Pompey thrash Poole to reach final
Pompey roared into the final of the Hampshire Cup with a 7-0 rout of Poole at Cams Alders.
They now defend their trophy against fierce rivals Southampton at Gosport’s Privett Park on Wednesday, April 8.
Ini Umotong’s prolific scoring run continued when she caught the Poole defence cold and lifted over the goalkeeper after just three minutes.
And she soon doubled the Blues’ advantage with a neat finish that was tucked just inside the post.
Umotong then turned provider, teeing-up Gemma Hillier to score the third goal of the afternoon midway through the first half.
Moments later Leeta Rutherford added a fourth when she converted Lucy Quinn’s corner after the visitors had failed to deal with a corner.
Pompey had to wait until after the interval to add to their already commanding lead, with Molly Clark’s free-kick headed home by substitute Jess Frampton.
A sixth goal followed soon after as Quinn cut inside from the flank and left the Poole keeper helpless with a fierce finish.
It was Quinn who wrapped up the scoring on 58 minutes, tucking the ball into the net from close range to end a confident attacking move.
Blues boss Perry Northeast said: “It was a great result and we’re delighted to be in the final yet again.
“The girls all performed really well and did exactly what we asked of them – the outcome was a fair reflection of our dominance.
“Of course, the final has added spice because of who we’re up against and we know it will be tougher against Southampton.
“It doesn’t matter whether it’s a men’s game, a women’s game or even a youth one – derby matches are always special.
“I’d like to make my plea now for as many fans as possible to come down and watch us at Gosport because it could make a big difference.
“The Hampshire Cup is a competition that we’ve enjoyed plenty of success in over the last few years. We’re the holders and we don’t want to give up our trophy.
“We’ve got some important games coming up before we face Southampton, though, and we need to make sure we keep up our winning ways.”
Pompey: Blakely; James, Taylor (Frampton 46), Rutherford, Bazan; Quinn, Clark, Sievwright (Kempson 54), Dark; Umotong (Bloomfield 54), Hillier
Sub not used: Currie
Photo: Jordan Hampton