Portland United Reserves 3 Swans 5
In an action-packed Dorset Premier League encounter, Swans came out victorious against Portland Utd Reserves, securing a 3-5 away win and extending their unbeaten run. The game saw a flurry of goals, particularly in a thrilling first half where the Swans’ attack shone, aided by impressive debuts from Albie Turner and Kelson Pollard.
Swans started strongly, creating chances right from the first whistle. Cody Moore came close with a header that sailed just over the bar, while Portland’s Baker also threatened with a shot saved by Swans keeper Brad Smith.
The breakthrough came in the 12th minute with a well-worked move as Kelson Pollard cross found Cody Moore, who headed down for Marcus Smith to open the scoring, a minute later Cody Moore burst through the defence, setting up debutant Albie Turner to double the lead.
Moore continued to impress and on 18 minutes he hit a stunning 25 yard strike in the top corner for number 3 for the rampant Swans. The Blues responded in the 21st minute, with Ryan McKechnie pulling one back from close range. However Swans restored their three-goal cushion in the 28th minute as Marcus Smith struck again with a fierce shot.
Cody Moore remained at the center of the action, setting up another debutant, Kelson Pollard, with a well-timed cross that Pollard converted for number 5, an incredible total of six goals in 35 minutes. Portland managed to reduce the deficit through Jack Crouch before the break with a close-range finish. H.T. 2-5
The second half saw Portland dominate large portions, as Swanage struggled to manage the game and conceded possession frequently. Portland’s persistence paid off in the 75th minute when they scored directly from a corner from Riley Greenwood. Swans Cody Moore had a shot saved by keeper Watts and Butler hit the bar with a header. Despite late pressure from the home side Swans held on to claim the points.
The Swans’ first-half firepower and the impact of their debutants proved decisive, securing a hard-fought away win.
Post-Match Reaction:
Swans manager Craig Adams praised his side: “The lads that were available today did the Football Club proud. Tough game against a good side at our level. The lads weathered the storm in the 2nd half and got the job done. Full credit to our front 5 who were electric in the 1st half.”
Team: B.Smith, C.Lee, S.Clarke (C.Butler 46), C.Dyke, S.Pryor, C.Pitt, M.Smith, Ocean Smith, C.Moore (H.Brown 80), A.Turner (J.Reavenall-Nuete 70), K.Pollard.
Subs: C.Butler, J.Reavenall-Nuete, H.Brown, L.Sullivan, T.Schneider.
Swans Star Man - Albie Turner