BOURNEMOUTH Sports held Portishead Town as the club made its bow in the National League.

The sides played out a cagey and goalless encounter at Shaftesbury FC, as Bournemouth Sports’ home ground at Chapel Gate requires upgrades to meet the FA-set standard, as the club fundraises for the works.

Club manager, Vincent Marmion, gave credit to the visitors, saying the game gave them a clue to what it takes to play at that level, following their promotion last season.

“We took the game to them and dominated the early play but couldn’t make the breakthrough,” Marmion said.

“By half time Portishead had the resolve and experience to turn the screw the other way and we ended up in a cagey game.

(Image: Bournemouth Sports FC)

“Good chances at both ends but not enough to tip the balance.

“One point and three excellent debuts, lots to reflect on and plenty of positives makes for a good opener.”

The Bournemouth Sports boss thanked Shaftesbury for hosting, as well as the officials for keeping the game flowing.

Team captain, Hollie Shaw, said it was a ‘great showing’ for their first game in the National League.

Shaw said she felt the side dominated the first period of the game but let their fitness get the better of them towards the close.

“There were chances created by both sides and on another day either team could have taken the points,” she said.

“Lots to build on going into our next fixture against Swindon on Sunday, and I am looking forward to the challenges that come ahead.”

Bournemouth Sports travel to Swindon Town on August 25 for the second game of the season in the National League Division One South West.