Portland United and Sturminster Newton shared a goalless draw in the FA Cup extra preliminary round, a result that keeps their Dorset rivalry alive ahead of a replay.

The two non-league sides met on Saturday 8 August 2026 with a place in the preliminary round at stake, but neither could land the knockout blow. After 90 scrappy, hard-working minutes, the score remained 0-0, leaving everything to play for in the return meeting.

Portland dominate but cannot convert

Portland United were the more purposeful side for much of the evening, particularly in the first half. The Blues moved the ball well across the pitch and created several presentable openings, but too often their final shot was blocked or sent straight at a well-positioned Sturminster Newton goalkeeper.

Sturminster Newton, for their part, grew into the contest as the half progressed. Their energetic midfield pressed Portland’s playmakers and forced a number of turnovers, yet they rarely tested the home goalkeeper with clear attempts on target.

Tactical battle in midfield

The second half followed a similar pattern, with Portland chasing a winner and Sturminster staying compact in midfield. The match became increasingly stretched as both managers made attacking substitutions, and both sides had late chances to snatch victory. Portland thought they had scored in the 82nd minute when a free-kick was bundled over the line, but the referee ruled it out for a foul, sparking loud appeals from the home support.

Replay now on the horizon

With the score deadlocked at 0-0, a replay will now be required to separate the teams. For Portland United, the draw will feel like a missed opportunity given their superior attacking output. Sturminster Newton, however, will take heart from a resilient away performance and the knowledge that a home replay gives them a genuine chance of progressing in the competition.

The FA Cup never fails to deliver these tight, tense encounters, and this one was no exception. When the two sides meet again, expect another closely fought contest with plenty of pride and a place in the next round on the line.