Match Reports

Tooting and Mitcham   (0) Hastings United (2)

Tooting and Mitcham, who were undefeated in 31 matches finally came unstuck at the Imperial Fields as Hastings United booked their place in the Ryman Premier Division for next season. In dramatic scenes they shaded the second half on a playing surface which had large areas without grass covering which made flowing football difficult. The first half was an even tight affair with two chances falling to Lee Carey. He scythed at thin air on 16 minutes when set up by Olorunda and then went close when a deft back heel from Olorunda opened the home defence. At the other end, Eben Allen headed wide when well placed and then saw a second header well taken by Worgan.

The second half belonged to Hastings and they registered first on 56 minutes. A poor back header from midfield was seized on by Olorunda in the dust bowl of a pitch and beat giant goalkeeper Dave King with a low shot as he fell to the ground. Just 9 minutes later Olorunda was through on goal, then held back by defender Oliver Hunt. He was shown a straight red card and Lee Carey converted the penalty with a low shot that sent King the wrong way.

Although Hastings looked comfortable there was always a danger that Tooting would finish strongly as they had against Fleet Town on Tuesday night. Trailing by one goal they scored two stoppage time goals to gain victory. Allen McLeod hit the bar for the home side on 82 minutes, as did matt York on 89 minutes, but with a man down it rarely seemed that it was going to be their day. And so Premier Division football beckons next season.

Dover Athletic  ( 0  ) Hastings United ( 2  )

Hastings United booked their place in the play off final on Saturday against Tooting and Mitcham with a stirring display against all the odds at Crabble tonight. They were resilient under early pressure and then snatched the opening goal on 10 minutes through Ade Olorunda. He outpaced the home defence, rounded keeper Glen Knight before burying the ball in the net.

Things looked bleak when United were reduced to 10 men when Sam Adams was shown his second yellow card, the first for needlessly kicking the ball away. As a result of the necessary tactical change, Dover seized the initiative and pounded the resolute defence incessantly. Lee Worgan was outstanding under pressure in the Hastings goal and his handling was impeccable.

And so into the second half, with supporters believing that a shock result was on the cards as Dover frustrations grew about not finding a way through the Hastings defence. The second half was a mirror image to the first, with Hastings absorbing pressure and still looking dangerous on the break. There was even a Sean Ray header from a corner on the right which was well saved by Knight. With the game in stoppage time, Olorunda sealed the game with a fine second. Knight miscued his clearance and Danny Ellis appeared to have lost the chance by delaying and taking the ball wide. He pulled the back to Olorunda who settled the game with style and kicked off jubilant celebrations behind the goal.

Godalming Town  ( 0  ) Hastings United (4 )

With half an eye on Tuesday’s play off fixture, Hastings won this afternoon with plenty in reserve against relegated Godalming Town. With results of other matches now  through, Hastings will travel to Dover on Tuesday in the play off semi final. Ade Olorunda returned to the side after suspension and he showed the way to goal on 28 minutes. Picking the ball up outside of the penalty area he sent a dipping volley past Parkinson in the Godalming goal and into the top right hand corner of the net. Although the home side enjoyed reasonable possession in the first half they rarely threatened although Tchankou did fire lamely at Wogan.

The second half saw the home side collapse badly as soon as Hastings had increased their lead and from that point on, Hastings controlled the game comfortably. Man of the match Lee Carey disposed a defender on the edge of the box on 60 minutes and his well placed shot hit the underside of the bar, bounced down on the line and back into the roof of the net. It was Carey again on 80 minutes who combined with John Bradley, before Dan Williams registered to make it 3-0 with defenders looking in vain  for offside.

Lee Carey finished the scoring on 87 minutes when he was picked out by Tim Olorunda on the right, and his shot from the edge of the area gave a comfortable margin to proceedings.

And so Hastings Premier Division hopes will be contested next Tuesday evening at a ground where they lost three weeks ago by the odd goal and three and where they were second best for large periods of the game.

Hastings United ( 0 ) Corinthian Casuals ( 0 )

Hastings United were left nervously looking over their shoulders at the chasing pack as another indifferent performance saw a further two points slip away. Whilst a point has clinched a play off place, slipping to fourth is likely to make this a problematic away match. Corinthian Casuals came as a relegated club and made little attempt to emerge from their defensive shell and Hastings, for their part, lacked the guile and creativity to break them down.

