Andover 3 BAT Sports 0

ANDOVER began their Wessex League cup campaign with this comfortable first round victory at Southern Gardens on Tuesday.

From as early as the fourth minute when Justin Bennett seized on a mistimed clearance to score the first goal, the Lions never looked as if they would lose the game.

The Lions defended well, were quick on the break and in the final third were alert against a home defence that were not always comfortable.

BAT did create chances but Colin Hopkins answered with two excellent saves.

Early in the second half, following a corner, Andover went further ahead thanks to an own goal. This allowed Andover to play with even more freedom and they took full advantage.

After the Lions lost an appeal for a penalty, Justin Bennett made the game safe when he coolly lobbed the ball into the net over a crowded goalmouth.

After two defeats this was a must win game and the team responded accordingly.

Team: Hopkins, Mariner, Pratley, Damen, Barker, Hughes, Richards, Rusher (Nurse), Andrews (Cole), Bennett, Reading (Rea).

Tomorrow the Lions travel to Portland United and on Tuesday (18) they visit Brockenhurst for a Russell Cotes cup second round tie.