PHPL NEWSLETTERS

   

29/04/2012 Hello George I would like to thank you, the committee and officers of HPFL and my fellow Club Chairmen for our inaugural season in the Hampshire Premier League, which we completed at picturesque Paulsgrove yesterday. We have enjoyed it and hopefully we have justified your faith in accepting strangers into the fold twelve months ago - good to see that our fellow newbies Hedge End Rangers have held their own too. It's been a tough learning curve, we started well with a strong squad but I have to say the travelling has contributed to the gradual erosion of numbers and we were hanging on a bit at the end, especially after losing our goalkeeper Kyle with 10 games to go with torn ankle ligaments. As you are aware, we have asked you to accept our new Reserves into the Combination Division next season and this should help us with numbers going forward. We are seeking to make improvements off the pitch but we are all aware that it takes time and money to achieve anything worthwhile and more of both must be found if we are to acquire the facilities we aspire to. As Chairmen our seasons never end and May and June are, if anything, busier than the 10 playing months - though my duality of role as Chairman and 1st Team Manager must take the biscuit for stupidity. On the other hand it does give me an insight into the issues both roles face and hopefully we can persuade Pep Guardiola to step into my shoes as I gather he is looking round for something to do! Congratulations to Liphook on another fine season, their consistency is a complete pain in the backside and it would be far more interesting if they were capricious like my lot - capable of winning or losing to anyone! Kind regards. David Gunter  Sat, April 21st Hampshire Premier League Match Report LIPHOOK United produced an industrious performance to earn all three points from a fiesty fixture with Hedge End Rangers. The league leaders proved rugged and resilient to triumph in a crucial clash at the Recreation Ground and close in on the senior division title. United began the brighter of the two sides in a stilted first half, as Adam Pierson offered an early threat with a strong strike on the break before Dan Harding blasted a bold effort over the bar. Liphook snatched the lead with 15 minutes on the clock, as Nick Cope completed a storming solo run with a pinpoint cross for Steve Harding to lash home from six yards out. United extended their advantage five minutes later, Mark Farrow pouncing on poor defending to beat goalkeeper Phillip Kinnally with an incisive lob from the edge of the box. Liphook failed to convert several further chances before the break, as Harding forced a smart save with a fierce strike then Cope rattled the bar with the follow-up attempt. Hedge End swiftly battled back to reduce the deficit on the stroke of half time, Ross Bryant capitalising on confusion in the box to blast the ball home at the back post. United kicked off the second half with energy and enthusiasm, as Cope sparked a smart save with a close-range header and Glen McGrath fired inches over the bar with a rasping volley.  Liphook seized the initiative to score on the hour mark, Danny Burrows rising above a clutch of defenders to head home a hanging cross into the roof of the net. United aimed to expose the visitors' tiring defence during the closing stages, and an accurate header from Harding was cruelly adjudged offside.  A seventh successive victory leaves Liphook needing only a point from the home clash with Colden Common on Tuesday night (April 24) to claim the senior division crown. Liphook goalscorer Steve Harding said: "We started very strongly with the early goals, but seemed to lose our focus a little before the break. "However during the second half we produced a more professional performance, with strong communication throughout the team and a real determination to win." Liphook manager Kevin Adair said: "It was very much a case of focusing on the three points today, and we stuck to the task throughout to win ugly in the end. "We will try to treat the next game in the same way as any other and it is important to maintain our momentum, but obviously the title will be in the back of our minds." Liphook United line-up: Ewen, Read, D Harding (Luckhurst), Green, Adair C, Burrows, McGrath, Cope, Pierson (Marshall), S Harding, Farrow (Moger). Hedge End Rangers line-up: Kinnally, Bryant, Hazzidimitriou, Mottasread, Newman, Venn, Cousens, Winter, Bayo, S Bauck, Prasner. Substitutes: Tutton, Turner, A Bauck. SATURDAY MARCH 24 DEFENCE THE BEST FORM OF ATTACK   COLDEN COMMON    0 BOURNEMOUTH SPORTS   3 Report from Roger Allen at Main Road Bournemouth Sports turned the old football proverb on its head with a convincing victory based on a solid defensive performance which initially held everything that Common could throw at them then used it as a springboard to attack. Common started much the brighter though Sports had the first chance when a lob by Tony Bellott just cleared the bar. For the first 25 minutes that was their only opportunity as Common dominated though Pete Croydon and Ross Goldsmith at the heart of the Bournemouth defence snuffed out most threats – the only real chance being a Dave Egerton free kick which hit the side netting. It was from a free kick that Bournemouth took the lead on 32 minutes. Dan Clark’s kick was not well directed but it cannoned off a defender to Simon CROYDON who shot home from close range. Bournemouth doubled their lead six minutes later and again it was from a free kick. From the corner of the penalty area Jack GOODSHIP’s kick flew over everyone into the far corner. Soon after the restart Bellott had the opportunity to put the game out of reach as first he blazed over then headed onto the inside of a post. But on the hour the third goal arrived as Sports turned defence into attack. Keeper Steve Blunden rushed from goal to volley a Common attack clear and his clearance found Mark GUNTER who advanced on the opposite goal and picked his spot, showing great composure. From then to the end Common attacks were easily thwarted and, although late on Goldsmith picked up a second yellow card, it could not take the gloss off a fine all round team performance. For in-form Common, it was one of those days – I doubt if they would have scored if they had played another 90 minutes. LIPHOOK REMAIN ON COURSE   HEDGE END RANGERS   0 LIPHOOK UNITED    4 Henry Ascoli reports from Heathouse Lane LIPHOOK United produced an assured performance to maintain their title momentum with a convincing triumph over Hedge End Rangers this weekend. Nick Cope and Paul Marshall both bagged a brace as the league leaders delivered a dominant display at the Norman Rodaway ground. Liphook proved a constant threat on the counter-attack during a fast-paced first half, with a confident close-range header from captain Andy Luckhurst rattling the woodwork early on. United swiftly snatched the lead after 15 minutes, COPE completing a sweeping move with a deft diving header into the bottom corner. Hedge End flooded forward in search of an immediate response, with Steven Bauck blasting a bold effort against the bar from 30 yards out. United doubled their advantage on the half-hour mark, MARSHALL leaping above goalkeeper Phillip Kinally to head home from ten yards out. Hedge End suffered sustained pressure before the break, as Glen McGrath produced a powerful strike from 30 yards out, then fired across the face of goal moments later. Despite a sluggish start to the second half, United sealed victory on the hour mark as MARSHALL pounced on a bouncing ball to lob Kinally cleverly. Hedge End fashioned few clear-cut chances, with a bold lob from Daniel Turner proving their only effort on target during the closing stages. Liphook dominated play and possession late on, testing the tiring home defence with a slalom solo run from Cope and bending effort from Harding. A pin-point header from COPE during the dying moments completed the composed away display. "It was a professional performance over the 90 minutes today, and to take away another clean sheet was a major positive," said Liphook manager Kevin Adair. "The back line came together to form a very strong unit, but the workrate and effort of the front men was ultimately the key to earning the win." STALEMATE !   WINCHESTER CASTLE   0 CLANFIELD     0 Mike Crowfoot reports from Chilcomb Both teams hold comfortable midtable positions and a draw was probably a fair outcome from this evenly contested match with both teams failing to trouble the scorer due to poor finishing and some good goalkeeping. Clanfield missed their best chance of the match after just five minutes as James Gurney set up Elliott Sills whose cross shot beat Castle keeper Darren Crowfoot but struck the far post and rebounded to Darren Ferguson eight yards out who hit his shot against the bar and the third effort from 10 yards by Sills was blocked on the line by Tom Egerton. Having luckily survived Castle then took the game to Clanfield and on nine minutes nearly scored as Ross Brimfield threaded the ball through the Clanfield defence for full back Shaun Boast who just beat Clanfield keeper Gareth Wiseman to the ball but Wiseman was close enough to block the shot as he dived at Boast’s feet. Just a minute later Castle had another chance as Liam Nancholas got behind the defence and turned the ball back to Max Beebe at the near post but an outstretched defenders leg just got in first to turn the ball behind for a corner. Castle continued to have the better of the game and on 15 minutes created another opening as Ross Brimfield's cross was met by Tom King at the far post but unchallenged he headed wide. After a quiet period Clanfield came back into the game and created another good chance as Gurney's cross to the far post was met by Ferguson who should have done better than shoot over the bar from 10 yards. Gurney's crosses were causing the Castle defence some problems and on 22 minutes another fell to Ferguson beyond the far post and his cross shot was turned around the post by Crowfoot at full stretch. Castle then created a chance of their own as Rob Kitley played in Liam Nancholas but his chipped shot cleared the bar. The defences now got on top as the rest of the half became a midfield battle but as half time approached both teams had a further chance as first Rob Kitley played Brimfield in but he shot over the Clanfield bar and then in injury time Crowfoot had to tip a header from Lee Caldwell over the bar following a Gurney corner.   