 Johno's Jottings  23rd April 2008 - Game Summed Up Our Season
On Saturday we entertained Mile Oak in our last home game of the season and it turned out to be typical of our entire season. For 30 minutes we played our best football of the season creating and squandering several good chances before taking a well deserved lead.
Within 1 minute we had given away the lead as Mile Oak cashed in on some hesitancy at the back to equalise and just 5 minutes later we were 2-1 down as we completely lost our way.
The second half was a far more equal contest in terms of possession and we deservedly equalised 15 minutes into the 2nd half. From then on both sides went for the winner and just as it looked as if both sides would have to settle for a draw we grabbed the winner in stoppage time.
This win gave us a total of 39 points from our 17 home games a total only bettered by league winners East Grinstead, but with only 5 wins and 10 defeats from our 15 away games it is easy to see where our problem has been.
With 2 matches remaining we have given ourselves a chance of topping our highest ever points total of 59 and climb into the top 5 but this will be a tough challenge as we visit a much improved Lancing on Saturday and champions East Grinstead next Wednesday. Steve
10th April 2008 - We Were Worthy Winners
After 2 previous Hasting Senior cup final defeats last night saw the club win its first ever trophy in senior football. As predicted this was a close match with neither side creating too many chances, but in the end it couldn’t be denied that we were worthy winners. Before the game the players were encouraged to express themselves and enjoy the game and not just to let it pass them by. After around 20 mins we started to gain the upper hand as our passing improved and we kept the ball much better and gradually took a hold on the game. Although 0-0 at half-time we felt that we had been the better side and just needed to continue the way we were playing for the 2ndhalf. Sidley came into the game more but neither keepers were seriously tested and extra time looked inevitable. After we took the lead in extra time I felt that we were fairly comfortable as we saw the game out to the end. In all it was a fine team performance with all 14 players involved contributing to this victory. Also I would like to say a big thank you to everybody who supported us on the night.
On Saturday we visit Champions East Grinstead in what will obviously be a very difficult match as we continue to try and improve on our league position. This is followed on Tuesday when (weather permitting) Easter Mondays postponed match at Wealden will now take place. Your support at both these games is again very welcome. Steve
6th April 2008 - Difficult For Top Three Finish Now
On Saturday we travelled to Rustington where I felt that anything less then 3 points would make it very difficult for us to gain a top 3 place for the second season running. As expected this was a close game with us being on the wrong side of a 1-0 defeat. Despite being against the wind I thought we started the better of the 2 sides but conceded after we gave away procession cheaply and were caught out by a long ball in behind. The ref judged the tackle in the box to be a penalty which was well despatched into the corner.
We then struggled to keep possession which meant that we were then put under a good deal of pressure but managed to get to half time without conceding again. The second half was much better with us being on the front foot but we were still unable to create many clear chances against a well organised defence. Although I was disappointed to lose the game I was pleased with our effort and the way we kept pushing for an equaliser right until the end.
On Wednesday we travel to Gullivers for the Final of the Hastings Senior cup where we meet Sidley in which promises to be an entertaining game. A few weeks ago Sidley looked to be already doomed to relegation but they have had a great run winning 5 and drawing 1 of there last 6 games which makes them the form team of Division 1. At the same time we have won 4 of our last 6 matches so I am expecting this to be a close game and it will depend on who performs on the night as to who lifts the cup. Hopefully the support will be as good as usual as this is very much appreciated as the club attempts to win their first senior trophy.
Steve
19th March 2008 - Three Points More Important Than Performance Although Saturday’s home match against Littlehampton was not one of our better performances in terms of quality of the football we played I was pleased with the attitude and determination shown to keep a clean sheet. We were a little fortunate to be 1-0 ahead at half time although the goal came from our best move of the half. The second half started with us once again being pushed back as we were unable to keep hold of the ball for any length of time. We improved as the half went on and created several chances to have made the game safe. Maybe this was not one of our better performances but a welcome 3 points.
This weekend we have 2 matches starting at home against a much improved Southwick. There recent results have been more of a team chasing promotion rather then battling against relegation and we will have to be at our best if we are to take the points. On Monday we visit Wealden who despite slipping down the league recently have just recorded back to back 1-0 wins so will be full of confidence. Both of these teams have beaten us in the reverse fixtures earlier in the season so we will not want to drop points this time around.
Steve
13th March 2008 - We Need Maxiumum Points From Home Games
Saturday’s match at Crawley Down was expected to be a difficult game which was exactly as it turned out. Unfortunately It wasn’t until we were 3-1 down that we finally began to play and despite pulling one goal back it was not enough to avoid another narrow defeat.
