REIGATE PRIORY 1, HASLEMERE 1

THE Hants/Surrey Regional 1 is the tightest it has been in years and relegation-threatened Haslemere knew they had to get something from this tough away fixture.

Reigate Priory have been picking up points in their own battle against the drop, so it was a huge game for both sides.

Haslemere began solidly, absorbing sustained pressure from Reigate who showed much more confidence and flair than in the earlier game at Woolmer Hill back in December.

With a much-needed improvement in defence, the Haslemere attackers worked hard to put pressure on Reigate’s back line, bringing the Blues back into the game.

They needed a goal, though, and despite neat passing patterns and good movement up front, the stalemate continued until close to half-time when Reigate won a debatable short corner against the run of play.

Nick Bull saved well from a strong drag-flick, but the ball dropped onto a Haslemere foot, giving Priory another attempt, and this time Jarryd Oliver scored with a powerful flick off the post.

Haslemere’s new coach sent them out with a different structure and in positive mood. They took the game to Reigate, combining aerial hits down both flanks with quick passing through the midfield.

Chances came and went as the visitors controlled the pace of the game. Finally, after a slick move with Ali Gloak, Andy Powell drove into the D and got a shot away which was initially saved by the keeper, only for Nic Cope to reverse-hit the loose ball low into the corner.

At one goal apiece, both teams were more cautious in attack, knowing that neither could afford to concede.

The last ten minutes belonged to Haslemere as Reigate began to tire, but more chances were missed and the spoils were shared after a hard-fought encounter.

Haslemere’s defensive team deserve much credit for keeping out 11 short corners, with Bull making some fantastic reflex and recovery saves.

The teams directly above Haslemere all lost, so a win this weekend at home to Havant II would do their survival chances a power of good.

Haslemere’s final league game is a re-arranged home fixture against bottom team Wanderers on Sunday, April 2. That game could decide the Blues’ fate.