Portland United U18s vs Beaminster FC (First Team)
Thursday 28th August – Pre-Season Friendly, Redlands Sports Centre

Portland United’s Under 18s stepped up to senior opposition on Thursday evening as they hosted Beaminster FC’s First Team in a hastily arranged pre-season friendly at Redlands Sports Centre. Despite the challenge of facing older and more experienced players, the young Blues put in a commanding performance to run out convincing 5-0 winners.

It was a damp night, with a fine drizzle lingering in the air, but the rain thankfully held off long enough for the game to flow. From the outset, Portland’s youngsters showed energy, pace and composure on the ball, taking the game to their opponents and never allowing Beaminster to settle.

The opening goal came from one of the youngest players on the pitch, 15-year-old Cory Moore, who showed maturity beyond his years to calmly finish and give Portland the advantage. The strike set the tone for the evening, with the home side brimming with confidence and playing with freedom.

Not long after, Sebastian Bobora-David doubled the lead, capping off a fine attacking move with a well-placed finish. Portland’s pressing and movement were causing real problems for the visitors, and it was no surprise when Preston Hepburn added a third to put the game beyond doubt before the interval.

After the break, the U18s showed no signs of slowing down. They continued to play with purpose, keeping Beaminster pinned back and restricting them to very few chances. Jack Ansell got himself on the scoresheet with Portland’s fourth, before Sonny Cleaton rounded off the scoring in style, making it 5-0 to the Blues and underlining the dominance of the performance.

It was a display full of attacking intent, discipline and character from Portland’s youngsters, who more than matched – and ultimately outclassed – senior opposition on the night. For a pre-season workout hastily put together, it proved hugely valuable, offering a glimpse of the talent and depth coming through the ranks at the Camp & Satherley.

The result will no doubt give the U18s plenty of confidence heading into their competitive fixtures, while also highlighting the strength of the youth set-up at Portland United.

Full Time: Portland United U18s 5–0 Beaminster FC (First Team)
Goals: Moore, Bobora-David, Hepburn, Ansell, Cleaton