The Hillians immediately started on the front foot and could have taken the lead inside five minutes, as Aaron Smith-Joseph forced a smart save from Herne Bay keeper, George Kamurasi. Josh James was called into action ten minutes later, as he did well to hold onto Zak Ansah’s poke following an almighty scramble inside the Hillians box. The game grew increasing open, with Kamurasi once again producing two fine saves to deny, first, Smith-Joseph and then Pat Harding. Debutant, Jordi Ndozid almost gave the Hillians the lead on the stroke of half-time, but his effort was smartly parried clear by the Bay stopper.

Aaron Smith-Joseph, deservedly, gave Jay Lovett’s men the lead in the 49th minute – as his whipped effort nestled into the bottom corner. Kamurasi was really earning his stripes, as he produced yet another high-class save to deny Ndozid from doubling the Hillians’ lead. Arguably, the hosts best opportunity came twenty-five minutes from time, as they broke at speed, but a superb challenge from Ndozid thwarted the counter attack in its tracks. Max Miller saw two of his efforts denied by Kamurasi as he looked to put the cherry on a fantastic away performance. The full-time whistle was greeted by rapturous applause by the Hillians faithful – who had seen their side pick up their first away victory in 287 days!

A huge three points for the Hillians who showed fantastic character to bounce back from the disappointment of last Saturday.

Thank you to every single one of you Hillians who made the long trip to support the club yesterday afternoon – that one was for you!

Next up, ALLLLBIIIION!