Blues win 2-1 at Bournemouth
Pompey Academy continued their bright start to the season with a 2-1 triumph at Bournemouth.
It was a fourth successive victory for the young Blues, although they had to come from behind after the hosts took the lead from a set-piece early in the second half.
Adam May soon levelled with a fine individual strike, driving across the edge of the box and firing a shot into the opposite corner.
And Brandon Joseph-Buadi (above) then grabbed the winner when he cut inside from the wing and found the net with a fierce finish.
Academy coach Mikey Harris said: “It was a very even first half in terms of possession, but we had the better chances, with Theo Widdrington, Kaleem Haitham and Liam Sayers all going close.
“But we didn’t start very well after the break and conceded a goal from the second phase of a corner. That was disappointing and it’s something we’ll be taking a closer look at with the boys.
“It did, however, seem to kick us back into life and we were soon back on level terms thanks to a great effort from Adam.
“Brandon then put us in front and I was thrilled for him because he terrorised their left-back throughout the game.
“He was delighted to make his first team debut earlier in the week, but disappointed about conceding the penalty, so the performance he produced was testament to his character.
“We kept our shape very well from that point and it was probably the best we’ve played so far this season in terms of what we’ve asked from them.
“It was great to see the lads put into practice what we’ve told them against a very strong Bournemouth outfit.
“Both sides played the right way and it was a very competitive contest that showed academy football on the south coast in an extremely positive light.
“I was delighted with the display and wouldn’t have been disappointed if we’d have lost 2-1, but it’s great that the boys were able to celebrate a victory and hopefully it will give them plenty of confidence.”
Pompey: Bass; Davies, Saidy, Yates, McDowell; Oxlade-Chamberlain, Widdrington (Bedford 60); Joseph-Buadi, May, Haitham (Scutt 67); Sayers (Woodward 76)