NEW MILTON moved one step closer to promotion after edging past Hamworthy Rec on penalties in the Wessex League Division One play-off semi-final.

The game was sent straight to penalties after a 1-1 draw during regulation time, Linnets’ opener on 42 minutes via Cal Parnell cancelled out a minute later by Chris Long.

Goalkeeper Ollie Bull was the hero, producing two stops as the hosts won 3-1 on penalties.

New Milton will now host Petersfield Town in the final, which will be staged on Saturday, April 29 (kick-off 3pm).

Thanks to finishing in third place, Linnets will have home advantage, Petersfield visiting the DMW Glazing Stadium for an opportunity to reach the Wessex Premier League.

Petersfield also earnt their spot in the final via penalties, winning 9-8 in a shootout on the Isle of Wight after a 0-0 draw at Newport.