This coming week we start a sequence of 3 home Saturday games where I believe we will need to take maximum points from if we are to have any chance of a top 6 finish. The first of these is against Littlehampton who in recent weeks have slipped in their own quest for promotion but will provide a stern test for us. I’m sure that those that played in the reverse fixture will remember the 4-0 defeat we suffered earlier in the season and will be determined to make up for one of our worst performances of the season.
Congratulations to Darrol, Cunner and the reserves on their 1-0 victory over league leaders Mile Oak to take over top spot themselves. Although it is unlikely that they will win the league this has still been a fine season for them considering that this is virtually a new team that they have put together.
Finally the club are running a Karaoke night at The Old Courthouse on Saturday 23rd March to raise money for club funds. It would be nice to see as many players as possible supporting this function as additional money is always very welcome.
Steve
6th March 2008 - Midhurst Was A Welcome 3 Points
On Saturday we made the long journey down to Midhurst where we were looking to win our 3rd consecutive league match at a very difficult venue. Midhurst had started the season well and it was looking like promotion was well within their capabilities until a poor spell had made this prospect seem unlikely.
However we were expecting a tough game which is exactly how it turned out. I thought we started well and were worth the half-time 1.0 lead although I was a little disappointed that we had not capitalised on some good attacking play and increased this.
Our second half performance was all about being resilient and although Midhurst came at us strongly especially towards the end we held firm and really should have killed the game off when we counter attacked. This was a pleasing performance and a welcome 3 points which still keeps us challenging for a top 4 place.
This Saturday we travel to Crawley Down who still have an outside chance of promotion and another tough game is expected. I’m sure they will be looking to avenge the defeat at our place earlier in the season where we turned around a 2-0 deficit to run out 3-2 winners
As we approach the last quarter of the season I believe we can still achieve our highest ever points total and possibly equal our best ever position of 3rd place but of course this will not be easy as we still have some very tough matches left.
Steve
29th August 2007 - We Never Got Going
Saturdays match at Whitehawk was always going to be difficult for us to come away with a result but the number of injuries we picked up during the game certainly didn't help. However we can't use that as an excuse as we were comprehensively out played by a side still unbeaten in Division 1.
Although the score was 3-0 it could have been much worse as the Whitehawk forwards definitly had an off day as they squandered several good chances.
We were looking to put Saturdays performance behind us on Bank Holiday Monday when we were due to entertain Lingfield for league points. Unfortunately they contacted us at 10.15 on the morning of the match advising us they were unable to raise a side.
Whilst there is sympathy for teams who find themselves in this position it does ask the question why some players chose to play County League football when they struggle to make a one hour journey for a match. On Saturday we travel to Southwick for our first away league match of the season. Although Southwick have had a poor start nothing should be taken for granted as those who played there last year will not need any reminding of. I'm pleased to report that all but 1 of last weeks injured players have recovered so it is nearly a full squad that we are able to take with us. Steve
23rd August 2007 - Midhurst Ground Down
I expected last Saturday's game against Midhurst to be a tough one and so it turned out to be, but I definitly thought we deserved to take the 3 points.
Once again we started well with a high tempo and although it was 0-0 at half time we created several good chances which unfortunately we were unable to take. The second half started in similar fashion and we kept plugging away and were rewarded with 2 goals that were enough for the 3 points.
This is a fine win against a team that looked fit and strong and who I fully expect to be in the top 6 this season.
Saturday we have a rest from league duty as we travel to last years Division 1 runners up Whitehawk in the John O'Hara cup. This will obviously be a tough test against one of the top sides in Sussex but it will be interesting to see how close we are to such teams. Then on Bank Holiday Monday we are back in search of league points as Lingfield visit us. They have made a steady start with 2 wins from their first 3 games all away from home so once again we will need to be at our best. Steve
11th August 2007 - Lancing Brushed Aside
On Saturday we begun our league campaign with a fine 3-1 win at home to Lancing. We quickly settled into the match and once we took an early lead I thought that apart from the odd counter attack we controlled the first half and deservedly added the second after half anhour.
We probably should have added to the score before half time but one or two chances went begging. I felt in the second half that Lancing came into the game more and it wasn't until the third goal was scored midway through the half that the game was made safe. The edge was taken off slightly when we conceded with the last kick of the game, but was delighted to see how annoyed the players were that they didn't keep a clean sheet.
