WINCHESTER IV 0, ALTON 3

HAMPSHIRE Division 3 leaders Alton faced one of their toughest challenges of the season and emerged with a three-goal victory over Winchester 4th XI.

Alton had no intention of underestimating their opponents. It was clear from the start that Winchester would be hard nuts to crack and both sides had spells of possession in the opening stages.

The visitors began to get into their stride and chances came their way. Finally, the city defence was breached and Nick Bagley-Reed fired a screamer of a shot into the roof of the net.

Winchester came straight back, but skipper Nigel Downing marshalled his defence and Alton maintained their slender lead at half-time.

The next goal would be crucial. The Winchester defence put up a solid wall, but Alton showed why they are top of the league.

Hard work in midfield from Richard Spicer and Harry Curtis turned the ball over and Stuart Gagen was on hand to place his shot in the far corner.

And Alton soon put the game to bed with their third goal. Curtis made a superb run and Martin Kercher was ready and waiting to slide the ball home.

Alton, six points clear after their eighth straight win, are home to lowly Portsmouth & Southsea this week.

Alton 3rd XI beat Romsey IV 4-2 in Saturday’s away game (Hants 9). Alton took command with goals from Wilson Snr and Jnr.

Romsey stormed back with two goals of their own in the second half, but Wilson Snr restored Alton’s lead and Grev Coomer clinched victory with the fourth.