with his usual physical presence.
Despite a positive start, Portland found themselves under increasing pressure as the half wore on. Hamworthy broke the deadlock in the 25th minute, and the visitors struggled to recover. The hosts doubled their advantage on 68 minutes, capitalising on a defensive lapse to put the game beyond doubt.
Portland responded after the break with renewed determination. Billy Hathway and Ellis Moles pushed forward from full-back positions to support attacks, while Igor Da Costa and Carl Mutch looked to stretch the Hamworthy back line. The visitors created a couple of promising situations but were unable to find the final touch to get back into the game.
Changes were introduced to freshen things up, with Iwan Walters replacing Billy Hathway, Kia Kilcoyne coming on for Carl Mutch, Rocco Walsh introduced in place of Mike Powell, and Josh Hanger replacing Preston Hepburn. The substitutions added energy and commitment, and Portland continued to battle until the final whistle.
In truth, the Blues showed plenty of effort and organisation but were undone by two key moments, the first on 25 minutes and the second on 68 minutes. There were encouraging signs in spells of build-up play, yet a cutting edge in the final third proved elusive on the day.
Portland United Reserves will look to regroup and respond positively in their next outing.
