AFTER almost a month a month without a game, Whitchurch United returned to action with a 4-0 defeat at home to Bemerton Heath Harlequins in the Wessex League Premier Division last night.

The defeat was a rare setback for the Jam Boys, who are enjoying an excellent season after winning promotion last year and remain inside the top 10.

However, the game was Whitchurch’s first since January 21, when they lost to Basingstoke Town in the Hampshire Senior Cup, and manager Jim Macey admitted that his side looked rusty.

It was a close affair in the first half, with Shane Lock and Isaac Sedu both going close for Whitchurch, but the visitors went ahead just before the break.

A mix-up at the back allowed Bemerton to double the lead just two minutes into the second half. Lock and Sedu had chances to reduce the deficit but it was the visitors who wrapped up the scoring, twice catching Whitchurch on the break in the closing stages.

Macey said: “We had not played for ages and it showed. Bemerton have got some good forwards and they punished every mistake we made.

“Hopefully it’s just a blip and we can get back to our normal selves as soon as possible.”

Whitchurch’s trip to Fawley was postponed on Saturday and they have no game scheduled for this weekend. However, they are due to make the short trip to Stockbridge for a North Hants Senior Cup semi-final next Tuesday.

“We really want to get to the final and still have a lot to play for,” Macey added. “We have over-achieved so far this season but we are still sixth and in several cup competitions.”