please log in to view this image Pompey Academy drew 2-2 with table-topping Leyton Orient in their latest Merit League contest at Copnor Road. They took the lead when a cross from Koby Mottoh was knocked down by Harry Clout for Tayo Singerr to convert from a few yards out. Aaron Sterling levelled for the visitors after the interval, but the Blues were soon able to restore their advantage. Mitch Aston switched play to Mottoh and Brian Quarm collected the ball on the overlap before crossing for Maxwell Hurst (pictured) to nod home. Anduan Hajdini ensured the spoils would be shared, however, reacting quickest after Bastian Smith had parried away Thomas Avgoustidis’ effort. Lead professional development phase coach Sam Hudson: “It was a good game overall and we had to deal with a lot of different things. “There were moments when our opponents played short and we had to press and others when they were more direct or looked to counter. “It was similar from us and we scored our first goal from a long kick from Bastian that went behind their back-line. “We actually thought that it might have been offside – it was certainly a marginal call – and we got the rub of the green. “When our lads were brave and tried what we had practiced, then we broke their press well, especially in the first half. “Orient came out looking strong after the break and we conceded an equaliser from a counter. It was probably our weakest period of the game. “But we got back in front through Max, not long after he’d come on, and all the subs were able to make an impact. “The second goal was conceded came from a set-piece and that was disappointing, although on the balance of play, a draw was probably fair. “It was very even in terms of shots and final third entries and we could see why they are top of the league. They provided us with a strong test. “We rode the wave when we had to and also enjoyed some strong moments of our own, so overall it was a positive performance.” Pompey: Bastian Smith; Brian Quarm, Kevin Bosaka, Martin (Cody Howard 88), Beau Mullins; Luke Staight, Mitch Aston; Koby Mottoh, Jayden Keteku (Dan Murray 81), Harry Clout (Osifo 71); Tayo Singerr (Maxwell Hurst 56)
