ALTON 1, SHAFTESBURY 0

IN-FORM Alton made it four wins on the bounce in the Sydenhams League Division One with a hard-fought victory over fifth-placed Shaftesbury on Saturday.

The match could and should have been easier for the Brewers, but Sean Hayes’ 37th-minute penalty was saved by Dan Card and Shaftesbury remained in contention until the final whistle.

The match began at a frenetic pace, with both sides trying to get the ball forward quickly. Scott Sanderson, last week’s four-goal hero, had the first real chance when he made himself space on the edge of the area, only to see his shot saved by Card.

Shaftesbury fought back with a shot that hit the sidenetting. Mitch Parker shot wide at the other end and another Sanderson effort was parried by the impressive Card. Callum Burch reacted quickest to the rebound, but his shot crept past the upright.

Alton’s pressure finally told shortly as half-time approached. Hayes took a free-kick and Mitch Parker rose highest to this time give Card no chance with a well-placed header.

Almost immediately, a shot from Burch was handled in the area, but Hayes’ weak penalty was easily saved. It was the third time in four games that Alton had missed from the spot.

Shaftesbury, adapting their game to the 3G surface, finished the half the stronger side and should probably have equalised, heading wide when it looked easier to score and then forcing a good save from Kallum Lunn.

The visitors took their improvement into the second half and hit the post. Lunn was again called into action, tipping a shot round the post.

Back came Alton and Taylor Watts began to cause Shaftesbury problems. One excellent cross forced a defender to head over his own bar with Ryan Bunney hovering, and from the resulting corner, Mark Taylor just missed with a header.

Shaftesbury were still seeing plenty of the ball, but Alton were making the better chances. Full-back Joe Green, on a rare foray forward, brought a save from Card and Burch put in a cross that eluded everyone, including Bunney at the far post.

The game ended in a flurry of cards and a clash between Bunney and Shaftesbury’s Sam Lopez earned both their marching orders. But Alton held on to secure three more valuable points.

This Saturday, Alton visit Tadley Calleva in their last game before Christmas.