BEMERTON Heath Harlequins returned from Wessex Premier League top five side Alresford with an excellent point.

They were forced to field their youngest side all season, being minus experienced trio of Robbie Matthews, Jack Slade or Sed Dawes.

A bright start from Bemerton saw them create a few early chances, following composed midfield play from Jamie Waters and Jake Burgess, who both consistently created themselves a lot of space in the middle of the park.

The first real chance fell to Alresford but a fantastic double save from Rob Crossley kept the scores level.

Shortly after, Jordan Matthews scored from close range, only to see it ruled offside.

After the break, Alresford started the stronger side and created themselves some opportunities only to be shut out by the consistent hard work from the in form Bemerton back four.

Elliott Cross playing in the number 10 roll dropped deeper and spread the play excellently throughout creating opportunities for the team to get forward.

With 12 minutes left on the clock, Alresford broke through and scored a close range effort from Geoff Dunn.

The Bemerton spirit never died and they continued to press Alresford back into their own half and finally the equaliser arrived i deep into injury time in the 98th minute.

Bemerton were awarded a free-kick 40 yards out.

Jake Rawkins placed the ball as the whole Bemmy side except for the goalkeeper lined up on the edge of the Alresford box, Rawkins delivered a high out swinging ball to the keepers far post and up rose Scott Hassell to head in the equaliser.

A hard fought game but a very well deserved point.

Bemerton boss Rae Hughes said: "All in all it was a good point considering we scored very late on.

"Again we have shown what we are capable of. Missing some big players for us but this young squad rose to the occasion and played some impressive football at times in testing conditions. "We will continue to work hard and see where it takes us.”

Bemerton, seventh in the table, are next in action on Tuesday night, when Bashley are the visitors.