Ground-Hopping
03/04/2010

Substitute Dan comes up Trumps for Overton


HONOURS EVEN AT BRIDGE STREET

OVERTON UNITED 1
PAULSGROVE 1
By Roger Allen at Bridge Street

ON a day of more foul weather, Overton did well to get the game played and they made the early running as Ross Soper-Dyer was just wide.

Then it was Paulsgrove’s turn and leading scorer Dave Harding twice went close in as many minutes. First he shot over when he really should have done better but he was unlucky with his second effort which struck a post and rebounded back into play.

The game continued from end to end and on the half hour Aaron Cochrane was put through but Paulsgrove keeper, Aaron Holden, pulled off a good blocking save. He was called on minutes later to make another good save this time from Joe Richardson. Just before the break Liam Horsted went close for Grove.

The game became more open and five minutes into the second half Paulsgrove took the lead through Dave HARDING. It was a trademark goal as he chased a long ball to beat Overton keeper Nick Stones.

HOLD UP: Paulsgrove goal scorer Dave Harding shields the ball for Overton’s Rob Mooney (white shorts) -
CENTRE: Ben Dibbern of Overton United is pursued and Paulsgrove’s Josh Cripps. BELOW: It’s Spot The Ball !

Stones was again called into action shortly after as he tipped a powerful Horsted shot around the post. From the resulting corner Overton went straight up the other end and scored.

Richardson’s cross from the left flashed across goal to Cochrane on the right. His return cross was blocked but not cleared and Dan TRUMP, freshly on as substitute, pounced on the rebound to score from close range.
That was the end of the scoring but both keepers were called upon to make fine saves. A draw was a fair result in a match that was played in a good spirit despite the wet conditions.
 
 

SOLENT CALL THE TUNE

AFC STONEHAM 1
TEAM SOLENT 1
Roger Allen reports from Stoneham Park

THE score-line would suggest a close game but Team Solent dominated both possession and the goal chances. With better finishing they would have won convincingly.

Playing down the slope in the first half, it was perhaps understandable that they had an overwhelming superiority but the ease with which they got through the normally strong Stoneham defence was a surprise.

Jamie Barnett, Leo Churms and Adam GRAY all squandered good chances before the latter put the students ahead after 31 minutes.

Instead of going in at half time with a lead they were pegged back with two minutes to go by an OWN GOAL. Lee Hewett popped up on the right and his shot-come-cross looped off the head of Scott Simmonds and over Ben Kneller in Solent’s goal.

With the elements in their favour Stoneham were expected to come more into the game but normally effective players could make no impact.

Solent continued to dominate possession and squander chances in equal measure but the only time the ball ended in the net, by Liam Crook, was called back for offside.

CASTLE RESERVES LOSE OUT TO PENALTY

FC CENSO 2
WINCHESTER CASTLE RES 1
By Roger Allen at Longmeadow

After a bright start, Castle played second fiddle to CenSo during the first half of this North Hants Intermediate Cup final but comfortably held the Basingstoke side at bay until the 43rd minute.

Robbie Shearman in the Castle goal was unlucky to make a good save only to see the ball rebound to an onrushing CenSo player who bundled the ball into the net.

After the break CenSo again were in the ascendancy and looked as though they might go on to win the game comfortably. However, Castle were playing the more constructive football and midway through the second period they began to assert control.

They got their reward on 71 minutes when substitute Steve WHITLOCK latched onto a through ball and finished well past the stranded CenSo keeper. However the revival was short lived because eight minutes later CenSo were awarded a penalty for a holding offence and Shearman was powerless to stop the kick.

Both sides had chances to score as the game went deep into stoppage time but, in the end, it was probably a fair result as CenSo had shown greater potency over the whole 90 minutes.
27/03/2010
STRONG DEFENCE THE KEY FOR STONEHAM

AFC STONEHAM 3
CLANFIELD 0

Roger Allen reports from Stoneham Park

CLANFIELD started brightly but they were put firmly on the back foot in the second minute when Stoneham scored with their first attack. Dan Sillence burst through midfield and fed Lee HEWETT who advanced before chipping Gareth Wiseman in the Clanfield goal.
Clanfield continued to take the game to Stoneham but their efforts foundered on Hall, Lawrence and Cross the strong centre backs for the home side to the extent that Andy Harris in their goal was rarely troubled.
When they advanced on goal Stoneham presented a greater threat but Ollie Forbes unluckily missed when he shinned a bobbling ball over the bar when well placed.
Clanfield introduced young Declan Broderick at the start of the second half and he made an immediate impression. Ross Noble also seemed to benefit from a new strike partner though Clanfield’s efforts were usually off target.
Stoneham’s defence generally looked comfortable whilst Clanfield were playing in front of them but whilst the margin remained a single goal, there was still everything to play for.
On 69 minutes however Stoneham scored their second goal and it was a carbon copy of the first. Sillence made the break in midfield before feeding HEWETT who just beat Wiseman to the ball to slip it into the net.
Six minutes later they made the game safe with a third goal. The ball found its way to substitute, James CHALK, near the left corner off the penalty area. After taking a touch he finished decisively with a cross shot.
Stoneham’s victory keeps the pressure on the three teams above them but they face a stiff test on Tuesday when Team Solent are the visitors. Meantime they will be hoping for a favour from the visitors as Clanfield visit second placed Liphook the same evening.
BACKED INTO A CORNER: Matt Lay (Stoneham) and Darren Ferguson (stripes) challenge for the ball Clanfield striker Russ Noble, takes on Paul Lawrence.
 
