Harrow Borough travelled down to Fratton Park this afternoon. Taking on Portsmouth in the FA Cup first round proper, at their iconic home ground. The biggest day in the club’s history. Seventy-nine places separate the two sides in the football pyramid. Going into this match the Reds were on fine form, having won thirteen of their last fifteen outings. Star man James Ewington leading the line excellently. Our host for this encounter have had a contrasting start to their campaign, currently sitting midtable in league one. Many pompey fans calling for the sacking of their managers. Which were spotted at a recent fixture taking place in South Harrow. Following the visitors down to the south coast was a large Borough backing, who have not been since the day out at Northampton. Way back in 2016.
Fa cup action got back underway as we kicked off on the south coast. A bright start from our opponents opened the game, two shots blocked inside the box. Keeping it going the Portsmouth players put pressure on Harrow. Romeo went down the right-hand flank before cutting into the box, Josh Strizovic making a comfortable save in the nineteenth minute. Ronan Curtis was next up to challenge the reds as his long-distance shot flew over the bar. It wasn’t too long before the host broke the deadlock. Marcus Harness received a pass from out wide in the twenty eighth minute, leaving him little chance of missing. Calmly hit in a toxic stadium. Clear to see from the empty seats, many many empty seats. Harrow’s best chance of the half came through James Ewington. Fantastic ball played into the striker’s patch, but caught by pompey keeper Bazunu. Questions of a penalty since the player held the ball outside his box. Obvious decision missed.
Despite claims from the home side, they have not been on top. Harrow Borough faught well in the first forty-five. Very proud bunch backing the Borough in the away end. Unlucky to be level, considering the poor decisions from the referees. Harrow holding their own against a much bigger club. When the second half began Pompey got close, forty-nine minutes in Marcus Harness effort hit the post. Pushing for an equaliser George Moore was all over the pitch. Rinsing his marker, and the rest of the opposition as he took chance after chance. Disappointing for him to not hit the net. None more so than the eighty fifth minute.
In conclusion it was a great experience for Harrow Borough fans that made the trip to Fratton Park. Friendly welcome from start to finish, and a special appearance from big time youtuber Ellis Platten. Lovely to meet him and Jodie. On the pitch, the match did not go our way. Very narrowly beaten by former fa cup winners. Harsh result for the visitors. Congratulations to all the players for getting this far, and we couldn’t be prouder of you. Thank you for all your efforts this season. Back down to reality now…
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