Brett Pitman's drop into the eighth tier of the pyramid raised eyebrows this week and the former Bristol Rovers striker has made a flying start at his new club.
The veteran forward, who has almost 200 EFL goals to his name throughout a career that has taken in stops at Bournemouth, Bristol City, Portsmouth, Ipswich Town and the Mem, signed a deal with AFC Portchester on Friday.
The Royals play in the Wessex Football League Premier Division, four divisions below League Two, and Pitman scored two penalties in a 3-3 friendly draw against Lymington Town on Saturday.
The 34-year-old joined Rovers last summer and he also scored a double in his first Rovers appearance, a 3-2 pre-season win over Oxford United. He went on to score four goals in 16 league appearances for the Gas.
But he drifted out of favour and was allowed to leave on loan in February, joining National League side Eastleigh until the end of the season. Pitman scored one goal in 17 appearances for the Spitfires.
“I’m really looking forward to it," Pitman said upon joining Portchester. "Obviously for me it is something a little bit different coming out of full-time football but I’m really looking forward to it.
“It’s a really good setup here. I’m looking forward to getting started and hopefully having a successful year.
“It’s going to be different to what I’m used to but it is something I’m looking forward to and at this stage of my career it enables me to do some coaching as well, which is something I’m really looking forward to doing.”
Portchester manager Dave Carter added: "It’s great to get the signing of Brett over the line. Myself and the committee members worked hard to get Brett on board with us.
“He brings a vast amount of experience to the club and I’m sure there will be plenty of quality and goals from him.
“Brett will also be joining the first team staff and helping out with training sessions and coaching on match days.
“I’m really looking forward to working with him this season and so are the first team squad.”
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