MATT FINISH SEES CASTLE BOAST A POINT

OVERTON UNITED 1
WINCHESTER CASTLE 1

By Mike Crowfoot at Bridge Street

CASTLE produced an under par performance against Overton who are scrapping for every point in their bid to move out of the bottom two. In the end a draw was a fair result but Castle had the chances to have won comfortably.
In the third minute Ross Brimfield got behind the Overton defence and picked out Simon Daunter with his cross but Daunter’s header was just wide with Overton keeper Keith Bailey rooted to the spot.
Overton’s young Olly Ambrose was showing some nice touches and good use of the ball and twice his dangerous crosses caused the Castle defence problems and from the second Alan Mitchell's shot from the edge of the area was narrowly wide.
However, Castle were creating the better opportunities and, on 15 minutes, a slick move involving Brimfield, Rob Kitley and Wanless opened up the Overton defence and left Peter Walker with a chance six yards out at the far post but Bailey managed to turn the shot away for a corner with his legs.
Then Brimfield and Daunter combined to give Wanless a shooting chance which was blocked as was Daunter’s follow up shot.
Daunter then produced the pass of the first half to put Walker in down the right and from his cross Ross Brimfield hit the post. Two minutes from the break Overton had their best chance as Mitchell beat Castle keeper Crowfoot to a driven free-kick but his header was just over the bar.
Overton caught Castle cold in the first minute of the second half as Mitchell's beautifully weighted through ball was collected by Jason GRAHAM who ran on to round Crowfoot and slot into an empty net to give Overton the lead.
Overton them had their best spell of the game as Crowfoot had to react quickly to stop Ross Soper Dyer's 30 yard blockbuster and Graham shot wide from the edge of the area.
However, Castle re-gathered and began to put the Overton defence under pressure in search of the equaliser. From a Brimfield cross Daunter’s header was grasped at the foot of the post by Bailey and from a long throw Bailey turned Brimfield’s shot around the post. Warren Kitley headed wide from a corner and Brimfield’s free-kick was deflected into Bailey’s arms. However, on 77 minutes the equaliser arrived as full back Tom Egerton won the ball in midfield, made 30 yards, and slipped the ball in behind the left back for substitute Matt BOAST who slotted his shot past Bailey.
For the final 15 minutes it was end to end but Castle had the better chances to take the points as substitute Alex Gard was left free at the far post, following a flowing move, but sliced his shot wide and Warren Kitley shot over the bar following Boasts corner.
 
 
Leaders QK return to winning ways after cup exit

REVENGE IS SWEET FOR LEADERS QK

QK SOUTHAMPTON 3
OTTERBOURNE 1

By Ken Babey reporting from Five Acres

QK were determined to avenge their defeat against Otterbourne earlier in the season but the visitors were never going to make this an easy game. From the start the Otters defended well although QK threw everything at them. The home side were pumping balls into Otterbourne’s box but the final touch was not quite good enough to force a breakthrough. It seemed at times that QK were suffering from post cup semi-final blues and with luck going against them it was going to be an uphill struggle. When they did get into the opposition box they created havoc and almost forced a defensive error when an Otterbourne defender nearly put the ball in his own net. Otterbourne did manage to penetrate QK’s defence a couple of times but were well held back by the keeper. When the second half started it was like a different QK side and they really took the game to the visitors, and after 12 minutes, after some neat interplay with Ben Penfold, Michael THOMAS received the final ball and calmly slotted the ball past the keeper on 57 minutes. Otterbourne did not sit back and pushed QK hard and this told in the 69th minute when Craig Shrimpton was forced into an error when he tried to pass the ball back and it was picked up by Aaron MILNE and left him clear with only the keeper to beat which he did. With so much riding on this game QK got into another gear and were passing the ball much better and causing Otterbourne more than a few headaches and the breakthrough came when a surge forward on the left found Mike Nailor turning in goalwards and when he sent a fierce shot goalbound, forced an Otters defender to turn the ball into his own net in the 81st minute. This settled QK but they were still harangued by the Otterbourne forwards but the home defence held fast. With 90 minutes nearly up QK were awarded a free kick and Leon Tatavossian floated a beautiful ball into the Otterbourne area which was met be Andrew MILTON to head the ball into the net.

ONE-NIL! Mike Thomas (yellow, left) steadies himself before firing home QK’s opener and RIGHT: Headman Andrew Milton rises to nod home their third goal.
Headman Andrew Milton rises to nod home their third goal. ONE-NIL! Mike Thomas (yellow, left) steadies himself before firing home QK’s opener
20/03/2010

COMMON PUSHED BY LYNDHURST

COLDEN COMMON 2
LYNDHURST 0

By Roger Allen reporting from Main Road

ON a day like this it was appropriate that one of the scorers was called Waters but the Colden Common pitch held up well after the deluge.

Lyndhurst started well, taking the game to Common in the early stages but slowly the home side settled and took the lead after 18 minutes when a defender was penalised for pushing in the area. Scott WATERS scored with the penalty, sending keeper Matt Sturgess the wrong way.

The conditions did not help Common’s long ball game with strikers Rich Lang and Jordan Parker, chasing hopeful balls in vain though Lang shot into the side netting when he beat Sturgess to one through ball.
Towards the end of the half Lyndhurst had a good spell and Craig Barker had a shot blocked when well-placed. Common failed to clear the resulting corner and Dave Nicol in the Common goal had to tip a Pete Hurst shot over the bar.
Lyndhurst made a good start to the second period and both Barker and Chris Hamilton had chances to score.
At the other end, Parker headed wide and Lang had the ball in the net on the hour only to be ruled offside. He went one better on 64 minutes when a long clearance was not dealt with by the Lyndhurst defence and LANG rounded the keeper before sliding the ball into an empty net.

For the remainder of the game the Common defence comfortably held Lyndhurst at bay though on one occasion Pete Haderka fired over and two players failed to connect with a dangerous Hurst free kick.

Lyndhurst can take a lot of credit from this performance against one of the top teams though Common will be pleased to have got back to winning ways after their shock defeat last week.
FIRE!: [RIGHT] Jordan Parker (Colden Common) prepares to cross ahead of Garry Gotts (right) & Pete Haderka (left) and LEFT: Rich Lang (Colden Common) gets ahead of Pete Haderka (Lyndhurst).


CLAN RETURN TO WINNING WAYS

CLANFIELD 2
BOURNEMOUTH UNIVERSITY 1

Stuart Wallis reports from Peel Park

CLANFIELD ended a run of three successive defeats with victory at a rain-lashed Peel Park. The home side dominated the early exchanges despite playing into a strong wind and they deservedly took the lead on 25 minutes when some good play from Dan Coleman and Harry Potter set up Russ NOBLE who managed to squeeze his shot under the keeper.
Ten minutes later again the pair combined but Potter saw his effort beaten away by the keeper. The students had created very little going forward with only a couple of half chances that Gareth Wiseman had dealt with comfortably.
With the elements in their favour the home side were looking to press home their advantage but they had a big let off when one of the University players managed to fire wide from close range.
With the game in the balance, Coleman fired a long range effort just wide, a triple substitution from the home side brought fresh impetus to the Clanfield team and they finally managed to get the second goal from persistent play by Potter saw him work space for the cross, which was dummied by Peters and Gary BUCKLEY stole in at the back post to fire home his first goal of the season.
That should have been game over but a red card five minutes later for Ollie Todd gave the students fresh hope. It was game on again after 85 minutes when a poor back pass let the forward in and although Wiseman saved the first effort, Tom GOODAY followed up to make it 2-1, a frantic final five minutes then followed by the home side held out for a welcome three points.

