VERWOOD TN 2, ALTON FC 1

ALTON’S inconsistency returned to haunt them as, one week after beating Downton 3-0 in the Sydenhams League Division One, they slumped to defeat at lowly Verwood.

The Brewers’ squad included Callum Burch, back from injury, and Matt Jackson who has rejoined the club from Camberley.

But suspensions and injuries were still biting, and midfielder Joe Clarke had to show his versatility by filling in at centre-half.

However, two almost identical goals by Brad Gale, one in each half, proved to be Alton’s undoing. Both resulted from poor defending at corners.

Taylor Watts did give Alton hope when he pulled one back with 15 minutes remaining, but it was too little too late and the Brewers suffered another defeat against opponents they should have been able to beat.

Alton will need to be on top of their game this Saturday when they travel to third-placed Christchurch.