Unfortunately Tuesdays game at Peacehaven has been postponed due to the hosts floodlight failing. This means our next match will be on Saturday when Midhurst make the long trek from West Sussex. They had a terrific win at title favourites Wealden last week so will come to us full of confidence. Steve
June 2007 - Final Analysis
Although it was disappointing the way our season finished we still should be proud that we occupied one of the 3 promotion places available, a position a number of higher profile clubs would have been delighted to achieve. In one of the tightest leagues for years we probably were not helped with the number of away midweek matches scheduled in the last few weeks of the season, contributing to us just picking up 9 points from our last 9 games.
Alternatively the highlight was our run of 11 league matches unbeaten which stretched from the end of September to finally end on 6th February and yielded 29 points.
The reserves once again had a fine season under the leadership of John Lambert finishing a very creditable 3rd place. John has decided to step down this year and I wish to add my personal thanks for the support he gave me over the last 3 years. I also wish him the best in whatever he decides to do in football in the future. Finally I would like to thank all the players and coaching staff Budgie and Andy for their hard work and support over the past season and look forward to seeing you all on 3rd July for the 1st training session. 12th April 2007 - Pagham Game Is Win or Bust
Who could have forecast the contrast between the performances over the 2 games played over the Easter weekend.
On Saturday we saved our worst performance of the season for then, although that should not take anything away from Crawley Down who looked anything other then a team struggling against relegation. There seemed to be a general lack of energy and confidence in our play and we could not complain about the result. However Monday was a complete change around as we deservedly took the 3 points from Seaford in a fine 2-0 win. The confidence was back and we were able to pass the ball much better and put our opponents under more pressure. This now leaves us with just 6 matches left and with 5 being away from home we have to hope that Pagham will slip up if we are to catch them. The first of these matches is at Pagham and nothing less then a win is required if we are still to have any hope of keeping the pressure on. Whatever the outcome this has still been a fine season and we could yet finish with our highest ever points tally and best league position. This is followed up by a visit to East Grinstead on Tuesday night who although they are currently suffering a poor run will make it a difficult match for us. If any supporters are thinking of coming along to either game I can assure you that this will be much appreciated by all the players.
Steve
4th April 2007 - Six More Points
Although we were not at our best last Saturday against Lingfield it was ultimately a comfortable victory as we were able to record our 3rd consecutive league win. This kept us in 2nd place 7 points behind Pagham with a game in hand who had a fine win at St Francis.
With all the other contenders dropping points it is looking as if we could be theonly side to challenge Pagham for the title.
On Tuesday we were at Lancing, who have had a complete change around in personnel since our cup game there back in February. Despite forcing the play, especially in the 1st half we were unable to score the important goal and had to accept a single point in a 0-0 draw.
Once again Pagham took the 3 points extending their lead to 9 points.
Whilst Pagham are clearly favourites to win the league it is up to us to keep winning games and hope that they slip up. This continues on Saturday when Crawley Down are the visitors and is followed by another home game on Monday when we entertain Seaford.
I believe 6 points are vital if we are to go into next Saturday's game at Pagham with a realistic chance of over hauling them.
Steve
29th March 2007 - Important We Kept Run Going
Mile Oak is never an easy game whether home or away and last night was no exception. Although this was not the best of performances we showed great character and resilience to come away with the 3 points against an inform side. T
This was not a game of great football but more of a battle with both sides looking to get the ball in behind defenders to make them turn.
At this stage of the season the result is everything and as we have discovered dominating games and losing will not help our title aspirations. It is now important that we continue winning, starting off with Lingfield on Saturday.
Steve
27th March 2007 - Comfortable In The End
After 3 consecutive poor results, it was vital that we took all 3 points on Saturday against Steyning. This was on paper our toughest game for a while as Steyning have really put a good run together. However this seemed to put us into the right frame of mind and by starting at a high tempo managed to create several chances.
Once again we did not get the reward in terms of goals that our play deserved but we continued to plug away and deservedly took all 3 points with 2 well taken goals.
Again there were some strange results elsewhere which still keeps us very much in the hunt although Pagham must now be favourites for the title.
On Wednesday we travel to Mile Oak where again it is vital to get the win that will put the pressure on the other teams around us but this will be a difficult game as Mile Oak are currently showing some good form.
This is followed by another home game on Saturday as Lingfield visit us. There shouldn’t be much incentive required there for those who remember our away fixture where after dominating for most of the game we threw the three points away.
