With the well-documented Fa Youth Cup run now over our U18s can reset their Isthmian South credentials as they chase down a league title come April 25. With just three matches completed from 18 (two wins and a loss) it was imperative that the team picked up three points at Eastbourne. The game was played out in perfect conditions, dry, still and cool on their wonderful artificial surface.
Exciting Match with Grandstand Finish.
The action started and finished in a rush as both teams were determined to play a very high tempo match. From the ko Hill dominated territory as they pinged the ball forward. Eastbourne being pressed back into the final 3rd. They held a good line not conceding any clear-cut chances. On 20 mins Eastbourne managed to mount a couple of good forays themselves. They then went one better just a few mins later as they went ahead to a loud cheer around the stadium.
That stirred the visitors! On 35 mins Hill produced the move of the match as Luca Oliva was set free in the box to slide home a quite exquisite leveller. That should have been the signal to go settle the game however the play became stretched and uncontrolled. Neither team able to find a calming pass in mid field.
One one at Halftime.
Joint Managers Berty and Aide must have had ‘words’ during the break. Hill came out second half looking composed and relaxed. It was during this 20 min spell where they played some of their best football. Indeed, a brilliant move down the left allowed Grey Coleman to steal some space and smash home what proved to be the winner. Hill enjoyed a lot of possession after the goal and perhaps should have killed it.
However, to their credit EB never gave up and also managed to wrestle back the initiative. Buoyed on by a sizable and raucous home crowd it was the hosts who could and perhaps should have scored. They camped themselves inside the Hill penalty box for the last 10. Three late corners from the left created mayhem in the box which Hill just about hacked away. Then with the last piece of action a deep corner from the right saw an outstretched Sonni Nealgrove claw the ball onto the far post and away from danger.
Hill clung on to all three points. Just!
Aide said later ‘I thought we were excellent tonight. We are determined to win the league, but we are going to be very busy over the next few weeks. It was hugely important for us to get those three points here this evening!’
Huge thanks to Eastbourne Borough for hosting the game and good luck to both your U18s and First Team for the season. That was a pulsating match both teams produced, open and exciting throughout. For his work rate and assist for the 1st goal Man of the Match goes to Jake King.
Adie Clayton
Jake King