Referee Lloyd Rendell withdrew from the action at half time as a result of illness and the restart was delayed several minutes before a suitable replacement was identified. The second half was marginally better in terms of goal chances but it rarely looked as though a goal would come.

Colin Harris the visitors goalkeeper, had an inspired match and handled well under pressure throughout. The catalogue of misses included an Eldridge effort on 49 minutes from a Lee Carey corner and Sam Adams rustled the side netting on 65 minutes. A teasing centre from Bradley picked out Ellis and his goal bound volley smacked against a defender with some venom. On 76 minutes a Lee Carey free kick looked goal bound but Harris saved well.

Player of the year Lee Worgan was called upon to rescue Hastings at the other end when he did well to thwart Andre McCollin when clean through.

These were just the only highlights during an inept performance against a poor side. Championship hopes have evaporated and the prospect of a tricky play off journey is the more likely. Maximum points next Saturday is now essential.

Hastings United ( 1) Dartford ( 2 )

For the second successive match Hastings conceded all of the points to promotion rivals, as end of season nerves began to show. Dartford took the game to the home side, looked sharper in their approach work, and Lee Worgan was under early pressure. Hastings were again depleted due to the suspension of Ade Olorunda and Sean Ray, and relied overmuch on the long ball.

The visitors finally took the lead on 43 minutes when a lofted ball into the Hastings area created problems for Worgan. He lost the ball under pressure and Brendon Cass lobbed the ball over the stretching defender on the goal line and into the roof of the net.

Hastings had still to trouble Tony Kessell but looked more determined after the break. Sam Adams lifted Hastings hopes on 54 minutes when he picked the ball up on the edge of the area, cut in and slid the ball past the advancing Tony Kessell with precision. Just five minutes later Adams picked the ball up in a similar position and his curling shot was well held by Kessell. At that point Hastings looked contenders to take all three points but a cut to Whyborn’s head necessitated further reshuffling of the Hastings defence and paramedic treatment.

It was a cruel stroke for the Hastings fans when the visitors snatched the winner. A lofted free kick from one flank to the other was followed by an excellent centre and Carl Bruce’s header powered into the net and the jubilant scorer disappeared into the crowd behind the goal. With Maidstone also losing and Tooting and Mitcham winning, Hastings slipped from the prized second slot on a disappointing afternoon.

Dover Athletic  ( 2 ) Hastings United (1 )

Hastings slipped to their first reverse in 17 games but can have few complaints about the outcome as they were blown away by a rampant Dover side in a torrid first half. United opted for a defensive back four but they looked uneasy in this formation as Dover hit them hard from the kick off. Goalkeeper Lee Worgan was called upon to make three critical saves, the best when Dryden’s header looked a certain goal until Worgan saved the day.

The opening goal on 12 minutes came as no surprise. A long throw on the left was headed home by Wilkins, with the marking suspect. Worse was to follow on 22 minutes when a corner on the left was headed home powerfully by Craig Cloke, again apparently unchallenged. Just before half time, Russell Eldridge kept the score down when he hooked a goal bound effort off the line.

Hastings reshuffled their formation and tried to use greater width rather than playing through the middle. They won their first corner of the match on 57 minutes and it reaped rewards. Carey played the ball short to Eldridge and his centre was hooked home by Ade Olorunda. Hastings pushed forward in the final 10 minutes in the quest for an equaliser and substitute Webb went close deep into stoppage time with an effort cleared from the line. The 1000 crowd included a number of Maidstone United fans who must feel that the championship is theirs for the taking

Hastings United (  4  ) Croydon Athletic(0   )

Hastings extended their unbeaten run to 16 games with an effortless win against cash strapped visitors Croydon Athletic who were rarely in the game. They continue to exert pressure on Maidstone United and only goal difference separates the two clubs. Hastings got off to the best possible start on 8 minutes when a long clearance from Williams found Ade Olorunda on the left flank. A run along the by line was followed by a precision cross and Sam Adams side footed home from close range. The remainder of the half was listless with Hastings more determined in the tackle and well in control.

