Our U18s under the guidance of Berty Oliva and Adie Clayton aren’t on the beach just yet as they look to finish their Isthmian South campaign on a winning drive.  After a wonderful Fa Youth cup campaign, the team could have easily put their feet up and cruised towards the beach. However, the writer is very proud to announce that this awesome team are going hard right to the end.  At a mild and dry Home Call Carpets Community Stadium last night the boys had to dig deep against a robust Hawks outfit.  Fletcher Fane fired home the winning goal late in the 2nd half.

With Hill kicking towards the Ashley Carr stand the game didn’t really settle for long periods in the 1st half. Both teams know each other well leading to a competitive but fast and furious tempo. Most of the early play quite scrapy in the mid field.  However, it was the hosts who settled to produce two fine opportunities.  Mid way through a stinging cross from the right was met on the volley by Luca Oliva. His effort shaving the far post.  Moments late another great cross saw Oliva head inches over the bar. At the other end Hawks seemed determined to dribble the past every defender. A tactic that looked dangerous but in truth offered little in the way of end product. Keeper Sonni confined to fielding duties.

Nil Nil HT

Hill were a yard quicker in the 2nd half which put them on the front foot. The left winger getting more change out of his defender. After an hour a long-range shot saw the Hawks keeper flying to his left to make a brilliant save.  The resulting corner causing confusion in the box, Hill firing over.  Moments later another stinging attack was snuffed out as Hill became frustrated. However, with the game crying out for a ‘moment’ up steps Fletcher Fane to settle things. After another attack had been cancelled out the ball rolled kindly to the edge of the box. Fletch met it with power and swerve, the ball bending away and then back clipping the inside of the post as it flew in. The keeper at full stretch had no chance.  A goal worthy to win any game at any level.

One Nil Full Time.

Clayton said later (see full and frank interview on Hillians TV) ‘We set up really well tonight and the boys delivered on the pitch, we really enjoyed the three points tonight but as a manager I would have liked it to be a little more comfortable’ As to Fletcher he remarked ‘he doesn’t score a bad goal!’

Huge thanks to Whitehawk for being with us and good luck with the rest of the season. A quick mention to the officials who were excellent throughout the match. Also, a nod towards our staff who are still working hard to produce entertaining evenings here in Mid Sussex.  Our U18s have two huge games left as they look to cement 3rd place in the league. 2nd place Horsham at home on 15th April and Champions Worthing at home on 17th April. 

Make a date!