Bognor striker Lethbridge delighted by first Pompey goal - and relieved it crossed the line

Bognor loan striker Brad Lethbridge scored his maiden Pompey goal - and said it felt like it took an age to cross the line.
Brad Lethbridge celebrates equalising at Oxford / Picture: Graham HuntBrad Lethbridge celebrates equalising at Oxford / Picture: Graham Hunt
Brad Lethbridge celebrates equalising at Oxford / Picture: Graham Hunt

The forward, who is in his second season on loan at Nyewood Lane, was on the scoresheet in the Blues’ 2-2 draw at Oxford United in the EFL Trophy.

Lethbridge equalised for Kenny Jackett’s men in the 33rd minute, cancelling out Matty Taylor's opener for the hosts. The third-year scholar instinctively reacted to Josh Flint’s deflected effort and stabbed beyond home keeper Simon Eastwood.

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Pompey went on to ensure they finished top of Southern Group B, after collecting a bonus point for winning 5-4 on penalties.

Lethbridge felt he was placed in the right position to be able to net his first goal for the Blues. And the 18-year-old couldn't believe it arrived in just his third senior outing.

Lethbridge said: "I was just in the right place at the right time. Josh Flint's shot got a slight deflection and it just fell straight to me. I just put a leg out and got something on it.

"It hit the keeper and just rolled across the line – it was in slow motion for me.I didn’t think I’d have my first senior goal so soon. I’ve played three first-team games and to have it within my opening three games is brilliant."

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Lethbridge spearheaded Pompey's attack at the Kassam Stadium. He was replaced in the 63rd minute for Ellis Harrison after putting in a solid shift.

Lethbridge might have had his first goal in the 11th minute when he dragged wide after being teed-up by Ryan Williams. It was an opportunity the youngster rued.

He added: "The chance I had before it was awful, I don’t really want to talk about that! ‘It was great from Ryan to cut the ball back but I just didn’t wrap my foot around it enough."