ARSENAL reserve team boss Neil Banfield was delighted at his teams 2-0 victory over Portsmouth at Westleigh Park last night writes James Randall .

The Gunners reserve side - who featured a recovering Johan Djourou - scored a goal in each half, with Nacer Barazite penalty completing the win late in the second half.

Banfield told the clubs official website: "I am delighted for the lads. It was a really good footballing performance, the lads worked really hard even when they were not in possession."

He added: "We have worked really hard on our defensive play to and that has worked paid off for us tonight."

The Gunners currently sit in sixth place in the reserve league south table, something Banfield hopes will change after setting his side an ambitious challenge: "I have given the lads a little something to work towards which is if they can go unbeaten towards the end of the season then they will have done well and achieved a lot."

Banfield showered praise on defender Djourou, who came down from the first team to regain match fitness Banfield said: "It is always really pleasing when the first-team lads come in to the side. They have a fantastic work ethic and a great attitude."