The second half was punctuated by two quick goals. On 52 minutes Olorunda picked up a loose ball and cut into the box. He slid the ball past the advancing Hyatt with precision. With the crowd of 500 still settling United went further ahead. A Russell Eldridge free kick to the far post was headed across the goal and Kevin Rose had the simplest task to head home from within the goal area. Croydon had virtually capitulated but Ramsay, their most dangerous forward, could have troubled Lee Worgan with a header and shot, but both missed the target.

The rout was complete on 79 minutes. Sam Adams neatly laid the ball square along the edge of the penalty area and Tim Olorunda’s drive was deflected by John Bradley past the stranded goalkeeper, leaving the players to sort out who can claim the goal.

And so Hastings face Dover on Easter Monday, who were beaten by Fleet today, and both sides will look to that as being a must win game.

Horsham YMCA  (1) Hastings United (2 )

A goal on 90 minutes from substitute Graham Webb was sufficient to keep alive United’s championship hopes for another week, when it looked at one time as though two precious points would be dropped. It started so positively with Hastings making the early running on a drying bumpy pitch, and the blustery wind made the ball difficult to control.

On 22 minutes Adams touched on a long clearance to Olorunda who powered into the penalty area and shot inside Ruddy’s near post for the opening goal. Hastings had two further chances in a comfortable first half, a Rose header on 24 minutes and Olorunda’s shot on the half hour.

Hastings were caught cold immediately after the break and Pat Massaro took advantage of defensive hesitancy and fired home. With Hastings needing to pick up all three points, the visitors pushed forward and recovered their superiority. There were claims for penalties at both ends, for handball in the Hastings box and at the other end when Olorunda went sprawling and the offence was given just outside the penalty area.

At the death, a long free kick from goal keeper Lee Worgan, with most of the team pushed up. Fell to Olorunda whose shot was blocked. Graham Webb pounced on the rebound and lashed home from close range. With just sufficient time to restart the game Hastings held on to their lead and will hope that Maidstone United falter in the run in.

Hastings United (  1  ) Leatherhead ( 1  )

Hastings skipper Sean ray was both hero and villain in a disappointing afternoon with an ugly finish, when two valuable promotion points were lost. The hosts had looked the sharper side in the first half and exerted early pressure from the start. That vital opening goal came on 10 minutes after a quickly taken Eldridge free kick. Gibson scrambled the ball away fro a corner but from this Williams goal bound shot was touched home by Sean Ray.

Hastings could have added to this lead when a Lee Carey centre was met by Sam Adams, whose goal bound effort was scrambled away by Gibson.

In the second half Hastings lost the initiative and Leatherhead assumed control, but the outcome eventually hinged upon an incident around 68 minutes. Sean ray was penalised for a foul on goalkeeper Gibson, a melee ensued and it seemed that Ray made contact with an opponent through a head butt. He was shown a straight red card and referee Smith finally got the game going again after several minutes.

Ten men Hastings were under sustained pressure but were holding firm. There was even time for Olorunda to battle into the box and see his curling shot hit the top of the bar.

Leatherhead snatched a deserved equaliser on 83 minutes when a ball into the box found Stevens apply the killer touch from close range, alongside off side protests. There was still time for Norman Kane to be dismissed from the touchline for the second time this season as the game slowly simmered and the Hastings supporters vented their frustration at the loss of two valuable points

Metropolitan Police  (  1 ) Hastings United (1 )

It was honours even in an uninspiring match at Imber Court in which both sides were desperate to obtain maximum points. With the referee cautioning a Met player within a minute of the kick off, it looked as though we might have been in for a thriller but for the most part this was a tepid affair with goal chances limited. It is difficult to recall goalkeeper Will Packham having to deal with a direct shot on goal, most certainly a case of Hastings wasting Police time.

Hastings did take the lead on 24 minutes when Sam Adams made an incisive run own goal, squared the ball from the goal line for Carl Hutchings, facing his own goal, to deflect it into the net. Hastings badly needed to consolidate immediately afterwards but quickly conceded a free kick over on the right touchline. Ryan Gray swung the free kick into a crowded goal area, just two minutes later and it was to his surprise that it found the back of the net without a further touch.