Steve
20th March 2007 - We Stopped The Rot
Once again Saturday's match was one where we would have hoped to have taken the 3 points. Unfortunately we did not start as well as we would have wanted and it was no surprise to find ourselves 2-0 down.
A stunning goal from Carl just before half-time gave us a boost with high hopes of turning this around in the 2nd half. Again it took us a while to start performing but once we lifted the tempo of the game we then took control.
We managed to equalise and despite constant pressure for the last 10 minutes were unable to get the winner. Overall the performance was not good enough and we did not deserve more then the 1 point.
Fortunately other results have again gone our way and we are still very much in the race. I know that we are capable of turning this around and starting another good run as we showed earlier in the season. Saturday is the start of 12 league games in 6 weeks when we entertain an in form Steyning side who have not only made it to the Division 2 cup final but had a great 4-2 win last Saturday at Midhurst. This is followed by a midweek trip to Mile Oak which is never any easy place to get a result. It really is time for us to show why we believe we can stay in the race right to the end of the season. Steve
13th March 2007 - Not Another One Of Those Days
On Saturday we suffered another disapointment as we slipped to a 1-0 defeat. Although I didn't feel that we started as well as the week
before once again we created enough chances to have won this game comfortably. I couldn't fault the effort and workrate again and I am confident that as long as we keep working hard we will soon get back to winning ways. As in all league run ins teams will drop points and this has been shown by some surprising results elsewhere over the last couple of weeks. This coming Saturday we entertain Broadbridge Heath who will be in confident mood after there 4-0 win at Storrington last week.
Although this will again be a difficult match for us we really need the 3 points to try and close the gap on Pagham. This is turning out to be the most exciting league season in Division 2 for a long time and to be involved in the race for the top is something that all the players should be looking to enjoy.
Steve
6th March 2007 - It Was One Of Those Days
We have all been involved in games where you dominate possession fail to score and then get caught on the break.
That was the story of Saturday's game and although the result was disappointing the performance and effort was certainly not. Storrington showed that once again that they are a very well organised side with a team that works hard for each other.
Unfortunately Tuesdays game at Lancing was unsurprisingly postponed which would have given us a chance to try and get the previous match out of our system. We now turn our attention to this weeks match at home to Siddlesham which is now of even more importance as we try to pick up the 3 points and keep up the pressure at the top. I'm sure if we show the same attitude and effort as last week we can get back to winning ways and make this a season to remember. Steve
27th February 2007 - It Was Not Classic
Although Saturday's performance against Southwick was not one of our better ones there was no doubt that on chances created we fully deserved to take the 3 points.
We began the game at a high tempo putting their defenders under pressure and were rewarded with an early goal. For the next 20 minutes it looked as if we would add to our total but as we eased off Southwick came into the game more.
We felt that at halftime we needed to raise our game again and when we scored our 2nd goal it looked as if we might have a comfortable win. Unfortunately we eased off and conceded when the referee awarded a penalty for a foul.
This then gave Southwick a lift and we were then the side who were struggling to get hold of the ball. However we weathered the storm, took control again and made the game safe when we also scored from a penalty.
With Pagham, and more surprisingly East Grinstead both losing along with the many postponed games this moved us up into 2nd place and keeps us well in the race at the top. This coming Saturday we are at home to Storrington who had a great win last week at East Grinstead and will be looking to carry this on against us. We need to remember that although we finished several places above Storrington last season they took all 6 points from us and once again this will be a tough game. This is followed by us visiting East Grinstead on Tuesday as we now start a run of midweek games which could make or break our season. Steve
20th February 2007 - Important Victory
There was no under estimating the importance of Saturday's visit by Pagham as a defeat would not only be our fourth on the trot but would also leave us 9 points behind them.
This was never likely to be a great game of football with so much at stake and with the recent heavy rain making for a tricky surface but I felt we adapted much better and despite one or two scares fully deserved to take the three points.
This has kept us very much in the race but with nearly half a season left to play it is vital that this is the start of another winning run especially as we now have 2 home games against sides in the bottom half. First up is Southwick who gave us a tough game at there place earlier in the season and we were fortunate to come away with a point, so we know we should not take anything for granted. After this week as we enter into March, the strength of our squad will be really tested as we play 8 matches this month including 3 midweek games. This could be an opportunity for some of the reserves to play a part who despite Saturdays defeat at Newhaven are having another fine season.
Steve
7th February 2007 - Still A Long Way To Go
This was most definitely a case of 3 points thrown away last night as we twice let slip a lead and finally concede a goal 2 minutes from time to hand Lingfield the points.
