AN EARLY Eddie Hodge strike proved enough for Hamworthy United to take the spoils against fellow Wessex Premier title hopefuls Brockenhurst.

Hodge's winner, combined with a Shane Murphy penalty save, guided Hammers to a 1-0 victory at the County Ground.

Without both boss Tim Sills and assistant Chris Senior, Ben Sullivan took the reins in the dugout for the hosts.

And with just five minutes on the clock, Sullivan's side had their noses in front. A high, looping cross proved tricky for Brockenhurst keeper James Mayo to handle, allowing Hodge to poach the game's opener.

Back came the Badgers, with Murphy alert to thwart Silvano Obeng, before Mayo denied Max Wilcock.

The visitors had a golden chance to equalise, awarded a penalty when Murphy brought down Alex Haynes.

But the goalkeeper quickly made amends, brilliantly saving Obeng's low spot-kick.

Brock dominated for large spells in difficult conditions, but could not find the all important equaliser as Hamworthy's strong defensive record came to the fore.

Hammers sit third in the table, three points behind both Brockenhurst and leaders Horndean, with two games in hand.

Christchurch's game against Bashley and Poppies versus Hythe & Dibden were both postponed due to waterlogged pitches.

In Wessex One, New Milton Town scored twice in the final 20 minutes to come from behind to win 3-2 at Verwood Town.

In a game where both sides ended with 10 men, Diop Evans had Verwood ahead at the break.

But a Chris Long double, combined with a Ben Cooper penalty secured the win for Verwood, with Joe Freak's effort proving to be just consolation.

Ringwood Town drew 3-3 at Downton thanks to goals from Ryan Hamm, Callum Horton and Harry Smith.