Hastings United v Wealdstone - Saturday 29th November 2008

Pre Match Report

I’m Roger Sinden here at the Pilot Field where today Hastings United entertain Wealdstone

Hastings narrow defeat by a single goal at Cambridge City  last Saturday brought an abrupt end to United’s F A Trophy campaign and with it went the prospect of valuable prize money. A second half goal by the home side left United with too much to do, and they rarely looked as though an equaliser was within their capabilities. This, after Frankie Sawyer had seen a good goal bound effort headed off the line just before the break.

Perhaps the only positive emerging from a disappointing result, which continued United’s depressing run of four defeats in five games, was the contribution made by Josh Jirbandey who has joined on work experience from Peterborough United. Despite his young years Josh was a steadying influence in a back three formation and impressed with his distribution. Hopefully his temporary arrival will settle a defence that has looked somewhat porous in recent games.

Definitely out of the reckoning for this afternoon’s visit by Wealdstone is midfielder Sam Adams who, having accumulated five yellow cards, must sit out a one match ban. His absence could provide an opportunity for Marc Whiteman to make the starting line up, having sat patiently on the substitutes’ bench for much of the season. Wealdstone sit in a midfield position in a somewhat congested Ryman Premier League and Hastings know that a continued run of disappointment could see them sucked into the relegation fight.

Roger Sinden for SATURDAY SPORT the Pilot Field

Match Report

Hastings United ( 2  )  Wealdstone (  1 )
A wonder strike from Antonio Gonnella in the second half earned Hastings three precious points against an in form Wealdstone side who were technically superior for much of the match. Their deft passing and movement off the ball created problems for the home defence all afternoon, but for once Lady Luck smiled on United.

Wealdstone enjoyed much the greater possession in a difficult opening spell and took the lead on 20 minutes. Incisive running on the right saw a square ball slotted along the edge of the penalty area and Lee Chappell’s low drive eluded Paul Nessling and two stretching defenders on the line. Hastings were resorting to long balls for Frankie Sawyer to chase, by passing a midfield that was anonymous for long spells. The equaliser on 45 minutes was a welcome gift with Scott Ramsay collecting the ball on the right flank, his cross was deflected for an own goal by a defender under pressure from Frankie Sawyer.

If anything Wealdstone enjoyed even more possession in the second period and Marvin Sordell rattled the cross bar and also forced a fine save from Stand in keeper Paul Nessling.

The Hastings winner was a goal to remember. On 60 minutes a rare Hastings corner by Attwood was part cleared only to the 18 line, where the diminutive Antonio Gonnnella drops back for set pieces. His perfect volley into the top corner was too powerful for Sean Thomas, and Hastings first league win in four matches puts some breathing space between them and the relegation pack.

Roger Sinden at the Pilot Field for SATURDAY SPORT  where it finished
Hastings United (   2   ) Wealdstone (  1 )