Report by: Ross Boatswain.

Portland United Reserves endured a tough afternoon as they fell to a 5-1 defeat against a dominant Holt side. Despite a spirited effort, the hosts were outclassed, with Holt proving clinical in front of goal.

The visitors set the tempo early on, controlling possession and forcing Portland onto the back foot. Their attacking intent paid off as they raced into the lead, punishing defensive lapses with well-taken goals.

Portland struggled to gain a foothold in the game, but they found a glimmer of hope when Kia Kilcoyne managed to pull one back. His strike briefly lifted the home side, but Holt quickly reasserted their dominance, adding further goals, including a penalty to secure a comprehensive victory.

Despite fresh legs from the bench, the substitutions were unable to shift the momentum in Portland’s favour.