AFC Portchester desperate to recapture ‘correct blend’ to reignite Wessex League title dream

Joe Noakes (orange) should be back in the Portchester squad for Tuesday's home game with Tadley. Picture: Neil Marshall.

The 2-0 defeat against Lymington Town came hot on the heels of similar losses to top two Alresford and Stoneham in recent weeks and dealt another big blow to the Royals’ promotion hopes.

Manager Mick Catlin realises the importance of the game.

'We must get back on a winning run, starting against Tadley,' he stated.

'If we are to get ourselves back in it we have to win our games in hand.

'This is one of them.

'After having a good spell we have dropped off the pace and need to regain our form.

'Earlier in the season Tadley knocked us out of the League Cup on penalties but they are a much-changed team since that game.

'We need to find the correct blend between defence and attack.

'Our problem at the moment is failing to create enough clear cut chances.'

Midfielder Steve Ramsey may be a doubt after he limped off at the weekend.

After his return from a two-year absence due to injury, Catlin didn't want to risk Joe Noakes against Lymington.

He is, however, expected to return to the squad for Tuesday’s game.

Fareham Town make a midweek voyage across the Solent to face Cowes Sports at Westwood Park (7.45pm).

The Reds are keen to return to action after their game at Solent University was postponed.

Pete Stiles regards it as an awkward game against the relegation-battling Yachtsmen.

'It is never easy going to the Isle of Wight in midweek,' he said.

'With some of our players working, it means they can't make the 5pm ferry.

'We have a healthy squad, though, and must look to go and get three points.

'They turned us over three times last season and are a bit of a bogey team for us.'

Top scorer Josh Benfield is definitely missing, as are suspended pair Connor Messenbird and Gary Austin.

A head injury also continues to rule Curt Robbins out.

Cowes have lost their last seven home league games, and have been beaten in nine of their 11 Westwood Park matches in all.

Their only win was a 1-0 success against Shaftesbury at the end of September.

Including cup ties, Cowes have lost nine successive home matches.