Three goals from Denzil Dolley and contributions from Richard Bruce and Alex Vernon helped champions Sanderstead to a 5-2 home win over Purley Walcountians IIs on the final weekend of the season in South League Surrey Division Two.

The Millers were in control from the outset, and Dolley was in devastating form.

The Gryphon man set up Bruce for the opener with a cross from the right before getting two goals of his own.

Dolley continued to make a nuisance of himself in the Purley circle, as his team-mates on the right flank overwhelmed their opponents and regularly found the striker in dangerous positions.

James Godden instigated several quick attacks from right back, linking with Chris O’Hagan and John Devaney to good effect.

PWs made their mark on the scoresheet before half time, dribbling into the ‘D’ through a mass of Sanderstead shirts, and converting unchallenged at the back post.

At 3-1, however, the Millers were in control and extended the lead straight after the break.

Vernon rounded off another Sanderstead counter-attack with an unstoppable shot into the roof of the Purley net – the pick of the goals on the day.

Dolley made his hat-trick after collecting a slide-rule pass from Martyn Avery and turning inside his defender to set up a well-executed reverse strike.

The home side seemed destined to add more goals but poor finishing from Bruce and shots wide of the mark from O’Hagan amongst others prevented this becoming a rout.

Purley got their second not long before the end, when a looping short-corner flick deceived everyone, including Dan Pacitti in Sanderstead’s goal.

Harry Roter debuted in defence for the Millers and seems one to watch, showing confidence on the ball and great positional sense.

Captain Avery said: “We have ended the season with 20 wins from 22 games and have consistently had the most potent attack in the league and the best defence.

"The challenge of competing in Surrey Division One is something we are all relishing and I am confident that, for the third season in a row, we will have a chance of promotion.

"Crucial preparation will be under way early in the summer, so that the whole squad is ready for the next level.”

In the Surrey Open League, the other Old Saw Mill teams all lost out to higher-placed opponents, including the second team, who were edged out by leaders Reigate Priory.

The defeat ends their promotion challenge in a season when too many draws have cost them valuable points.

The thirds also fell by a single goal, unable to keep on par with UCL Academicals, falling 2-1.

The fourth team, meanwhile, were dispatched 3-0 by Woking.

Sanderstead hockey club is always keen to boost its playing roster, and would like to hear from players of all abilities looking to join the club.

Anyone interested in finding out more can visit sandersteadhockey.com or contact Martyn Avery on 07968 973305.