Whilst once again the commitment and effort was there and for long periods of the game played some fine football we paid the penalty of missed chances and then lost concentration as we conceded 2 goals from corners.
However put into context of our first league defeat in 12 games this is not a disaster and still leaves us in a very good position.
On Saturday we travel to Steyning where we will need to reverse the trend of recent years and attempt to gain our first league win there. I am sure this is possible if we perform at our best and would set us up nicely for the remainder of the season where we have still 10 home league matches remaining. Steve
6th February 2007 - Beaten By The Better Side
Unfortunately for us we never really got into Saturdays match against Eastbourne United and can have few complaints over the result as on the day the better side won.
Things may have been different had Dom's header gone in instead of hitting the post but in truth apart from a good 20 minute spell in the 1st half and a late flurry in the second we never quite managed to put any sustained pressure on the Eastbourne defence.
We now must turn our attention to the league where tonight (Tues) we make the journey to Lingfield in search of 3 points to keep the pressure on at the top. This is the most exciting Division 2 title race in years as so far no team has raced away as has so often happened in previous seasons. With over half of the season remaining the league could be won by a number of sides, and I am expecting this situation to continue right until the end of the season.
Another factor which could be decisive with the number of games remaining is that the clubs with a strong squad will have an advantage, something which we believe we have as shown by the reserves league position.
Steve
30th January 2007 - We Need A Positive Reaction
After 4 months and 14 games unbeaten I suppose the run had to end at sometime but this was still difficult to accept that we no longer have any interest in the Division 2 cup.
Any side which has a run of unbeaten games will experience a certain amount of good fortune but any luck that had come our way earlier in the run certainly deserted us on Saturday. Having said that we started the game in a sloppy manner in which time we fell behind and only raised ourselves once we felt some decisions went against us. I was pleased that as usual we battled all the way until the end but unfortunately it was not to be our day.
This is now the time for the team to show their character and bounce back as we entertain Division 1 side Eastbourne United in the RUR cup on Saturday where the prize at stake is a semi-final place against Chichester City. This will be a tough game as Eastbourne have built a reputation this season for playing some attractive football but if we are focused and perform at our best there is every chance we could cause another upset.
The following Tuesday weather permitting we travel to Lingfield where we will look to take the 3 points to keep up the pressure on the teams around us as we challenge for a place at the top.
See you all on Tuesday at the ground for training.
Steve
23rd January 2007 - Good Solid Performance
With several games already called off and our game at Saltdean given the all clear on Saturday it was an opportunity for us to close the gap on the teams at the top.
Despite a strong wind and a battling Saltdean side we were able to extend our run to 14 matches unbeaten with a comfortable 3-0 win. Once again this win was based on a strong defensive performance which gave us the platform to go on and take the 3 points.
Congratulations go to Danny on scoring his first hat trick in senior football in what I thought was an all round solid team performance. This win takes us up into 2nd place but with more then half of our league games still to come there is still a lot of points to be won and lost. On Saturday we travel to Lancing for the Division 2 cup match where we will aim to make it into the semi-finals. This is followed on Tuesday when weather permitting we are due to be at Lingfield for the much postponed league match. Steve
17th January 2007 - Penalty Shoot Out Joy Again
This was a game I always believed that we could win especially if Three Bridges didn't fancy playing on a heavy pitch which despite all the rain was once again playable, emphasising the hard work put in by Strett and Matt to get this game on. Although the conditions were difficult it was a credit to both sides on the amount of good football that was played and despite conceding an early goal we battled back to go in at half-time 2-1 up.
We continued the 2nd half on top and with just 15 mins to go and leading 4-1 we could not have predicted what was to follow. Credit must be given to Three Bridges who could have easily have folded, but they fought back to take the game into extra time.
Although it was disapointing to lose such a commanding lead the positive that came out during extra time was the effort put in and desire not to be beaten. The penalty shoot out was a typically tense affair but we held our nerve to go through to the quarter final where we entertain another Division 1 side in Eastbourne United. Saturday (weather permitting) we are off to Saltdean in search of another 3 points, which despite their position will not be an easy match. Also last Saturday saw the reserves back to winning ways at Seaford and just as important for us several players getting more matches in who will certainly be used as the fixtures start to mount up.
Steve
2nd January 2007 - Great Way To End The Year
Firstly Happy New Year to Everyone.
