Braishfield 2-3 Warsash Wasps

Braishfield beat the weather but not their opponents as they lost this tightly contested Southampton Premier Division clash.

Despite the heavy overnight rain, the pitch was remarkably still playable, and these two evenly matched sides made a lively opening. 

Warsash took a 12th minute lead, but Braishfield responded strongly with a good spell of pressure during which a crucial last gasp tackle prevented Dan Hansford from levelling. 

Wasps remained a threat on the counterattack, and midway through the half they extended their lead.

Play continued to be very even, but just before the interval Braishfield were thrown a lifeline when Ash McGimpsey's powerful free-kick was deflected into the net.

The second half was a similar affair, Andy Gregory went agonisingly close to a equaliser when his powerful shot cannoned of the underside of the cross bar and back out off the goalline. Despite being reduced to 10 men, the visitors immediately added a third goal. Braishfield seemed to be out of luck, as several good chances went begging. Hansford converted a penalty to set-up an exciting finale, but Warsash defended well with their goalkeeper in fine form with some good saves. Braishfield had a strong last minute penalty appeal turned down and were unable to salvage a point as the visitors held on to claim the three points.

Tomorrow afternoon both sides are in Hampshire Cup action. The 1st XI make the short trip to Hatches Farm, Wellow to play Dynamo Dockside whilst in the Vase the 2nd XI are home to MOB Albion. Both games kick-off at 2pm.