HASLEMERE 3, HAVANT II 2

HASLEMERE consolidated their mid-table place in Hants/Surrey Regional 1 with a close, but deserved victory over Havant’s second string at Woolmer Hill.

The action began with Haslemere pressing high up the pitch and Havant threatening with their fast counter-attacks.

The Blues’ positive tactics soon paid off with a short corner and debutant Josh Cowell boldly stepped up to the mark.

The first attempt was a little scruffy, but good enough to earn another short corner. This time, it worked perfectly and Cowell scored with a sensational flick into the bottom left corner.

With Havant still dejected, Haslemere soon doubled the lead. Some excellent team hockey was finished off by Andy Powell.

Trailing 2-0, the visitors started the second half strongly and Haslemere were pushed onto the back foot. Havant won a short corner of their own and Jonny Muir reduced the deficit.

Now it was anyone’s game and both sides played a more attacking style as they fought to get on top. This led to some rash challenges and Havant picked up yellow and green cards.

Haslemere used their numerical advantage and a crisp passage of passing play allowed Powell to cross for Cowell to score his second goal of the day.

Trailing 3-1, Havant again came back strongly, but it was a contentious yellow card for Haslemere that helped the visitors back into the game.

Collin Simmonds scored Havant’s second goal to set up a tense finish, but Haslemere showed enough composure and discipline to close the game out.

Haslemere travel to basement side Chichester II this Saturday.