Match report: Debut delight for Jovarie Fyffe as Christchurch FC snatch late Wessex League Premier Division point after 1-1 draw with Laverstock & Ford FC

Substitute Jovarie Fyffe was the hero at Hurn Bridge, rescuing a dramatic point for Christchurch with a stoppage-time equaliser on his debut against Laverstock & Ford on Saturday.

Trailing 1-0 going into the closing stages, Church looked set to suffer a narrow defeat until Fyffe popped up at the death to level the scores and ensure the hosts came away with a hard-earned draw.

It was Laverstock who struck first in the 23rd minute, when Archie Lovegrove rose highest in the box to plant a firm header past Ben Rodwell, giving the visitors a deserved half-time lead after a lively opening spell.

Christchurch struggled to get going early on, but gradually grew into the contest after the break. A header narrowly cleared the bar on the hour mark, and they began to control possession more confidently as the second half wore on.

Bradley Gale was a standout throughout — eventually being named man of the match — with a composed display that helped Church maintain their foothold and push for a way back into the game.

The breakthrough finally came in the 90th minute. With Laverstock sitting deeper and looking to see the game out, they were caught off guard as Fyffe pounced to finish and mark his debut in style.

There was almost more late drama moments later, as Christchurch came within inches of snatching all three points in added time.

Christchurch compete in the Russell Cotes Cup tonight (Tuesday) against Bemerton Heath Harlequins before hosting Baffins Milton Rovers in the league on Saturday.

Christchurch: B. Rodwell, J. Dove, B. Channell, L. Freak, L. Sheehy, J. Hall, B. Atiako-Hall, B. Gale, J. Fu, F. Toghill, A. Chipangura. Subs: A. Farmer, A. Matthews, B. Jenkins, J. Fyffe, A. Younger.