Spooner at the double as Portsmouth defeat Alton in opening Hampshire Women’s League game of new season

On a gloriously sunny afternoon, the hosts were slow to start in the first half and were punished after some sloppy play when Alton converted a penalty corner.

After some stern half-time words from coach Alf Wimshurst and a positivity check from Lauren Stewart, the team hit back in the second half.

After player of the match Stewart levelled, Portsmouth took the lead when a Katie Pond break led to Spooner scoring her first.

Alton levelled from another penalty corner but Portsmouth were not to be denied.

Winning a penalty corner themselves, a Zoe Wimshurst strike was cheekily deflected in by Spooner.

Portsmouth are at home again this weekend, against Havant 2nds.

Portsmouth 2nds conceded early after making the long trek to newly-relegated Blandford & Sturminster Newton in Hampshire Division 1.

The visitors improved after the break, but couldn’t find a leveller.

Anne Eadie was voted player of the match for her fantastic display in defence.

A goal in the last 10 minutes consigned the 3rds to a 1-0 home loss to Fleet & Ewshot 2nds in Hampshire Division 3.

The first half was very evenly matched with few chances at either end.

Fleet put the pressure after the break and, after multiple short corners, they eventually scored.

Player of the match was goalkeeper Hannah Bennett for an amazing comeback game after a three-year absence.

A double strike from Verity McStay saw the 5ths lead Haslemere 7ths at half-time in their final friendly.

That was as good as it got for the visitors, who ended up losing 3-2 - the winning goal coming two minutes from time.