Southampton defeat South Coast rivals Portsmouth in opening League Cup game

Southampton got off to a winning start in this season’s Subway Women’s League Cup as they defeated South Coast rivals Portsmouth 1-0 at Silverlake Stadium last night.

In the first instalment of the week’s South Coast derby double-header, it was The Saints that claimed victory thanks to a first half goal from Michaela McAlonie.

Southampton started the stronger of the two sides, applying early pressure on the Portsmouth defence. An opening almost came in the 13th minute, but a shot from Abbie Ferguson deflected off the bar. 

The evening’s scoring was opened in the 19th minute when McAlonie’s long-range shot nestled in the back of Comfort Erhabor’s goal.

Portsmouth’s first chance of the game came from Megan Hornby. She got on the end of an Ella Rutherford cross but her header was collected by home keeper Ella Pettit. 

Just before the break, The Saints searched for another goal, but Esta Roberts’ shot went just over the bar.

Following a dominant and confident first half, Southampton continued to search for a way of extending their lead in the second period, but they were unable to find the back of the Portsmouth net. They carved out a few further chances without making them count.

The next round of Subway Women’s League Cup games take place on 19 October 2025. Southampton travel to Brighton & Hove Albion while Portsmouth go to Charlton Athletic in Group C.