Sanderstead’s newly-promoted first and second teams started slowly in their respective new divisions last Saturday and suffered defeats, leaving both outfits determined to make amends in this weekend’s encounters, writes David Fitzpatrick.

The first team went down 2-1 away to Oxted Threes in South League Surrey Division One, missing goal-scoring chances up front and conceding possession too easily throughout the ranks.

An early short-corner strike deflected off defender Simon Carter’s stick, leaving goalkeeper Dan Pacitti flat-footed and giving the hosts the lead.

Boosted by this good fortune, Oxted pushed forward in numbers and caused problems for their opponents, who were often caught sitting too deep.

Despite a lethargic start, the Millers managed a few openings.

Mark Hunnisett had the best opportunity when he picked up the ball at the top of the circle, but he shot wide of the left post.

Then Oxted doubled their advantage, working an attack down the right wing and sneaking in to convert when the ball rebounded kindly off Pacitti's pads.

The Millers keeper kept a clean sheet in the second half, proving more than a match for the lively Oxted attack.

One athletic stop in particular – from a set piece – seemed to lift his side’s spirits and the visitors were soon back in contention.

Gavin Bradley and John Devaney worked a series of quick exchanges out wide to beat three defenders and create an opening for Devaney to finish cleanly.

Sanderstead were in contention for an equaliser and went close when Mark Hunnisett just failed to connect with a loose ball a few yards from goal.

But the final whistle came too soon for Sanderstead and they now look to their next game – against Wanderers Twos – for their first points of the campaign.

Also edged out by a single goal was Sanderstead’s second team, who hosted Sunbury and Walton Hawks Twos.

Against the run of play the visitors recorded the only goal of the game on a counter-attack.

The home side had the majority of possession and a greater number of scoring opportunities but failed to capitalise.

Set pieces yielded the most promising hockey from the Millers and Dominic Knolles and David Avery both went close, sending their efforts just wide of the target.

At the back sweeper Andrew Keen played a pivotal role in ensuring the Hawks were kept at bay.

Unfortunately, his team-mates further up the field could not secure a result, meaning the twos go into their game against NPL Badgers without a point to their name in Surrey Open Premier Division.

Sanderstead hockey club is inviting new club members of all abilities to boost its playing roster. Anyone interested in finding out more can visit www.sandersteadhockey.com or contact Martyn Avery on 07968 973305.