Hockey: No holding Hounslow or Havant

HAVANT and Hounslow marched on at the top of the Pizza Express National League in what is effectively a two- team race after Southgate faltered badly this weekend, writes Peter Colwill.

Southgate drew 0-0 with Old Loughtonians on Saturday and then went down 3-2 at Cannock after John Shaw had put them ahead in the first minute and Guy Gisborne had increased the lead from the penalty spot within 16 minutes.

Havant will feel indebted to Calum Giles. He scored three, including two penalty-corner conversions, in their 4-1 win at Canterbury on Saturday and then managed the only goal, also from a penalty corner, against Reading yesterday.

Two penalty-corner goals by Bobby Crutchley and a penalty stroke from David Hacker gave Hounslow a 3-0 victory against Teddington in a preview of their Hockey Association Cup semi-final.

At the other end of the table Bromley, who lost 1-0 at Welton on Saturday and 2-0 at home to Bourneville yesterday, are now assured of relegation.

There was rejoicing for Surbiton and Guildford, who gained promotion to the First Division. Surbiton drew with Richmond, while Guildford, who have been close to promotion in previous years, made no mistake this time with a 5-3 win against Harleston Magpies.