Sussex County League Reserve Premier Division
Thursday 05th October 2006
HASSOCKS REMAIN UNBEATEN
Horsham YMCA 1-1 Hassocks

Hassocks stayed second in the league with a draw at fellow unbeaten YMCA. A few changes from the win against Sidley saw Richard Thompson, Graham Beveridge, Spencer Slaughter and Nathan Harvey all come in with the unlucky Andy Wilson dropping aside

Hassocks finally started a game well with the midfield getting on top early and when Beveridge sprayed a great pass out wide to Harvey his cross just needed a touch. The pairing of Dan Jacques and Laurence Robinson caused their hosts real problems up front and when Jacques was slid in he shot wide. 

Again the link up of Robinson flicking the ball onto Jacques worked and he raced clear only to be pulled down bearing in on goal. A free kick given in a shooting position was awarded and despite the defender being the last man, no action was taken. Spencer Slaughter from the free kick brought a great save from the keeper.

Hassocks were well on top but had to be aware of the lively front two of YM. The Robins finally took the lead when after some great football the ball came to Slaughter on the edge of the box and he calmly passed it into the corner for delightful finish (followed by some more badge kissing) to send the visitors in 1-0 up at half time, although it should have been more.

YMCA upped the tempo in the second half and pushed Hassocks back and their forward should have done better with a cut back from 10 yards out but nearly hit the corner flag. The Hassocks front two struggled to hold the ball up and just as it seemed they had weathered the ten minute storm, a great run on the left saw Hassocks fail to get a tackle in and YM drew level with what really was a fluke goal when the player "spooned it" off of his boot/shinpad to leave Phil Wickwar helpless in goal. It was YM only attempt on target all night

Hassocks then made changes as the impressive Slaughter was replaced by Wilson with good affect. The Robins got back into the game before Mickey Jewell introduced debut boys Mike Demario and John Thompson for the tired Robinson and Jacques and nearly won us the game. 

Hassocks hit the post and Demario should have given the ball to JT who was in a great position. YM had settled for the draw, but Hassocks pushed forward when Beveridge released Ian Church with a great pass and Church nearly put Demario in with a great effort of a back heel on the turn.

At the refs whistle both teams were happy with the point! Still missing Lee Cooke, the Fernley brother's and Martin Woods and with only Slaughter involved in the first team game Tuesday, Hassocks will only get stronger

Wickers