HASLEMERE?V 1, BASINGSTOKE V 2

JUST one of those days. Haslemere’s New Developers were disappointed to suffer only their second defeat of the season in Hampshire 10, but had no reason to be disappointed with their gutsy and skilful performance.

Once again, seniors Mayson, Rodber, Vallis and Wild encouraged their young colleagues to express themselves with pacy, passing hockey. However, they met in Basingstoke fifths an experienced and more mature side and a goalkeeper whose efforts probably proved the difference between two competitive teams.

It was all-square at half-time, but Basingstoke, rather against the run of play, exploited a rare defensive error to give an excellent Ultan Wood in Haslemere’s goal no chance. Nor had he any hope to save an accurate flick from a later short corner.

Haslemere fought back with a fine goal by brother Finton Wood, to applause from father – and grandfather!

Warm thanks to Rob Dilworth and colleague for helping with the umpiring.