CHICHESTER II 1, HASLEMERE 3

THE second half of the league season started with a trip to bottom side Chichester 2nd XI and Haslemere took advantage to record a valuable victory.

After a difficult start to their first season in Hants/Surrey Regional 1, Haslemere have now climbed into the top half of the table, with a decent chance of further progress.

The first half was very much a midfield battle, with both teams surrendering possession too easily and neither getting a hold on the game. There were half-chances at both ends and the odd short corner, but the play lacked quality and a drab half ended goalless.

Haslemere took the game to the city side in the second half and were soon rewarded. A fine move was finished off by Andy Powell with a typical poacher’s finish.

And the lead was soon doubled. As Chichester pushed forward in search of an equaliser, the Blues broke away to win a penalty corner. Specialist Chris Fox stepped up and slotted the ball into the bottom corner.

It had turned into an open game, with the teams attacking in turn and committing more players forward.

Then Haslemere pushed down the right and Alastair Gloak slapped the ball into the D for Hugo Chandler to finish neatly at the near post. Three-nil, with not long to go.

A valiant Chichester never gave up and managed to get on the scoresheet, Bejay Rainger’s deflection beating Nick Bull in goal.

Haslemere were made to work hard in the final minutes, but denied Chichester further success, even when down to 10 men after a late challenge by Fox.

Keeper Bull was in fine form and an impressive debut by 18-year-old South African, Jarryd Brown, was a real plus for Haslemere.

Haslemere, now fifth in the table, host Wanderers, from Battersea, this Saturday (1.45pm at Woolmer Hill).