Portland United continued their impressive ascent up the Wessex League Premier table with a thrilling 2-0 victory over Wincanton on Tuesday night (October 1). The Blues have now secured three consecutive league wins, showcasing their determination and skill.
Star striker Greg Borthwick was once again the hero of the night, netting a brilliant brace to lead his team to victory. Borthwick’s first goal came just ten minutes into the match, as he outpaced his defender and fired a powerful shot past Nathan Ball, the Wasps’ goalkeeper.
Joint manager’s Josh Hickman & Shaun Bessant made strategic changes to the lineup, recalling Pat Jenkins, Joe Wickham and Jack Delves, who had been rested during the weekend’s 2-1 cup defeat to Baffins. George Stuttle took on the captain’s armband following Josh Williams’ sudden transfer to Downton earlier in the day.
Despite Wincanton’s possession in the first half, Portland’s defense held strong, and the Blues created several dangerous counter-attacks. However, they went into the break with a narrow 1-0 lead, feeling they could have capitalized on more opportunities.
The second half saw Portland quickly extend their lead, with Borthwick scoring his twelfth goal of the season, putting the away side in a commanding position. The Blues maintained their 2-0 advantage until the final whistle, securing another crucial win on the road.
This victory propels Portland to seventh place in the Wessex League Premier table, just four points behind second-placed Fareham, keeping their promotion hopes alive.
Portland United Lineup: Bruton, Evans, Clarke, Toms, Stuttle, Delves, Coombs, Beale, Borthwick, Jenkins, Wickham
Wincanton Lineup: Ball, Townsend, Jarvis, O’Hare, Voizey, Jordan, J. Irwin, L. Irwin, Beckey, Williams, McAlistair