Well.....What a way to complete our fixtures for 2006 which extended our unbeaten run to 12 league and cup games. We never quite found our true form in the 1st half but this was not helped by a strong gusty wind in our faces.
East Grinstead deserved their half time lead but we felt that the game was far from over and we just needed to up the tempo but not panic if we didn't score straight away. As it worked out we scored our first goal after 65 minutes and from then on it was all one way.
To come from 2 goals down and score 5 against a team who have been strongly tipped for promotion was in my opinion our finest performance of the season and will certainly mean that it gains the attention of the other sides around the county.
Unfortunately as I write this I have heard that tonights league game against Lingfield has been postponed and with our next 2 games being cup matches it looks as if we will have some catching up to do.
The first of these games is at Lancing in the Division 2 cup quarter final. With their manager resigning just before Xmas I'm not sure what sort of team they will field but we will make sure that we are as well prepared as usual.
Training continues on Tues and Thurs subject to any rearranged fixtures.
Steve
27th December 2006 - Hard Fought Derby Draw
Firstly I would like to thank Budgie for looking after everything whilst I was suffering the agonies of the England cricket team in Australia. Also well done to the players for keeping the unbeaten run going. Boxing days 'Derby game'against Seaford was the usual hard fought and tough game which was a great advert for county league football as both sides gave their all. Although a 0-0 draw may not have been what we were looking for, the performance was encourageing with every player giving their all and possible with a bit more composure we could have taken all 3 points.
With our unbeaten run stretching to 11 games it has now given us a platform to challenge for some honours but this is still very early in the season and a lot of hard work is still required to keep ourselves involved.
On Saturday we entertain one of the promotion favourites as East Grinstead visit us in what should be an entertaining game and then on Tuesday evening we make the journey to Lingfield who have made a steady start to their first season back in senior football.
Any support for either of these games would be appreciated by all the players as was the support at Seaford on Boxing day. Training continues tonight (Thurs) and players from all 3 teams are welcome to attend.
Steve
11th December 2006 - Comfortable Win In The End
It was a very good win on Saturday against a hard working well organised Mile Oak side. We did not play very well in the first half, but still created four very good chances that Dom and Boz should have scored from. But to be one down at half time was about right on the balance of the first half.
After a few words at half time we started the second half a lot better, and within a minute it was 1-1 with a very good finish from Boz. From then on we were on top, with the pitch very heavy players were getting tired so I sent on Mark & Duncan for the last twenty five minutes.
Within five minutes Mark had scored with a cross and Dunc got the third in the final minute to wrap the game up. It was nice to see Shaun Hardy back with the first team and getting on for ten minutes at the end for Boz.
Onto this Saturdays game and Three Bridges in the Sussex RUR Cup third round. This will be a very hard game against a side that are having a good run and also being from a division higher. Both sides are in good form so I hope it will be a good game for all to watch.
Trevor
4th December 2006 - Victory Joy
After the frustration of the previous weeks game at Saltdean being postponed it was back to the Parish Field for my first game in temporary charge and the visit of under achieving St Francis Rangers.
I decided to stick with the same side that had been victorious in our last game against Wealden, Duncan was unable to take his place on the bench after pulling out due to illness on the morning of the game so Fozzy was called up at the last minute. Drinky also returned to the squad after a month out.
Unlike in our previous 3 or 4 games we did not have the fast start that has got us into games straight away, maybe it was down to not playing last week, but full credit to St Francis who were out the traps quicker than us. As the first half wore on though we got more in to the game and finished the stronger and probably just deserved to be in front at half time through a good finish from Dommy.
The second half was a different story with us dictating the play right from the kick off, creating numerous half chances, the sending off obviously helped but we did not capitalize on our numercial advantage to kill the game off, despite changing from 4-4-2 to 4-3-3 to get the vital second goal chances went a begging, and in the end we were thankful for Gavin Bourne making a superb save near the end in an otherwise quiet game for him. In the end we held out for a deserved victory to move us up to 4th.
This week we welcome Mile Oak in the league who are always a difficult side to play against, as they are quite direct in there style. They are not on the best of runs of late, but are capable of getting a result against any of the top sides so we will have to guard against complacency.
Trevor
20th November 2006 - Over To Budgie
With Steve now away on Holiday for 5 weeks it is up to me to keep the lads going and write Johno's Jottings or should it be 'Budgies Notes' ?!!
