James O'Brien

Blues Reserves were beaten 1-0 by Portsmouth at Havant and Waterlooville on Wednesday evening.

The only goal of the game was scored by Djimi Traore in the first half.

But it was a plucky showing by a very young Blues side against a Pompey second string that contained numerous experienced players including the likes of David Nugent, Matt Taylor, Pedro Mendes and Lauren.

Traore's gave Pompey the lead with a headed after just 11 minutes.

But Keith Bertschin's side soon had Pompey's second string on the back foot and their best chances of the game came via James O'Brien (pictured) who had a shot saved from close range and Sean Hunt, who headed the ball narrowly wide.

Pompey were reduced to ten men half way through the opening period when Richard Hughes received a straight red following a late challenge on David Howland.

But despite the extra player advantage Blues were unable to make it count and suffered their first defeat in three league outings.

Full time: Portsmouth Reserves 1 Blues Reserves 0

Blues: Krysiak, Howland, Joyce, Rowe, Timmins, Lea, Hunt (McKerr), O'Brien (Moses-Garvey), Milojevic, Green, McPike (Osman).
Subs not used: Sheldon, Gradwell.