US Portsmouth's comfortable victory as they return to league action for first time since October at New Milton Town

Tom Cain's first-half double and efforts after the restart from top scorer James Franklyn and Frakie Paige fired USP to an emphatic 4-0 triumph at New Milton.

It was Turnbull's troops' third fixture back since the 'non-elite' football suspension was lifted earlier this month - and all have been in different competitions.

This was the first time USP have played in the league since an impressive away victory at Bemerton Heath on October 27.

Although pleased his side have progressed in the FA Vase and Wessex League Cup this term, Turnbull has made it clear the league is the priority this season.

And the USP boss was relieved to see his side climb up to fourth after the win at New Milton.

‘It was (nice to be back in league action),' said Turnbull.

‘To win the game, keep a clean sheet and no injuries into the weekend - it’s all good really.

‘We were comfortable with 4-0.

‘It worked well as we rested Sweeney (Andy Todd) and Jeffers (Tom Jeffes) tonight.

‘Once we got the goals we needed we took Dec (Seiden) off and Franko (James Franklyn) so it was good from that part of it.

‘It was as good as it could have been.

‘We’ve been very clear to everybody, including the lads, that this (the league) is the bread and butter and this is what we’re in it for.’

Cain volleyed the visitors ahead before adding a second before the interval.

USP leading scorer Franklyn took his season tally to 15 while Paige's volley completed the scoring after the restart.

US Portsmouth's focus now turns to Saturday and an historic FA Vase third round tie against Millbrook at the Victory Stadium.