Olorunda and Adams were industrious for Hastings but the plan, so often was for them to chase long balls rather than relying upon creative build ups. The second half was a tepid affair with neither side retaining possession long enough to take control. The Boys in Blue might have grabbed a late winner when a downward header at the far post was well saved by Hastings goal keeper Lee Worgan and scrambled away for a corner.

Whilst this was a useful playoff place point well gained, it was two championship points lost, and with Maidstone continuing to win, the chances of catching the Kent Club are receding fast.

Hastings United (3 ) Fleet Town ( 1  )

Having raced into a three goal lead in the first half, Hastings effectively killed the game off as a spectacle, but in so doing clinically ensured that another three promotion points were gathered. If the second half was an anticlimax, Hastings supporters did not seem too concerned as Fleet rarely looked as though they would claw their way back.

The home side made the best possible start on 3 minutes when a cross from Russell Eldridge on the left was headed home from close range by Ade Olorunda. Fleet responded with three consecutive corners but did not cause undue problems for the Hastings defence.

Danny Ellis created the second through sheer determination. Having won the ball back, he cut in and set up Russell Eldridge for a header that went in off the far post. The Fleet defence was looking uncertain and the Hastings attack rampant.

On the half hour a corner found Lee Carey running into the penalty box, and when Carey went down the referee awarded a penalty after hesitation. Sam Adams made it 3-0 with a low drive after a delay, during which there were cautions for players on both sides.

The second half was a poor affair and Fleet’s consolation goal well deserved as they were more determined. James Field struck from close range on 53 minutes after the ball was cut back from the left flank. Michael Douglas was sent off for two yellow cards, and this halted the revival, and the remainder of the match slipped into forgettable mediocrity. With Maidstone also winning at Molesey, it’s as we were in the league table.

Walton Casuals (1) Hastings United (3)

Although Hastings enjoyed the majority of play and possession against a mediocre Walton side it took them well into the second half before all three points were secured and supporters’ nerves steadied. Returning skipper Sean Ray looked hesitant after suspension and the home side took the lead in effectively their only attack in the first half. On 19 minutes Craig Carley outpaced the Hastings defence after a header on and he slotted home past the advancing Worgan.

Hastings showed much more urgency in the second half and had their first clear cut chance after 49 minutes. John Bradley’s goal bound lob, when through on goal was palmed wide for a corner by Matt Reed.

The equaliser followed on 52 minutes albeit with some controversy. A clearance struck Danny Ellis on the chest, although defenders claimed the use of the arm, and Ellis advanced and lobbed home from an acute angle into the top corner of the goal.

On 78 minutes Hastings took the lead after a series of corners and sustained pressure had the home side pressed into their own half. Danny Spice’s well placed cross was expertly headed home by Ade Olorunda, his downward header creeping in at the far post.

With Hastings defending too deeply and Walton pushing for an equaliser, a counter attack made the game safe. Lee Carey picked the ball up from Danny Ellis on the edge of the area and his drive, in stoppage time, hit a hapless defender and was deflected for United’s third and final goal. But with Maidstone also winning there is no change at the top.

Having snatched a precious second half lead and looking in control, Hastings inexplicably lost their way and conceded a late goal, in their quest for automatic promotion.

It was perhaps inevitable that Hastings were to find the going problematic without the suspended Sean Ray and Sam Adams. As always it was Ade Olorunda who caught the eye in an even first half which saw precious few clear cut chances. The nearest Hastings came to finding the net was on 29 minutes when Olorunda found himself with only the advancing goalkeeper to beat but he narrowed the angle well and palmed the ball away for a corner.

Hastings looked sharper in the second half and were combining well in their passing game. Ade Olorunda caught Cray on the break, after a flowing passing move. On 56 minutes he ran powerfully towards goal, cut in and then pulled the ball back for Danny Ellis to touch home from close range.

With Hastings conceding possession in the last 15 minutes Lee Worgan was at his busiest. On 79 minutes the home side drew a diving save, then a minute later Worgan saved with his legs before a free kick clattered the cross bar and Danny Spice cleared the Hastings lines.

When Cruttenden appeared well placed to score on 88 minutes for Hastings it seemed that a victory would be secure, but he shot weakly at Northwood. There was still time for Cray’s Lewis  Wood, who had been a thorn in the Hastings side all afternoon, to steer home from close range after the Hastings defence had been opened up on the left flank. And for once, Hastings who have scored some dramatically late goals in recent weeks, had nothing else to call on from reserves.