Roger Allen’s midweek cup semi-final reports

SOLENT GO THE DISTANCE TO REACH ST MARYS

TEAM SOLENT 2
BUSH HILL 2 *
(Team Solent won 3-1 on penalties)

Roger Allen reporting from the By-Pass Ground

TEAM Solent had 70% of the possession and 90% of the chances but failed to turn this dominance into a clear cut victory. Indecisive finishing and outstanding goalkeeping were the root causes though they were unlucky to strike the bar twice.
In fact the game was drifting towards a goalless 90 minutes when Ben KNELLER took a free kick, 25 yards out with three minutes to go. The kick struck the cross bar and bounced down over the line.
It should have been a simple task to see the game out but Bush Hill were granted a lifeline in the last minute due to Solent’s failure to clear a free kick.
In the second minute of extra time, Leo CHURMS put Solent ahead with a cool finish but despite having a player sent off, Bush Hill were not finished. The equaliser came on 112 minutes from another defensive tangle which resulted in an own goal.
Onto penalties and Ragnar Horvind and Ben Kneller both scored to put Solent 2-1 ahead after four kicks. Up stepped Liam Crook to convert and send holders Team Solent to the Southampton Senior Cup final at St Marys where they meet VT FC Reserves.


PAULSGROVE UPSET THE ODDS

PAULSGROVE 3
QK SOUTHAMPTON 1

by Roger Allen at Warsash Road

DESPITE languishing in mid-table, Paulsgrove were deserved victors over league leaders and likely champions QK Southampton in this League Cup semi-final at Locks Heath.
They got off to the best possible start when leading scorer Dave HARDING outsmarted the QK defence in the sixth minute to cut in from the left and score with a solo effort.
They continued to take the game to QK who were stretched to contain the deficit to a single goal. However, in the last 15 minutes of the half, QK came back into the game and Danny Smith shot wide when well placed then Mike Naylor hit a post with a free kick.
The game was settled midway through the second half when Paulsgrove scored twice in three minutes. Just before this Shane Flooks had missed a golden chance to equalise but ‘Grove went straight up the other end to score.
Harding got free on the right to square the ball for strike partner, Lee LODGE to sweep the ball home. Three minutes later it was LODGE again who gave Paulsgrove a three goal lead.
On 85 minutes QK’s Pete SLACK pulled a goal back but it was no more than a consolation. Paulsgrove now meet AFC Stoneham in the final at the beginning of May.
 
13/03/2010
Action from Saturday’s clash involving Hamble Club and Clanfield . Hamble won 3-2        Photo: Roger Allen

CLANFIELD PAY FOR INDIVIDUAL MISTAKES

HAMBLE CLUB 3
CLANFIELD 2

Roger Allen reports from the Shell Mex Ground

A CHAPTER of individual errors led to Clanfield losing a game that they dominated.  Hamble Club got off to the best possible start in the third minute when Alwyn SHORT picked up the ball close to the right touchline and his shot-come-cross sailed over Gareth Wiseman into the net.
ON THE SLIDE: Hamble’s opening scorer Alwyn Short (red) blocks Clanfield Luke Pettit
RIGHT: It’s Short again this time clearing his lines from Clanfield’s two-goal marksman Dan Coleman.

At this stage it was difficult to predict who would score the next goal but Dan Coleman went closest when his shot bounced back into play off a post with Dan Wooldridge in the Hamble goal beaten. On 23 minutes Hamble doubled their lead. Darren Bowman had a shot blocked but the ball bounced kindly for Tony DAVIES who slotted it home. Clanfield then started to dominate the game but they had to wait until the stroke of half time before pulling a goal back. Russ Noble did well to open up the defence but his shot was blocked by Wooldridge. From the rebound Noble squared the ball for COLEMAN to score from close range. Clanfield started the second half brightly but they had a scare when a corner by Short bounced clear off the near post. Pressure began to mount on the Hamble defence who did not aid their cause by conceding a succession of free kicks. An equaliser seemed inevitable and it duly came on 64 minutes when COLEMAN latched onto a through ball to slide the ball past Wooldridge into the net. Hamble had barely raised a threat on goal in the second half but on 78 minutes they were gifted the goal that was to prove the winner. There appeared to be no threat as Clanfield’s Gary Firbank picked up a loose ball but he got caught in possession by DAVIES who ran on to beat Gareth Wiseman. In the last few minutes Clanfield tried to mount a wave of attacks but the Hamble defence held firm for three points which takes them comfortably into mid table.

Lynd-Hurst snatch a remarkable last-gasp victory!

SKIPPER HURST SENDS HEADS ROLLING

LYNDHURST 2
HEADLEY UNITED 1

Derek Hawkins reports from ellands Road

CACAPTAIN Pete Hurst struck a quite sublime injury-time winner to secure Lyndhurst three vital points in their bottom-four clash with Headley United at Wellands Road. The clock had already ticked into deep into injury time when substitute Ben Boyce cleverly won a corner on the left.

Gary Gotts’ corner kick was only cleared to just outside the penalty area from where the lurking HURST glanced up before arrowing a superb measured shot high into the Headley net to spark off wild celebrations among Lyndhurst players, management and supporters alike. Those scenes were in stark contrast to the ones just before kick-off when there was a minutes’ silence in memory of 11-year-old Paige Elgram – daughter of manager Dave and his wife Kay – on the fifth anniversary of her tragic passing.

Edgy early exchanges were summed up by Lyndhurst’s opening goal after 11 minutes. Headley’s Matt Downs was guilty of dwelling on the ball just outside the penalty area and he was duly mugged by Tom ROBINSON who coolly smashed the ball past the unprotected keeper. The visitors defence continued to look rather shaky and a number of unforced errors saw passes going astray in midfield handing the initiative back to the Foresters who had chances to increase their advantage through Craig Barker, Hurst and Robinson who somehow managed to ‘shin’ the ball high in the air from inside the six-yard box. Headley looked a different proposition after the restart and Barry Parker brought a fine one-handed save from Lyndhurst keeper Matt Sturgess before their pressure was finally rewarded with an equaliser on 63 minutes – Paul JAGGERS netting with a powerful downward header from a corner.

Chris Knowles should have put Headley in front after 77 minutes but he blazed wildly over when well placed and it got worse for Knowles three minutes from time when he stupidly got himself sent off for a second yellow card.r /> The ten men looked like hanging on until two minutes into stoppage time when Hurst’s Howitzer bagged all three points for the Foresters.


