BASINGSTOKE II 2, HASLEMERE 2

HASLEMERE Ladies came from two goals down to hold second-placed Basingstoke to a draw.

Having negotiated the roads and roundabouts of Basingstoke, Haslemere made a strong start on a well-watered pitch. But they failed to convert some early chances and suddenly found themselves two goals behind as Basingstoke took the lead from open play and then added a second with a straight strike from a short corner.

Not for the first time this season, Haslemere tightened up defensively after a bad start. Much more solid play was rewarded before half-time when Julia Williams slotted into an open goal after an uncharacteristic lapse by Basingstoke.

There were several stoppages in the second half, with the teams each picking up two cards of various colour.

Haslemere were denied by some excellent saves, but in the end Alice Toynton got the better of the goalkeeper and left her sprawling as she lifted the ball into the net for the equaliser.

Although not at their best and lacking their usual flowing hockey, Haslemere showed they are not a team to give up and will fight until the end.

Haslemere player of match: Jess Edwards.

• Haslemere are home to Trojans this weekend in Hampshire Division One, while the 2nd XI make the short trip to Alton for a Division Two fixture.