The second half followed the pattern of the first with both teams having periods of supremacy but in the main they failed to trouble the goalkeepers. Clanfield did have the ball in the net after 55 minutes but Caldwell was adjudged offside and on 66 minutes from Luke Pettit's cross Elliott Sills had a free header 10 yards out but he glanced it wide. Despite periods of pressure on the Clanfield defence Castle had failed to create openings until the 75th minute when Brimfield cut in from the right beating two defenders before laying the ball back to Rob Kitley who crossed to Beebe whose shot from eight yards was completely miss-hit and when the ball fell to Dan Haigh his shot from 14 yards was blocked. In the final 10 minutes both teams strove to break the deadlock but despite a series of dangerous corners Clanfield failed to get past Crowfoot who made a couple of fine saves to keep the scores level while at the other end Wiseman was also called upon to keep his goal intact. PAULSGROVE HIT FOR SIX   QK SOUTHAMPTON    6 PAULSGROVE     0 Ken Babey reporting from Five Acres This was a game that QK needed to win by some significant margin to better their goal difference and they had their chance to do this against an under strength Paulsgrove side. QK proved they were up for the task when, after just 30 seconds from the whistle, Ben PENFOLD picked up the ball from the halfway line, powered down the left flank and hammered the ball past the keeper. This showed how QK were going to dominate the game, and just seven minutes later, PENFOLD again was on target when he latched on to a through ball and left the Paulsgrove defence for dead, rounded the keeper and somewhat embarrassed, walked the ball into the net. A further three minutes was required for the next goal. Mike Nailor dodged his way down the flank and sent a telling cross over which was met by Ryky POMERY (above) who sent a looping header over the keeper and into the net. We had to wait a full 17 minutes for another goal and this was again from POMERY. Full back Charlie Hartup made a run down the right and powered a cross which met the unmarked Pomery’s head and he made it tell when he headed out of the keepers’ reach and into the net in the 28th minute. Paulsgrove looked totally demoralised by this time and seven minutes later, in the 35th minute, with QK rampant, Nailor sent a low dangerous cross into the danger area which the keeper managed to parry but PENFOLD was in the right place to meet the ball and net for his hat trick. A further seven minutes later and the ever industrious NAILOR (above) got himself on the score sheet. He weaved his way down the right flank and just when everyone was expecting a cross, he shot low and under the keeper to make it 6-0 to QK. The second half was a total contrast to the first. Either Paulsgrove found some reserve or QK took their foot of the pedal, but there was a distinct lack of goal action.  You almost found yourself nodding off except for the odd goalmouth flurry but it gave manager McManus the chance to bring on his subs and see how their shape worked out. It did alter the game a bit but they showed how strong a squad QK has and worthy of a title tilt. A GOOD KNIGHT’S WORK   LOCKS HEATH     0 AFC STONEHAM    2 Roger Allen reports from Warsash Road AFC STONEHAM kept their hopes of a top four finish alive with second half goals by Chris Knight and Gary Fulker in a run that has seen them win five out of the last six league games. Both teams were committed to a high tempo which affected the skill level on a firm surface but there was no lack of effort from both sides. Knight for Stoneham had the ball in the net in the eighth minute but it was ruled out for offside. Then they went close again as a Dean Higgins’ lob was clawed away by John Fuge in the Locks Heath goal. Back came Locks Heath and John Small had a shot parried by Dan Chapman who was forced to make a double save when the rebound fell to Harry Potter. Shortly before half time, Locks went close again when a John Holmes free kick just cleared the bar. There was still time for Stoneham to go close as Paul Lawrence fired a low cross along the six yard line but nobody could convert. Locks Heath brought on Ali Badcock and Matt Northcott for the second half and the latter had a claim for a penalty turned down in the 55th minute as he fell under a tangle of bodies. It was to prove the turning point in the game as Stoneham went straight up the other end to score. Man of the match Chris Benham found a few yards of uncontested space in midfield to feed Chris KNIGHT whose left foot shot flew past John Fuge. The pace of the game was relentless but neither side could make a further breakthrough until the final minute. Dean Higgins held the ball up long enough for the midfield to join in and he laid the ball off to Gary FULKER. If the earlier goal was spectacular, this was better as his shot went like a rocket into the top corner of the goal from fully 25 yards. LIPHOOK EDGE A CLASSIC   LIPHOOK UNITED     1 UNIVERSITY OF PORTSMOUTH  0 By Henry Ascoli at Privett Park LIPHOOK United produced a tireless performance to edge an energetic Puma Engineering Hampshire League Cup clash with University of Portsmouth on Monday evening. Top scorer Steve Harding delivered the decisive second-half strike to secure a narrow semi-final victory at Privett Park. United carved out several early opportunities, with a curling effort from Nick Cope landing just wide and Harding failing to find the target with a bold long-range shot. University posed problems on the break, as Kiri Portou grazed the bar with a sweeping right-footed strike before a looping lob from Mike Gowden forced a fine reaction save from goalkeeper Andy Ewen. Liphook created further clear-cut chances ahead of half time, as Glen McGrath delivered a deft strike from 25 yards out and Paul Marshall prompted a smart save from close range. University returned resurgent after the break, as Portou produced a dipping effort, then fired across the face of goal moments later. United surged forward to snatch the lead after 72 minutes, HARDING pouncing on a rebound to prod the ball home from an acute angle. Liphook continued to attack in search of a decisive second goal, and a sweeping break prompted a penalty five minutes from time when Cope was bundled to the floor inside the box. Defender Kevin Adair stepped up to take the spot kick, only to be denied by a superb diving save to the right from Ade Oyenuga. United endured sustained pressure during the dying minutes, with several brave stops from Ewen preventing substitute Jamie Eyre netting a late leveller. Liphook clung on to claim victory and book a place in the final against Paulsgrove. "We were definitely given a tough test tonight by a quality side, but came through with a strong team performance," said Liphook manager Kevin Adair. "The clean sheet was definitely a major positive, but above all our work rate and energy proved key to earning the win." SATURDAY MARCH 17 HAMBLE CLUB     0 COLDEN COMMON    6 By Ian Steele at the Shell Mex Ground Initially, and only initially, one had to feel for Hamble Club as they started well but, after some 12 minutes, Dave Egerton's excellent forward surge ended with Hamble conceding a needless own goal. Two minutes later a spell of 'handbags' on the touchline ended with a Hamble player being sent off and, no sooner had he left the pitch, another home player had to leave the fray... this time because of injury. When the Gods conspire.... Although Common had numerical superiority they could not command either possession or territorial supremacy as Hamble's work-rate and disciplines excelled. A few Common breakaways troubled a determined home defence but the hosts’ goalkeeper had little to deal with. Going forward Hamble worked hard but the Common central defensive 'rock' that was James Atterbury and Ben Clarke was unforgiving while Karl Salmon - rapidly approaching his 30th year - and Dan Hansford protected Josh Street's goal with a mixture of aplomb, determination and some fortune. As half time approached another Hamble foray was intercepted by John Cole who had discarded his skis. He found Karl Salmon and the 'old ‘un' fed Dave Egerton. Egerton looked up and hit a defence-splitting pass that set Liam MAGEE free to round the goalkeeper and slot home. A few stern Mick Pratt words during the half-time break (and a thoroughly enjoyable cup of coffee bought for Yours Truly by Barry Cox) seemed to do the trick for the visitors and they opened the second period infused with urgency and energy. Callum MAGEE converted Liam Magee's perfect crossfield ball for number three, Liam MAGEE did the same for Callum's inviting ball across the six yard box for a fourth and James ATTERBURY towered over the Hamble defence to nod home Dave Egerton's corner to make it 5-0. Dave Philpott came off the bench as did both Paul Rood and Steve Hercock and they all looked comfortable although a mis-timed challenge on Kieren Walsh (by recently skiing Dave Philpott) could have been explosive but for Mr Philpott's instant apology and Mr Walsh's determination not to make anything of it. Hamble were fustrated and began to badger who I thought was an excellent referee. Cards came out and tempers simmered... Another Common foray forward produced some excellent football for the visitors and some determined defending from the hosts before Ben CLARKE volleyed home to the goalkeepers right and the score was 0-6. Any sympathies for the hosts were lost midst some poor onfield discipline from Hamble but ultimately Common secured a fifth successive league and cup win. TOP TWO DRAW A BLANK LIPHOOK UNITED    0 QK SOUTHAMPTON    0 Report from Henry Ascoli at the Recreation Ground LIPHOOK United delivered a dogged display to share the spoils in a crucial clash with title rivals QK Southampton this weekend. The defending champions secured a priceless point from an entertaining encounter at the Recreation Ground to maintain their slender league lead. United began the brighter of the two sides, as Paul Marshall produced a strong header before Dan Harding fired wildly wide on the break. QK responded with pace and power on the counter-attack, yet failed to trouble home goalkeeper Andy Ewen with free headers from Adam Beckett and Dan Pancaldi. Liphook came close to breaking the deadlock after 35 minutes, Steve Harding pouncing on a fine through-ball from Nick Cope before rattling the bar from an acute angle. United continued to carve out clear-cut chances before the break, as Harding produced a pin-point header before Stuart Green blasted over the bar with an ambitious effort from 30 yards out. Both sides struggled to fashion further opportunities as tough tackling replaced bold breaks during a rugged second half. QK edged pressure and possession, with Dan Smith delivering a curling right-footed effort from the edge of the box before a late set-piece strike from Beckett sparked a smart save.  Liphook surged forward in search of a late winner, but failed to find a finishing touch to energetic breaks from Harding and Marshall. A point apiece moves the title contenders three points clear of University of Portsmouth, with United clinging to top spot only on goal difference. "Both sides certainly had their moments during the game with clear-cut chances, but overall a point was a fair result today," said Liphook manager Kevin Adair. "Hopefully we can maintain the energy and intensity shown in this performance and continue to pick up points during the run-in.” LOCKS MAKE IT THREE FROM THREE   UNIVERSITY OF PORTSMOUTH  2 LOCKS HEATH      3 Roger Allen reports from Furze Lane In recent weeks Locks Heath have taken points from two of the three sides above them and they made it three from three as they beat the University by the odd goal in five. For the second week running it was super sub, Harry Potter, who secured the points with a second half goal. The Students were off to a fast start, enjoying the lion’s share of possession but it was Locks Heath who struck first in the 11th minute with their first serious attack. Dan Etherington crossed to the far post for Jordan Neal to head down to Matt Northcott. With his back to goal there was still a lot for NORTHCOTT to do but a swivel and shot, all in one movement provided a clinical finish. University continued to dominate possession but with Locks Heath working hard to keep the home side at bay, the Students rarely threatened John Fuge in goal. On 32 minutes Locks Heath struck again as John Small fed Mark SMITH playing on the last line of defence. He ran clear and his strong finish was too good for Ade Oyenuga. Locks Heath were now looking forward to the half time whistle but, just when they thought they had done the job, Sean Stacey was penalised just outside the penalty area. The kick was made for the left foot of Alex PRITCHARD but keeper Fuge will be disappointed in letting the kick slip into the corner of the net despite getting both hands to the ball. Locks went on the attack straight after the break and Smith drove narrowly over when the Students failed to clear a corner. However on 51 minutes the University were level as a solo run by Kiri PORTOU ended with him shooting low into the net. The game was up for grabs but Locks Heath now edged the chances. Stacey drove down the right and