Superb United hold title hopefuls
The U’s produced a terrific performance to clinch a 1-1 draw away to Ryman Football League Premier Division title hopefuls Lowestoft Town.
Scott Chalmers-Stevens pulled off a wonder save and former Norwich City forward Adrian Forbes headed against the crossbar as Lowestoft started strongly, but Hastings weathered the storm and reached half time on level terms.
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Hide AdJason Hopkinson’s side then took a surprise 54th minute lead when a break down the left ended with Russell Eldridge delivering a cross which bounced up invitingly for Sam Adams to head home at the far post.
Lowestoft were beginning to look frustrated, but Hastings gifted them a 69th minute equaliser. Ryan Storrie’s back header was cut out by Michael Frew, who lifted the ball over Chalmers-Stevens and in off the bar.
Although Lowestoft had the bulk of the play, Hastings defended resolutely and were always a threat with their pace on the counter-attack. Either side might have won it towards the end, but a draw was probably a fair result.
A good day’s work on a grey and windy Suffolk coast was made even better by defeats for relegation rivals Aveley, Folkestone Invicta and Maidstone United which means Hastings remain just outside dreaded bottom four.
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Hide AdHastings: Chalmers-Stevens, Rowe, Storrie, Olorunda, Ray, Jirbandey, Adams, Beautyman, Porter, Davisson, Eldridge. Subs not used: Perkins, Hall, Sutton, Newman, Taiwo.
A full report will appear in Friday’s Hastings Observer.
TODAY’S OTHER SENIOR RESULTS
Sussex County League, Division 1: RYE UNITED 1 Wick 0; SIDLEY UNITED 2 Crowborough Athletic 2.
Division 2: LITTLE COMMON 1 Lancing 5; Mile Oak 4 BEXHILL UNITED 2; WESTFIELD 1 Oakwood 1.