Our U18s travelled west last night to continue their Isthmian South league campaign. A win would have seen them dourly hang on faint title hopes. However, under clear skies and cool temperatures it was the hosts who made the most of some lucky moments to record a good win.
Indeed, luck deserted Hill from the whistle as they surged forward in the first attack. Fletcher Fane hit a beauty from 30 yards which sailed towards the top corner. The ball coming off the underside of the bar and bouncing the wrong side of the line. All Hillian connections couldn’t believe it had stayed out. Regis somehow bundled it away for a corner. Hill stayed on the front foot for most of the 1st half with Harry Lawson looking commanding in midfield. The ball seemingly in the Bognor box most of the time. Mid way through the 1st half a brilliant cross from the left was met by Luca Oliva who’s fierce shot thudded the inside of the far post and cannoned to safety.
With Hill very much in charge the turning point came late in the 1st half. A misplaced pass allowed the Bognor forward to sweep in on goal to smash home an underserved half time lead.
The 2nd half was a lot more even in terms of possession and chances as the Hillians lost that sharpness. Mid way through Bognor made it two with a through ball to the striker who thumped it home. Hill looking for a flag that never arrived. Moments later Hill had a golden opportunity with a quality ball in from the left. Just 6 yards out the chance was spooned over the bar. That was as good as it got with Regis wrapping up the points late on with another goal.
Joint Manager Berty Oliva said later ‘I though we deserved a half time lead and didn’t deserve to lose three nil. We went into the game with a deleted squad due to illness and injury. As always though we look forward and move onto the next game!’
Our U18s still have no less than eight matches to complete this season so there is plenty to play for. It is though looking increasingly likely that Worthing will take the 24 25 Isthmian South title. Our team are next in action at the Home Call on Thursday 13th March against Horsham YMCA 7.30ko.
