The Hawks faced a tough challenge on a tricky, narrow, and bobbly pitch, with conditions that posed early problems for the visitors and suited the hosts’ style of play. Struggling to get to grips with the surface, the Hawks could not settle into their usual rhythm during the first half. On top of the pitch conditions, the game was very stop-start with a lot of fouls and the ball going out of play on numerous occasions. This led to a half with little to no chances for either side.

Strong challenges were rife though as on a few occasions questions were asked of the officials as a battles pushed the boundaries of the confines of the game. A big talking point of the first half was when Devante Stanley was landed on, leaving him in some discomfort, but Angell only saw yellow for the infringement.

Despite the difficulties of the first 45, the Hawks looked to regain composure, with more positive signs as the second half began. The shift in mentality was noticeable as they started to play further up the pitch.

Following this, a great opportunity came for the Hawks when Laidlaw’s well-delivered cross into the box was not dealt with by the Hungerford defence. Maloney’s shot was blocked, but the ball fell kindly to Seager, who couldn’t quite capitalise, firing his follow-up over the bar. It was a big chance for the Hawks to break the deadlock, but the finish unfortunately wasn’t there.

It was Hungerford Town who would take the lead moments later as Angell whipped an excellent ball in after the Hawks didn’t fully clear their lines. George Smith rose highest and managed to get his head to it, nodding past Dudzinski.

A turning point in the tie came as the game ticked closer to a conclusion as both teams were reduced to 10 men. Tempers flared after Bradbury was penalised for a push in the back on Medford-Smith. The pair came together and Medford-Smith reacted badly with both sent off for their part in the altercation.

The Hawks were unable to find an equaliser and the game ended 1-0 to the hosts. Next up for the Hawks is the visit of Walton and Hersham to Westleigh Park next Saturday.

FULL TIME: HUNGERFORD TOWN 1-0 HAVANT AND WATERLOOVILLE

Hungerford Town: Clarke (GK), Tyler (C), Angell, Medford-Smith, Berry-Hargreaves, Rose, Smith, Hooper (McGrory 61’), Shepherd, Marquez (Softley 87’), Tooze (Ibe 72’)

Unused Subs: Berchiche, Beardwell

Cautions: Hooper 14’, Angell 39’, Smith 45+4’, Espada 84’, Ibe 90+7’

Red Cards: Medford-Smith 80’

Goals: Smith 67’

Havant and Waterlooville: Dudzinski (GK), Stanley, McNerney (C), Willson, Seager, Maloney, Kealy, Lee (Bradbury 65’), Aston (Swann 87’), Anderson, Laidlaw

Unused Subs: Walker-Harris, Austin, Goddard

Cautions: Seager 45+4′, Anderson 52’, Swann 90+1’, Kealy 90+4’

Red Card: Bradbury 80’

Attendance: 460