Clean sweep of defeats for Portsmouth men’s hockey teams

Though boosted by taking an early lead, they failed to capitalise on it via several short corners and open play chances and eventually lost 4-1.

Wanderers levelled before half-time and, after the break, Portsmouth failed to adjust their approach and were punished by two more goals.

A brutal Ian Cheshire tackle earned him a green card suspension and gave Wanderers a penalty stroke that provided them with their final goal

Portsmouth 2nds have also lost two of their opening three Hampshire Division 3 games following a 3-1 loss at Fareham 4ths.

Like their first XI, the 2nds took the lead - thanks to a curling effort from Andy Wortley after numerous chances had gone begging.

Fareham equalised from a quick counter attack and took the lead before half-time.

In the second half, Portsmouth were unable to play as high up the pitch as they had in the first.

Another counter attack from Fareham led to keeper Stephen Rowland conceding a penalty flick, which was duly converted.

Portsmouth 3rds endured a tough afternoon against Hampshire Division 5 leaders Alton 2nds.

They were 2-0 down inside 10 minutes, trailed 4-0 at half-time and were eventually caned 7-0 at home.

With fatigue setting in for both sides late in the second half, Portsmouth created some chances through Alfie Hall and Will Duffy.

Another late attempt from Liam Green, following a one-on-one with the keeper, was saved on the line by a defender.

Man of the Match was awarded to Ryan Rochester for some nice touches and his battling efforts in midfield.

Portsmouth 4ths were another side who took the lead, this time against Winchester 6ths in Hampshire Division 7.

Alas, they went on to lose 4-2

Pete Wingate had put Portsmouth ahead, with Winchester levelling before the interval.

After the hosts had taken the lead, Wingate slotted home an equaliser before Winchester stepped up a few gears.

Goalkeeper John Arnell was voted his side’s man of the match.

Completing a bad day for Portsmouth’s men, the veterans were beaten 6-1 by table-topping Havant - again after taking the lead.

Despite the result, Portsmouth thoroughly enjoyed the game, working hard and moving the ball in a very assured manner.

They matched Havant for the first 30 minutes and led when Tim Schofield deflected home Mark Wheeler's pass.

Schofield was then forced to miss 20 minutes after one of his trainers fell apart, but he eventually found a replacement pair.

Surging runs from Mark Wheeler and Mark Taylor created several chances for Portsmouth's forwards, but there was no way through.

Pete Rayner foolishly earned a green card in the last minute when he handled the match ball.