crossed for Northcott to shoot over from four yards. Then it was Northcott again as he headed a Smith cross against a post. Harry Potter made his usual entrance for Northcott and his first touch led to a controversial incident. Running onto a through ball he shot wide but the impetus of the onrushing Portsmouth goalkeeper led to a collision which was not penalised by the referee. However POTTER was not to be denied for long as James Holmes’ long cross was driven home at the far post from a narrow angle on 69 minutes. Try as they might, the students were unable to break down a well organised Locks Heath defence in which Tommy Vallender (making only his second league appearance of the season) and Dave Dunkley were outstanding. COMMON BLAZE AWAY ! SATURDAY MARCH 10 BOURNEMOUTH DOUBLE UP ON OTTERBOURNE   OTTERBOURNE    2 BOURNEMOUTH SPORTS   4 Report from Roger Allen at Oakwood Avenue BOURNEMOUTH Sports completed a league double over Otterbourne with a comfortable 4-2 victory at Oakwood Park. Both sides were on the scoresheet in the first seven minutes of the game. First it was Bournemouth who scored in the fourth minute when a long throw by Adam Dowsett was headed in by Simon CROYDON. Three minutes later the Otters were back on level terms as Martin Moore had a shot charged down but the ball fell to John ALLEN who made no mistake. On 10 minutes Bournemouth were forced into changes as goalkeeper Kyle Roberjot fell awkwardly when trying to collect a cross which caused ankle ligament damage and a trip to hospital. Phil Staples took over in goal and Callum Charldon came on to play at full back. Otterbourne were unable to mount any pressure on the new keeper and on 26 minutes Sports were back in front. Ryan BLADON cut in from the left side of the penalty area and scored with a powerful shot. Two minutes later Bournemouth extended their lead and it was BLADON again on the end of a Tony Bellott pass. The away side went into the break in a comfortable position but ten minutes into the second half they failed to clear a John Allen corner and MOORE was on hand to turn the ball past Staples. For a period Otters looked to be back in the game but on 64 minutes Bournemouth restored their two-goal advantage. Mark GUNTER and Dowsett exchanged passes to cut open the home defence and the former scored past Jamie Flood. Gunter had had an outstanding game when moved into midfield after the early changes. With 15 minutes to go Otterbourne’s cause was not helped when Josh Thornton saw a straight red card for a rash challenge though this was the only bad foul in a sporting match. Bournemouth were able to hold onto their lead until the end without any alarms as the numerical advantage began to count against a tiring home side. POTTER MAGIC STUNS QK   QK SOUTHAMPTON    3 LOCKS HEATH     3 By Ken Babey at Five Acres QK went into this game knowing they had to win to keep up the pressure on Liphook, but also to keep their visitors at bay in the title challenge. From the kick off, it was obvious that both sides were up for it with Locks showing plenty of good play but it was in the 12th minute that QK made the breakthrough when Mike Nailor made a great run down the right and took the ball to the bye line, and flicked the ball back to Lewis GUNDRY (right) whose shot deceived the keeper to make it 1-0 to the home side. Locks Heath did not let this get them down and kept pressing for an equaliser. Then in the 26th minute, with another Locks attack, the QK defence missed a cross and Jordan NEAL was on hand to dispatch the ball past the keeper to draw level. Then just six minutes later, NEAL was again on the scoresheet when he slipped the defence and with just the keeper to beat he put it wide of him and into the net to give Locks the advantage. True to form, QK again went on the attack and once again some great work from Nailor saw the ball get again passed back to GUNDRY who made no mistake and rammed the ball into the net to level once again. The second half was again hard fought with neither side willing to give ground and with the number of stoppages for injuries was testament to how much both sides wanted this game. Neither side was able to find a way through until in the 76th minute, with QK on the attack, the ball was floated over then headed on by Adam Becket for Terry KOIZOU to head down and past the keeper - 3-2 to QK. Just when you thought the home side was going to nick this game, Locks threw everything into attack and when the ball was struck through the defence, it hit the post but Harry POTTER hard fought one for the players followed in to slam the ball into the net and break the QK hearts. This was a thrilling game for the spectators but a tough one for the players. LIPHOOK LEAVE IT LATE!   HAMBLE CLUB     1 LIPHOOK UNITED    4 Henry Ascoli reports from the Shell Mex Ground LIPHOOK United produced an inspired comeback to earn all three points from a competitive clash at Hamble Club this weekend. The visitors delivered a strong second half display to claim a vital victory at the Shell Mex Ground and return to the Division 1 top spot. Hamble snatched a surprise lead after 18 minutes, Shane COLLINS pouncing on a defensive mishap to power the ball home from inside the box. Liphook squandered several clear-cut chances before the break, as Dan Harding fired wide and Ryan Angear grazed the bar with a close-range header. United began the second half in similar style, Steve Harding striking the woodwork before nodding narrowly wide from an acute angle. Hamble dropped ever deeper to protect their slender advantage, allowing Craig Read and Dominic Cope to sprint forward on the counter-attack. Liphook levelled with ten minutes remaining, substitute Conrad TURNER blasting the ball through a sea of legs in the box. United snatched the lead three minutes later, COPE latching on to a fine through ball to net a composed close-range finish. Liphook continued to flood forward, and Adrian MOGER capped a storming solo run with a deft finish into the bottom corner. A tiring home defence was exposed once more during the dying moments, as HARDING tucked away an assured finish from the edge of the area to complete the comeback. "We needed to get back on track after the recent run of defeats, and coming away with three points was the priority today," said Liphook manager Kevin Adair. "The performances will come with time, but for now we can take confidence from the result and look ahead to the next challenge." United host title rivals QK Southampton in a key clash at the Recreation Ground next Saturday, March 17.  SATURDAY MARCH 3RD LIAM EDGES COMMON INTO THE FINAL   COLDEN COMMON    2 PORTCASTRIAN    1 Roger Allen reports from Main Road Colden Common’s Dave Egerton knocks in a free-kick during the Commoners’ battling 2-1 Hampshire Intermediate Cup semi-final victory against Portcastrian. Common put league form on one side with a battling performance which saw them through to a May Hampshire Intermediate Cup final date at the expense of  Portcastrian from the Bournemouth Premier Division - however it took a last minute Liam Magee goal to win the game. Semi-finals are notoriously a poor spectacle and this game was no exception. Both sides were unable to impose themselves on the game in the early stages but Portcastrian shaded the early chances. Common were driven on from midfield by Mitchell Parker but a yellow card for offering the referee too much advice seemed to blunt his ambitions. Just after the half hour Common secured the breakthrough. A cross and a neat step over left Peter WINKLE to sweep the ball home off the inside of the post. Portcastrian were back on level terms within three minutes when a neat move cut through the Common defence and left Tim CONSTABLE to lob Common keeper Richard Le Brocq. Common started the second half the brighter but they were forced to survive a torrid spell around the hour mark as Portcastrian began to dominate the game. A Lewis Dear free kick glanced off the far post then a mazy run by Ben Virabi was scrambled off the line before James Baker headed over. Slowly Common forced their way back into the game but defences were generally on top. Extra time looked an inevitability but with 30 seconds of normal time remaining James  Atterbury, up from the back for a set piece, crossed the ball back in for Liam MAGEE to score from close range. There was just time for Atterbury to draw a second yellow card for a tackle from behind but this was a game played in good spirit. In the end Common squeezed through but it was a game that neither side deserved to lose. QK REMAIN ON TOP   OVERTON UNITED    0 QK SOUTHAMPTON    2 By Gary Day at Bridge Street QK went into this match as the league leaders and they started very well today by putting pressure on the home side in the opening 15 minutes, which included forcing four corners. QK deservedly took the lead on six minutes when Andy Wood pulled the ball across the box and picked out Joe BELL to strike a firm well controlled volley from 15 yards. QK defender Dan Pancaldi popped up in the Overton box and sent a looping header over the keeper which was headed off the line by a defender. This was followed by a 25-yard effort by Ryky Pomery that just cleared the bar. United gradually got more forward but they were generally kept in check by the visitors, although Craig Smith was found in space at the back post and his shot was hit back across the keeper but went wide of the QK post. QK had the better of the second half but some promising play often broke down as the ball was getting towards the danger areas. A neat touch by Michael Nailor put in Pomery who dragged his shot wide and a 25-yard effort from Wood was pushed round the post by home keeper Sean O’Brien. QK added a second goal on the hour mark when a slick passing move on the left involving Martyn Randall and Wood, saw Adam Beckett touch the ball into the path of NAILOR (above) who tidily tucked the ball past O’Brien. Overton had a decent chance to pull a goal back but QK defender Randall cleared the ball from on the line. With the match now in the latter stages, some sloppy play by QK presented the ball to Overton’s Jordan Grant who shot wide of the QK goal. GREEN POT-SHOT WORTH THREE POINTS!   BOURNEMOUTH SPORTS   1 LIPHOOK UNITED    2 By Henry Ascoli reporting from Chapel Gate LIPHOOK United delivered a determined display to reignite their title challenge with a vital victory over Bournemouth Sports this weekend. Strikes from Paul Marshall and Stuart Green earned all three points for the visitors from an entertaining encounter at Chapel Gate. United produced a promising start to the game, yet struggled to maintain possession and pressure on the break. Bournemouth swiftly snatched the lead on the half-hour mark, a long throw taking a fierce deflection across the box from Simon CROYDON before bobbling into the bottom corner of the net. Liphook levelled moments later, MARSHALL netting a confident penalty after Dominic Cope had been bundled to the floor inside the area. United fashioned further chances before the break, as both Green and Steve Harding fired narrowly wide from long-range. Liphook seized the advantage two minutes into the second half, an audacious effort from GREEN on the halfway line evading goalkeeper Kyle Roberjot to nestle in the net. Bournemouth struggled to create clear-cut chances as the visitors remained resolute in defence, with striker Tony Bellot enduring a frustrating afternoon up front. United appeared assured, with Cope and Craig Read producing powerful strikes before Harding had a late goal ruled out as offside. Liphook secured a timely triumph to maintain the pressure on league leaders QK Southampton, and remain two points adrift of top spot ahead of the trip to Hamble Club next Saturday, March 10. LAST-GASP BRITTEN NICKS IT!   