We kicked off December with a crunch game away against fellow strugglers Cuckfield Town, unfortunately after a closely contested game Buxted were again left tasting defeat, losing 2-1.

Hit by the absence of key players Mayhew and McDougall along with the long-term injuries already suffered, we drafted in Ben Thomas and Dave Crowhurst from the 2nd’s. We struggled to get our composure from the start with the new look center back partnership of Harrison and Verrall looking a little suspect. However, despite the uncertain start and a few near misses they found their feet. But yet again we found ourselves behind midway through the first half when we were caught on the counter attack from our own corner. The remainder of the first half was a bit of a stalemate with neither team really creating any chances. We came out for the second half with a far more positive frame of mind and we clearly began to dominate proceedings but were unable to get an equaliser. As the game went on we pushed more and more to find the equaliser, but were caught out again by another Cuckfield counter attack. Despite Dave Crowhurst’s best efforts as he cleared the ball off the line, it fell straight to the onrushing striker to make it 2-0. With nothing to lose we continued to press Cuckfield and finally got the break through with ten minutes to go. Phil Pedley received the ball some 35 yards from goal carried it forward and then chipped the keeper, from 30 yards, into the far corner. Despite a lot of late pressure we were unable to score a second and equalising goal.

Overall this was a poor performance in a game we had to win, things will have to improve if we are to avoid relegation come the end of the season – MOM – Richard Ambrose. 

1	Matt Clift
2	Adam Smith
3	Richard Ambrose
4	Tim Burchett (C)
5	Karl Harrison
6	Martin Verrall
7	Andy McPhail
8	Neil Felstein
9	Phil Pedley
10	Brian Gow
11	Ben Thomas
12	Dave Crowhurst
14
15
	Goal Scorer: Phil Pedley