PURTON lost their first league game of the season at Shortwood but only an inspired display by the home keeper prevented them from getting something from the game, writes Alan Eastwood.

Uhlsport Hellenic Div One West

Shortwood United Res 3

Purton 1

Despite Shortwood having the majority of the possession Purton, particularly in the last 20 minutes, were denied by keeper Ashton Herbert and the woodwork while they had two efforts hacked off the goal-line.

Shortwood took an early lead after Purton lost possession on halfway and James Singh broke through to score.

Steven May and Joe Dorey went close for Purton but they equalised after 35 minutes when Steve Davies headed a ball into the box for Justin Miller to get a touch and Ben Carter did the rest when poking the ball in.

Five minutes into the second half Purton were caught out down the right and Singh broke free to score his second of the match.

Purton hit back and May (twice), Carter, Davies, Dorey and Lee Toomey were all denied by Herbert as they battled to level the match.

Despite all their 'pressing' Purton then conceded a third goal minutes from time via Will Hawes.