Fareham are within two points of the South Premier Hockey League leadership after wiping out a two-goal deficit to secure a dramatic 4-3 win over Old Cranleighians, writes Mike Vimpany.

But coach Steve Godwin knows that they must improve their defensive techniques if they are to offer a serious challenge to Maidenhead's superiority at the top.

"I was tearing my hair out on the touchline," he confessed as Fareham frittered away an early lead to fall 3-1 behind.

Tim Stainer's eighth goal of the season got Fareham away to the best possible start.

But defensive frailties allowed one-time England squadman Dave Knapp (2) and Mike Stevens to send Old Cranleighians into a 3-1 lead.

Fareham were on levels terms by the break - Martin Fripp putting away a penalty corner and scoring from a rebound, then Stainer equalising.

A four-man move, initiated by John Oliver, Tim Tavender and Stainer, led to Scott Shirley's second-half winner.

OCs later rattled the Fareham crossbar, but a string of fine saves by the visitors goalkeeper denied Fareham further goals.

Fareham begin their Hampshire Cup defence against Basingstoke at Henry Cort School on Sunday, 2pm.