BOTTOM side Shottermill & Haslemere gave a gutsy performance, but their problem remains in front of goal where they are unable to convert the many chances that come their way.

Despite not playing a game for three weeks, Shottermill took the game to Crescent Rovers and were unlucky to go in goalless at half-time, having had the better openings.

Shottermill's game plan was working well, defending deep and denying Rovers any space. The defensive trio of Clark, Holliman and Tims were outstanding and it was a bit of cruel luck that enabled Crescent to break the deadlock.

Tims' clearance hit one of his own players before falling kindly into the path of Reeves who took his chance well, lobbing stranded 'keeper Dave Warner who had no chance.

Shottermill responded positively by bringing on veteran striker Jon Larbey and were pushing for the equaliser when they were caught on the break and conceded a penalty in injury time which was stroked home by Mortimer for Rovers to wrap up the points.

Without four regulars – 'keeper Tim Howard, defenders Bob Daynes and Terry Rowden plus influential midfielder Kevin Toovey – the visitors put up a good battling performance in difficult playing conditions.

Shottermill & Haslemere: Warner, Clark, Tims, Holliman, Casey, Lockley, Denard, Barr, Gadsby, Ellen, Fowler. Sub: Larbey.