CHERRIES’ women played out a 2-2 draw with higher-tier Portsmouth in their second pre-season run-out.

Goals from the experienced Helen Bleazard, who converted from the spot, and Pearl Mortimer cancelled out Pompey’s efforts, a trialist and Sophie Quirk getting on the scoresheet for the visitors.

Reflecting on the encounter, boss Steve Cuss told afcb.co.uk: "It was a good performance against a very strong Portsmouth side. I'm pleased with how we shaped up in a very competitive game.

"It was part of the pre-season process, we certainly wanted a challenge in terms of the competition and who we played.

“We wanted to be worked defensively and we worked hard to create things for ourselves as well.

"It was a good test and a key part of the pre-season process ahead of the new campaign. I'm delighted for the players, who showed up fitness-wise and ability-wise."