FIFIRST WIN IN FIVE FOR FLEETLANDS

LISS ATHLETIC 0
FLEETLANDS 2

Report by George Mason from the Newman Collard Playing Fieldsr />
A A GOAL on 26 minutes by Lee CHAMBERS and a penalty converted by Jack KIRBY on 67 minutes was enough to secure the points for Fleetlands bringing to an end a run of otherwise disappointing results.

Castle’s “Do-It-Yourself” Kit nails Common

KITLEY BACKS COMMON TO LOSE

WINCHESTER CASTLE 1
COLDEN COMMON 0

By Mike Crowfoot reporting from ilcomb

COMMON back in the title race after last week’s victory over league leaders QK Southampton obviously thought they would have an easy day against Castle who they had beaten 4-1 back in December.
However, a well-organised Castle side made the most of their one piece of luck to pull off an unlikely victory. The bobbly pitch made controlled football difficult and with both teams quickly putting opponents under pressure attractive football was at a premium as were chances with both defences dominating.
Castle had the first chance on 12 minutes as Peter Walker got clear down the right and his cross was met by John Wanless but his tame header was easily gathered by Common keeper Dave Nicol. It was another 19 minutes before Common had their first good chance as Dave Egerton’s corner resulted in a scramble and when the ball fell to Jordan Parker he shot wildly over the bar.
Neither keeper had been called upon to make a save worthy of the name until the 44th minute when a well-flighted free-kick from Ben Morgan was challenged for by Castle’s Rob Kitley, defender Karl Salmon and Nicol - the ball rebounding of the back of KITLEY and into the net to give Castle a fortuitous lead.
Common started the second half with more purpose and Egerton's free kick from 30 yards was deflected for a corner. Egerton’s kick fell to Scott Walters at the far post but Darren Crowfoot in Castle's goal was quickly off his line to block the shot away for another corner. From this corner Common at first appeared to have won a penalty as Richard Lang went to ground but Castle were awarded a free kick for Lang’s foul on his marker Matt Storey.
The game then reverted to a midfield battle until the 54th minute when Castle should have increased their lead as a move down their left cut open the Common defence and let in Kitley who, from an angle, lobbed Nicol, the ball striking the far post and rebounding to Wanless who somehow completed missed his kick and the chance was gone.
With three-quarters of the game gone Common suddenly realised they had to produce more to break down the well-organised hard working Castle side and for a while began to look like they may score as Lang turned his marker but shot into the side netting and then Alex Huxford headed powerfully against the corner of post and bar which, was quickly followed by defender George Roberts blocking Huxford’s shot.
Just minutes later Crowfoot produced the save of the match to maintain Castle’s lead as he somehow managed to tip Dean Higgins shot over the bar. Common kept pressing but seemed to be running out of ideas and Castle were always looking dangerous with their counter attacks.
Common had one last chance in the 86th minute when Higgins slipped his marker but shot just wide of the far post to leave Castle with a hard earned victory and Common's title challenge dwindling.

QK BACK WITH A BANG

QK SOUTHAMPTON 5
LOCKS HEATH 0

Ken Babey reports from Five Acres

AFTER a disappointing result the previous week, QK had to come back with a decent show. From the whistle they showed no signs of low spirits and took the game to the visitors. After the initial first five minutes settling in, the warning signs were there for Locks Heath when the QK forwards sent shot after shot at the goal.

In the 25th minute Mike Thomas put Ben PENFOLD through and the striker cut inside and shot past the keeper. Just two minutes later Penfold was again on hand when QK were awarded a corner and from the resulting cross from Shane Flooks, PENFOLD rose to head the ball into the net again.

Locks Heath could not find an answer to the QK onslaught. The home side’s defence was in top form, as was the midfield and Locks could not find a way through to the QK goal. They were further dejected when on the 44th minute another foray by QK saw a magnificent piece of football when Nathan Golden sent the ball wide to Danny Smith who sent a first time cross for PENFOLD to meet and complete his hat trick.

The second half saw Locks Heath come out with more purpose but, with QK on a high, they were soon bought back to earth by the sheer quality that they were up against. It was not so much end to end but all in the Locks Heath half, but they still managed the odd shot at goal. From one of these shots, the QK keeper sent the ball long and this was picked up by Flooks who dribbled past three or four defenders before slipping the ball past the keeper to make it 4-0 to the home side.
Manager Pat McManus made some personnel changes with quarter of an hour to go with Liam Weeks and Pete Slack coming on and they immediately slotted into the game. SLACK, who had missed a couple of earlier games, was an ever present threat and when he received the ball from a delightful cross from Danny Smith he took his chance hit the back of the net to make it 5-0. Right at the end Locks Heath were awarded a penalty on 88 minutes after a clumsy challenge from Tatavossian but with their luck on the day it was well saved by Tim Ndowora to keep his clean sheet.
CRASH:
QK’s Ben Penfold fires home his side’s opener
BANG: Penfold heads in his second (top left). WALLOP: The QK Striker completes his first half hat trick (top right). Shane Flooks waltzes through the Locks defence for QK’s fourth
Pete Slack heads in their fifth
A BIG THANK YOU TO KEN BABEY: NOT ONLY DID HE WRITE THE MATCH REPORT BUT HE ALSO MANAGED TO CAPTURE ALL FIVE GOALS ON HIS CAMERA!

STONEHAM SILENCE SOLENT

AFC STONEHAM 2
TEAM SOLENT 1

by Derek Hawkins at Warsash Road

AFC STONEHAM booked their place in this year’s PEHPL Cup final with an impressive 2-1 victory over near neighbours Team Solent at Locks Heath FC on Monday night.
It was some revenge for Stoneham who were unluckily beaten in a penalty shoot-out by the Students in the inaugural final at Winchester City just two tears ago. On a bitterly cold evening, Stoneham surged ahead after 36 minutes when Ollie Forbes burst clear from the halfway line and down the left from where he delivered a sweet cross for Mark GARDNER to send a glancing header into the far corner of the net. Stoneham doubled their advantage midway through the second half in somewhat fortuitous circumstances, James Banks swung in a near post corner and the under pressure Solent keeper could only fist the spinning ball high into the air and looping back into his own net. Stoneham had a nervous last few minutes when Scott SIMMONDS pulled a goal back with two minutes remaining but they deservedly held for their final date against Paulsgrove or QK Southampton who meet at Locks Heath’s Warsash Road home this Tuesday evening (7.15pm).
06/03/2010
QK’s 14-match winning sequence is ended at Common
SALMON HAS CHAMPIONS IN THE PINK
 