After another good game at home, the lads claimed 3 points against a very hard working Wealden side. All the players worked hard to get the result with Ashley and Jamie getting a better understanding as each game goes by at the back. Chris Smith playing out on the left of midfield cannot stop scoring and Danny Pepper and Dominic Clarke up front working so hard for the team.Duncan Jones only as a sub due to the work that Danny and Dom have been putting in is a credit to both of them.
A special word must go the Gavin Bourne who was outstanding thrawting everything that Wealden and in particular Wes Tate could throw at him, In my eyes he must be one or if not the best keeper in this division.
Onto Next week and we face a trip to Saltdean United in a league game. We have only recently played them at home, where we ran out 5-0 winners, but until the second goal went in, it was a typically close hard fought county league game, and I expect nothing less than this on Saturday, but If we have the right attitude that we have had the last few weeks I hope to get a good result.
Trevor
13th November 2006 - Suprised By Scoreline
I expected Saturday's match to be a really close affair and would never have predicted a 5-1 win. This however was not an easy game as Peacehaven showed at times why they have had such a good start to the season and at times we had to defend really well. In truth Peacehaven found it difficult to defend against the high tempo game that we played and with us scoring 2 early goals gave us the perfect start.
As mentioned in the match report Peacehaven then had plenty of possession but we defended really well to limit the number of attempts on goal. Every member of the squad played his part in this win which I am sure will surprise many people around the county. This coming Saturday we have yet another home game as ambitious Wealden visit us just a few weeks after our 5-0 hiding at their place. I'm sure we will not need any motivating as we look to gain revenge for what undoubtedly was a low point of the season for us. Also it was a good weekend for the reserves as they gained their 3rd Premier division scalp this season as they beat Arundel 3-1 aet to move into the 3rd round of the Sussex Intermediate Cup. Steve 7th November 2006 - Defence The Foundation
Another good result for us on Saturday as we comfortably defeated Lingfield to move into the quarter final of the Division 2 cup. Once again the foundation was laid by another solid defensive display where every player contributed to this, making that just just two goals conceded in the last five games. It was also pleasing to score three times and with a bit more luck could have doubled this as we also struck the bar three times. This week it is another home game as we entertain Division 2 team of the month Peacehaven. This will obviously be a difficult game but one we need to win if we are to keep our challenge for a place towards the top going. Unfortunately the reserves had a disapointing result going down by 4-0 at Eastbourne United but will hope to bounce back this weekend when they travel to Premier division side Arundel in the Sussex Intermediate cup. Having already overcome two sides from this league they should travel with confidence that they can make it a third. Steve
31st October 2006 - Five Unbeaten
It seems the wait for our first home league game for two months was worth it as we ran out 5-0 winners. With this being a potential banana skin it was important that we started with a high tempo and had the right attitude.
Although this was eventually a comfortable win we had to work hard and it wasn't until we scored 2 goals around the middle of the 2nd half that we could relax. This extends our unbeaten run to 5 matches which is a credit to all the players after enduring 4 consecutive defeats beforehand. This week we have a fixture change as we entertain Lingfield in the 2nd round of the Division 2 cup. I'm sure they will come with plenty of confidence after their 2-0 win away to 1st Division Chichester in the John O'Hara league cup. Both sides will feel that this is a good opportunity for a trophy as 3 wins will take you to a cup final. It was pleasing to see the reserves back to winning ways with a 1-0 victory at Premier reserve side Crowborough setting up an exciting away tie at Hastings United. Steve
25th October 2006 - Minor Blip
Once again we were on our travels across Sussex, this time calling in at Southwick. Whilst the homeside were a pre-season favourite for promotion there start had not indicated so. 17th October 2006 - Away Day Success
On Saturday we travelled to Crawley Down for our 5th consecutive away league match. Although they have struggled this season they had won 2 of the 3 games they had played since the appointment of a new manager and I was expecting this to be a close match.
We started well and for most of the first 45 minutes controlled things and finally scored the goal we deserved just before half-time. The second half was less convincing but we created a few good chances and tested their keeper several times, whilst at the other end we had to defend well as they put on the pressure. Although we were again not at our best we had the determination and desire to keep our first clean sheet since the opening game of the season. Next week its away once again as we travel to pre-season promotion favourites Southwick who have found this league tougher then was expected. Another 3 points would continue our move up the table before we finally have a home game next week against Saltdean. Well done to the reserves who defeated Premier Division side Sidley to progress to the next round of the Sussex Intermediate cup, once again highlighting the depth of quality at the club. Steve
12th October 2006 - Long Journey Brings 3 Points
After last weeks excitement at Storrington where we progressed to the 3rd round of the RUR cup it was back to league action on Saturday when we made the long trip to Sidlesham. Once again there were enforced changes with injuries to Carl and Dickie, Tony not being let out to play and Duncan trying to get to Sidlesham via who knows where. Sidlesham started the brighter and but once again due to some determined defending and fine goalkeeping from Gav we reached half-time level.
