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).
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