VERWOOD Town took the lead at Whitchurch United in the Wessex Premier League on Saturday – but eventually succumbed to a 2-1 defeat.

John Webb’s shot was well saved but Nathan Saxby was following up and slotted in from an acute angle after ten minutes.

The home team levelled in controversial circumstances when a penalty was awarded against Dean Evans for handball, though there was little he could have done to get out of the way at pointblank range, and Luke Walker converted.

Scott Hassell headed the winner just past the hour mark.

Manager Adie Arnold said: “We need to be more of a threat in the final third and we are looking to lads with Wessex League experience to add that bit extra.

“At this time of year, players start moving around but everyone wants a bit of money.

Some want silly money while others want expenses but when you have nothing to work with, it is difficult to get the right players in.

“If we want to get into that middle bracket, then we have to find a way of helping the players a little bit.”

The club are particularly looking for a goalkeeper with Sydenhams Premier or higher level experience to cover for an injury to Chris Lynch.

Candidates are invited to call Arnold on 07973 957708.

The Potters have an FA Vase first round tie at home to Laverstock & Ford on Saturday, and then entertain Brockenhurst next Wednesday. The reserves lost 3-2 at home to Christchurch.

Tom Callaghan and Joseph Dennett netted.

The club are holding their annual quiz night at the Hideaway on Friday, November 8 (7.30pm). Entry is £5 per person with teams up to a maximum of six players.

Ringwood Town lost their third successive match, 5-0 at home to Team Solent, meaning they have conceded 16 goals in those games.

Sean Bartlett scored a hat-trick and Louis Le Mesurier and James Orvis also netted.

The Brewers head to Andover New Street on Saturday.