ALRESFORD TOWN 2, AFC PORTCHESTER 1

ALRESFORD claimed another scalp from amongst the teams above them in a close-fought contest at Arlebury Park.

But the Magpies had to grind out this win against a good AFC Portchester side.

Both sides had chances to break the deadlock in a goalless first half. For Alresford, Scott Munro was just high with a glancing header from Chris Mason’s free-kick.

At the other end, Tom Ashton denied the visitors with a goal-line clearance and then Portchester had a goal ruled out for offside.

And it was Portchester who got their noses in front after half-time, with Steve Ramsey beating Dan Kempson from the penalty spot.

Alresford’s answer was to score a beautifully constructed equaliser. John Cole, Geoff Dunn and Tom Sands unlocked Portchester’s defence with some intricate passing and Sands finished in style.

The see-saw battle continued and Kempson kept Alresford on terms with a vital save in a one-on-one.

And it was the Magpies who got the decider. Substitute Dunn broke to the by-line before pulling back a great cross for Sam Burt to convert from close in.

Alresford, now just a point outside the top six in the Sydenhams Premier League, are away to fourth-placed Sholing this Saturday. They host Lymington on Wednesday (Feb 22).