East Preston lose to four second half goals.

Graham Rix’s AFC Portchester finished third in the Wessex League last season so East Preston knew this was going to be a stern test.

Whereas the visitors looked the more accomplished side in the first half they never really created any clear-cut chances however they looked to have more punch in the final third whilst EP hardly threatened at all in front of goal. Portchester had shots which went wide or straight at new keeper Ben Purkiss but EP had a rare chance when full back David Rocha crossed from the right however Curtis Milner’s shot was blocked by the keeper.

Head Coach Paul Ettridge made six changes for the second half including five triallists who were playing for the first time. The new players barely had time to settle in when EP were stunned by two goals within the first five minutes. The first was scored when a corner was headed back at the far post and the ball was bundled in from close range. Worse was to follow when Rob Evans cut in from the right and his shot was deflected past Darren Ford.

The numerous changes and the two quick goals made EP look vulnerable and less organised and Portchester got well on top and had opportunities to extend their lead. They should have added to their tally when a player blazed over from the edge of the six yard box with just the keeper to beat and they came close on other occasions but their superiority paid off when Luke Sweeney met a low cross from the right to make it 3-0. Near the end they made it 4-0 when Alex Baldacchini’s low shot found the corner of the net.

EP are a new and evolving team and it was no disgrace to lose against a well drilled side that did so well last season.

EP : Ben Purkiss (G), David Rocha, Charlie Monaghan, Isaiah Amoo, Scott Vine, Harry Abraham, Bruno Costa, Ryan Ashworth, Chad Milner, Curtis Milner, Craig Rennie. Subs - Lewis Sparkes, Kurtis Sparkes, Alex Stevenson, Andre Rodrigues, Richard John, Darren Ford (G)

AFC Portchester : Lloyd Thomas (G), Rob Evans, Simon Stone, Sean Thurgood, Josh Warren, Craig Hardy, Miles Everett, Ash Howes, Louie Castles, Alex Baldacchino, Jack Eves. Subs - Luke Sweeney, Joe Noakes, Ryan Smart, Joe Bye, Max Whittingham (G)

Referee : Jamie Wells