COLDEN COMMON 1
QK SOUTHAMPTON 0

Ian Steele reports from Main Road

KARL Salmon netted the only goal of an enthralling encounter between two of the league's top three sides. Top of the table QK Southampton were the first to show and almost immediately threatened the host’s goal before the Commoners found a level of composure. A stinging shot from the right bounced off the top of the home side’s crossbar as QK sought the early initiative. Common's response was indifferent at times but one break saw Scott Waters feed Jordy Parker whose cross just eluded Dean Higgins and QK cleared. Possession was hard-earned but the hosts were too wasteful in their distribution and gave the ball away too frequently.
Much like our trip to QK a couple of weeks back, the away side enjoyed much the better of the first period and Dave Nicol, Common's custodian, had to be alert throughout. A couple of good chances for the away side were spurned with wayward finishes as the table-toppers maintained control. Pete Winkle was working his socks off in midfield in an effort to regain some Common control while defensively Alex Huxford, Joshua Carey, Ben Clarke and Ed Carlin were excellent as they either ended a QK raid or made a crucial recovering tackle.
As the half progressed so the Commoners started to make more of an impression and, after some 37 minutes, they forced the breakthrough. A rapid break down the home side’s right saw Waters feed Parker. Jordy worked his way into the right side of the box before crossing to Higgins. The ball shot off Deano's shin and the goalkeeper made a reaction save before SALMON (pictured right) hammered in the rebound.
After the break the game developed into an even more riveting end-to-end affair. A Common attack was repelled and QK then sought to level the scores before the hosts surged forward once more only to be denied and set another QK raid in motion – it was thrilling stuff. Liam Magee was enjoying more possession as Common upped their desire and determination while Pete Winkle continued to be the rock upon which the visiting sides midfield stumbled. QK's fluency going forward certainly caused Common problems but when the attack was broken down Common were a very real threat at the other end. A stunning QK strike struck the bar and two one-on-ones were missed while Common also hit the woodwork - a staggering Higgins free kick - and saw a couple of good opportunities wasted.
 
The view from the QK Southampton camp
SALMON LEAPS TO CONQUER QK
 
COLDEN COMMON 1
QK SOUTHAMPTON 0

by Ken Babey at Main Road

COLDEN Common put themselves back in the mix with a 1-0 victory over table top rivals QK Southampton. From the kick off QK showed why they are table toppers with a strong display of football and within the first five minutes nearly went ahead with a fine shot from Dan Smith which just shaved the top of the bar.
QK were taking the game to Common and for the first 25 minutes were pushing Common back. I don’t know why, but they seemed to take their foot off the pedal and their passing was going astray. Common seemed to sense this and took the initiative, pumping the ball forward and giving the QK defence some problems. In this respect, QK found themselves in disarray when, from a bit of a scramble, Common went ahead on 38 minutes from a shot by Karl SALMON which threaded itself through the visitors defence. For the rest of the first half Common pummeled QK’s defence but were held back well. The second half saw QK start warily and were always threatened by the strong Common forwards but held their own and started to give the home side some scary moments but with the game starting to get beyond them, you always felt they would pull a goal back but time was not on their side and it was with some relief to the home side that the final whistle went.
 
STEVE WEBBER Memorial Match in aid of Diabetes UK
Friday 12th March 7pm at Locksheath Football Club

Locksheath Veterans Vs Saints Veterans - Followed by live band

Raffle tickets now on sale £1.00 a strip
(Contact Jack Sayers at Locks Heath Sports & Social Club)

Raffle prizes:
19 inch LCD TV Mane Event voucher
Day trip for two to Brugge BBQ tool set
Bosch Power Tool Various bottles of spirits
Mercedes Benz goodie bag Tigi shampoo
Meal voucher and many more

Saints players –
Wayne Shaw, Reuben Agboola, Andy Cook, Tommy Widdrington, Ian Baird, Ray Wallace, Rod Wallace, Leroy Whale, Jo Tessem, Nicky Banger, Greg Llewellyn, Jimmy Case, Paul Wiltshire, Paul Williams, Claus Lundekvam, Bill Beaney, David Hughes, Adi Aymes (ex-Hampshire wicket keeper), Graham Baker, David Howells, Glen Cockerill, Mark Blake, Marcel Cullers, Jon Gittens, Steve Baker, Neil Heaney, Paul Walsh may also play
It’s a Hardy luck story for Liphook United
 
FLEETLANDS FRUSTRATE LIPHOOK AGAIN
 
FLEETLANDS 1
LIPHOOK UNITED 1

By Roger Allen at Lederle Lane 

JUST a few weeks after the sides fought out a goalless draw, Fleetlands again frustrated title-chasing Liphook United despite having little possession.
Liphook dominated the early possession but leading scorer, Steve Harding, was missing and they missed his sharpness in front of goal. His replacement Mark Farrow clipped the bar with an early chance and should have done better when he skied over after being set up by Dominic Cope.
Farrow was unlucky not to score on 34 minutes as his header from a corner bounced down off the bar into the grateful hands of Tom Price. Immediately after Fleetlands had the ball in the net but Jason Mann was pulled back for offside. In the last quarter hour of the first half, Fleetlands had finally got into the game and right on half time they took the lead with a sweet move. Jack Kirby fed the ball inside the full back for Chris Cunningham to cross first time into the path of James HARDY who swept the ball in off a post.

Liphook dominated the early exchanges in the second half and Farrow again headed over with a good chance. On 61 minutes they got the equaliser that their play deserved.

STALEMATE: Fleetlands’ Jack Kirby (red, above) locks horns with Liphook’s Dan Harding and LEFT: Chris Cunningham (11) wins this header against Marc Richards.
A corner was returned to the taker, Marc Richards and his cross was met first time by Rob MORRAD. Next it was Ryan Angear for Liphook who was just wide with a powerful drive then Farrow again hit the bar; the ball bouncing back into play. Fleetlands could barely raise a shot on goal especially after their leading scorer, Wayne Emery, had been substituted in the first half. As the players tired, frustrations began to surface and the game ended controversially as Liphook’s Kevin Adair, who had been substituted earlier, was dismissed from the dugout for delivering a verbal tirade at the referee.
 
