Portsmouth F.C.’s Michael Doyle allowed beleaguered supporters of the club to maintain their belief that they’ll begin their slow ascent back up the English league system after his wonder strike secured a 3-1 victory over Accrington Stanley.
Portsmouth are two-time FA Cup winners, their most recent success coming in 2008, but have suffered three relegations since their 2009/10 Premier League season. Mired in League 2 following severe debt and multiple bouts with the administration, things are finally looking up for the largest fan-owned football club in England.
This match saw the victors leapfrog their opponents in the table and into fourth place, one spot beneath automatic promotion. The victory came courtesy of this fantastic volley from captain Michael Doyle.
Doyle had previously smashed a 25 yard shot against the crossbar, only to recalibrate his shooting boots in order to find the back of the net from all of 35 yards. There's no doubt that it's an early contender for goal of the season.
The ball fell to Doyle following a Stanley clearance which seemingly put an end to any danger on the Stanley goal. Moving backwards to track the flight of the ball, the defenders haven’t the slightest chance of closing down the space between themselves and Doyle.
It’s the perfect strike and the perfect reminder, for Portsmouth fans, of the glory that the game affords those who choose to dare.
Shout out to the "Stanley Ultras" and other fans around Stanley's Crown Ground for their reserved applause in recognition of what they've just witnessed.
Pompey are now only six points behind Plymouth in the race for a coveted spot in the top three of League 2. The top three finishers are guaranteed promotion while the fourth through seventh place finishers must enter a four-team playoff for the final promotion spot.
