SHAFTESBURY 2 PORTLAND United’s Wessex League Premier season began with a 2-0 loss to a much-improved Shaftesbury at the Camp & Satherley Stadium. The Rockies have brought in former Christchurch manager Ollie Cherrett and a host of talent, including ex-Merley star Asa Phillips and Swanage forward Cameron Beard. Shaftesbury warmed to the task quicker than the Blues in the opening half, with home keeper Mike Edgar saving well from Brad Hill before Sam Poole blocked Luke Delaney’s follow-up. But 10 minutes before the break the Rockies found an opener when former Dorchester midfielder Gary Bowles broke through and supplied Jamie Wilson to head home with aplomb.