Ashford Hockey Club men's 1st team slipped deeper into relegation trouble with a 5-4 defeat at Purley Walcountians on Saturday.

They paid the price for a poor opening period, during which Purley raced into a 3-0 lead and it would have been more but for some fine goalkeeping by Keir Starley.

Ashford finally got their act together as half-time approached and Andrew Hill pulled a goal back with a sublime finish.

With the half-time words of skipper Chris Smith still ringing in their ears, Ashford started the second period in much better fashion and Rob Playford made it 3-2 following a superb pass from Smith.

However, Ashford's defensive frailties again let them down again as they conceded two more goals, and although Hill struck twice more to complete his hat-trick, it was too late.

This Saturday, Ashford take on London Wayfarers at Ball Lane (2.30pm).