Byfield a byword for quality

Two quality goals from Danny Byfield gave Purley a well deserved win against Isca in the final game of the Men's Inter-League Tournament at Milton Keynes yesterday.

Earlier Ipswich, with goals from Simon Miller and Richard Fox, had beaten Nottingham 2-0, to claim a home venue for their final match against Isca, fighting to retain their National League status.

In their opening game, Purley conceded two goals in the closing minutes to lose 3-2 to Sheffield. Yesterday they were much more disciplined against Isca, taking the lead in the 11th minute. Byfield got the faintest of touches to a free hit taken just outside the circle.

Purley had to do some desperate defending in the second half before, with five minutes remaining, Byfield pounced on a loose ball at a penalty corner to drive it in for his second.

In the women's competition, Reading are through to next weekend's crossovers but must await the result of today's games to know their opponents. Dereham, who on Saturday eased to a 4-2 victory over North Staffordshire, were off the pace yesterday going down 1-0 to Liverpool. Hampton-in-Arden, fighting to retain their National League status, were held to a goalless draw by Bournemouth.