Match Preview: Portland United v Baffins

Baffins embark on their longest trip of the Wessex League campaign, aiming to return to winning ways at Portland United.

And Danny Thompson's side travel to Dorset after a 1-1 draw at high-flying Bemerton Heath Harlequins last weekend, and his side could've come away from Moon Park with all three points.

Baffins found themselves a goal down at the break, but a spirited performance in the Wiltshire rain saw Jason Parish convert from the spot. Rovers had chances to win the match in the closing stages, with hosts 'keeper Patrick Creese denying Parish and Ed Sanders a potential winner.

Saturday's opponents have endured a mix start to their 2022/23 campaign, sitting 16th in the standings, five points above the step-five drop zone.

Guided by former Dorchester Town playmaker Franklyn Clarke, Portland will be aiming to put the disappointment of last Saturday's trip to Alresford behind them for the Wessex League clash (3pm kick-off).

The Blues cruised into a 4-1 lead at basement club Alresford Town, only for floodlight failure to abandon the match and force a replay.

Portland are without a win in league action since the 4-1 victory over Blackfield & Langley at the Camp & Satherley Stadium on October 11. Since that fixture, the Dorset club have lost to Laverstock & Ford, AFC Portchester, AFC Stoneham and Horndean in league action - but they progressed past Division One Hamworthy Recreation in cup action.

Portland's best-performing player this campaign has been former Portsmouth Academy prospect Liam Sayers, who has bounced back from serious injury to lead the club's goalscoring charts this campaign - after his move from Bridport last term.

Baffins enjoyed success on home turf against Portland last term, with Parish hitting his 100th goal in the blue of Rovers. Despite that, the away fixture ended in a 3-0 defeat after a dismal Dorset display.

Supporters can travel to the Camp & Satherely Stadium on Saturday (3pm kick-off) on the team coach FREE of charge. The coach will be departing the PMC Stadium at 11am.

Tickets at Portland United are priced £6 adults, £4 concessions, £2 for 12-16's and under-12's are admitted free of charge. Cash and contactless payments are accepted.