Sanderstead let slip a 3-1 half-time lead on Saturday, losing 5-4 away against Bank of England in Surrey Division One.

A hat-trick from John Devaney and a goal for leading scorer Mark Hunnisett were not enough to salvage anything from the encounter.

Bank responded to the Millers’ commendable first-half performance by slotting home four goals after the break, ensuring a home win.

Commenting on the game, player-coach Hunnisett said: "Bank played better than any team we’ve faced this year – their movement was superb – and we had them beaten for a time.

"We scored some great goals and managed to put four past a team that had only conceded six before now.

"Our work-rate defensively was excellent.

"It’s hard to take another defeat by a single goal, but we can hold our heads high and will continue to make life hard for teams in our league."

The club’s second team, meanwhile, were unlucky to take only a point from their clash with Reigate Priory's third team, conceding a second equaliser moments before the final whistle.

The Millers went 1-0 up through Ashley Cooke after Dominic Knolles set up a tap-in at the back post.

Reigate responded with a soft goal after exploiting uncertainty in the Sanderstead defence.

The hosts enjoyed extended periods of possession in the second half and created a handful of chances.

In open play Greg Gilson conceived an opportunity out of nothing, setting himself up after a mazy dribble but he shot wide when he seemed certain to score.

The Millers’ set-piece plays were well defended by Reigate, whose goalkeeper proved adept at clearing the danger whether on the ground or in the air.

But Andrew Keen was able to capitalise from a short corner to bag Sanderstead’s second.

His team-mates could not finish off their determined opponents, who contrived to score a late goal amid confusion around the D, an innocuous shot evading the defence and passing an unsighted Richie Young in goal.

New players of all ages and abilities are always welcomed at Sanderstead as the club seeks to strengthen its squad.

Anyone interested in finding out more can either visit the club’s website at sandersteadhockey.com or call Martyn Avery on 07968 973305.

Training sessions are held every Tuesday evening at Warlingham School, and players wishing to join the club are invited to attend.

The next fixtures are on Saturday 27 November: 1st XI v Old Kingstonian, 1pm at Croydon High School.

2nd XI v Purley Walcountians 3s, 2.30pm at PWHC.