Under clear skies and chilly temperatures both teams contributed towards an exciting and compelling Isthmian South league encounter under the Pilot Field lights. The visitors got off to the perfect start going two nil up but were pegged back as United scored two excellent goals. In a dramatic and pulsating 2nd half neither team could fashion a winner.
Hill were up and running very quickly in this one popping the ball around early. After a one touch move through the middle Noah Hoffman was upended in the box with the ref pointing towards the spot. Koby Farrell calmed the nerves to steer the ball home. On 13 mins after another scintillating move Luca Oliva squared the ball to Joe Overy who tapped into an empty net. United could have easily lost heart at this point however they rolled up their sleeves.
They steadied the ship well by getting onto the front foot and making a few robust challenges in the middle. It earned them the right to play some decent free flowing football. The left winger increasingly becoming influential. It was no real surprise that they got one back after 30 mins when the United striker forged beyond the back line and tuck home a superb finish. Just five mins the game was all square. The left winger sent in a delightful cross from a free kick. The centre back rose 1st to steer the ball in off the far post.
Two two HT
The second half saw Hill step up the intensity as the right wingback, Charlie Clayton saw a lot of the ball. Indeed, he turned in four excellent crosses which on another day would have led to goals. Mid way through the half Jake King was introduced into the attack. He made several powerful runs forward and off-loading good shots. Each time the ball arrowed straight at the keeper. At the other end United kept plugging away with a high press. With 10 to go they were presented with a chance to win it however a weak shot trickled past the far post.
At the final whistle both teams and respective managers were probably a little frustrated not to have gain three points. However, it was a cracking game of football which the large crowd thoroughly enjoyed. Charlie Clayton lite up the game with some excellent wing play and is awarded the Man of the Match. Huge thanks to Hastings for hosting and good luck with the remainder of the season.
Joint Manager Berty Oliva said later ‘after going two nil up we were very disappointed not to have gone on to kill the game. We were a little flat at halftime. However, I thought we dominated the 2nd half but the ball didn’t quite run for us in the box. But fair play to Hastings that was a hugely entertaining match for the neutral’
Our U18s continue their Isthmian South campaign on Thursday 6th March at Horsham YMCA 7.30 ko. They will be looking to get back to winning ways.
