LAVERTOCK and Ford shook off last week’s disappointment by producing a good team performance to secure all three points in a tough encounter against AFC Stoneham at the HP Arena on Saturday.

Rob Lakeman and Liam McConnell were hit with a selection crisis, and had to shake up the pack.

Lewis Wykes and Chae Sykes started up front and from the off caused Stoneham’s defence problems. Lavvy had a number of chances with Sykes narrowly missing the target on two occasions in the first half, whilst Lewis Wykes was found by Graham Mankin just before half time but saw his header just miss the target. Both sides were defending resolutely with Stoneham only managing a few half chances before the break.

Laverstock were then put on the back foot by Stoneham at the beginning of the second half however Mankin and Oliver Hoare defended well to keep out the opposition strike force at bay.

With the minutes ticking on Lavvy unleashed Jamie Ritchie for his debut and it would prove to be the perfect debut.

With only 10 minutes remaining, the impressive Adam Bourner sent a free kick into the box and it was met perfectly by the youngster who found the bottom corner with a fantastic header.

Lavvy then stood firm for the remaining minutes and despite a late surge of pressure from the home side, which included an effort which clipped the crossbar. They managed to hold on for a vital three points which keeps them at the top of the table.

Lakeman and McConnell were delighted with the result and told JournalSport: “It’s been a long week for us, since last week’s disappointing performance.

"We spoke with Jamie and said he would get his chance and for him to not only did he play a key part but to grab the winner will be something he remembers for a long time. All the lads are delighted for him, he’s fearless and credit to him, he helped us pick up three huge points when our backs were against the wall.”