HAVING pushed league leaders Haslemere all the way last week, Salisbury struggled to put in a similar performance against lowly Aldershot at Skew Bridge on Saturday.

The home side started terribly and before long 'keeper Tim Green was helpless as for the second week running he watched the ball spin back off a short corner save to take it over the line.

Salisbury were back on level terms almost immediately through Andy Grandfield's 20th goal of the season.

However, they then allowed Aldershot to go straight down the other end and restore their lead.

The hosts finally settled and Ben Croxall and Dickie Head combined well before Head levelled the scores for a second time.

With several players from both sides visiting the sin bin in the second half, it was Salisbury who took advantage, Croxall channelling his energies correctly to fire the hosts ahead with a powerful shot.

He then added a fourth following a classy move, only for Salisbury's concentration to slip yet again as Aldershot reduced the arrears to 4-3.

However, the home team successfully shut up shop to ensure they claimed all the points. They could even have added another before full time with Head, Grandfield and Baker.

On Saturday Salisbury visit Weymouth, 2pm start.