John Robson joyously led Alton Town to the Hampshire Premier Division title last night - and professed himself even happier than when they clinched the old Division 1 crown three years ago.

A gritty 1-0 win at Liss put Robson's men safely out of reach of rivals East Cowes Vics.

But the manager admitted: "We had to graft hard for it tonight and that's been the story of our season.

"The championship is down to the hard work of the players.

"They've given 100 per cent all the way through."

He added: "This win means more than 1999 because it's a tougher league than it was then. There are more quality sides in there now."

Having taken the lead with a Jamie Smith header on the half-hour, Alton had to hold on with ten men.

They had midfielder Rob Savage dismissed for dissent with 20 minutes to go.

The result leaves them on 96 points, four clear of East Cowes Vics with just one game each remaining.

Headley are within touching distance of the Division 2 title after toppling league leaders Alresford 2-1 last night.

They bounced back with goals from Nigel Chambers and Darren Givens midway through the second half shortly after Alresford had taken the lead.

Alresford are four points clear at the top but have just one game remaining.

Headley would overhaul them by winning three of their last four fixtures.

Cowes Sports climbed to 16th place in the Jewson Wessex League with a 4-0 home win over tenth-placed AFC Newbury last night.

Phil McDonald struck twice for the Islanders, once from the penalty spot.

He was supported by singles from Jay Moyce and Danny Mew for a comfortable victory.