Hinkley’s Port Hold on by Two Points Over Saints In a tense and closely contested match, Hinkley’s Port emerged victorious over St. Andrews with a hard-fought 2-point lead. The first half was a cagey affair, with both teams struggling to create clear-cut chances. Hinkley’s Port took the lead through a well-worked move that saw Connor Haddaway find the back of the net from close range. St. Andrews responded well and equalized shortly after through a superb free-kick from Liam Sneddon. The second half was equally as close, with both teams having spells of possession and creating chances. Hinkley’s Port regained the lead midway through the half when Sam Miller fired home a thunderous volley from outside the box. St. Andrews fought valiantly to find an equalizer, but Hinkley’s Port held firm at the back to secure a narrow victory. The win sees Hinkley’s Port move up to 5th place in the league, while St. Andrews remain in 10th place. Post-match Comments: Hinkley’s Port Manager: “I’m delighted with the result. We knew it was going to be a tough game, but the boys showed great character and determination to get the win.” St. Andrews Manager: “I’m disappointed with the result, but I can’t fault the effort of my players. We had chances to win the game, but we just couldn’t take them today.” Player of the Match: Sam Miller (Hinkley’s Port)Port Adelaide secure reprieve for coach with narrow victoryPort Adelaide secure reprieve for coach with narrow victory Amidst a week of scrutiny, Port Adelaide have granted their coach, Ken Hinkley, a reprieve by edging St Kilda by two points at Marvel Stadium. Port’s defender, Aliir Aliir, played a crucial role in the last quarter, helping the team secure a narrow 8.14 (62) to 8.12 (60) victory. This result snapped a three-game losing streak, keeping the Power within the top eight while the Saints languish in the bottom four with a 5-11 record. Hinkley expressed relief after the match, acknowledging the tough week the team had endured following their crushing defeat to the Brisbane Lions. Despite this, he maintained a sense of perspective, stating, “I don’t feel frustrated, I feel flat with the way we’ve been playing.” Port’s midfield dynamo, Jason Horne-Francis, led the field with an impressive 28 disposals. Aliir and fellow key defender Brandon Zerk-Thatcher repeatedly thwarted the Saints’ attempts to score in the final quarter. The Saints, despite kicking the only two goals of the final term, were unable to secure the win due to Jack Higgins’ inexplicable snap shot that failed to reach the target. Port’s first-term dominance was sparked by Zak Butters’ outstanding center clearance and running goal. Jackson Mead and Darcy Byrne-Jones combined effectively to set up Horne-Francis for a stunning goal on the run, leveling the scores at halftime. The third quarter descended into an error-filled scrap, with neither side able to capitalize on their chances. However, Logan Evans’ unexpected goal, gifted by St Kilda star Jack Sinclair, gave Port a much-needed boost. Despite Jeremy Finlayson’s three majors for the Saints, key forward Max King struggled, converting only two behinds. St Kilda suffered a late setback when Brad Hill exited the match with a hip injury.Hinkley’s Port prevailed over Rushden & Diamonds 2-0 at Latimer Park to maintain their two-point lead at the top of the Southern League Premier Division Central. Goals from Warren Burrell and Luke Yates secured the victory for the Knitters, who extended their unbeaten run in the league to six matches. The visitors started the brighter of the two sides and almost took the lead in the opening minutes when a long-range effort from Ashley Chambers cannoned off the crossbar. Hinkley gradually grew into the game and came close to breaking the deadlock themselves when Luke Yates’ fierce drive was well saved by Rushden goalkeeper Luke Daniels. The Knitters eventually took the lead midway through the first half when Burrell headed home from a corner. Rushden were forced to play with 10 men for the final 20 minutes after Connor Furlong was sent off for a second bookable offence. Hinkley took advantage of their numerical advantage and doubled their lead in the closing stages when Yates slotted home after a good run from substitute Louis Connor. The victory keeps Hinkley two points clear of second-placed St Ives Town, who beat Tamworth 1-0 away from home. Hinkley will be looking to maintain their momentum when they travel to Peterborough Sports on Saturday, while Rushden will host St Ives Town.