The last three meetings between the Beavers and the Dragons have ended all-square however, Basingstoke, despite playing over 50 minutes a man down, recorded only their second ever win at Beveree.

An even first half ended goal less despite the visitor`s dominating skipper, Joe Dolan, sent off in the 38th minute, after two bookings. Dolan`s first indiscretion came in the 21st minute when he brought Hampton`s Craig Dundas down from behind. Seventeen minutes later, Dolan, handled the ball to prevent Lawrence Yaku from getting clear. Referee John Busby tried to play advantage but eventually called play back for a free kick and Dolan was off. Chances in the game were scarce, Basingstoke`s Jahson Downes, always a niggling threat, had a 10th minute effort saved by Hampton`s Kevin Davies whilst Dundas hit a shot wide in the 20th minute after collecting the ball in his stride.

Even with their numerical advantage Hampton struggled to make any impression and it was the visitors who scored, from a rare opportunity, in the 72nd minute. David Pratt took the ball on his chest, turned and shot wide of Davies. Hampton had chances to get on the score sheet but Yaku missed two good chances and right at the end a Francis Quarm `up and under` almost embarrassed Basingstoke`s Ross Kitteridge.

For a change `stoke`s travelling fans had something to cheer and no doubt Dolan was left a very relieved man.