USP show battle to remain unbeaten

US PORTSMOUTH men’s first team remain unbeaten in Hampshire League Division Two after picking up a 1-1 draw against fellow undefeated side Alton at fortress Temaraire.

The hosts had to do it the hard way, coming from behind, but battled back to ensure they are still yet to taste defeat this season.

Alton looked a threat on the counter-attack and it was from a quick break they took the lead. USP failed to sniff out the danger with a second ball hitting the legs of Ben Easton.

A penalty stroke was awarded and the visitors fired themselves ahead.

US Portsmouth were back on level terms before the break as Tim Mallett, below, fired home from a penalty corner.

USP created chance after chance as Alton dropped off but couldn’t find a crucial second.

Tom Singleton was shown a green card which was upgraded to a yellow for dissent to leave the hosts a player light.

Alton failed to take advantage and it ended all square.

■ US Portsmouth Ladies twice let a lead slip as they suffered a 3-2 Hampshire League Division Three defeat to Salisbury.

Emily Grey fired USP in front but they were soon pegged back.

The hosts would take the lead for a second time just before the break when Harriet Whitfield reacted quickest to slot home a rebound.

Salisbury returned for the second half determined and struck twice to leave USP on their knees as they went down 3-2.

■ US Portsmouth 2nds played out an enthralling eight-goal draw Hampshire League Division Seven thriller with Hamble 3rds.

Goalkeeper Ben Organ, who produced a man-of-thematch display, twice picked the ball out of his net in the early exchanges as USP struggled.

They battled back and by half time the scores were level at 3-3.

US Portsmouth fired home a fourth but Hamble kept the pressure on throughout the closing stages. Despite the best efforts of Organ, who made some spectacular saves, the visitors managed to strike again as it finished 4-4.