FLEETLANDS     3 PAULSGROVE     2 George Mason reporting PAULSGROVE started much the better than Fleetlands with the home team barely able to get past the half way line with keeper Tom Price constantly called into action to keep James Crawford and Jimmy Noakes at bay. Inevitably Paulsgrove took the lead on 24 minutes when a powerful strike by Jimmy NOAKES found its way through a crowd of Fleetlands players to beat an unsighted Price low to his right. Fleetlands having failed to move the ball through the midfield now started to bring the wide players into the game with both Ryan McKinlay and Chris Cunningham penetrating into the Paulsgrove half, and it was from a free-kick on 45 minutes awarded for a clumsy challenge on McKinlay, that Mitch PRYKE scored the equaliser when Paulsgrove failed to clear it. The second half was much more closely contested with chances at each end, but the stalemate was broken on 71 minutes when Mark PEACH increased his tally for the season springing the off-side trap to latch onto a through ball from Graham Briiten sliding the ball under Aaron Holden as he came out to close down the angles. Fleetlands looked to be coasting to a win until inexplicably Darren Williams handled inside the area. James CRAWFORD slotted home the resultant penalty on 89minutes. Neither team were settling for the draw with both moving the ball quickly but, in what was probably the best passing movement of the match, Darren Williams broke from the midfield evading tackles before driving the ball across the box where Mark Peach pulled it back behind a lunging defender to Steve BRITTEN who drove the ball past the wrong footed Aaron Holden into the net. A keenly fought encounter with lots of good football and incidents, great for the neutrals but stressful for the fans of both teams. CASTLE GO NAP   LISS ATHLETIC     1 WINCHESTER CASTLE   5 Report by Mike Crowfoot Liss had the worst of starts going behind after just 75 seconds. Castle kicked off and after attacking down their left switched play to the right where right back Shaun Boast's run was halted by a foul but the referee played advantage as Liam Nancholas took the ball on into the penalty area and squared it to Tom KING whose shot from 14 yards was blocked but he fired the rebound into the net to give Castle the perfect start. However, Liss fought back from the early setback and should have equalised on four minutes as Chris Chilvers beat the offside and ran onto a long cross field ball but under no pressure turned his shot from 12 yards wide with only Darren Crowfoot in the Castle goal to beat. Following this let off Castle went back to their passing game and in the ninth minute following a flowing five-man move, which cut open the Liss defence, Ross Brimfield saw his shot from 16 yards go inches wide. Brimfield was involved again on 16 minutes as he cut into the penalty area and saw his shot, which had been deflected past Liss keeper Chris Clark, cleared off the line. Castle were putting some neat moves together but Liss were not out of the game and on 19 minutes Keith Martin put a free kick from 22 yards into the net only for the kick to have to be retaken as the referee had ordered Liss to wait for his whistle while the wall of defenders was moved back. The retake was wide and high. It continued to be a fairly even half as Castle kicked into the strong wind but the better football was coming from Castle and they nearly increased their lead on 25 minutes as a cross field volleyed pass from Darryl Phillips was met with a volley from Liam Nancholas 22 yards out which cleared keeper Clark but was inches wide of the far post. Chances dried up from the half hour mark but as half time approached Liss centre forward Luke Musselwhite cleverly beat two defenders but his shot from 18 yards was easily collected by Crowfoot in the Castle goal. Castle started the second half as if the game was won and Liss looked more threatening, it was no surprise when they equalised after 53 minutes. Castle dalayed on and then lost the ball on the half way line and with a quick attack Ross BETTERIDGE run from the back was not picked up and he beat the offside to run onto a through ball and slot past Crowfoot. Castle then started to raise their game again and Brimfield's cross to the near post was turned wide by Max Beebe. Liss went straight to the other end and when an attempted clearance by Warren Kitley hit a colleague it fell to Betteridge but his shot from 14 yards was wide. Castle now began to pressure higher up the pitch and the centre of midfield pair of Tom King and Rob Kitley began to dominate while the pace and trickery of Liam Nancholas down the Castle right troubled the Liss defence. On 60 minutes Castle retook the lead as Rob Kitley put Liam Nancholas in behind the defence, in rounding keeper Clark he lost control of the ball which was gathered by Darryl PHILLIPS and from a narrow angle he fired into an empty net. Just a minute later it was three as Tom King put Nancholas in again behind the defence and he turned the ball back to KING whose powerful low cross shot from 16 yards went inside the far post. In the next minute the Liss defence was again breached but full back Boast's low cross was missed by everyone. Castle were now in total control and Liss were being forced to commit more and more infringements and they paid for this in the 77th minute as Phillips run across the face of the penalty area was halted with a scything tackle, but PHILLIPS got up to curl his free kick around the wall and into the net from 20 yards. Just three minutes later and Castle scored one of the goals of the season as Liss keeper Clark's free kick from near the corner flag was met with a contested header on the half way line and when the ball dropped towards Liam NANCHOLAS just two yards inside the Liss half and wide on Castle's right, he volleyed it back into the goal with keeper Clark stranded still out near the touch line. Castle continued to press for the remainder of the half but the Liss defence held out until the final whistle. TUESDAY 28 FEBRUARY Russell Cotes Cup semi-final BATTLING LIPHOOK GO SO CLOSE   CHRISTCHURCH    3 LIPHOOK UNITED    3 (AET) (Christchurch won 3-1 on penalties) Gary Day reporting from Hurn Bridge LIPHOOK United from the Puma Engineering Hampshire Premier League took Christchurch, fifth in the Sydenhams League (Wessex) Premier Division, all the way to penalties before eventually losing following a thrilling 120 minutes of Russell Cotes Cup semi-final action. The East Hampshire underdogs got off to a bad start when they partially cleared a Priory attack and Dan THOMPSON hit a fine and firm low shot that nestled into the corner of the Liphook net with only 45 seconds on the clock. Undeterred, Liphook showed grit and determination and attempted to get their way back into it and home keeper Joe Prodomo had to be attentive to tip over a Ryan Angear cross and from the corner, Andy Luckhurst’s header was blocked. Liphook continued to compete well but it was Christchurch who added to their lead with half-an-hour played when a long ball found Russell COOK who unleashed a fine firm shot that flashed into the Liphook net.  Christchurch now had the initiative and the Liphook team would have been pleased to go in at half-time without further concession. Christchurch continued to dominate early in the second period and Cook got clear of the United defence but his lob bounced off the top of the bar and this was followed by an audacious chip over Liphook keeper Andy Ewen by Sam Griffin which just cleared the bar.  Having survived the Priory onslaught, the visitors began to force their way back into it and Tony Lumb drove over from around 20 yards on 65 minutes. Five minutes later Liphook found renewed hope when a Craig Read free-kick was met by a fine header by Steve HARDING that beat the keeper and went in. In the 74th minute a brilliant Liphook passing move in which several players took part saw sub Adrian King-Moger play the ball inside to Dominic COPE who hit it firm and low to tie the game up at 2-2. Liphook then had a blow having lost Stuart Green who received a straight red card for allegedly stamping on James Burden, who was yellow carded himself for the initial poor tackle; this being a rare disagreeable incident in an otherwise sportingly played match.  It was going to be tough now that United were down to ten players, but they survived to take the game into extra time. Liphook continued to defend well during the additional thirty minute period but Christchurch retook the lead as the watch ticked into three figures when Marc FAIRBROTHER hit a fine effort from the right-hand side of the box that went firmly into the far corner. But, within four further minutes, back came the ten men of Liphook to level when Cope headed a free-kick goalwards which Prodomo parried and Steve HARDING was on hand at the back post to nod the ball over the line. Neither side could go on and win it in the second period of extra time but Ewan made a blinding save to push away a Thompson long range effort to help take his side into penalty kicks. Liphook’s first kick by Steve Harding came off the inside of the post and they were always chasing the shoot-out from there with only Cope being successful from 12 yards whilst Lumb’s effort was saved.  Christchurch had netted two of their first three penalties, Ewen making one good save from Griffin, but with Read trying to keep Liphook in it, he stepped up and Prodomo blocked the ball with his legs. This meant the Liphook journey in the competition had ended as Christchurch won the shoot-out 3-1 to progress into the final.  Action from Paulsgrove’s 4-2 home success against Liss Athletic at Marsden Road this weekend. 25/02/2012 COMFORTABLE FOR PAULSGROVE   PAULSGROVE     4 LISS ATHLETIC     2 Report by Roger Allen at Marsden Road Paulsgrove were comfortable victors in this game, only letting the visitors into the match in the last ten minutes. ‘Grove were off to a fast start and controlled virtually the whole of the first half. Neat approach play went to waste when the play became too intricate around the edge of the penalty area and during the first half hour only a Steve Ledger snap shot tested Chris Clark in the Liss goal. Liss showed little though they nearly took the lead from a free kick by Andy Brown. The home side finally got the goal that their play deserved on 36 minutes when Ledger slipped in Jimmy NOAKES to score. Ledger was also the supplier a minute before half time, this time Jake DANIELS was the beneficiary of his pass. There was just time for Daniels to test the Liss keeper who made a good save at the expense of a corner. Liss evidently came out for the second half with a flea in their ears from their manager but their revival was cut short on 54 minutes when NOAKES slipped home a Ledger free kick. On the hour Jimmy CRAWFORD made it four as he got on the end of a Noakes through ball and Grove were home and hosed. In the last ten minutes Liss gave the score some respectability. First Lucas LOTHIAN prodded a Brown free kick into the roof of the net with Pausgrove vainly claiming a hand ball in the build up. Then it was LOTHIAN again as Aaron Holden failed to deal with a difficult back pass under pressure from Luke Musselwhite. LIPHOOK SLIP UP AGAIN   LOCKS HEATH     2 LIPHOOK UNITED    1 Henry Ascoli reports from Warsash Road TITLE challengers Liphook United endured only their second league loss this season despite a dogged display at in-form Locks Heath this weekend. Early strikes from Matt Northcott and Jordan Neal earned a narrow victory for the home side from a hard-fought encounter at the Recreation Ground. Locks Heath snatched the lead with ten minutes played, NORTHCOTT beating goalkeeper Andy Ewen at the back post to nod home an accurate header from a corner. The home side doubled their advantage five minutes later, as NEAL found ample space in the box before producing a powerful strike from an acute angle. United responded immediately, Steve HARDING latching on to a low cross from Glen McGrath to fire home from five yards out. Liphook struggled to create further clear-cut chances before the break, as rugged defending from the home side offered few opportunities on the counter-attack. United produced a storming start to the second half, as Ryan Angear and Dan Harding tested the defence with bold efforts on the break. Locks Heath swiftly recovered, however, rattling the bar with an audacious lob before forcing desperate defending from a corner. Liphook flooded forward in search of an equaliser, and several lunging challenges sparked a lengthy midfield melee as tempers frayed late on. The home side remained resolute to cling on and claim all three points, stretching their unbeaten run to five matches. United drop to third in the Division 1 table, two points adrift of league leaders QK Southampton. "We found ourselves on the back foot very early on again today, and despite showing great character during the second half we needed more of a cutting edge to grind out the result," said Liphook manager Kevin Adair. "Will to win seems to be lacking within the squad over the 90 minutes, and that is definitely something we will aim to address to find our form once more." Liphook return to action on Tuesday night (February 28), facing a tough trip to Christchurch in the Russell Cotes cup semi-finals (7.45pm kick-off). COMMON ENJOY MORE SEVEN-UP !   