Hexham Porto U12 produced an impressive all-round performance to beat stern opponents Hebburn Town Wasps U12 at Acomb on Sunday.

In what was a closely contested encounter, Hexham Porto dealt with early pressure and a cagey start which saw goalkeeper James Craig repeatedly called into action early on in the 2-1 victory.

Porto settled down and dominated the second part of the first half pressing well and causing errors. Their pressure paid off when Max Gradwell cleverly dribbled his way into the area and was fouled to win a penalty which Tom Storey expertly converted to give Hexham a 1-0 lead.

The second half saw Hebburn putting on the pressure and looking to equalise. But after a good pass from Alfie McGray, Luke Emery was composed to notch Porto’s second.

Hebburn Town pulled a goal back with 15 minutes to go and continued to cause problems but it was Hexham that went close to extending their lead when Campbell Edward went close after linking up Max Gradwell.

Hebburn had a late chance to equalise but another great save by Craig followed by a great defensive block by Ben Brownless kept the score at 2-1 until the final whistle.

Coach Lee Milton said : “A well deserved three points against a team we have been unable to beat on the past couple of occasions.

“We put trust in the boys, and with strong defending and excellent goalkeeping we did enough to finish the game 2-1.”