NEW-BOYS VTFC sailed into the top six of Division 1 as their excellent start to the season continued with a 2-2 draw against Andover at Portsmouth Road.

"I really can't give our players enough credit today," smiled VT manager Dave Diaper. "This game was a good yardstick for us and we've worked our socks off against a good team.

"We've played eight games so far this season and only lost two of them. I think that we have shown that we can do well in this league and I've got to be very pleased with 14 points so far," he added.

Former Saint Kevin Gibbens put the Boatmen ahead midway through the first half from Marc Diaper's free kick, but the Lions roared back to lead courtesy of a Bobby Swayne header and a thunderous 35-yarder from Callum Earl.

But substitute Mike Spinney, who was only thrown on for the last ten minutes, rescued the home side a deserved point by heading home a Gary Male cross in the last minute.

Christchurch chalked up their first league win of the season with a 2-1 success at Hamble ASSC, who are still looking to open their account.

Scott Joyce headed the Priory men into a tenth-minute lead from Ben Griffiths' near-post delivery. Richard Morse equalised for Hamble on 67 minutes but the visitors struck with their winner almost straight from the restart through Duncan Wells.

"It wasn't a great performance from us," admitted Christchurch boss Pete Moore. "In fact we've played 100 times better than that and lost 3-0!"

BAT extended their unbeaten run to six matches following their 1-1 draw at Hamworthy. Dave Marden gave the Tobaccomen a third-minute lead. with Scott Bedward levelling for Alex Pike's side two minutes into the second half.

Alton and Bournemouth Poppies also shared a 1-1 draw, Danny McGarry's effort for the home side being matched by Poppies' Dan Benfield.

Fareham kept Downton nailed firmly to the foot of the table by beating the Wiltshire side 2-1 at Cams Alders.

Floyd Hamodu's spectacular diving header gave Fareham a second-minute lead but it lasted barely 60 seconds as Danny Alpin equalised after the home keeper misjudged the ball in the swirling wind.

Fareham grabbed their winner from the penalty spot after 70 minutes. Danny White was pulled back in the area and Pete Woods made no mistake from 12 yards.