OVERTON UNITED    0 COLDEN COMMON    7 Ian Steele reporting from Bridge Street The visitors moved off the foot of the table in convincing fashion with a seven-goal drubbing of hosts Overton United this afternoon. For the second time in two Saturday's Colden Common secured a 7-0 victory but, this time, the prize was three invaluable league points. On a glorious sunlight day the game started in scrappy fashion as the two sides endeavoured to impose themselves. After a couple of Common 'sorties' down the right flank which failed to produce, the visitors went ahead  on 17 minutes when the ball was again worked down Overton's defensive left-side then moved inside by Callum Magee to Mitch PARKER who hammered the ball home. Almost before the 'scorer' had a chance to register the first Common netted a second as Dave PHILPOTT worked his way clear of tackling defenders and hammered a shot low to the goalkeepers left. Common were now in control and started to show the football that has been hidden all season. Pete Winkle, Callum Magee, Dave Philpott and Mitchell Parker worked the ball down their left and the cross was met with a bullet-like header by John COLE after 34 minutes. As the players got stuck into their oranges the Overton's manager’s wrath could be plainly heard around the Overton ground, and it wasn't that complimentary. A rugged second period was anticipated. Despite the potential 'reaction' Common continued to try and play and as time wore on they became more and more composed, more comfortable, more confident. The Common defensive line of Karl Salmon, Ben Clarke, Dan Hansford and James Atterbury was rarely troubled and the excellent Josh Street had little to do thus giving the midfield a sound base from which to 'conduct'. Skipper Dave Egerton was enjoying an outstanding game as it was not only his forward promptings that had an influence, his work rate in covering any defensive 'hole' was also tremendous. On 56 minutes Callum MAGEE increased the lead to 4-0 when converting Philpott's measured low cross. PHILPOTT benefitted twice from excellent positions to complete his hat-trick and Callum MAGEE (below) converted a penalty after Philpott was hauled down in the box. Philpott has now scored hat-tricks in successive games while Common have maintained a clean sheet, a rare occurrence this term, and the latest performance showed a level of confidence and composure that we have rarely achieved to date. Dave Egerton and James Atterbury were each outstanding, while Dan Hansford showed a growing belief in his own ability and John Cole benefitted from the central midfield pairing with Mitchell Parker. STONEHAM ADVANCE IN PENALTY SHOOT OUT   AFC STONEHAM    1 GE HAMBLE RES    1 (AET) (AFC Stoneham won 4-3 on penalties) Roger Allen reports from Little Testwood Farm AFC Stoneham booked a place at St Mary’s in a Southampton Senior Cup semi-final that went down to the wire in a penalty shoot out. Stoneham dominated much of the first half but it was against the run of play that Hamble took the lead on 21 minutes. Stuart Gates cut in from the right and his cross was met by Damian GORMAN who scored from six yards. Seconds later the Hamble goal survived when a Liam Hall header from a free kick was scrambled off the line by Matthew Watts. In fact it looked as though Hamble had survived the Stoneham pressure to half time but in added time Dean Higgins, with his back to goal, invited a challenge from behind by Andy Wynn that took away his standing leg. A penalty was awarded and dispatched by Dave READING low to Nick O’Donnell’s left. Just after half time Stuart Gates for Hamble had a chance to score but he shot wide when well placed and that is probably all that needs to be said about the second half as both teams struggled to impose themselves on the game. Special mention should be given to Hamble striker, James Thompson, who gave Hall and Matt Freemantle a torrid time all evening and it was his side that finished normal time in the ascendancy. Extra time came and went with the best chance falling to Gates who again shot wide. And so to penalties which stood 3-1 to Stoneham (Higgins, Stewart Beck and Kenny Rowe) after six kicks – James Roden being successful for Hamble. A save and two successful Hamble kicks later (Dan Parker & Thompson) meant it was down to the 10th kick. Gary Fulker held his nerve to send Stoneham through to the final 4-3. QK REACH FOR THE TOP !   QK SOUTHAMPTON    3 OTTERBOURNE    2 By Ken Babey at Five Acres Ben Penfold scored his 100th goal to help QK in their bid for the league title push. The game was lively from the start but QK made the early breakthrough after just four minutes when Andy Wood made a jinking run in from the right flank but was bought down in the penalty area. PENFOLD took the kick to register his century. Otterbourne fought back and the game went end to end with QK just slightly the better side. Then in the 24th minute, Martyn Randall was dispossessed of the ball and Aaron MILNE ran through a static defence and shot to the left of the keeper to level the scores. The Otters felt like they were in with a chance and were capitalising on some uncertain defending but did not take their chances and this was their undoing, when in the 43rd minute, Mike Nailor made a darting run down the right and put a cross in for Dan SMITH to shoot home. The ball hit the post but Smith had followed in to make sure the ball went in. The second half was a very lively affair with QK again just edging it but not taking their chances, so it was Otterbourne’s fortune that when they harrassed the QK defence, the QK keeper failed to hold a shot and MILNE was on hand to capitalise and score to make it 2-2. Manager McManus made a tactical change at this point and bought on another forward Ryky Pomery. This proved to be a masterplan as, in the 76th minute, when the ball was slipped through to him, POMERY looped the ball over the keeper and into the net. This proved to be the winner for the home side, but Otterbourne did not go away too disappointed as they put up a good fight and could even have won this game with a bit of luck. QK Southampton manager Pat McManus (left) receives his team’s Club of the Month award from PEHPL Deputy Chairman Bryan Clarke. CASTLE CRUMBLE   SPORTING BW     3 WINCHESTER CASTLE   1 Mike Crowfoot reporting from Priory Park Sporting dominated most of this game and deserved their two-goal victory as Castle turned in one of their poorest performances of the season. Right from the kick off Sporting looked the livelier team and took the lead in the 12th minute. Castle keeper Darren Crowfoot just got finger tips to Gavin King’s 30-yarder to turn it over for a corner. But the Castle defence went to sleep from Mark Gawn's corner kick which struck the far post and bounced back across goal, KING reacting first to toe end into the top corner from 12 yards. There were few attempts on goal by either team as good football was difficult on a bumpy surface but Crowfoot had to save King's free kick in the 25th minute and then following another corner this time from Nathan Hunt, centre half Peter Williams headed narrowly wide. Gavin King had been running the game for Sporting but from the half hour mark Castle began to get into their stride but failed to trouble Sporting keeper Adam Faulkner until the 42nd minute when they produced an equaliser. Following a bout of passing the ball was turned back to Ben Nancholas whose cross fell to Tom KING and he neatly tucked the ball past Faulkner. Castle then nearly took the lead in the 46th minute of the first half as Ross Brimfield and Tom King combined to put full back Shaun Boast in behind the defence but Faulkner was quick of his line to block Boasts shot. The second half saw Castle open the brighter and in the 49th minute Beebe put full back Boast in again behind the defence, but the result was the same as just before the break as Faulkner was quick off his line to block the shot. Just a minute later Ben Nancholas gave Brimfield a shooting chance but he was just wide and then it was Sporting’s turn as Gavin King got to the goal line and pulled the ball back, but Castle's Tom Strange just beat Martin Steel to the ball and just a minute later King again troubled the Castle defence as he received the ball wide on their right cut in and saw his shot strike the top of the bar. On the hour Sporting nearly took the lead as Nathan Hunt’s low cross was turned past Crowfoot but the goal was disallowed for offside. Castle then had a chance as substitute Darryl Phillips released Brimfield but instead of shooting he tried to chip Faulkner and the ball went harmlessly over the bar. Sporting now began to run the game again and Crowfoot had to save John Davis shot from 14 yards in the 66th minute and then just a minute later Martin Steel produced a great low cross which everyone missed. However, in the 77th minute Sporting re-took the lead as John Davis's long throw was headed on and Martin STEEL nipped between two defenders to turn the ball past Crowfoot from six yards. Sporting came close to increasing their lead in the 80th minute as Williams met another corner with a header but Crowfoot just tipped it over. Castle were now chasing the game and left gaps at the back and John Davis saw his shot go just wide before in the 88th minute following a deflected shot onto the bar and a goalmouth scramble plus a goal line block Sporting scored their third as the ball fell to Mark GAVIN just two yards out. Castle then had the last attempt as from Phillips corner the ball fell to Liam Nancholas but his shot struck the bar leaving Sporting with a comfortable win. 18/02/2012  Action from AFC Stoneham’s impressive 4-1 away victory over Fleetlands at Lederle Lane. SATURDAY 18 FEBRUARY HANDYMAN LUKE   FLEETLANDS     1 AFC STONEHAM    4 Roger Allen reports from Lederle Lane Stoneham gained revenge for a January defeat when they took three points with a 4-1 victory at Fleetlands thanks to a trio of opportunist goals by Luke Pothecary. They made the best possible start by scoring after just 50 seconds. Kenny Rowe took a free kick and, with Fleetlands still trying to organise themselves, passed to James Hobbs down the side of the wall. Hobbs’ cross was met at the near post by POTHECARY who slid the ball home. Stoneham continued to press and went further ahead in the 16th minute from another Kenny Rowe free kick. This one was floated to the far post where Chris Benham headed it back across goal to the onrushing POTHECARY to score from close range with his head. Fleetlands were at their inconsistent worst – looking threatening