Two home wins in four days boost Liss Athletic
CASTLE TOPPLED IN FIVE-GOAL THRILLER
 
LISS ATHLETIC 3
WINCHESTER CASTLE 2

Mike Crowfoot reporting from Newman Collard Playing Fields

CASTLE'S three-match winning run came to an end in a topsy-turvy game at Liss on a difficult pitch.
Once the early exchanges were over Castle took control and the lead on eight minutes as Simon Daunter’s long throw into the penalty area was flicked on by a defender and Dan BAPTY at the far post brought it down and placed his shot past Andy Ewen. Castle continued to dominate the play but failed to create chances until Ewen made a good save diving at the feet of Bapty after another Daunter long throw had been knocked down by John Wanless.
Liss were reduced to counter attacks and from their first serious attempt at goal on 37 minutes Matt Northcott headed just over the bar from Jordan Neal's corner. It looked as though Castle would go into half time with a deserved lead but in the 45th minute Neal and Northcott repeated their corner duet and this time NORTHCOTT sent his header over Crowfoot in Castle’s goal and just under the bar for the equaliser.
A minute later Liss took the lead as Castle's defence failed to fully clear a ball into the area and when it was returned Northcott knocked it down for Andy NEAL to hit an unstoppable shot into the top corner giving Liss an unlikely half time lead.
Castle were still shocked at the start of the second half and Liss pinned them back and were rewarded on 52 minutes when Jordan Neal rounded his marker and from the goal line pulled the ball back, Andy Neal headed it on and a cross shot by Chris WYATT was deflected in at the foot of the post to give Liss a two goal lead.
Liss continued to look the better team but on the hour keeper Ewen was harshly dissmissed for deliberate handball outside his area as he snatched the ball away from Wanless. Dave Kay stepped up to take over the goalkeeping duties.
Liss reorganised but Castle slowly retook control and Kay made a good save from Tom Munday. However, on 75 minutes he was unable to stop Castle pulling a goal back as he could only parry Rob Kitley’s shot from 10 yards and WANLESS was on hand to tuck in the rebound.
Liss were generally coping well with being a player short but on 80 minutes Tom Egerton’s corner to the far post was headed back accross goal by Dave Burgess and Wanless's shot was cleared of the line. This proved to be Castle’s best chance of an equaliser as Liss hung on for their hard fought victory.
 
 
27/02/2010
ELLIOTT DOUBLE FOR UNIVERSITY

BOURNEMOUTH UNIVERSITY 3
OVERTON UNITED 1

Roger Allen reports from Chapel Gate
BOURNEMOUTH University have been edging clear of the relegation area and three points against fellow strugglers Overton did them no harm at all.
The first chance came on 12 minutes when Lucas Pickett went close for the University then Ekow Elliott clipped the bar with a rising shot.
After 22 minutes Bournemouth took the lead through ELLIOTT with Barry Squires providing the pass. Elliott’s first touch took him past his marker and his second beat Nick Stones in the Overton goal.
Overton rarely threatened although a Joe Richardson shot was deflected wide in a rare attack. Back came University as Lucas Pickett supplied Jack Whitehouse who fired over.

The second half started with the University still in the ascendancy and again it was ELLIOTT who scored on 55 minutes. If the first goal was classy, this one was lucky. A Jack Whitehouse shot was deflected to Elliott whose complete mis-hit looped over Stones and crept into the net.

WINNING DOUBLE: University’s two-goal hero Ekow Elliott (blue) controls the ball on the edge of the Overton area under challenge from Ben Dibbern and RIGHT: Students’ other scorer Dean Caslake is thwarted by Overton United’s Ravi Estrada.
Positional changes with Ross Soper-Dyer moving forward got Overton back into the game. On 71 minutes he got free on the left and his cross was struck home at the far post by Jamie PERRYMAN.
For a few minutes Overton looked the better side but Bournemouth’s two-goal advantage was restored on 78 minutes when a corner was headed home by Dean CASLAKE.
From then on the University comfortably saw the game out for a deserved 3-1 victory.
 
Castle leave it late as their winning streak continues

CASTLE GO STORMING ON

WINCHESTER CASTLE 2
SPORTING BW 1

Michael Crowfoot reports from the HCC Sports Ground
 
THIS was a game of few chances as defences generally dominated and those chances that did come were either spurned or both keepers made good saves to keep the scores level for the first 70 minutes and then Castle found their shooting boots.
Castle looked the more likely to break through early on and Simon Daunter and Peter Walker combined to release Liam Nancholas, whose pace was giving Sporting problems, but he shot tamely at Sporting keeper Parker. Dan Bapty was the next to have a chance after being put through by Rob Kitley but Parker was quickly out to block his shot. Then Matt Storey mis-hit his volley from Walkers cross and Parker saved comfortably. With half an hour gone Sporting suddenly began to look more dangerous and Harris played substitute Knox in behind Castle’s defence but he shot tamely at Darren Crowfoot in Castle’s goal.
Crowfoot then comfortably saved Harris's shot before Knox got behind the defence again but screwed his shot wide of the near post. On 38 and 39 minutes Sporting had their best two chances in quick succession as Matt Edwards side-footed Gatril's cross wide from seven yards and then when Castle left back Stuart Stokes mis-kicked it let in Luffman but Crowfoot was quickly off his line and turned his shot away with his feet. Castle nearly took the lead just before half time as a Walker corner was headed just over his own bar by a defender to leave the scores level after an even first half.
The second half started the reverse of the first as Sporting looked the more dangerous and on 55 minutes Crowfoot could only punch away a ferocious free kick from Matt Edwards and then Knox shot wide. On the hour Castle freshened their midfield and attack by introducing Ben Morgan and John Wanless. Immediately they began to look more dangerous and created their best chance as Daunter beat keeper Parker to Morgan's through ball but shot wide from 10 yards. Morgan then played in fellow substitute Wanless who beat Parker to the ball but was controversially flagged offside with the goal gapping. Wanless was now proving a handful for the Sporting defence and his run created space for Daunter and Nancholas to create an opening for KITLEY who fired his shot past Parker to give Castle the lead. Before Sporting had recovered Castle scored again as Gbolahan Laoshe's cross to the far post was taken down by WANLESS who turned his marker and fired a left foot shot inside the near post past Parker. Castle then attempted to see out the last 10 minutes and seemed to have done so but in the second minute of stoppage time Tom Egerton brought down an attacker as he was about to shoot and Matt EDWARDS stepped up to score from the spot to reduce the arrears.Castle comfortably held out for the last minute to leave them with their third consecutive win.
* Winchester Castle Reserves reached the semi-final of the Combination Cup with a 6-0 victory over Sporting BW Reserves courtesy of a Matt Boast hat-trick, two goals from midfielder Thom King and one by Paul Anscombe.
 
