PORTLAND UTD?1, ALRESFORD TN 1

ALRESFORD, chasing a second successive win after a lean spell in the Sydenhams Premier League, were denied all three points by a controversial injury-time equaliser.

The Magpies made a dream start after their long trip into Dorset. With only two minutes gone, a bad misjudgement by Portland goalkeeper Sean Lillington allowed Geoff Dunn to head into an empty net.

The visitors failed to score again at the Weyline Stadium, but seemed to have done enough to secure victory as the game moved into added time.

Then, in the 92nd minutes, Tom Bearwick swung in a cross and Alex Halloran struck an unerring half-volley into the top corner. A great strike, but Alresford were convinced that the ball had already gone out of play.

The goal stood, however, and the Magpies had to be satisfied with a point that keeps them fifth in the Premier Division.

• Alresford, with both their regular goalkeepers injured, have signed Sutton United’s young keeper, Tarrell Annakie, on loan.

• This Saturday, Alresford host bottom side Petersfield in a local derby at Arlebury Park (ko 3pm).

The ailing Rams went down fighting at home to fourth-placed Hamworthy last weekend. Goals from Max Buckler, Ed Hodge and Billy Walker gave the visitors a 3-0 win and condemned Petersfield to their 19th defeat of the season.