TITLE-CHASING Laverstock and Ford bounced back from the horror show at Ringwood after spooking close rivals Shaftesbury 3-1 on Halloween weekend in Wessex Division One.

Russ Jones started proceedings at Cockrams, latching onto a long clearance from keeper Alexis Aguer and firing home on 35 minutes.

Moments later, ex-Salisbury Mark Ford levelled matters.

The striker went close again in the second half but was denied by Frenchman Aguer.

Laverstock were back in front on 54 minutes when a Tom Mundy free-kick found the returning Jamie Smith and his header across goal was stabbed home by Joe Sanger.

In the closing stages, Sanger went on a mazy run, riding three challenges before winning a penalty. Archie Lovegrove stepped up and coolly converted to put the game to bed.

Lavvy boss Liam McConnell said: "It's incredible to see how the lads have responded after last week's blow.

"We got a vital win on Tuesday and another huge win here gives us that momentum we always strive for.

"As always, this league is unforgiving so we just focus and regroup ready to go again."

Lavvy remain in second, a point behind leaders Hamble Club, with the same amount of games played.