PORTLAND United were denied their first win in six games after a late equaliser from Hythe and Dibden on Saturday afternoon. 

The Blues were all set to record their win after a long run of defeats but fro an 86th minute strike leaving them to settle for a point in the Wessex League.

Max Buckler scored his first goal for the club on the cusp of half time as the Blues responded instantly to going behind.

After the break Portland welcomed back top goal scorer Greg Borthwick from injury and he instantly made an impact.

The striker rifled in an effort into the top corner minutes after coming off the bench. 

Jamie Hosking and Borthwick both had chances to extend the Blues lead but were denied by the cross bar. 

Then with 86 minutes on the clock, Hythe found an equaliser to deny Portland the three points.

Speaking after the game Blues joint manager Josh Hickman said: "It was a really good performance, we were really good on and off the ball, but we had chances and we should have won the game, but a point away from home in this league you can't sniff at.

"We did have chances to kill the game but that's what happens in the Wessex league - they scored a good goal from a set piece and we are disappointed to not win but it is a good point away from home."

Hickman was also delighted with Borthwick's contribution and revealed how important the striker is to the team. 

He said: "Greg was trying to make up for lost time I think. 

"It was an exceptional goal with pace, power and strength with a good finish. It is what greg is all about.

"We missed him over the last month or so.

"He offers a real threat and is a luxury player we want on the pitch and if we are honest he could have had a couple more."

Hickman has also been impressed with Buckler since joining the club and pointed out his goal from a set piece is something they have been working on.

He added:"If truth be told we have not scored enough from set pieces so it is something we are working on.

"It was another accomplished performance from Max he is an experienced lad, something we've needed for a while."