Dulwich Hamlet  (3) Hastings United (3)

It was honours even in this rousing top of the table clash including a story book recovery in the last 18 minutes. Hastings seemed well beaten by an impressive Hamlet who for much of the match looked sharper in every respect. Dickson and Williams for the home side were a different class and they tormented the United defence all afternoon. Hastings goalkeeper Lee Worgan kept his side in the game with some superb saves and made this recovery possible by keeping the deficit to reasonable proportions.

He was well beaten by a drive from Chris Dickson on 27 minutes after a surging run got him within 20 yards of goal and Lewis Tozer’s close range contact from a corner on 33 minutes seemed to have made the result a formality. Ahmad notched a third on 64 minutes when he ran on to Musungu’s pass and finished with a low drive to apparently put the result beyond reach.

When Danny Ellis pulled a goal back on 72 minutes it seemed simply a consolation. He received a knock down on the edge of the area and drove a low shot home. With just one minute remaining John Bradley nodded the second goal in from close range after a cross from Olorunda on the right had created the initial danger. With the game well into stoppage time skipper Sean Ray forced home from close range to complete the dream finale but how Dulwich let the game slip will be a total mystery to them.

Hastings United (2) Molesey (0 )

Hastings continued to grind out the points in their quest for promotion but an entertaining first half was followed by a poor second half which was strewn with errors. Molesey had little to offer in terms of strike power but did manage to net twice, one in each half. On both occasions the referee’s assistant’s flag cancelled out the strikes, allowing Lee Worgan to keep another clean sheet.

Hastings showed their intentions straight from the kick off by taking the game to the visitors and Ade Olorunda went close on 18 and 21 minutes. On both occasions he shot narrowly wide. He finally found the net a minute later when smart work on the right from Sims set up Adams in the box. His shot from close range was deflected but Olorunda netted the rebound.

The second half was a disappointment after a livelier first half and was littered with unforced errors on both sides. A goal was desperately needed and once again it was at the Molesey end. An Eldridge free kick wide on the right flank was headed powerfully down by Sean Ray. By placing it downwards  it rose on the bounce past the stranded Martini in the Molesey goal.

There was still time for Ray to miss another, simpler header and for him to become embroiled in a wrestling match with Younis Nabil, for which both were fortunate to escape with a caution. All roads lead to table topping Dulwich next Saturday in a critical match.

Maidstone United  ( 3  ) Hastings United ( 1 )

There could be few complaints about the end of Hastings 9 match unbeaten run at windswept Central park this afternoon. The home side was playing their first match since Boxing Day, such has the weather disrupted their season and they adapted themselves better to the difficult conditions. They used the long throw in to good effect and this directly lead to one goal against a jittery Hastings defence.

United fell behind on 16 minutes. A free kick to the far post saw defender James Sims pull McNish to the ground and Alex Tiesse made no mistake with a low penalty in the corner. The next few moments saw United rally as they pressed for a prompt equaliser. McNish headed a Carey free kick against his own bar and from the ensuing corner Olorunda applied a touch and hit the post, but was deemed offside. It was Maidstone who extended their lead on the stroke of half time. Wing man Hegley broke on the left and his low cross was forced home by Lyndon Rowland from within the 6 yard box.

A quick goal after the break made it look if Hastings might salvage something from the game. A long free kick from the half way line created confusion. A Maidstone defender saw a clearance cannon in off a team mate whilst under pressure from Olorunda, to reduce the arrears.

Any hope of a story book finish was soon lost when a long throw in was firmly headed by Ryan Royston, effectively killing the game off as he restored the two goal cushion.

Hastings United ( 1 ) Tooting and Mitcham  ( 0 )

A quality goal by Hastings striker Sam Adams in the first half set up this close encounter superbly. From then on Tooting needed to chase the game with ambition and supporters were treated to an end to end encounter which could have gone either way.

The driving rain and muddy conditions were tricky but did not mar the game as a spectacle.

That all important goal came on 29 minutes when a ball out of defence found Sam Adams on the left flank. His pace took him clear; he cut inside and drilled a low drive inside the near post past the former Hastings goalkeeper Dave King.

