AFC Portchester are back in league action as they make the trip to Sussex to face Littlehampton Town, looking to extend their unbeaten league run to five matches.
The Royals head into Saturday’s fixture in confident mood after an incredible 4-4 draw away at Westfield in mid-week.
Manager Gav Spurway was full of praise for his side’s effort after another intense 90 minutes on the road. “It was a proper game of football,” he said. “We were 4-2 up and looking comfortable, but I think the 70-odd minutes with ten men on Saturday caught up with us in the end.
“The lads just ran out of legs, but they gave everything.” Despite the frustration of seeing two points slip away late on, Spurway believes his team are moving firmly in the right direction.
He added: “It’s another game unbeaten – that’s four now – and it’s another step in the right direction. We’ve tweaked a few things recently and the performances are starting to show. We’re improving every week.”
Littlehampton Town sit 14th in the Isthmian League South Central table, just a few points behind Portchester. The Marigolds were involved in another high-scoring draw last weekend – a 3-3 result with Hendon – and will be eager to make home advantage count at The Sportsfield.
With five wins, three draws and six defeats this season, Littlehampton remain a dangerous opponent, particularly on their own patch. The Royals currently sit 10th in the standings after a run that has seen them take points from four consecutive games.
Spurway has been encouraged by the squad’s development and the impact of players returning from injury. “We’re getting key players back to fitness now, and when they’re in the side, we look a different team,” he said.
“The more we get up to speed, the stronger we’ll become. If we keep performing like this and learn to see games out, we’ll be in a really strong position.”
With November bringing a packed fixture list, the Royals’ depth of squad will be tested.
“We’ve got another seven games this month, Tuesday-Saturday back-to-back,” Spurway added. “We’re going to need everyone in the squad. But if we maintain this level, we’ll keep moving forward.”
