Havant shock previously unbeaten Haslemere in South Women’s Hockey League

The Surrey club had belted 17 goals in their first four games, but Havant netted in each half for a superb 2-0 away victory.

Havant began on the front foot with the front three of Poppy Herbert, Verena Grave and Alice Worsley put the home defence under extreme pressure.

Numerous penalty corners resulted and eventually Havant were deservedly in front through Louisa Taylor.

Haslemere hit back and at times Havant were guilty of giving possession away too easily, though Kimberley Tyrell gradually ensured control and led the Havant dominance with the help of inside forwards Katie Peckham, Ella Welch and captain Izzy Parry.

Midway through the second half Herbert’s long dribble was brought to an end by a clumsy tackle in the D.

Cat Evans converted the resultant penalty and Havant were largely untroubled after that with young keeper Pippa Jones keeping a clean sheet.

Havant, now just a point behind second-placed Haslemere, are home to Brighton & Hove this weekend.