HASLEMERE 8, ALTON 1

HASLEMERE Ladies made sure the Hampshire Women’s League title and promotion went to the last day by putting eight goals past relegated Alton.

A well-taken goal by Alice Toynton gave Haslemere an early lead, but it failed to settle the home team and Alton soon equalised from a short corner.

Alton played some good hockey and made it difficult for Haslemere to find their rhythm, but true to form they stepped up another gear.

After a good run, left-half Abbie Walhen found herself in the D and turned sharply to crack the ball home: 2-1.

Haslemere kept the squeeze on and, just before half-time, centre-half Hannah Cross found space to score with an excellent reverse strike.

The home team made a fast and furious start to the second half. Sarah Elworthy scored after some fine stick work and Heidi Wells added a fifth from a short corner.

Further goals were added by Toynton, Elworthy and Wells as Haslemere ran riot in the later stages.

The home back four of Izzy Breen, Kate Hutchings, Abbie Walhen and Bex Mitchell remained strong after Alton’s goal and keeper Helena John dealt with anything that came her way.

It was good shooting practice for Haslemere who now prepare for the title showdown with Aldershot & Farnham at Woolmer Hill on Saturday (start 2pm).