Sussex County League Division 1
Tuesday 21st October 2008
SLICK ARUNDEL OUTCLASS ROBINS
Hassocks 0-3 Arundel

Despite lots of honest endeavour and hard work, Hassocks were ultimately outclassed by a slick Arundel outfit at the Beacon, losing 3-0. Dave John lost James Laing and Richard Thompson to injuries, so their were first starts for Aaron Walsh and Jamie Buckett up front but they struggled to get any change out of the experienced pairing of Jason Wimbleton and Stuart Hack.

In fact the Robins had only 2 worthwhile attempts on goal, Michael Bates forcing a save from Alex Bryant as early as the 2nd minute and Anthony Hibbert saw his header tipped over by Bryant in the 63rd minute. By that time the visitors led 2-0 thanks to a well taken double by Howard Neighbour. On 29 minutes he converted with a fine header after a centre from Josh Biggs and then on the hour punished hesitancy in the Hassocks defence, firing home from the edge of the box after Hassocks had failed to clear a free kick.

Jack Simpson made fine saves to deny Hack, Neighbour and Mike Huckett in the first half and early in the second period both sides were reduced to 10 men when Nick Pitcher and Gary Norgate were sent off
following an unsavoury scuffle on the ground. Referee Ryan Ellis, who was on top of things most of the game could have issued yellows but felt the offences serious enough to issue straight reds. Tackles began to fly in, Aaron Walsh and Ashley Marsh were cautioned for the Robins, Huckett and Neighbour for Arundel.

Josh Biggs sealed the points on 81 minutes with a superb 40 yard lob over the back pedalling Simpson, who's clearance went straight to the Arundel midfielder. Lots of hard work in the weeks ahead for Hassocks as they look to improve and climb the table.

Hassocks: Simpson, Jacques (Williams 82), Eynon, Marsh, Faith, Pitcher, Bates, Hillwood (I Simpson 54), Hibbert, Walsh (Thomas 70), Buckett

Unused sub: Laing

MOM: Jack Simpson