one minute then slapdash the next. Stoneham were much the more consistent side and Danny Chapman was rarely called upon in the first half. The third goal came just before half time when Dave Reading cut in from the right and his shot was parried by Tom Price into the path of POTHECARY (pictured under) who completed his hat-trick off the underside of the bar. Fleetlands looked better after half time and Sean Snelling, who was their best player, produced a shot in the first minute of the half that brought out a good save from Chapman. Fleetlands continued to press and scored on the hour. Just prior to this Pat Blackmore had cleared a shot off the line and Chapman had made another good save. The goal came from a long clearance by Price which was picked up by Mark PEACH who cut inside his marker and scored well. Another goal to the home side at this stage would have produced an interesting finish but it was Stoneham who got the final goal with 11 minutes to go. Fleetlands full back Dan Silvester unluckily slipped on the wet surface and conceded possession to Stoneham’s sub Josh Harfield. He fed Dean HIGGINS whose clipped shot evaded Price. From then on it was a straight forward task for Stoneham to see out the game for a well deserved three points. HOLDERS ARE HIT FOR SIX   LIPHOOK UNITED    2 PORTCASTRIAN    6 Report by Henry Ascoli from London Road DEFENDING champions Liphook United suffered a demoralising defeat in the Hampshire Intermediate Cup against Portcastrian on Saturday. Robbie Woolner bagged four goals as the visitors delivered a dominant display in a rugged quarter-final clash at the Recreation Ground. United fell behind with only eight minutes on the clock, WOOLNER pouncing on a fumble from goalkeeper Andy Ewen to produce a composed finish from six yards out. The visitors snatched a second ten minutes later, Ben VARIVA netting from the penalty spot after a contentious handball by Andy Luckhurst. Liphook responded with several clear-cut chances on the counter-attack, yet failed to find the target with audacious efforts from Tony Lumb and Luckhurst. Portcastrian proved equally bold on the break, exposing further slack defending to bag a quick-fire brace on the half-hour mark. River SMITH delivered a deft strike from an acute angle, before WOOLNER grabbed his second from the penalty spot after a lunging challenge inside the box. United responded five minutes before the break, Dominic COPE latching on to a shot pass to convert from close range. Liphook produced a promising start to the second half, yet hopes of an inspired comeback were swiftly dashed as WOOLNER completed his hat-trick with an assured finish from 15 yards out. Striker Steve Harding was denied by a smart penalty save after 55 minutes, yet COPE kept United in contention with a superb long-range strike moments later. Liphook flooded forward during the closing stages, allowing the visitors to capitalise on the counter-attack. WOOLNER found the defence exposed and seized possession to score the sixth, sealing victory for Portcastrian. "We definitely under estimated the opposition today, and found ourselves out of the game very early on," said Liphook manager Kevin Adair. "Despite showing some character during the second half, poor decision-making and a lack of communication cost us dear and we now need to focus on putting in a positive performance next weekend." United return to Hampshire Premier League action next Saturday, aiming to reclaim the Division 1 top spot with victory at Locks Heath. COMMON IN SEVENTH HEAVEN ! Saturday Intermediate Cup Quarter-finals   SATURDAY 18 FEBRUARY FC Bournemouth 0 Colden Common 7 Mitchell Parker 10. David Philpott 13,41,62. Liam McGee 17,77. Callum McGee 60. Ian Steele reports from Victoria Park WITH the managers unavoidably detained on a scouting trip to Scotland, Common legend Barry Cox stepped up to the plate for the third attempt to play this Hampshire Intermediate Cup tie. Cox guided this Colden Common side to an emphatic victory with a display that blossomed through the game, facing a side that is challenging for Bournemouth League honours plus has taken some impressive scalps in their Hampshire Intermediate Cup run to date. The game was played at Bournemouth Poppies Victoria Park home after two previous attempts at Main Road had fallen foul of the freezing weather. Again the weather had a major say this afternoon as a gale blew down the ground from goal-to-goal so keeper Richard Le Brocq advised skip Dave Egerton to kick with the wind at our backs for the first half, and what an inspired decision it was. Common pressed from the outset but some wayward passing eased the pressure on the hosts. However, after ten minutes another Common surge forward saw Dave Philpott break down the right flank and he fired the ball toward Alex Mackie in the FC Bournemouth goal. The keeper appeared to have it covered but Mitch PARKER stole in to divert the ball into the net. With the wind seemingly getting stronger FC had it all to do as another Common attack on 13 miniutes brought reward. Egerton was the architect as he surged forward down the left flank, played the ball across the edge of the box where John Cole fed PHILPOTT who slotted home. Home foray's forward for Bournemouth were dealt with well by Ben Clarke, Karl Salmon, Dan Hansford and Pete Winkle, the latter in an unaccustomed right back role, leaving custodian Le Brocq with little to do. Back to the other end and PHILPOTT increased Common's advantage to three with a clinical finish. Cole was the single most influential player throughout this game as his work-rate, distribution and choices were making Common click with some aplomb. Callum Magee was proving a thorn in the home side’s side as he produced one of his most complete displays for the Common Cause. As half time approached Dan Hansford intercepted an FC Bournemouth raid and quickly moved the ball 'over the top' to an onrushing Liam MAGEE who finished with aplomb to ensure the visitors had a 4-0 half-time lead. Manager Cox warned against complacency during the half-time break as the wind was proving a major factor. The second half began as expected with the home side enjoying greater possession but proving unable to break a resolute defence which, if caught out, would see a Philpott, a Cole or an Egerton striving back to cover any danger. Now playing some tremendous football Common extended their lead through PHILPOTT who completed his hat-trick.with a convincing finish, 5-0 and more to come. Pete Winkle's surges down the right flank were causing problems but, at the other end, Brocqy had to be alert and he was. Another lightning Common raid Salmon, Parker,Callum Magee ended with Egerton having a shot at goal nudged over the line by Callum MAGEE. Credit to FC Bournemouth as they kept seeking at least one goal which, at the final, whistle had failed to materialise, and they had to endure another 'goal against'. A Common raid down the left flank saw Winkle feed Callum Magee and his low cross was converted, first time, by Liam MAGEE. QK MAINTAIN TITLE TILT   QK SOUTHAMPTON    4 LISS ATHLETIC     1 Ken Babey reports QK maintained their pressure on leaders Liphook United with a fine win against strugglers Liss Athletic. From the start it was clear they were in no mood to let this game slip. Onslaught after onslaught showed Liss that they were in for a tough game and were it not for the offside flag, could have been 2-0 up in the opening 15 minutes. Then the inevitable happened in the 21st minute. After sustained pressure around the Liss box, Mike Nailor managed to thread the ball to Ben PENFOLD to neatly shoot past the keeper. QK kept up the pressure but were then dealt a blow when, in the 28th minute, Curtis BLAKE picked up on a loose ball and with the QK defenders fast asleep, he found loads of space to leave himself with just the keeper to beat which he did. This however was as much as Liss could manage and the home side were back on the attack again. Then in the 38th minute, Penfold passed the ball across the goal to Andy WOOD who hammered a shot past a helpless keeper to make it 2-1 to QK. The second half started just as frenetic as the first, although Liss came more into the game. However, QK kept up the pressure and were it not for Clark in the Liss goal would have scored a hatful. But then in the 76th minute, PENFOLD again found space to let fly and score his second. Just five minutes later after a great move with Penfold slipped the ball to Mike Nailor who in turn passed wide to Martyn RANDALL who let fly a left-foot screamer which gave the keeper no chance and sew the game up for QK. This was a thoroughly well deserved win for QK and gave them a firm foundation for the games ahead. CASTLE OPEN NEW YEAR ACCOUNT   HEDGE END RANGERS   0 WINCHESTER CASTLE   2 Report by Mike Crowfoot at Heathouse Lane Hedge End kicked off facing a stiff breeze but quickly put pressure on the Castle defence and had a series of corners which came to nothing. Following another corner in the fifth minute Castle put together a swift counter attack and should have taken the lead as Max Beebe put Shaun Boast free down their right and his cross was met by an unmarked Tom King just eight yards out but he side footed over the bar with only Phillip Kinally in the Hedge End goal to beat. Hedge End continued to put the Castle defence under pressure but they held firm and in the 10th minute with another quick counter attack Castle should again have taken the lead as Beebe released Sam Strange down the right and his through ball to the near post was met by Shaun Boast just six yards out but his powerful shot was straight at Kinally who did well to push it away to be cleared for a corner. Castle now had a period of pressure on the Hedge End goal before play became end to end but both defences held firm with neither team looking likely to score although Michael Hizidimitrioni came nearest for Hedge End with a volley from 16 yards when James Gill pulled the ball back from the goal line. However, in the 32nd minute Castle took the lead as Max Beebe robbed a central defender on the halfway line, beat two other defenders in his run to the penalty area where he squared the ball to an unmarked Tom KING who dummied Kinally before shooting into the roof of the net. Play continued end to end but Castle increased their lead in the 37th minute as Tom King put the ball in behind the Hedge End, who had pushed up to the half way line, and Shaun BOAST beat the off side to run on and swerve his shot around the advancing Kinally. For the remainder of the half play switched from end to end without either keeper being troubled but in the 46th minute Castle nearly increased their lead as Beebe's volley from 30 yards dropped over Kinally but was inches wide. The half had been evenly contested but the difference had been that Castle had managed to open up the Hedge End defence which Hedge End had failed to do to Castle. The second half was dictated by the wind and Castle setting out to keep their two goal advantage. For the first 10 minutes Hedge End looked as if they would score with repeated attacks and Hazidimitrioni had a curling shot inches wide on 51 minutes and just three minutes later Brian Schwodler saw his header go inches wide. But generally the Castle defence kept them at bay and with counter attacks they always looked dangerous with the pace of substitutes Tom Blythe and Liam Nancholas troubling the Hedge End defenders. Indeed in the last 30 minutes it was Castle who came nearest to scoring as Blythe's cross was mishit into his own keepers arms by right back Ben Briers, Kinally doing well to hold onto the sharply hit ball from just eight yards out. Although Hedge End dominated possession for most of the second half they rarely troubled Castle keeper Darren Crowfoot behind a well organised defence and in the end Hedge End ran out of ideas as Castle recorded their first win since 27th December.

