Alton Ladies 1, Basingstoke III 1

WITH both sides sitting on level points in women’s Hampshire 2, this was always going to be a tight game – and so it proved on a day when precious few games beat the rain.

Alton started nervously against the more experienced Basingstoke side and gave away possession easily in the early stages, but they soon overcame their nerves and started to attack. With dynamic runs up the right wing, Zoe Swan dodged round opponents, Rosie Millard blocked their passes with ease, and Ariana Hawkins and Abi Green passed around them.

Vicky Small distributed the ball beautifully toward forwards Gayle Moir and Leah Coney, who made strong runs down the wing, while Emily Pascoe, gaining in confidence every match, strongly defended the right wing and prevented any forward movement from Basingstoke.

Alton had most of the play but couldn’t find the back of the net as the sides went in at the break goalless.

Basingstoke came out strongly at the start of the second half and one particular attack saw a clinical angled ball bypass Caroline Orange to set up a clear shot at goal which was deftly converted despite a great effort from Alton goalkeeper Ellie Chester.

Further Basingstoke attacks were thwarted by great defence from Kat Gilbert before Alton found an equaliser.

Martha Folkes had a cracking hit from outside the 25 which was deflected by Naomi Jones into the Basingstoke goal for a well-deserved equaliser. The goal spurred Alton on and they put Basingstoke on the back foot, but the visitors held on for a share of the points in an even game.

Alton ladies firsts are in action again on February 23, after the school half-term holiday, when they host the Isle of Wight in Hampshire 2 at Eggar’s School.