BEMERTON Heath Harlequins beat the weather to get their game on at home to Moneyfields on Tuesday night but there was no perfect beginning to 2014.

Stephen Hutchings’s 17th minute strike proved to be the winning goal at Western Way on a pitch that soaked up the recent downpours well.

The three points were secured by the visitors when Hutchings latched onto a long ball down the wing.

He was gifted the breakthrough as keeper Max Frampton came charging off his line and was punished with a well-taken lob.

A strong second half saw Bemerton carve out the best set of chances with Joe Sanger and Danny Young going close but they failed to make the pressure count.

And Aaron Cook’s nasty injury added increased frustration for head coach Ian Chalk, pictured above.

“We played some excellent football but lacked composure in front of goal,” he said.

“It was a game of two halves as they were better in the first half while we dominated the second.”

“We did OK overall as we haven’t played for a while and it was a good run out for the players.”

As it was the only local game to be called on, Chalk was hoping for a decent turnout but a mere 20 supporters showed their support.

“We’re suffering financially at the moment, not getting people through the gates.

“It’s a real shame as we need more supporters to come and watch.”

Harlequins re-visit the Sydenhams Premier favourites Sholing on Saturday, but with the Silverlake Arena currently flooded, something drastic needs to happen if it’s to go ahead.

Harlequins will look to get revenge on the 7-0 stuffing they encountered against the leaders in the cup in November.

Chalk added: “Sholing are a fantastic side who are far too good for this league.

“We’ll do our best and certainly have a go at them.”

Bemerton: Frampton, Carter, Roberts, Metcalfe, Cook (Jones), Mankin, Young (Eves), O’Keefe, Slade, Sanger, Rowe (White).

Att: 20