MERLEY Cobham Sports survived a second-half fightback to see off rivals Hamworthy Recreation 4-3 at Magna Road.

After a cagey start from both sides in the Dorset Premier League encounter, Cobham took the lead on 23 minutes through Brandon Randall.

A long clearance soon led to the second goal through Nathan Saxby, before Matt Groves made it 3-0 from the penalty spot before half-time.

However, two goals in as many minutes soon after the restart from Carl Edwards dragged Hamworthy right back into the contest.

The hosts were well on top, but were knocked back when Groves added his second of the afternoon with a simple header.

Hamworthy set up a grandstand finish when Edwards completed his hat-trick two minutes from time with a neat lob, but Cobham held on to win 4-3 and continue their perfect start to the season.

In the same league, Wareham Rangers lost 4-0 to Balti Sports, while Swanage Town & Herston's first game of the campaign ended in a 5-2 defeat at Gillingham Town.

Bournemouth Sports picked up a point with a 3-3 draw against Blandford United.