MAY PEN, Clarendon — Alanzo Adlam scored a brace as Portmore United moved within four points of the Red Stripe Premier League summit with a 3-0 thrashing of Humble Lion at Effortville yesterday.

The former Sporting Central player converted close-range chances in the 39th and 43rd minutes to give the defending champions a healthy 3-0 cushion at half time.

Defender Ryan Wellington had earlier sent the St Catherine side ahead with a well-taken header in minute 31.

Humble Lion, who were totally outclassed on the day, failed to create any meaningful goalscoring opportunities.

The result means Portmore increased their tally to 34, four points adrift of leaders Harbour View, who play Waterhouse today.

“It’s a good way to start the year,” Portmore coach Andre Waugh said in his post-game interview. “Credit must be given to the players because they really played well today,” he added.

The defeat was Humble Lion’s first under coach Geoffrey Maxwell in four top-flight games. They remain in 10th on 23 points, one place and four points above the relegation zone.

While noting his disappointment with the performance, Maxwell said he will not blame the players for the defeat.

“I’m disappointed,” he said. “Today, we didn’t play like how we trained. I saw some strange things but I am not going to blame the players.” “Give credit to Portmore,” he added, “they got three gifts and made use of them.”