A 3-0 defeat by Chichester has left Fareham with a mountain to climb in their quest for a return to the South Premier League's top tier.

They must now win their final game against in-form Staines, who are eyeing the second promotion spot for themselves.

"It's all down to the last 70 minutes of the season now. It's do-or-die at Staines on Saturday," reflected coach Nigel Cook.

Chichester clinched promotion as a result of beating Fareham, who are in grave danger of finishing the season empty-handed.

Staines go into Saturday's clash brimming with confidence on the back of winning ten of their last 13 games, including a 2-1 victory at Fareham before Christmas.

They are one point behind Fareham and will be promoted in Fareham's place should they win.

A draw will be sufficient for Fareham to clinch the runners-up spot behind Chichester, who should be crowned champions at Slough.

After a bright start in which Matt Fairweather had a drag-flick penalty corner well saved, Fareham were second best on Chichester's immaculate High School surface.

An incident midway through the first half, when coach Cook was sin-binned, disrupted Fareham's game plan.

Right-half Rob Church was left writhing in agony on the ground and struggling to breath after a challenge.

Cook lost his cool when the umpire declined to stop play and, following a verbal exchange with the official, was sent packing from the touchline.

He spent the remainder of the afternoon watching Fareham's title challenge dismantled - his nose hard pressed against the school playground wire mesh fence!

Cook had barely been in the 'cooler' five minutes when Fareham's defence was prised open - Paul Wallis whipping a deflected Ben Barnes shot past Dave Stainforth.

Chichester soaked up Fareham's pressure before Sam Beere stretched their lead from a well worked three-man short corner.

Fareham's afternoon agony ended when Jack Lerwell whipped in a third goal to spark Chichester's night-long promotion party.

Paultons cricketer Rob O'Brien scored twice as Fareham II drew 2-2 with Epsom to finish a creditable fourth in Open Premier League, Division 2.