Hampshire League 2004.

AFC Wolversdene 0 Michelmersh & Timsbury 4.

After a tough first half, Michelmersh got their league campaign back on track with an excellent away victory at fellow strugglers AFC Wolversdene Irons in Andover last Saturday afternoon.

Playing against the wind at a very blustery Charlton Sports Centre, Michelmersh had their backs to the wall for lengthy periods of the first half with Wolversdene dominant. However, the Mersh defended superbly, influenced by the return of centre back Richard Hamblin.

Wolversdene did create a few chances but Michelmersh held out and did exceptionally well to keep the game goalless by the half-time whistle.

The second half saw the roles reversed and, with the wind at their backs, Michelmersh stepped up a gear and after some good play they broke the deadlock on 51 minutes when a good through ball put veteran Jon Lavers clear, his shot was saved but striker Alex Hoyle reacted quickest and tucked away the loose ball.

This gave the Mersh a big lift and soon they doubled their advantage when a long ball was flicked on by midfielder Shane Lewis, pictured below, for Hoyle to bundle home. Wolversdene did hit back but again found the Michelmersh defence in a mean mood with Adam Wilkes also prominent.

Michelmersh continued to enjoy the better of play as they kept the pressure on and after going close several times Hoyle completed his hat-trick with a well-struck volley, punishing a poor clearance by the home side.

This as good as secured the result and with ten minutes remaining Wolversdene were reduced to ten players after the dismissal of their keeper for bringing Hoyle down.

Michelmersh dominated the final stages of the match and it came as no surprise when they added a fourth goal following Shane Lewis's well-taken free-kick.

Tomorrow (Saturday) Michelmersh have a tough game when they visit their unbeaten title challenging local rivals Mottisfont at Bengers Lane.