BASINGSTOKE Bluefins waterpolo team enjoyed a 7-3 victory over visiting Portsmouth B.

In the first quarter the home side took a two goal lead as Josh Cornwell and James Stone found the net.

In the next quarter Portsmouth equalled the Bluefins performance in a well-battled session as both sides scored once, with Stone scoring for the home side.

So at half-time Basingstoke led 3-1 but goalkeeper Clinton Leopold had made a number of stops – aided by a strong defensive performance from James Fleming, who prevented chances from the pit. Jack Taylor and Cornwell also worked continuously on counter attacks, tiring the Portsmouth defence.

After the break, the Bluefins extended their lead to three goals, despite Portsmouth mounting a comeback. James Masson was first to score, early in the third quarter, followed quickly by another for Stone.

Portsmouth replied with two goals – and Matt Harding worked hard for a shot throughout the quarter and was unlucky not to score. The third session was about to end when Stone scored with one second left on the clock.

In the final quarter both teams began to tire, and this led to a few more long shots being taken. Alex Pullen and Richard Kesteven worked well to neutralise attacks from Portsmouth.

The only goal of the quarter came from a great shot by Cornwell in the closing stages to complete the 7-3 win.

Throughout the half Luke Sawyer challenged the Portsmouth defence with a few shots and a lot of movement in the pool. Daniel James also made a considerable effort when initiating the counter attack.