04/02/2012

Hampshire Intermediate Cup, Quarter-finals

HEDGE END FINISH OFF HAMBLE
  

HEDGE END RANGERS 4 - 0 HAMBLE CLUB

Att: 48
Steve Bauck (6), James Gill (43)
Lee New (90, 90+2)

Roger Allen reports from Heath House Lane

The difference between the two sides in an otherwise even game was the quality of the finishing. Whilst Hamble Club always wanted an extra touch before shooting, the home side were much more clinical.
Hedge End got off to the best possible start with a goal from their first chance in the sixth minute. A pass inside the full back by Hedley Winter was picked up and crossed by James Gill from the left. On the other side of the area Steve BAUCK met the cross and scored with a low shot into the far corner.
Hamble Club had the balance of play for the remainder of the first half but they either failed to get the final touch or their finishing was weak.

Action from this weekend’s only PEHPL match – Hedge End Rangers’ 4-0 home success against Hamble Club at Heath House Lane.

For their part, the home side produced some neat football and were unlucky not to extend their lead when an Aaron Cousens header struck the bar. Two minutes before half time Cousens popped up on the right side of the penalty area and he crossed for GILL (right) to head in at the far post.
Both sides adapted well to the difficult conditions and produced a good contest. Again Hamble were guilty of poor finishing when in a good position to score. Matt Camfield and Mike Sigournay were both guilty of taking the extra touch allowing the chance to be snuffed out by the home defence.
As time ticked on to the final minutes the realisation of defeat caused Hamble heads to drop and Lee New, on as a substitute, gave the scoreline a convincing look for Hedge End.

First Jack Igglesden picked out NEW with a fine crossfield ball for him to finish with his right foot.
Then two minutes into stoppage time NEW completed the scoring with his more favoured left foot.

BRITTEN’S GOT TALENT !
 
