SHERBORNE TOWN RES 3

PORTLAND UNITED RES 1

PORTLAND United crashed out of the Dorset Senior Trophy in the first round on Saturday at the hands of fellow Dorset Premier League side Sherborne Town Reserves in a 3-1 defeat.

The Blues had been to the quarter-final and semi-final of this competition in the last two seasons when playing in the Dorset Senior League but could not progress this year.

The sides had also met a few weeks previously when the Blues ran riot winning 5-1, but it could have been much better for the islanders if they had made the most of some good chances.

Sherborne went ahead after eight minutes after a free-kick given on the edge of the area was despatched in off the underside of the bar by Raith Plant before going 2-0 up when Oliver Hebbard was played through one-on-one.

After the break, Portland pulled one back as Ash Smith headed home with the Blues gaining the upper hand.

That would be as good as it got though as Che Curran was shown a straight red card for a rash challenge to send Portland down to 10-men.

The Blues then began a period of dominating the ball but were unable to find a break through with the home keeper, in inspired form, keeping out countless efforts during the game.

The Blues were made to pay for those missed chances as Sherborne added a third to put the game beyond Portland.

Looking back at the game, island manager Justin Faulkner said: “It was one of those days.

“We didn’t get ourselves going and nothing really came off for us.

“It was in stark contrast to the game last week.

“I do not think any of the side we put out could have any arguments should they be dropped for the next game.

“We didn’t play well at all, no one really stood out to ensure they play again next week.

“Credit to Sherborne they didn’t give us an easy day and really wanted it and that showed in the celebrations after the game.

“I think they wanted it more than us! Which is very disappointing.

“I think we’ve beaten ourselves.”

Portland: Jones, Smith, Hankin, Curran, Butcher, Anstey, S Zima, E Roche (Boatswain 85), R Zima (Camp 45), S Roche (Butcher), Mitchell

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