BRIDPORT RES 0

BALTI SPORTS 1

BRIDPORT Reserves were edged 1-0 by Balti Sports as the Bees’ struggles continued in the Jewson Dorset Premier League.

Adam Herring’s men were defeated by Danny Andrews’ goal, his cross from around 30 yards out deceiving keeper Sam Moggeridge and finding its way into the back of the net at the near post.

Moggeridge’s mistake came during a game in which he was otherwise superb, making several important stops to keep the Bees in the hunt.

Bridport dominated possession in the second half but saw opportunities come and go for Finn Morgan, who scuffed at goal, and Robin Jones who cut inside and fired at Andy Nott.

READ MORE: Bridport Reserves 1-4 Sherborne Town Reserves - report

Dom McAllister then dragged a shot wide on 75 minutes and, while Bridport threatened with long spells of possession, the Balti defence proved impenetrable.

Speaking to the Bridport News, Herring said: “It was very similar to the game at their place.

“We’re just struggling at the moment, obviously we’ve got a very young squad and we’re playing against players who are a lot more experienced.

“We’re like a rabbit in the headlights at the minute. It’s a tough one.

“It’s hard, we’ve got a good team on paper but they’re young lads and as a team we’re kind of playing like a group of individuals.

“We had a couple coming down from the first team with low confidence.”

On Saturday, Herring’s men lost 2-0 at Blandford United.

Steve Smith opened the scoring for the Royals just 14 minutes in, and Smith netted a second from the spot after Reuben Stanley was upended.

Blandford hit the woodwork twice late on before Bees’ skipper Jake Mansley was sin-binned on 88 minutes.

Bridport were denied a late consolation by a cynical foul from last man Charlie John, who was given his marching orders.

The reserves now have a daunting trip to leaders Westland on Saturday (3pm).

Elsewhere, Bridport have had a seven-day approach for Lyme Regis striker Brad Rowe rejected but remain interested in a potential deal.

Bees (against Balti): Moggeridge, Heaton, Wellman, Mansley, Childs, Frampton, Burwood (McAllister 60), Howe, Jones, Arnold (Morgan 20), Mann (Brook 80). Subs not used: Elliott, Ja Scadding.