NEWPORT inched a little closer to promotion and East Cowes Vics inched a little closer to safety in Division 1 of the Wessex League yesterday (Saturday).

Port — even down to ten men after their keeper Leon Pitman was controversially given a straight red card in the second half — still beat Whitchurch United comfortably 4-1 on the road.

The goals came from George Colson, Connor Kelly (2) and Ji Nash.

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The win keeps them top, a point clear of New Milton Town, but with three games in hand on them, and two clear of Andover New Street, who have a game in hand on Newport — so it couldn't be closer in the race for top spot, the one automatic promotion place.

Their unbeaten record on the road is incredible — 11 wins and two draws.

Newport did East Cowes Vics a favour, but it was reciprocated by them beating fourth-placed Petersfield Town 1-0 at Beatrice Avenue.

The Vics goal came from a late Harry Taylor penalty.

The win keeps their heads above the drop zone, but teams below them have games in hand.

In the Wessex Premier, Cowes Sports lost 2-1 at home to high-flying Bemerton Heath Harlequins at Westwood Park.

Ex-Newport player Mark Taylor put the Yachtsmen in front on 13 minutes — a lead they held at half-time.

But the visitors showed why they are pushing Portchester United for the title to turn the game around in the second period.

In the third round of the Isle of Wight Memorial Cup, Shanklin beat Vectis 3-0, while Ventnor hammered near neighbours Niton 8-1.

In Division 1 of the Island League, Whitecroft and Barton Sports kept the pressure on leaders Shanklin by beating Binstead and COB 3-0 at Sandy Lane.