HASLEMERE V 3, US Portsmouth II 1 (Hants 10). In this hard-fought match, well controlled by Neil Francis and his fellow umpire, a close first half saw Haslemere’s New Development side lead from a clever flick by Tom Morley after Dhiren Patel’s neat short-corner pass.

The visitors pressed hard in the second half and even the excellent Ultan Wood in Haslemere’s goal could not keep out a fierce strike.

However, young James Scan’s determination squeezed Haslemere ahead again and, from Josh Lott’s splendid right-wing cross, a diminutive Alex Knight dived forward bravely to settle the match.

Once again, Haslemere’s experienced seniors ensured the constructive involvement of their talented junior team-mates, including Dominic Knight, Cameron Moore, Harry Stokes, Archie Summers and Charlie Tuffin. And, once again, the New Developers benefited from the astute management of Ollie Green.

Haslemere, with two matches to play, lead Hampshire 10 by five points.