COWES Sports were beaten almost before they had begun at AFC Portchester on Saturday.

The Yachtsmen had Jez Conway dismissed inside three minutes and never recovered as they sank to a 5-1 Sydenhams Premier defeat.

Conway got his marching orders when, as last defender, he brought down Jason Parish as the Royals striker burst into the box.

Joe Bye netted the resulting penalty and, come half-time, Portchester had eased 3-0 up through Parish and Rob Evans.

Jordan Browne pulled one back for Cowes, but further strikes from Bye and ex-Winchester forward Geoff Dunn sealed a comfortable Royals win.

Portchester, who handed home debuts to full-back Dave Birmingham and midfielder Steve Ramsey, are fourth, seven points behind pacemakers Salisbury.

“The important thing at the moment is to stay in touch with the leaders,” said manager Graham Rix, ahead of tomorrow's (Tuesday's) Creekside derby at home to Fareham Town.

Yet again Fareham’s pitch was unplayable for Saturday’s scheduled clash with Hamworthy United. The Reds have not played on home soil since October because of drainage problems at Cams Alders.

Newport IoW’s match with Andover Town was also postponed following a 10am pitch inspection.

Sixth-placed Andover hope for better luck tomorrow (Tuesday) when they visit Folland Sports, who are now six points adrift at the foot of the table.