THERE could well be an unexpected reprieve for Hamble ASSC, whose 4-2 defeat at Bemerton Heath Harlequins on Saturday seemingly ended their 18-year stay in the top flight of the Sydenhams Wessex League.

The Planemakers could yet be toasting Lymington & New Milton's championship success if it results in promotion for the Linnets. That's because there is no Ryman or Southern League club to come back down and that could result in only Downton dropping into Division 2.

But there's also some possible bad news for Hamble. Their manager Danny Bowers has been approached by BAT as a replacement for Andy Leader, who is now managing SWL rivals Christchurch.

"They've asked to speak to me and I will do so, but I need a break away with my family first," confirmed Bowers. "It's going to be a tough decision as Hamble gave me the opportunity to move into first-team management."

Richard Morse's near-post header on 48 minutes cancelled out Ian Chalk's first-half opener for Bemerton before strikes by Chalk, Neil Cole and Adam Nash put Harlequins 4-1 ahead before Ross Bottomley netted a late consolation.