Early goal defeat for Robins (From Andover Advertiser)

Battling Stockbridge edged out in the rain

11:46am Wednesday 6th February 2013 in Sport By Sports editor Kerry Miller

Laverstock and Ford 1 Stockbridge 0.

A delicate chip by home striker Louis Elder was enough to deprive visiting Stockbridge of any points at wet and windy Laverstock and Ford on Tuesday night writes Kerry Miller.

It was hard on Stuart Thomson’s side who competed all night and played their part on what was an entertaining game in parts, despite the conditions and the heavy pitch which only passed a late inspection by referee Baker.

The Robins were without Steve Witt, Sam Coleman, Lou Bain and Allan Ralph but could have taken the lead inside 20 seconds as Dave Cotter picked up a loose ball in midfield and drove inches wide.

Jack Hutchings then brought a stunning save out of home keeper Ben Bissington before Laverstock struck as Elder was put away down the left and his clinical finish was too good for Peter Roberts.

Hutchings again went close on the half hour and Lewis Alderman’s free-kick was touched over by Bissington but the elusive goal did not arrive despite Cotter slinging in a cross from the goal line which was missed by everybody just on the break.

On the restart Hutchings was crowded out while trying to wriggle his way down the goalline but chances became scarce until Rob Gallagher hit the post and Danny Field’s superb last gasp tackle stopped Lavvy’s Elliott Wykes as he was free in the box.

As Stocks pushed forward looking for the equaliser substitute Keiran Mulchay watched his header cleared off the line then Jordan Caira was put through but Roberts got a finger to his effort and it came back off the bar.

Cotter could have levelled late on when free in the area but he was foiled by Bissington before Lewis Alderman’s shot was fielded which proved to be the last play of the match.

On Saturday  Stockbridge are home to Fleet Spurs weather permitting then on Tuesday they are home again to Team Solent.