The Blues took the lead in this match slightly against the run of play, strength and determination from Ashley forced the ball home and for much of the first half an even game was played although Hassocks had more of the ball playing down the hill on a difficult surface. The equaliser was disappointing, as the ball bounced in the area we twice had opportunities to clear but allowed the Hassocks new striker, an old friend from Lindfield, time and space to fire home. Soon afterwards the Hassocks left back ran with the ball from distance and once he passed half hearted challenges he placed a firm shot past Oliver P in goal. The final disappointment in the first half was at the close when the referee awarded a soft free kick inside the six yard box for an alleged back pass and at 3-1 down the match was an uphill struggle. Matt played with commitment throughout and on another day might have scored more than once in the first half and Robert nearly managed to convert one of Marcus' fine crosses as we played some good football, but not consistently enough to hold back a Hassocks team strenghthened since our first fixture

Greg replaced Robert at half time, and although not fully fit he forced a few chances for himself and others but a second goal was elusive. Hassocks, to their credit, continued to pass the ball well and when chances arose they took the majority, one volley from a free kick ( again harshly awarded) was especially good. Oliver P made two excellent saves and could not be faulted in goal, Tom played with strength and determination to deserve a man of the match mention, whilst it was good to welcome back Chris and George to the team in better health!

Not the start in 2012 that we had hoped for, but there is better to come if we can trust each other and play the simple game! Good effort by all!