If Hastings had the better of exchanges in the first half it was the visitors who enjoyed more possession in the second and Hastings defended in depth and soaked up enormous pressure. Sean Ray and Lee Worgan were once again notable for sound displays.

A feature of the game was the personal duel between Ade Olorunda and the Tooting back line, with Ade winning the man of the match award for an energetic display. He always looked dangerous when running at defenders.

And so the minutes ticked down with Tooting battering the home defence, but leaving themselves vulnerable on the counter attack. There were no further goals but Adams may have added his second, but dallied his shot too long when a goal seemed inevitable. In so doing he made sure that Hastings supporters lived on their nerves right through to the end.

Corinthian Casuals (0) Hastings United (1)

It needed a late brace from Ade Olorunda to ensure that this match went according to the form book. Casuals are without a home win all season, and the visitors unbeaten in six matches, but inexplicably the home side took the lead after an uneventful first half.

Dan Williams almost opened the scoring on 10 minutes when a firm header from a corner was hacked off the line by a well placed defender. Hastings enjoyed most of the possession but were dependent upon a good save by in form Lee Worgan’s legs in a one on one situation.

The home side took the lead on 51 minutes when Jamie Byatt pulled the ball back low from the bye line and James Goodwin forced home from close range. From then on casuals defended too deeply and conceded too much possession, allowing Hastings plenty of opportunity to press forward in numbers.

The equaliser had an element of mystery on 67 minutes when Sam Adams low driven corner created problems, and Ade Olorunda claimed the finishing touch from close range. The linesman signalled a goal as a defender cleared the ball too late. There was much to admire however about the winning goal on 81 minutes  as Sam Adams shot was punched clear by goalkeeper Harris. John Bradley’s centre was met with a spectacular scissors kick from Ade Olorunda to be greeted by enthusiastic team celebrations and to set up all three points.

 Hastings United ( 1 ) Godalming Town ( 0)

Supporters who opted for football instead of Christmas shopping were reviewing the wisdom of their decision for much of an afternoon, on which passes went astray and in which Hastings rarely hit top gear.

Godalming were making their first ever visit to the Pilot Field and whilst they rarely threatened, they looked comfortable in possession for much of the game. Clear cut chances were rare in a tepid first half although Danny Williams went close on 40 miniutes with a curling effort which was parried by Andy Parkinson for a corner.

Godalming, if anything, had more of the possession in the second half and the Hastings defence looked jittery in the absence of the injured Sean Ray. Liam Grier went close for the visitors on 52 minutes with a curling shot from the edge of the area and then a free kick which Lee Worgan pushed over the bar. They did finally get the ball in the net but a well placed linesman had already determined that the ball had gone out for a corner. The deadlock was finally broken on 81 minutes with supporters beginning to drift away early. Hastings were awarded a free kick on the right flank and the lofted delivery was headed home by Kevin Rose from close range, to the relief of the Hastings supporters. With five wins and a draw from the last six outings Hastings are the league’s form side and their surge up the table continues.

Hastings United (  2  ) Cray Wanderers (2 )

It was honours even in a hugely entertaining game which had the usually subdued Pilot Field faithful noisily clamouring for a deciding goal in an end to end finish. After having dealt with early pressure, impressive Cray Wanderers took an early lead on 4 minutes. A low ball from the right flank found Lewis Wood on the edge of the area and he registered with a low drive. A poor clearance straight to Sam Adams saw the Hastings striker clip the goal frame but the Hastings equaliser was not long in coming. A Danny Ellis cross to the far post was deftly headered home by Lee Carey on 12 minutes. On the half hour Danny Ellis went down inside the box, but the offence was given outside although there was doubt as to whether a foul had actually occurred.

A free kick from the centre circle saw Lee Worgan scramble the ball against the post and Jamie Kempster forced home the rebound on 37 minutes to edge the visitors ahead.

United pressed for an equaliser in an absorbing second half and a John Bradley drive and a dipping shot from Lee Carey were both goal worthy efforts.

In the end it took a rasping drive on 72 minutes from Danny Ellis that set up that final rousing few minutes. Lee Carey’s delay in shooting in injury time may have produced a story book finish but that would have been too much to hope for.

