Alton Ladies 1, Hamble Ladies 1

Alton hosted an organised Hamble side knowing they were in for a tough game in bitterly cold conditions.

Buoyed by a good away win the previous week, Alton got off to a strong start with some composed passing down the left between Gayle Moir, Naomi Jones and Leah Coney. A spell of possession was shortlived, though, as Hamble countered swiftly, but their rapid break was thwarted, as were a series of penalty corners, thanks to the cat-like reactions of goalkeeper Ellie Chester.

Alton showed great enthusiasm and a good work rate when out of possession and controlled aggression at times when challenging.

Hamble’s menacing attacks were met by a determined defensive performance with some excellent interceptions from Megan Southgate and Rosie Millard.

The home side also had their moments. A strong ball toward goal by captain Vicky Small slammed into the backboard, much to the delight of the Alton supporters, only for the umpire to point out that the strike had come from outside the ‘D’ – so no goal as the sides went into the break goalless.

The start of the second half brought more intensity and a lovely ball into the attacking ‘D’ from Kat Gilbert and a kind deflection from Naomi Jones landed to a well-positioned Zoe Swan who controlled the ball and tapped in at the far post to give Alton the lead.

Hamble stuck back immediately, winning a penalty corner and converting the opportunity before keeping Alton on the back foot with an offensive onslaught. But wonderful clearances in front of goal by Abi Green, Kat Gilbert and Ellie Chester kept the ball out and earned Alton a point.

On Saturday, Alton Ladies are away to Southampton University in Hampshire 2.