Next up was a trip to Hassocks in the league, where we were again left ruing a hatful of missed opportunities as we lost 1-0.

The game saw a change in formation as we reverted from 4-4-2 to 5-4-1, which had proved so successful last season, with Verrall slotting in at center back and Burchett moving to sweeper. We started the game quite well but still found ourselves going behind to a good finish from the Hassocks striker after 15 minutes. The game progressed with a good flow as both teams enjoyed periods of possession, but it was us who created the clear chances as we increased the tempo of our game. Hassocks were struggling to contain us with Ambrose and McPhail providing the threat down either flank, and we thought we had made the break through on the half-hour. McPhail volleyed home at the back post from a corner, only for the linesman and referee to decide the ball had not crossed the line before it was headed clear…it certainly looked over the line! We started the 2nd half feeling an equaliser was just around the corner, and after a shaky five minutes we found our rhythm and high tempo again. It’s fair to say we totally dominated the second half and Hassocks had no answer to our football, but we were unable to take any of our chances. We created several clear cut opportunities; Harrison putting his shot wide when one on one with the keeper, and Mayhew had a “Mumford” when he somehow managed to put the ball over from 2 yards out – a true center-backs finish!!! This was another defeat but if we continue to play like this the victories will be forthcoming.

 

 

1	Matt Clift
2	Kevin McDougall
3	Richard Ambrose
4	Tim Burchett (C)
5	Dale Mayhew
6	Martin Verrall
7	Lee Stevens
8	Neil Felstein
9	Andy McPhail
10	Phil Pedley
11	Karl Harrison
12	Noodles
14	Adam Smith