Portage United was defeated 3-2 by Winnipeg Croatia Friday evening at Republic of Manitobah Park.

Both teams were on different sides of the spectrum in the fourth division, as United were ranked first and Winnipeg Croatia dead last.

However, that did not stop Winnipeg Croatia from battling for 90 minutes and ultimately defeating United.

United came out strong in the first half and took an early lead off a rebound goal from Tanner Nicoll to make it 1-0.

After scoring that opening goal, United’s defense went into a lull as they surrendered numerous chances to Winnipeg Croatia.

Nearing the end of the first half, Winnipeg Croatia scored two quick goals to take a 2-1 half time lead.

A big factor in United’s half time deficit was due to their last line of defense, which regularly left huge gaps for opponents to run through.

"There were big gaps everywhere," said coach Ian Benson. "I'm at a loss for words. That's never happened."

United upped the tempo in the second half and created chance after chance with no results.

Graeme Schmidt finally leveled United mid-way through the half, as he sent a strike over Winnipeg Croatia’s goalkeeper.

See more in the Monday, July 30 edition of the Portage Daily Graphic.

Poll

Were you surprised Portage United lost to Winnipeg Croatia?

Thursday, May 23, 2013

0% 0 votes	Yes
0% 0 votes	No