ALTON 2, SOUTHAMPTON II 1

AN impressive team effort gave Alton Ladies a deserved win and they remain ninth in Hampshire Division?One.

Following the previous hard-fought draw against high-riding Havant II, during which an injury to skipper Vicky Small put her out for the rest of the season, Alton were aiming to complete the double over fourth-placed Southampton II.

The teams were evenly matched. The visitors were fast on the counter-attack and keeper Louise Yeadon made some important saves before Southampton took the lead from one of several short corners.

Still trailing 1-0 at the break, Alton emerged the stronger side in the second half.

A Jenny Rust through-ball released Maya Morrison who beat the defence and keeper with her impressive speed, only to be denied by the post.

Alton pushed on with renewed vigour and after a fluent team move, the ball was passed wide to Kat Gilbert who drilled home the equaliser.

The goal flustered Southampton and their passing became erratic.

Alton worked the ball nicely upfield and gained another short corner. The injection was cleanly struck by Jenny Rust towards Naomi Jones at the far post, but the final touch came from a Southampton player who lifted the ball into the back of their own net.

Alton played sensible hockey in the final five minutes, keeping possession and denying Southampton any further chances.