FLEETLANDS      5
HAMBLE CLUB     1

By George Mason reporting from Lederle Lane

A strong wind blowing down the pitch ensured that the match was going to be full of surprises. Fleetlands started against the wind and Dean Curnow, Hamble’s keeper, was quickly called on to save bravely at the feet of Fleetland striker Jason Bath.
At the other end Tom Price had to move smartly off his line to deal with a ball floated over a stranded defence but, on 15 minutes, Steve BRITTEN coming in from the left drove the ball across Dean Curnow into the corner of the net to give Fleetlands the lead. Darren WIILIAMSON increased Fleetlands’ lead on 29 minutes when Hamble failed to deal with a corner which after some desperate defending fell invitingly to him to drive home from close range.
Hamble were pressing hard to get back into the game but were repeatedly caught off side, when on 34 minutes BRITTEN scored his second goal. Put through by Mark Peach he again drove the ball across the keeper into the corner of the net. The second half developed much the same as the first with Fleetlands pressing high up the pitch and Hamble attempting to beat the off side which they did on more than one occasion requiring some first rate keeping by Tom Price who, caught four or five times in a one on one situation, manfully kept Hamble out.
It was Mark PEACH who increased Fleetlands lead with another fine strike when he was put through one on one with Dan Curnow beaten on his left by a low hard drive.
But Dean Curnow had his revenge shortly after when he saved brilliantly, this time diving left and low to push a Baz Snelling’s shot round the post.
With Fleetlands looking comfortable and added time being played it was Fleetlands’ turn not to deal with a corner in from the left.  With the ball fizzing around the six-yard box it fell this time to Hamble’s Luke WILLIS who drove it home from close range to get what looked like the last goal of the match but PEACH was to have the final say when from the restart, and fully 50 yards out, he drove the ball downwind over a stranded Hamble keeper for his second of the match and giving Fleetlands its four-goal margin back.

HOBBS NAILS EASTLEIGH IN EXTRA TIME
 
AFC STONEHAM    2
EASTLEIGH RESERVES   1 (after extra time)

Roger Allen reports from Chestnut Avenue

This was a full blooded cup tie and if the flowing football was sporadic, the players had the excuse of a difficult pitch and a strong cross wind to cope with.
Stoneham were off to a flying start in the third minute as a Pat Blackmore corner was headed into the roof of the net past a static defence by Liam HALL. This was the prelude to a man of the match performance in which Hall gave the promising Sam Wilson hardly a sniff of a chance.
For much of the first half Eastleigh controlled possession as Stoneham struggled to build on their lead. Eastleigh’s best chance came from a free kick just outside the penalty area on the half hour. Sam Wilson’s shot was heading for the top corner but Danny Chapman in the home goal just got his fingertips to the ball to push it over.
The second half started with both sides going full pelt to create an opening but it took until the 64th minute for Eastleigh to equalise. Substitute Joe COOK advanced into the penalty area and slid the ball under the advancing Chapman.
At this stage Eastleigh looked favourites to go on and win the tie but in the 73rd minute came the incident which turned the game. Stoneham’s Lee Hewett was pushed by a defender into a collision with Eastleigh’s keeper Jamie Banasco-Zaragozo which involved lengthy treatment for both players.
On getting to his feet the keeper evidently said something to the referee which resulted in a red card being shown to him. He was determined to get his full money’s worth for the inevitable fine and suspension that will follow by delivering a tirade of abuse at the referee before being persuaded to leave the field.
Ben Wilson took over between the sticks and was soon able to prove that he wasn’t a novice keeper by producing a full length save to palm away a Chris Knight shot.
Both sides had goalbound efforts saved before the whistle heralded another 30 minutes of extra time. The decisive moment came in the seventh minute as Dean Higgins crossed from the right and James HOBBS coming in from the other wing got across his marker to score at the near post.
By this stage several players were operating on a short fuse but fortunately a number of minor scuffles broke up without causing the referee to resort to the early bath. In the end Stoneham squeezed out the win which takes them through to the semis and a possible date at St Marys.
OTTERS TURN TABLE UPSIDE DOWN
 
OTTERBOURNE    2
QK SOUTHAMPTON    1
Report by Ken Babey at Oakwood Avenue

QK threw away a great chance to keep in the title hunt at Otterbourne. They started well and showed potential to overrun the home side even in the blustery conditions and on a pitch which was in need of some repair.
It was as early as the 10th minute when they were awarded a throw in. Dan Smith received the ball, then took it to the dead ball line and sent a cross over the keeper where Ben PENFOLD (above) was on hand to beat the defender to the ball and put it in the net to make it 1-0 to QK.
Although the Otters’ defence was coping well, QK kept up the pressure but could not make it tell.
Then in the 21st minute a defensive error cost QK dearly. Otterbourne sent the ball forward and the QK defender just seemed to let his man go past him - John ALLEN was the man to put the ball in the net for the home side and draw level.
For the rest of the half QK took the game forward but could not make the final ball tell. The second half started very lively and it was all QK. With the wind behind them they seemed to have a new lease of life but the Otters keeper was on top form and saved them on numerous occasions, saving point blank and stretching to tip shots over the bar.
The visitors tried everything to score but were denied time and time again.
It looked like the game was going to end honours even then in the 88th minute, after another defensive error, Arron MILNE popped up to fire the home side in front.
Try as they may, QK could not make the breakthrough and the game ended with a good victory for Otterbourne and QK were left to lick their wounds yet again.

PERRYMAN AT THE DOUBLE
 
WINCHESTER CASTLE   1
OVERTON UNITED    2
Mike Crowfoot reporting from Chilcomb

Playing conditions were difficult with a strong crosswind but Castle made light of this as they opened brightly and took the game to Overton playing some neat football.
However, goal scoring chances proved hard to come by against a hard working resolute Overton team and it was the 10th minute before Ross Brimfield saw his free kick from 20 yards pass narrowly over the bar.
In a rare moment of Overton attacking Ross Soper-Dyer got to the byline but his cross sailed harmlessly over everyone. Castle continued to force Overton to defend and in the 21st minute Brimfield again came close as Shaun Boast got to the by line and pulled the ball back but Brimfield's 16 yard shot was turned over the bar by Neil Butler in the Overton goal but a goal kick was awarded.
Just a minute later Overton took the lead against the run of play as a ball through the middle was kicked against the chasing Jamie Perryman by Castle keeper Darren Crowfoot, the ball cannoning onto a defender and fortuitously back to the feet of PERRYMAN who had a simple task of slotting into the empty net.
Castle continued to put the Overton defence under pressure and in the 25th minute Max Beebe put Shaun Boast in behind the defence but he shot straight at Butler. Overton had several corners which carried their main threat and when the ball fell to Craig Smith he turned and got in a shot from 14 yards which was well held by Crowfoot.
Overton showed some nice passing moves on the counter attack with Myles Englefield prominent, however Castle continued to have most of the play but failed to open up the Overton defence and the nearest they came was a 30 yard effort from Phil Kloppenborg which Butler held under the bar. 
The second half started with Overton having more of the game although failing to trouble Crowfoot until the 53 minute when Castle's defence got into a tangle trying to pass the ball around and Jamie PERRYMAN was quick to capitalise as he snapped up the loose ball and curled a shot from 20 yards into the corner of the net.
Castle now retook the initiative and in the 53rd minute Overton were lucky to escape as from a corner Sam Strange's header looped up off a defender over Butler but was headed off the line.
Castle's final ball was continually letting them down but following a period of pressure in the 63rd minute Castle were awarded a penalty as a low ball into the box was taken down by substitute Callum McIntyre with his back to goal but he was pushed to the ground and BRIMFIELD stepped up to send Butler the wrong way from his spot kick and reduce the arrears.
Castle now pushed for further goals but still found chances hard to come by and in a well constructed Overton counter attack Englefield fired a cross shot narrowly over the bar.

Just a minute later and Castle came close to an equaliser as Ben Nancholas put brother Liam in behind the defence but his shot from 18 yards was inches wide and then Overton had another swift counter attack and again Englefield fired wide.
Overton seemed content to sit back and defend with swift counter attacks and as Castle became more frustrated the less they looked likely to score and the well organised Overton defence held out until the final whistle.

CLANFIELD’S NEW YEAR RESOLUTION !
 
CLANFIELD    2
PAULSGROVE    1
By Stuart Wallis at Peel Park

CLANFIELD made it four wins on the bounce at a very windy Peel Park, both sides struggled with the conditions early on.
But it was the home side that settled first and youngest David Price on his first start played a big part in the first goal, he won the ball then broke clear on the left and his low cross was turned in by the defender for an OWN GOAL.
The lead was doubled ten minutes later when good work down the right found Darren FERGUSON in space for a lovely finish from edge of the box.
Paulsgrove were all at sea and home side running the game and should have added further goals with Amos seeing his shot saved from close range and Ferguson heading just over.
With the wind at their backs now the visitors upped their game and Crawford missed a glorious chance early on, but he made amends on 55 minutes when he turned provider for Tommy FARMINER to sweep home and put them right back in it, it was now game on but the Clanfield defence refused to buckle and despite a late effort which Wiseman did well to palm away and a few late corners the home side saw the game out to make in 12 points out of 12 in 2012.