CHRISTCHURCH pulled away from the foot of Wessex Premier with a commanding win at strugglers Andover New Street on Saturday.

James King's brace and a goal from Max Wilcock steered Ollie Cherrett's side to their first victory on the road since the opening day of the season.

A hat-trick from new signing River Smith helped Poppies come back from 2-0 down to win against Shaftesbury at Cockrams. Aaron White and Elliot Bevis had put the home side in control, before Smith fired in three second-half goals.

Lymington Town secured back-to-back home wins after hammering Fareham Town 6-0 at the Sports Ground. The goals were shared between Mike Gosney, Zac Pickett, Lewis Ross, Ash Jarvis and Jake King (2).

Bashley were downed by league leaders Sholing at Universal Stadium. A Dan Munday penalty had given the visitors an early lead but the Boatmen fired back with a double from Brad Targett and a late Dan Mason effort.

In Wessex One, Verwood Town secured their first home win since August by beating Petersfield Town 5-2. Ollie Davies hit a hat-trick for Potters, with a double from James Guthrie sealing the win.

Ringwood Town and New Milton Town both slumped to 2-0 defeats at the hands of Alton and Amesbury Town, respectively.

Bashley are back in Wessex Premier action tomorrow when they host Hamble Club.

There is also Russell-Cotes Cup second round action as Christchurch travel to Alton and Lymington host Andover New Street (all 7.45pm).