We started the second half much better but then conceded a soft goal when we were clearly on top. Showing great determination we scored two late goals to claim the much needed 3 points from a side who were sitting in 4th place. This week we are on the road again for our 5th consecutive away league fixture when we travel to Crawley Down. Despite finishing 5th last year they have had a difficult start but with a new manager appointed will be looking to turn this around. On the evidence of last week we need to make sure we start playing from the beginning as we will not always be able to turn it around every week. Congratulations again to the reserves for there 7-1 win against Newhaven especially to Dean for his first Hat trick for the club. Steve 2nd October 2006 - Penalty Joy
After disapointing results against Worthing United which saw us knocked out of the John O'Hara cup and the 5-0 defeat by Wealden in the league it was clear that we needed an improved performance in our RUR cup match at Storrington. Our cause was helped by having several players available who due to injuries or work commitments were missing in the midweek game at Wealden. This was still going to be a difficult match against a side that took 6 points from us last season and have made a good start this year.
We started the game strongly and played some really good football and deservedly took a 2-0 lead. However Storrington came backat us and by half-time they had levelled the scores and obviously had the momentum. We realy had to dig in at the start of the 2nd half as Storrington dominated the play. We gradually got ourselves back into the game and by the end of 90 minutes had created several chances to have won the game. Extra time was hard fought but it was the penalty shootout which finally separated us as we ran out 5-4 winners. Although not at our very best the desire and determination to get the result was evident as each player battled and fought for every ball. With 4 league games coming up this month lets hope this is the turning point for us and we can start moving up the table. Steve 19th September 2006
After the previous weeks disappointing performance at Seaford it was obviously going to be a great test of character in going to St Francis Rangers, who the previous week put 4 past league leaders Mile Oak. Once again we started slowly and only some desperate defending and wayward shooting from St Francis kept us still in the game at halftime.I felt we were coming more into the game as halftime approached and was fairly confident that we would have more of the second half. Unfortunately we conceded a poor goal where we failed to react quickly enough to Gavin's double save leaving us to chase the game. Shortly after we equalised and from then I thought we looked comfortable until we were unable to deal with the keepers long kick upfield which was put away by an unmarked forward. Although this was a set back it was an improved performance on the previous week and knowing the character of the players they will be determined to make amends this week. On Saturday we have a John O'Hara cup match against the County leagues last surviving team in the FA cup, Division 1 side Worthing United. Over the years we have defeated several Div 1 sides in cup matches at home and I am looking forward to us repeating this feat. Steve
5th September 2006
Saturday's long trip to Midhurst saw us finally register our first league win of the season. 30th August 2006 - Emotional First Home Game
On an emotional day at the parish field we finally started our home league programme with a 1-1 draw against a strongly fancied Lancing side. However this was ultimately a disapointing result as we took the lead midway through the second half and appeared to be controlling the game only to concede an equaliser in injury time.
I am full of praise for the effort, desire and commitment shown by the whole team during this game and I am sure if this continues we can look forward to a successful season. I believe that the squad assembled this year is the strongest that has been at the club which was highlighted by the reserves starting their league campaign by defeating a strengthened Bexhill side 6-1. We now have some difficult games coming up (4 out of the next 5 away from home) starting with the long trip to Midhurst on Saturday. This is always a tough place to get a result and this will be no different this year as they appear to be much stronger then last season. However with suspensions being served and players now back from their holidays there should be a full squad of players to choose from as we attempt to get our first win this season. Steve 21st August 2006 - Tough Start
After the events of the past few days we finally got our season under way with a trip to Broadbridge Heath. In the past this has proved to be a very difficult fixture for us and this was no exception. This was a fairly open game with both sides creating several chances but either through good defending or the ball just not running for the forwards it remained goalless. Having said that I thought we created more chances and ultimately was a little disapointed to come away with just 1 point. This Saturday we start our home campaign against one of the pre-season favourites for promotion when Lancing visit us. If our attitude is the same as last week, and though it will be difficult then it is a game that we feel we can win. With the reserves playing a friendly last Saturday and another this coming Tuesday, it should be an opportunity for the players returning from holiday to gain some match fitness and push for a place in the squad on Saturday. Steve
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