Hastings United v Dartford - Saturday 22nd August 2009

Pre Match Report

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

One point from the first two matches of their campaign is a meagre reward for Hastings United after two league matches. Last Saturday, Borehamwood were made to look second best for much of the game, but missed opportunities meant that both sides had to settle for a point each.

 After having avoided defeat in the opening fixture, expectations were high on Tuesday night with Aveley making their first ever visit to the Pilot Field. Both sides had their chances in an end to end encounter but the turning point came on 35 minutes when Sam Adams, normally so reliable from the penalty spot, saw his kick well saved by goalkeeper by Jamie Lunan. There was an air of inevitability when the visitors stole all three points on 88 minutes with a headed goal, leaving united at the wrong end of the table.

 In contrast, today’s visitors Dartford have won both opening fixtures and are the early season league leaders, as expected by many non league fans who see them as strong title contenders. Lining up for the Darts this afternoon is former United favourite Adam Flanagan. Their striker Elliot Bradbrook has already scored two goals this season, with Hastings collectively looking for their first goal.

Eyes will be on Tony Dolby this afternoon to see if he keeps faith with the same line up or finds a space for Michael Phillips who might offer more creativity in midfield.

Before  that sees a sponsored event for the  Conquest Hospital cardiac rehab unit at the William Parker Stadium, a slightly less gruelling affair but just as important for the town

Match Report

Hastings United ( 1 )  Dartford ( 3 )

Hastings United were well beaten by a visiting Dartford side whose early form confirmed them as genuine championship contenders. There was a chasm between the two sides in terms of composure, creativity and ability and Dartford easily moved to their third consecutive league win. The only consolation for the home side is that they have at least registered their first goal of the campaign.

Manager Tony Dolby made changes from the start with Ramsay and Upton on the substitutes bench and Hastings did at least start brightly. A foul on Adams saw Carey’s free kick tamely shot at goalkeeper Young. An early goal settled the visitors on 13 minutes when a through ball found Lee Burns on the edge of the area.

He advanced and curled the ball inside the far post from an acute angle with Nessling helpless. Dartford continued to press and doubled their lead on 44 minutes when a free kick from midfield saw Rob Haworth heading home unchallenged. Ade Olorunda had a golden chance to reduce the arrears just before the break but he miscued hopelessly.

The game was virtually over on 53 minutes when Lee Burns headed home with the defence disorganised and Dartford could relax with a three goal cushion. A glimmer of hope accompanied United’s opening goal of the season. Goalkeeper Young came to the edge of the area to kick clear but the ball found Matt Maclean, some 40 yards out. Spotting an unguarded net, he chipped the ball straight back for probably the most unlikely goal to be seen at the Pilot Field in this season.

A spirited finale followed but not even the most fanatical supporter could begrudge the visitors their win

Roger Sinden at the Pilot Field for SATURDAY SPORT  where it finished
Hastings United ( 1 )  Dartford ( 3 )