Local rivals contest El-Creekio friendly stalemate

By Connor Steel

FAREHAM TOWN FC moved on their planned pre-season preparations for the new campaign as they played historic rivals AFC Portchester on Friday night (July 24); eventually playing out a good one-all stalemate against their closest neighbours following a fiery and hard-fought match showcasing recent stadium developments at a loud Cams Alders.

The visitors made a fast start and scored their opener within four minutes as a deep throw from the right was allowed to bounce inside the area; Destiny Ojo reacting quicker and firing a header over this keeper. But Fareham responded with a leveller as Callie Neil got down the wing and passed to Casey Bartlett-Scott, who calmly converted the chance.

Matt Pates went close with a high curling effort and a trialist fired straight at the away keeper following fine play whilst Portchester saw Ojo causing problems inside the area before it was cleared away. The last action of the first half saw some rapid football fed Ryan Pennery on the edge of the box but his low drive was blocked at source before half time.

A steadier start awaited the two sides for the second period with both having sustained spells of possession but sadly neither were able to convert these into opportunities as defences were on top. Substitutions followed before Fareham could have made it two-one when a cross reached Dan Bennett who missed his chance at the far post with this effort.

Portchester took over the proceedings from this stage and were unlucky not to be ahead when Archie Wilcox drilled it towards goal only to be denied by a brilliant point-blank diving stop by Declan McCarthy for a corner. Jason Prior then saw his rebound ruled out for offside after an initial stop was saved with fifteen minutes left; this play drifting to a draw.

Both teams will be happy with their performances with the clubs being at different stages of their pre-season calendar; Portchester having two further friendlies left in the form of trips to Sholing and Dorchester Town. For Fareham there is rumours of an unconfirmed tie with Locks Heath, but otherwise will play Sturminster Newton next Saturday (August 1).

PICTURED BY AFC PORTCHESTER MEDIA: Away striker attempts to chase down ball against an outrushing keeper.