Hockey: Southgate up to fourth after Oxted victory

Having let a two-goal lead slip in their previous two matches, Southgate had to come from behind as the visitors struck first in an evenly-matched opening period.

The home side's defence stopped for a split second expecting a free hit and Oxted’s Sam Driver took full advantage to beat keeper Chris Rae.

The lead was shortlived as four minutes later Southgate got the equaliser when a cross was deflected and Giulio Ferrini was well placed to squeeze the ball into the turf, sending it into the back of the net.

The hosts then took the lead in the 26th minute when John Sterlini beat three defenders down the right wing and his cross was deflected up off a defender's stick, leaving Ferrini to volley the ball home for his brace.

The second half started controversially when Southgate captain Thaddeus Rivett was given a yellow card after the match official misapplied the technical regulations.

With a man advantage, Oxted were on the front foot from the restart, and they immediately pressed for the equaliser.

The Southgate defence held firm though, but were largely destined to play the second half on the break as their opponents sought to find the equaliser.

It was from another counter attack that Southgate got their third when Timmy Smyth worked his way into the circle before drawing a foul. From the resulting penalty corner, Sterlini flicked into the roof of the net to seal his side's third win of the campaign.

It was another tough day at the office for Southgate ladies as they suffered a 5-1 loss against Hampstead and Westminster.

The margin of defeat was harsh on Southgate, who were only a goal behind at the break and held their own for the majority of the game against their top-of-the-table opponents.

Southgate's goal was memorable as Charlotte Kelly embarked on a superb dribble down the right flank before a baseline drive and perfectly-timed pass to the spot where debutant Carla Johl struck a first-time finish over the keeper's head.