ALL three of the Isle of Wight’s most competitive football teams were back in league action this afternoon.

In the Wessex Premier Division, Cowes Sports – having their best season since being promoted eight seasons ago – travelled to Fareham Town but were well beaten on the road.

The Yachtsmen threatened and forced a fine save just four minutes in through Jimmy Mumford, and had the better of the chances in the first half.

After the break, a superb double-save from Ed Hatt denied the hosts early on, but they did eventually find the breakthrough.

Staring down the barrel at 2-0 down, Cowes reduced the deficit through Scott McFarlane, who tucked away a spot kick, but Fareham went on to expose the Islanders and put the result beyond doubt, scoring from 35 yards out.

The game ended 3-1.

Over in Division 1, Newport – looking to bounce back from a 5-0 thrashing in midweek – hosted league strugglers Aldermaston.

The Islanders were made to work for their three points, and the breakthrough came in the dying embers of the game; Michael Thomsett the difference maker with a looping header.

Leon Pitman was awarded man of the match and Newport won by a single goal.

They now look forward to Good Friday, when they take on fellow Island side East Cowes Vics, who faced off against Fleetlands earlier today.

Travelling to Powder Monkey Park, the Islanders took a well-deserved lead on 15 minutes – Jake Wright netting from outside the box.

The visitors took that lead into the break and doubled their advantage early in the second half through Jez Conway.

The hosts couldn’t find a way back into the game, and it ended 2-0 in favour of the Vics.

Other results this weekend:

Island League Division 1: 

Northwood St Johns 1, W&B Sports 4

Shanklin 1, Bembridge 0

Ventnor 4, ECS 1

Division 2: 

Newchurch 0, Sandown and Lake 5

Seaview 0, Osborne Coburg 13

Combination 1: 

Brading Town Res 5, Osborne Coburg Res 1

ECS Res 2, Binstead and COB Res 2

W&B Res 1, West Wight Res 3

Combination 2:

Wootton Res v Seaview Reserves (home walkover)

Bembridge A 3, West Wight A 2

Ventnor Res A 3, Ryde Saints Res 3