Southgate took advantage of Sevenoak’ loss to go top of Division 1 South after a 2-1 success at home to Oxford Hawks on Sunday.

John Sterlini’s strike put the hosts into a lead that Max Garner quickly doubled, and it was an advantage they held despite Jack Biggs’ response for the Hawks.

Southgate came flying out of the blocks and dominated well into the second quarter when, in the 22nd minute, Sterlini fired home the loose ball after a penalty corner had broken down.

The home side extended their lead shortly after when Garner picked up the ball a couple of metres from goal and scrappily finished past the goalkeeper.

The second half continued in similar fashion, except this time Southgate were unable to turn their possession and chances into goals.

This meant they played themselves into danger, and Paul Pongs conceded a penalty stroke while also picking up a 10-minute yellow card, which was converted by Biggs to halve the deficit.

Oxford pushed for the equaliser, but luckily for Southgate, they were unable to level and the hosts saw out the remainder with their one-goal advantage intact.

A big game for Southgate follows this weekend as they visit former leaders Sevenoaks.