Hastings United (  4  ) Dulwich Hamlet ( 2  )

Hastings United harried their table topping opponents out of their stride and emerged with tremendous credit after a six goal thriller. Although he did not register on the score sheet Lee Carey caught the eye with an industrious display covering all of the pitch over ninety minutes.

Hastings had the better of the early exchanges and took the game to the visitors. They took the lead on 34 minutes with a low shot from Olorunda from the edge of the box, but were pegged back just two minutes later. Chris Dickson coolly slotted past the advancing Lee Worgan. A storming run from Nima Cham just before the break resulted in the ball falling to Olurunda who drove in a low drive on the stroke of half time.

Hastings again showed the greater determination straight from the restart and an Adams curling centre on 48 minutes was met by Sean Ray’s head for United’s third goal. The game was sealed on 76 minutes when Adams scored the goal of the game. His 35 yard shot screamed into the roof of the net past a stranded Chris Lewington with supporters already nominating it the goal of the season.

Lee Worgan’s fumble on 86 minutes allowed Kenny Beaney’s soft long range effort skid through his hands and into the net, but by then the game was safe. Hastings left the pitch to a rousing ovation following their best display of the season.

Kingstonian  (1) Hastings United ( 1 ) 

An equaliser deep into stoppage time by the home side was a bitter pill to swallow for a Hastings side which had done enough to win a keenly contested match.

For much of the first half Hastings were second best to Kingstonian, who looked dangerous on both flanks. The home side had a hatful of early chances with Stephen Broad being the most wasteful with two misses in consecutive minutes. Goalkeeper Lee Worgan was also the busier as United rode their luck. Lee is looking a useful addition to the United squad.

Hastings had their best period just before the break and exerted concerted pressure. Tim Olorunda’s shot, after a penetrating run, was cleared from the line. From an ensuing corner by Danny Ellis Lee Carey’s low drive from just under thirty yards somehow found the net past Garrard who must have been disappointed not to have made the save.

A determined Hastings second half performance could have resulted in more goals for the visitors. Carey’s far post header was goal bound when blocked by Garrard and Olorunda’s curling drive was well saved to the goalkeeper’s left. The best chance fell to Bradley on 57 minutes as Olorunda’s header left him with just the goalkeeper to beat but he hit the post and was beaten to the rebound by a defender.

At the last gasp a deep curling centre from the right found Julian Sills unmarked at the far post and he headed downwards for that equaliser.

Hastings United (0) Burgess Hill (1)

Like a damp November firework this match took a long time to ignite but finally erupted for all the wrong reasons. Despite the late drama Hastings were again pointless at the conclusion. The goalless first half was instantly forgettable with Sussex rivals Burgess Hill having most of the possession. There were few goal bound chances and the in form visitors looked well worth a point at the break.

The second half was a slightly brighter affair and Burgess Hill went close on 55 minutes. A free kick on the right was hooked back across the goal and the merest of touches would have seen the visitors take the lead. At the other end Lee Carey’s hit to the inside of the post rebounded to safety.

It looked as though it might be Hastings day on 73 minutes when Lee Worgan’s agility kept the home side in the game. First a diving save and then a reflex recovery on the rebound, followed by a further diving save.

Long range efforts from Ellis on 80 minutes and Rose on 85 minutes looked promising but it was the visitors who ultimately struck. Lloyd Cotton’s header from close range from a free kick on the right was the critical strike. A rash tackle from Danny Ellis earned him a straight red card and the ensuing brawl saw Burgess Hill’s Joe Bye shown a second yellow card and then a red. After the final whistle Hastings Williams also saw a straight red for abuse at the officials, and so the evening sky was lit up with colours of red and yellow to kick start the Guy Fawkes celebrations.

Hastings United (0 ) Waltham Forest (1)

Hastings united bowed out of the FA Trophy, losing to a mediocre Waltham Forest who had previously managed only two wins all season. This was a poor game that cried out for a goal, both to increase urgency or tempt Waltham Forest out of their early defensive shell.

Hastings made the early running with John Bradley looking lively. He was preferred at the start to Marc Whiteman and was nominated man of the match by the match sponsor. It was difficult to recall either goalkeeper being seriously tested in a dull first half, although Jason Willis in the visitors’ goal began to limp badly and eventually withdrew early.

