A FEISTY top-of-the-table clash in Sydenhams Wessex Division One saw Laverstock and Ford beaten by ten-man Hamble Club.

Nathan Lynch netted the winner in the 52nd minute as Hamble overcame an early sending off to reduce the gap at the summit to two points. They also have two games in hand on their title rivals.

Doug Rowe was given his marching orders with just 13 minutes on the clock after a late challenge on Jamie Smith.

Smith was casualty again after being elbowed by Lynch.

Although Smith remained on the pitch, his teammate and skipper Phil Morgan didn't, after picking up an injury.

Both sides couldn't be separated until seven minutes into the second half.

Former Salisbury defender Matthew Burt challenged Alexis Aguer in the home goal and the ball looped up for Lynch to acrobatically volley home the matchwinner.

Afterwards, Lavvy joint bosses Liam McConnell and Robbie Lakeman reflected on their disappointment to JournalSport.

"We can't deny Hamble, they did a job on us and deserved the three points," they said.

"This was a big occasion and perhaps the pressure told, but we just didn't show up and that's the disappointing factor.

"The lads are obviously downbeat but they have proven to be fantastic throughout the season.

"Hamble are full of experienced players so have form of playing in games like this, for us it's exciting to see the lads at the top of the league at the halfway point.

"It's a sad day for us but we regroup and go again as always!"

Lavvy look to bounce back when travelling to rock-bottom Andover New Street on Saturday (3pm).