WHITCHURCH United were relegated from the Wessex League Premier Division on Saturday, after a 5-0 thrashing by Hamworthy.

The Jam Boys went into the match with the faintest hope of avoiding the drop - needing both a 6-0 win and relegation rivals Cowes Sports to lose 3-0 to survive.

However United, whose manager Carl Bennett was unable to attend due to a clash with his brother's wedding, could do little to stop the rampaging Hammers and their striker Steven Smith.

The prolific forward smashed three past Ellis Grant on Saturday, while goals Edward Hodge and Joshua Rose rounded off a comfortable victory for Hamworthy.

Even if United had managed an unlikely 6-0 win, it would have meant little difference to their survival hopes.

Relegation rivals Cowes managed a 1-0 win over Amesbury to drop both Verwood and Whitchurch into Division One.

Fawley were also relegated, despite a final day win over Brockenhurst.

At the top of the table, league leaders Moneyfields face an anxious wait to see if they will remain champions.

The Portsmouth side are facing a three point deduction for fielding an illegible player earlier this season.

Moneyfields are in the process of appealing the punishment and will attend an FA hearing at Wembley on Wednesday to find out their fate.

If the appeal is upheld, Moneyfields will be crowned champions.

If the deduction stands, Moneyfields will drop below second placed Portland United, who will instead be awarded the title.