Semi-final heartbreak for Paulsgrove and Fleetlands

BRAVE PAULSGROVE PAY THE PENALTY

PAULSGROVE 1
HAYLING UNITED 2

By Kev Ricketts at Marsden Road
 
WESSEX Premier Hayling United scraped through to the final of the Portsmouth Senior Cup with a 2-1 extra-time win over hosts Paulsgrove.
In a full-blooded local cup-tie however it was the Hampshire Premier minnows who came out of the tie with most of the credit. If it hadn’t been for a ludicrous penalty awarded against them 15 minutes from time they could quite easily have held out.
United looked like they had run out of ideas when veteran Steve Leigh gave the home side a 70th minute lead. John Cripps did superbly well to control a clearance and despite stumbling still picked out Dave Harding on the right. Harding got to the by-line and chipped in a perfect cross for LEIGH to race in and head home.
But just five minutes later goalkeeper Aaron Harmes was adjudged to have taken out an attacker on the edge of the area when he quite clearly took the ball.
Even United manager Mark Poulton accepted it was a huge stroke of luck stating he would have been extremely unhappy if the penalty had been awarded against his side.
Billy HUNTLEY’S spot-kick forced extra-time which was always going to be a bridge too far for the gallant home side. Ten minutes into the extra period sixteen-year-old United substitute Jason WAKELEY drove home the winning goal.
It was tough on Paulsgrove who refused to be overawed by opponents who play two levels above them. Hayling United manager Mark Poulton admitted his side were a little fortunate to come through unscathed.
“I was pleased with the result and it is the first time a Hayling side have ever won at Paulsgrove,” said Poulton. “It is always nice to get to a cup final. We struggled to get into the game until extra time and were battered at times. It was never going to be easy because they have some experience in their side but our extra fitness told in the end.”
 

GRAY DAY FOR FLEETLANDS

NETLEY CENTRAL SPORTS 3
FLEETLANDS 1
Report by Mike Harvey reporting from Station Road
 
NETLEY Central Sports reached their second successive Hampshire Intermediate Cup Final thanks to a 3-1 win against Fleetlands.
The Zenith Hampshire League 2004 side dominated the early possession but fell behind to a penalty mid-way through the first half converted by Wayne EMERY.
Fleetlands had an excellent chance to take a 2-0 lead but a point blank header was saved by Tom Merrit in the Netley goal.
Fleetlands scored an OWN GOAL just before half time to level the scores before Netley took the lead early in the second half when a Mike Mullen cross was headed home by Rob NEWBOLD. A long range strike was superbly turned over the bar by Merrit before Netley sealed their win when Adam GRAY scored from just outside the penalty area.
 
RAY TAYLOR
 
It is deep regret that we record the passing of former Overton United Football Club Secretary Ray Taylor on 22 February
at the age of 78.
Ray moved to Overton from London in 1975 when his firm relocated to Basingstoke. He became involved with Overton United FC in the early 1980’s and succeeded Irvin Phillimore as club Secretary in 1985. He revelled in this position which he held until 1996. During this time he was also a very active member of the Hants FA Committee and served as the League Registration Secretary and through this became a well known and respected figure throughout the world of Hampshire football.
In 2004, following the establishment of the Sydenhams Wessex League, the Hampshire League was replaced by “Hampshire League 2004” and Ray served on that early committee.
Ray relinquished the position of Club Secretary in 1996 and then served as Chairman of the Football Club until 2001 when he was then elected to the position of Club President.

Ray was also active behind the scenes with the Football Club and will be particularly remembered for his part in the back up team of the Sponsored Bike Ride from Overton in Scotland to Overton, Hants in 1993 which raised £2700 of which £2000 was set aside for the Floodlight funds and the balance was donated to Leukaemia Research.

For many years Ray was a popular member of Overton United Social Club’s Cribbage Team and had many seasons of success with them.

Also, over the years Ray was a regular contributor to Overton United’s TOUCHLINE magazine, providing the club with match reports and keeping them abreast of Club news and League news.

We offer our condolences to Sally and family and all their friends and acquaintances.

Ray’s funeral will take place at St. Mary’s Church, Overton on Friday 5th March at 12.30pm.
 
COMMON’S TITLE HOPES LEFT IN TATA’S ?
Leon leaves it late to settle summit meeting

 QK SOUTHAMPTON 1
COLDEN COMMON 0

Ken Babey reports from Lordshill Recreation Ground

LEON Tatavossian smashed an 86th minute winner to decide this enthralling top of the table clash at Lordshill Recreation Ground.
TAKE AIM: Leon Tatavossian (yellow shirt, right) is about to pull the trigger and fire home QK’s winning goal and ABOVE: QK’s Pete Slack holds off two Colden Common defenders.

Both teams needed to make an impression in this top-two clash and from the very first minute Common showed their intent. For the first ten minutes they bombarded the QK goal but the home sides’ defence held fast.

QK then decided it was their turn and the Common defence had to be at their best. As is befitting of a table top game this match was not played in defence, midfield or even up front as both sides wanted to win this game very much. This is the way it stayed until half time when both sides went in 0-0. The half time team talk jarred QK into action and they started the brighter.

In the first minute after the restart, with QK on a roll, Shane Flooks hammered the ball goalbound only to be denied by the post. The QK defence were put into major action again but they managed to keep Common to some long range shots but were still bothered by the occasional surge from the Common forwards. This is how the game progressed and with the idea of a 0-0 draw looming the home side found enough reserve for one last push.

Sensing that the Common defence seemed to be tiring they worked their way into the visitors half and a beautiful weighted ball from Mike Nailor saw TATAVOSSIAN pick up his chance and surged forward with the Common defence flat footed and he neatly placed the ball round the keeper and into the back of the net with just four minutes remaining of normal time.

Two minutes later Shane Flooks sent a shot towards the goal only to see it skim the underside of the bar and out of harms way. With time added on for injuries Common fought tooth and nail until the final whistle went, to leave QK the victors after a thrilling game.
 
GROVE RECOVERY FALLS JUST SHORT

OTTERBOURNE 2
PAULSGROVE 1

By Roger Allen reporting from Oakwood Park

BOTH sides made a bright start with chances at both ends. It was a game of contrasting styles as Paulsgrove’s were playing the more skilful football against a physically strong Otterbourne team.


EYES DOWN: Otterbourne’s Gareth Taylor (on ball) is tracked by Paulsgrove’s Craig Coan. RIGHT: A Otterbourne player launches into a tackle and BELOW: Is a Paulsgrove player about to handle the ball?

The home side broke the deadlock after 28 minutes when Liam Davies provided the cross for Tom KERR to produce a spectacular volley which flashed past Jack Hampson in the Paulsgrove goal.

They doubled their lead nine minutes later as a corner was poked home by John JANNAWAY after the Paulsgrove defence failed to clear.
Paulsgrove were becoming frustrated and on the stroke of half time Otters had a chance to wrap up the game as Aaron Milne was brought down in the penalty area. Kerr stepped up to take the kick but struck the crossbar.

