HASLEMERE 3, WOKING 1

AFTER four games and a single point, promoted Haslemere got their show on the road in the Hants/Surrey Regional 1 with an excellent win over Woking.

Haslemere had played well enough in their previous games, but indiscipline had cost them dearly.

The Blues were without captain Barney Green and winger Tristan Conoley (long-term ligament injury), but gave as good as they got against the in-form visitors who had won three of their first four matches.

Haslemere grew into the game and exerted pressure on the Woking defence.

Nic Cope showed good pace and skill as he drove into the D before being fouled when in a shooting position. The umpire awarded a penalty flick and Cope calmly stepped up to bury the ball.

Woking gained momentum as half-time approached and with Haslemere slow to organise their defence against a swift attack, Sean Pearcy struck home the equaliser.

Haslemere pushed hard after the break and were rewarded with the all-important third goal. The ball got caught up in a crowded D and eventually fell to Graham Stopher who slotted in from close range.

A confident and structured Haslemere now had the initiative and only great work by the impressive Woking keeper prevented further goals.

However, Haslemere finally wrapped up the points with another classy reverse-stick finish from top scorer Cope.

Haslemere will hope to build on this morale-boosting win when they visit Fareham II this Saturday.