Andover New Street 3 Petersfield Town 1: PETERSFIELD Town fell to defeat at Andover New Street last Tuesday night in Division One of the Sydenhams Wessex League after a classic game of two halves.

The Rams led at half time but they let the lead slip in the second half through a Luke Hooper hat-trick.

Andover New Street started slightly on the front foot but couldn’t create a clear-cut chance. The Rams were restricted to minimal chances, but they made a chance count in the 22nd minute when they took the lead.

Cameron Smith floated in a delightful cross to Jordan Geddes, who looped his header over the poorly positioned Chris Wing and sneaked it into the back of the net.

Things went from bad to worse for the home side as Jazz Beavis received two yellow cards in quick succession.

The first was for a cynical foul in his half and the second was for a late lunge near the technical area, meaning the hosts had to play just over 50 minutes with ten men.

Rafa Ramos almost equalised soon after the red card. He created the chance out of nothing before releasing a powerful effort which clipped the bar. Ramos was tactically substituted moments later.

Marvin Orepo almost doubled Petersfield’s lead before half time. Good passing into space released Orepo running down the line, but his effort was blocked.

Andover New Street began attacking with serious intent in the second half, with their first period of pressure resulting in a serious penalty shout, after a rash challenge, and an effort which was smartly saved by the feet of Rams keeper Matt Petts.

The home side were gifted an equaliser on 62 minutes after experienced Petersfield captain Kris Stevens made a vital error. The centre-back gave the ball away to the in-form Hooper, who made no mistake to bring his side level.

Andover New Street went ahead in the 85th minute with Hooper’s second goal of the game. A deep cross wasn’t dealt with and Hooper produced a deft flick over the keeper, and his effort crossed the line despite desperate efforts by Petersfield defenders.

The hosts settled the game in injury time with a brisk counter attack. Hooper completed an impressive hat-trick when he latched on to a long ball up the field. He wasted no time as he progressed with the ball and clinically dispatched his effort past Petts.

The Rams had Saturday off because of Pewsey Vale dropping out of the league.