HISTON 2, PETERSFIELD TOWN 1 (Evo-Stik Southern League Div I Central)

THIS was a game Petersfield had to win to keep their hopes alive of escaping relegation.

Instead, fellow strugglers Histon recorded their first home victory of the season to pull three points clear of the Rams at the foot of the table.

Histon, in fact, were seeking their first point on home turf in 11 matches and Petersfield, after their long journey to Cambridgeshire, were under the cosh from the start.

Ben Yeomans and James Carman were a handful up front, but the visitors defended manfully until the 37th minute when, following a free-kick, Yeomans found sufficient space to fire home at the near post.

Petersfield saw more of the ball in the second half as Histon dropped deeper in defence of their slender lead.

But the visitors struggled to create clear-cut chances and Histon got the vital second goal in the 71st minute.

Matt Allan took a corner on the right and Tommy Wright was left unmarked to steer the ball in at the near post.

Ten minutes later, Petersfield were offered a way back when Ross Munro fouled Billy Connor inside the penalty area and Matt Andrews made no mistake from the spot.

This set up a nervous last ten minutes for Histon, but they held firm to secure a vital win that gives them hope of a great escape.

The Rams now need a miracle to avoid the drop.

Petersfield are home to Hanwell Town this Saturday.