VERWOOD Town are facing up to the stark reality of life back in Sydenhams One next season.

Relegation was confirmed for the Premier Division cellar-dwellers on Saturday when they were held 1-1 at Amesbury Town.

Max Fletcher was on target for Adie Arnold’s men, but the result left the Potters ten points adrift of third-to-bottom Whitchurch with just three games remaining.

It ends Verwood’s five-year stay in the Wessex top flight, having been promoted as 2011/12 champions.

Fawley AFC have their work cut out to avoid following Verwood through the trap door.

The Oilers remain four points adrift of safety following Saturday’s 3-0 defeat at Horndean.

Young sub Conor Duffin inflicted all the damage, plundering a second-half hat-trick.

“He is only 21 and possesses frightening pace and power,” said Deans boss Michael Birmingham.

Fawley have three games remaining – Amesbury Town (away, April 8), Whitchurch United (away, April 15) and Brockenhurst (home, April 22).

Bournemouth Poppies did their survival hopes a power of good with a 1-0 derby win over Hamworthy United, settled by Stepan Neronski.

The 18th-placed Poppies host Team Solent tomorrow evening (Tuesday, 7.45).