Late leveller denies Blues victory
Pompey Ladies’ winless run stretched to four games as they conceded a stoppage-time equaliser against C&K Basildon at Privett Park.
They started brightly, with Lucy Quinn and Gemma Hillier both missing early chances to break the deadlock.
But the Blues did forge ahead on 30 minutes when Molly Clark’s curling cross deceived Cherie Rowlands and curled into the net.
The keeper redeemed herself by denying Emma Sherwood moments later, while Ini Umotong wasted a good opportunity by scuffing her shot before the break.
Pompey did double their advantage on 56 minutes, however, thanks to a neat finish from Sarah Kempson.
That looked to have secured victory, but the visitors had other ideas and reduced the deficit when Maegen Doyle tucked the ball under the onrushing Michelle Beazley.
There were still chances at the other end, with Umotong forcing a save from Rowlands and sending a diving header wide.
But it was Basildon celebrating right at the death when a corner caused a scramble in the box and Rebecca Smith smashed the ball home.
Blues boss Perry Northeast said: “It was a game of two phases and we were absolutely fantastic for the first 70 minutes and looking good value for the victory.
“But, unfortunately, we looked a completely different side in the final 20 minutes and that was very disappointing.
“It’s very easy to be a Pompey player when things are going well, but we need people to show more courage when the pressure is on.
“That didn’t quite happen for us on this occasion and it was frustrating – everyone came off the pitch feeling the same.
“We had worked so hard in training during the week, so now I’ll have to watch the game back and work out how we let a two-goal lead slip at home.
“We start our defence of the Hampshire Cup against AFC Stoneham next Sunday and hopefully that will give us a chance to return to winning ways.
“But we’ll also be able to have a look at some different players who deserve a few more minutes on the pitch.”
Pompey: Beazley; Frampton, Taylor, Clark, Bazan; Kempson, Sievwright, Sherwood (George 61), Quinn (James 73); Hillier (Bloomfield 82), Umotong
Subs not used: Samain, Benson