Heybridge Swifts v Hastings United - Saturday 25th October 2008

Pre Match Report

“I’m Roger Sinden here at Scraley Road, Heybridge where Hastings United visit Heybridge Swifts ”

Hastings made progress to the next qualifying road of the FA Trophy last Saturday when a gritty display against a classy Carshalton Athletic side saw them ultimately run out winners by three goals to one. A trip to Harrow Borough next Saturday is the reward for their efforts.

 A pleasing aspect of last Saturday’s win was that Scott Ramsay ended his personal goal drought with two well taken goals, which should leave him in good heart for this afternoon’s league encounter at Heybridge. The other United goal was scored by in form striker Frankie Sawyer who has scored six goals in the last two matches.

The hosts today also made progress in the FA Trophy but needed a mid week replay before finally disposing of Walton Casuals. Their league form has however been indifferent and the Swifts are currently one off the bottom of the division and have already had a managerial change this season. A recent improvement in league form, particularly away from home, has edged United eight points ahead of their hosts today and Manager John Lambert will be looking to an un changed squad this afternoon to at least avoid defeat and maintain breathing space from the relegation zone.

Roger Sinden for Saturday Sport at Scraley Road, Heybridge

Match Report

Heybridge Swifts ( 0 ) Hastings United (2)

Hastings maintained their recent good form with a well earned victory at strugglers Heybridge Swifts this afternoon. The game was never a classic but Hastings were well in control once they had taken the lead after the interval.

The first half was instantly forgettable with end to end play spoiled by poor control and erratic passing. Hastings forced several corners but were unable to carve out clear cut opportunities. Andy Ballard’s long throws were being frustrated by Heybridge goalkeeper Ollie Morris-Sanders who was commanding in the penalty area.

Ballard’s opening goal just after the interval was a real screamer. Picking up a loose ball some 30 yards out, his first time shot struck the underside of the bar before hitting Morris-Sanders and crossing the line. Sam Adams worked hard for Hastings in midfield but poor finishing let him down after he had fashioned goal scoring opportunities.

With Heybridge pressing for an equaliser, the game became more open. Ramsay hit the bar for Hastings with a glancing header and then Reddaway at the other end forced a superb reflex save from Nessling on 75 minutes. Indecision in the Hastings defence required Nessling’s intervention to prevent the equaliser.

In the dying minutes substitute Jack Franklin was felled by Morris-Sanders in the penalty area and Scott Ramsay’s low struck penalty secured the points for Hastings and confirmed that Heybridge are likely to have a long struggle on their hands as they battle against relegation.

Roger Sinden at Scraley Road, Heybridge for Saturday Sport
where it finished Heybridge Swifts (0 ) Hastings United ( 2)