In the second half, Paulsgrove concentrated on their game and, as a consequence, became more of a threat. They got back in the game on 64 minutes when Dave Sampey provided Dave HARDING with a pass which allowed him the space to curl a ball round James Flood and into the net.

Otterbourne had chances to make the game safe but failed to capitalise against a tiring Paulgrove. As the game came to a conclusion, it was the away side that looked as though they might nick a point from a game they looked out of at half time.
 
Kitley’s early strike reaps maximum reward

BACK-TO-BACK WINS FOR CASTLE

CLANFIELD 0
WINCHESTER CASTLE 1

By Michael Crowfoot reporting from Peel Park

THIS was never a classic on a difficult pitch but it certainly produced some exciting football as Castle hung onto an early lead and Clanfield strove to retrieve the situation.

In the second minute Clanfield were caught out by a long throw into the penalty area by Simon Daunter, Rob KITLEY beat goalkeeper Gareth Wiseman to the ball and tucked his shot past him and just inside the post to give Castle the lead.

Clanfield were shaken and Castle nearly increased their lead when Daunter and Dan Bapty combined to set up central defender Warren Kitley but his header was inches wide. Clanfield came close to equalising from a Mike Ore cross in the 11th minute as Russ Noble took the ball down and forced Castle keeper Darren Crowfoot to turn his shot around the post for the first of whole string of fine saves by Crowfoot. From the corner Jamie Eyre's shot was cleared of the line by Rob Elliott. A minute later Eyre forced Crowfoot into another save. Whilst Castle were defending well Clanfield always looked likely to create chances and on 20 minutes Harry Potter should have equalised when he side footed full back David Templer's pin point cross just wide of the post from 12 yards out. On 34 minutes Castle full back Stuart Stokes cleared of the line following a scramble when a corner was not cleared and three minutes later Crowfoot could only push away a ferocious shot from Potter. As half time approached Castle seemed to have blunted the Clanfield attack but on 45 minutes Crowfoot was required to make another great save as he somehow turned Noble’s powerful shot from just seven yards up over the bar with lightning reactions.

Clanfield were having increasing problems breaking down the well-organised Castle defence at the beginning of the second half but Potter shot wide from a rare chance on 57 minutes and then a minute later a poor back pass let Potter in on goal but Crowfoot turned his shot away with his feet. Crowfoot made another fine save from Potter before Castle came close to increasing their lead as substitute John Wanless beat keeper Wiseman with his header from Peter Walkers corner but it was headed off the line and and when Walker crossed again Matt Storey headed onto Wanless who missed an open goal as he headed over an empty net.

At the other end Crowfoots personal battle with Potter continued as he turned another shot around the post at full stretch and then Potter shot just wide. Wanless then had another chance to increase Castles lead as the Clanfield defence got in a muddle and he ran through and lifted his shot over Wiseman but it dipped just over the bar. As the game drew to a close Clanfield pushed harder for the equaliser and headed wide from a series of corners, but they had their best chance in the 88th minute as Potter was put through but Crowfoot again won the battle as he came out to dive on the ball at Potters feet to leave Castle with successive victories for the first time this season and Clanfield feeling they deserved more from the game.
 
CROWFOOT DENIES CLANFIELD

CLANFIELD 0
WINCHESTER CASTLE 1

Stuart Wallis reports from Peel Park

CLANFIELD suffered their first defeat in five games but their overall play had deserved so much more as they found the visitor’s keeper in Darren Crowfoot in outstanding form.

They fell behind early on when they got caught out by a long throw and Rob KITLEY stole in front of the keeper to put the visitors ahead. Clanfield then laid siege to the Castle goal playing some excellent football on a very heavy pitch for the rest of the half and some resolute defending saw the ball cleared off the line three times and Crowfoot pulling some great stops from Ross Noble, Harry Potter and Gary Firbank.

The second half followed much of the same pattern with Clanfield pressing for an equaliser with Mike Prew and Noble forcing a good saves and then Potter was also denied, as they continued to push forward Winchester Castle were dangerous on the occasional break and had a couple of opportunities to kill the game off.

A late flurry saw a final chance fall to Potter but the keeper was equal to the task to help earn his team, who had defended manfully throughout, the three points.

Manager Stuart Wallis was philosophical after the defeat: “The team had played some of its best football this season especially in the first half but it was one of those days when whatever they did could just not find a way through.
 
HALL MAKES ANOTHER GRAND ENTRANCE

OVERTON UNITED 0
AFC STONEHAM 3

Report from Geoff Smith at Bridge Street

AFC STONEHAM started brightly and forced the Overton keeper to make a couple of good saves before taking the lead after 15 minutes when a James Banks corner was flicked on to Liam HALL at the far post who lashed home from close range.

The game was fairly even up to half time with the Overton keeper keeping his side in the game while Overton managed to hit the crossbar.

The second half was end-to-end until Lee HEWITT broke through after 75 minutes and beat the keeper who had up until then been in superb form foiling Ollie Forbes on no less than three occasions.

The game was settled five minutes later when substitute James CHALK rode two hefty challenges and rifled the ball into the top corner. Good displays from Nick Judd and man of the match for the second week running Liam Hall.
 
Team Solent v Fleetlands midweek action

QUICKFIRE DOUBLE GROUNDS ‘COPTERMEN'

TEAM SOLENT 2
FLEETLANDS 1

Report by Derek Hawkins at Warsash Road

TWO goals in as many first-half minutes secured Team Solent a hard-fought 2-1 success over Fleetlands at the Recreation Ground on Monday evening.
Danny Cox went close for the Scholars after 11 minutes with an explosive left-footed effort that thumped against the inside of the post before bouncing away to safety with Fleetlands’ best effort being a 18-yard pile-driver from Paul Pinder that was acrobatically finger-tipped over the crossbar by Solent keeper Gavin Dunne.

Team Solent moved ahead on 29 minutes through COX whose sweetly-struck free-kick once again crashed against the inside of the upright but this time the ball ricocheted into the back of the net.

Moments later, they doubled their advantage when a penetrating corner kick from the right was nodded back into the far post area and Theo TONKIN lashed the ball high into the roof of the net.

Fleetlands got themselves back into the game after the interval and their pressure was eventually rewarded on 63 minutes when Matthew PRYKE turned sharply in the area to fire home.

And it was Pryke who nearly rescued the ‘Coptermen a deserved point late on but the defender saw his 86th minute header crash against the crossbar.