BASINGSTOKE Town Ladies gave higher league University of Portsmouth Ladies a run for their money but ended up going out of the Hampshire Cup after a 3-2 defeat at Winklebury on Sunday.

The hosts got off to a poor start, finding themselves a goal down with just three minutes on the clock after a defensive mix-up.

Sam Mosley had Town’s first chance, shooting narrowly wide, and, while Portsmouth then went close as well, Basingstoke levelled the match on 22 minutes, Lianne Hill firing home an excellent effort from 25 yards.

Portsmouth hit back, forcing Town goalkeeper Erin Davis into a fine save before regaining the lead through former Basingstoke striker Gemma Green. The same player made her old team pay again before half-time, putting the visitors 3-1 up at the break.

The half-time team-talk seemed to have a dramatic effect on Town, who appeared to be a different side in the second period.

The Portsmouth goalkeeper was soon busy, saving from first Mosley and then Tracy Jones, before the hosts got themselves back into the game from a corner. The kick was taken by Hill, whose delivery found Josette Pearmine climbing high to head home.

Town pressed for an equaliser and created numerous chances without managing to score, allowing Portsmouth to hold on for a nervy victory.

Basingstoke are in cup action again this weekend, at Shanklin in a League Cup tie on Sunday (ko 2pm).