PORTLAND United’s 2-0 victory at Bournemouth Poppies was one in the eye for the critics of manager Simon Browne.

The reigning Sydenhams Premier champions had been without a win in six games, sparking on-line criticism of Browne who took over the reins from title-winning manager Gary Bailey during the summer.

Responding to his detractors prior to Saturday’s game, Browne said: “People are entitled to their opinion, but I would much prefer it if they came and spoke to me face-to-face.

“It’s always people who find it much easier to be nasty behind a computer. I’m quite sure that those people won’t approach me and tell me I need to go. It means absolutely nothing.

“I’m big and ugly enough to deal with the slings and arrows that come my way. I’m not going to worry because someone has managed to find a computer."

The ex-Salisbury City defender added: “I just care about what’s going on at the football club.

"I’ll carry on and do the job to the best of my ability and not get concerned about the people who haven’t got the courage or the good manners to put their name to something.”

Portland’s players rallied behind their boss in the best possible way as goals from Lewis Clarke and Ryan McKechnie moved them up to ninth spot.