Haslemere Hockey Club’s men’s first team earned a 2-2 draw from an intense game against Staines.

Haslemere started strongly, and led 2-0 at half-time.

The first goal came from Johnny Thompson, who executed a perfect drag flick into the bottom left corner of the net – leaving the Staines goalkeeper with no chance.

Haslemere extended their lead when Marco Van Raatle displayed remarkable skill to outmanoeuvre the keeper and slot the ball into the net.

Staines mounted a comeback in the second half, and capitalised on a goalmouth scramble to pull one back.

Staines continued to press and levelled the scores with a well-executed drag flick.

Haslemere had a golden opportunity to secure victory when Andy Powell unleashed a powerful shot, but an outstanding save from the Staines goalkeeper denied them the winner.

The man-of-the-match award went to Luke Van Oudtshoorn for his exceptional work rate and intelligent decision making on the field.