NEW boys Portland United surged to the Sydenhams Premier Division summit with a 4-2 win at Team Solent last night.

Two goals in the opening seven minutes – a deflected Jamie Beasley shot and an Alex Halloran penalty - got the Islanders off to a perfect start before Solent hit back through player-boss James Taylor just before the break, following up after Sean Lillington’s initial penalty save.

But Tom Richardson took just two second-half minutes to restore United’s two-goal cushion and, although they were pegged back again with 25 minutes to go when veteran striker Taylor headed in a free kick, Halloran added his second of the game to seal victory.

Happy Portland boss Gary Bailey, who led his side up as Sydenhams One champions last season, said: “It was a tough game.

“It was a lovely place to go and play – the pitch was like a carpet – and we worked really hard for the win. It was thoroughly deserved.”

“It was a brilliant effort. To travel up there on a Monday was difficult and they are a good, passing side. So to put that together was pleasing.”

Portland are a point clear of Blackfield & Langley and Sholing who both play tonight.