Hockey: Indian Gymkhana 3 Ipswich 1 - BATTLING Ipswich failed in their attempt to wrest a much-needed point from Indian Gymkhana despite turning in a much-improved performance.The skilful west London side always prove a handful, but Ipswich's rediscovered commitment saw them come so close to gaining something from the game.

BATTLING Ipswich failed in their attempt to wrest a much-needed point from Indian Gymkhana despite turning in a much-improved performance.

The skilful west London side always prove a handful, but Ipswich's rediscovered commitment saw them come so close to gaining something from the game.

Defeat has seen them drop to one from bottom of Division Two of the English Hockey League, but the spirit within the camp is sufficient to lift them away from the relegation zone.

A wonder strike by newboy Tejinder Hanspal after just seven minutes gave the home side the lead, but Ipswich fought back and drew level when Andy Cook planted a short corner strike past the beaten keeper.

The visitors' joy was shortlived, however, as Hanspal repeated his earlier move with a tight turn and thunderous shot across Stuart Hendy who had no chance with either goal.

Due to their league position and the skill of the opposition, Ipswich tended to be nervous during the first half, but despite defending well, failed to produce the killer passes which could have unlocked the home defence.

After Hanspal's second goal, Ipswich got into the game more and Richard Fox, Jonathan Cuff and Cook all had chances.

The second half saw Ipswich guilty of giving the ball away, but Indian Gymkhana were unable to capitalise and it was the visitors who were much closer to scoring.

Oliver Didham rattled the bar with an excellent shot, Cook hit the side netting and Fox again was close before Alan John secured victory six minutes from time following a short corner.