PORTSMOUTH FOOTBALL CLUB

Pompey Academy extended their winning run to four matches with a 4-2 Youth Alliance League victory at Yeovil.

They took an early lead when Kyle McDowell’s long throw was flicked on by Matt Casey and Matt Mayes neatly swivelled before firing home.

But the hosts recovered and netted twice – either side of a Harvey Bradbury effort that was ruled out for offside – to lead at the break.

The Blues levelled early in the second half, however, with Bradbury (pictured) diverting Jez Bedford’s 20-yard strike into the net.

He then played a part in Pompey retaking the lead, helping on a lofted pass to Mayes, who rounded the keeper and slotted into an empty net.

And Bedford wrapped things up with a fine solo effort late on, picking the ball up and driving into the area before beating the keeper at his near post.

Academy coach Mikey Harris said: “It was a pleasing result on a difficult surface that wasn’t ideal for the way we want to play.

“That led to one of their goals, but we stuck to it and the lads kept their heads after falling 2-1 behind.

“The second half performance was excellent and we created a lot of chances – we were unlucky not to make it even more comfortable.

“But it was a positive display from us overall and it means the boys will go into the next game full of confidence.”

Next up for the young Blues is their FA Youth Cup second round clash with Metropolitan Police at Fratton Park on Wednesday (7.15pm kick-off).

Harris said: “It’s a massive game for us and we’re expecting it to be tough against a side who beat Yeovil and Burnley to reach the fourth round last season.

“We know the winners will be home to Newcastle and that’s a big carrot for the boys in front of what I’m sure will be another great Fratton crowd.”

Pompey: Hall; Smith, Wakley, Casey (Brooks 59), McDowell (Hancott 90+1); Read, Widdrington (c); Woodward (Scutt 51), Bradbury (Lethbridge 82), Bedford; Mayes

Sub not used: Collins