The second half was marginally brighter and more open with a good effort from Jimmy Elford on 55 minutes going straight at Willis. Waltham Forest contributed the miss of the match on 65 minutes when the ball was cut back low on the right to Ryan Hall, who skied the ball out of the ground from 6 yards with the goal unguarded. At the other end both Whiteman and Adams combined well but delayed shooting and two minutes later Adams pinpoint header was saved well by Willis. This was the final straw for the victors’ goalkeeper who was substituted as a result of injury.

The winner could have come from either side but it was the visitors’ substitute Joe Deeney who won the tie. He lashed the ball home from inside the area which was followed by extravagant scenes of jubilation. There was still time for Olorunda to hit the foot of the post for Hastings with a close range header and home goalkeeper to join play for a final corner. It was however, too little, too late.
 

Hastings United (  2 ) Croydon Athletic ( 1 )

Hastings did enough to shake off their mid week FA Cup hangover, put in a better performance and made progress to the qualifying round stage of the FA Trophy. Hastings entertain Waltham Forest or Ashford in the next round.

Hastings debutant goalkeeper Lee Worgan got off to the worst possible start. Having seen the home side make all of the early running in the opening minutes, Croydon scored from their very first attack. On 8 minutes Wade Falana swivelled and a dipping shot on the turn from 25 yards gave Worgan no chance. He did not let this affect his confidence and performed competently for the remainder of the game.

United were back on level terms on 17 minutes but with a suspicion of offside. Sam Adams broke free on the left flank, the linesman’s flag stayed down and the square pass was side footed home by the unmarked Whiteman from close range.

It was Whiteman who again proved the match winner on 55 minutes. Ringwood and Elford combined well and a perfectly flighted cross was deftly header home from close range.

Hastings held on to their slender lead with little difficulty and they could have increased it towards the end had they been more decisive in front of goal.
 

Hastings United (1) Metropolitan Police (1)

Having drawn their FA Cup tie Hastings have been bailed until Tuesday night, when they will again be helping the Police with their enquiries at Imber Court. As a traditional cup tie this was an arresting game and perhaps both sides will consider themselves unlucky not to have won.

Hastings started at an illegal speed and enjoyed the better possession and goal opportunities. Whiteman and Williams both had opportunities with Danny Ellis looking dangerous on the right flank. As the game progressed, Metropolitan Police began to take control and on 22 minutes Ryan Gray had a shot beaten out by Will Toal. The danger was only adjourned for a further 2 minutes when Tony Finn’s low drive from inside the box flew past more players than an identity parade.

Anxiety began to creep into Hastings play as chance after chance went begging and it was not until the 65^th minute that they got out of gaol. Danny Ellis jinxed his way into the box before unleashing a fine shot which hurtled into the net.

Throwing caution to the wind Hastings re-jigged their side, but in so doing lost shape. A Matt Piper drive from long range went straight at Packham and Rose on 65 minutes might have done better when put through and not given offside. At the other end Ben Abbey was a constant threat for the visitors, who were always looking to nick it right up to the end.

Hastings United ( 2  ) Walton Casuals  (1 )

Hastings secured their first home league victory at the fourth attempt but the slender margin of their victory was poor representation of their overall superiority. An inability to convert chances meant that Hastings supporters endured an uncomfortable final few minutes as Walton pushed forward for a late equaliser.

It was the visitors who took the lead on 9 minutes. Chris Morrison outpaced a square Hastings defence through the middle and had the easiest of chances in sliding the ball past Will Toal.

Hastings quickly got back into the game when Danny Ellis on the right flank whipped the ball in to Sam Adams who rounded the keeper and scored from the acutest of angles.

It was the same two players on 18 minutes who combined for the second goal. A flighted cross from Danny Ellis was headed firmly home by man of the match Sam Adams.

Hastings continued to move fluently up front and threatened to add to their goal tally. Marc Whiteman had a shot cleared from the line on 60 minutes and Russell Eldridge hit the goal frame four minutes later from eight yards. The wasted chances were endless but for once Hastings did not have to live to regret them.

Dartford  (0) Hastings United (2 )

Once again Hastings got the better of their Kent opponents for the second successive week. Last week they notched their first league win of the season by two goals to nil and they returned to the same ground to make further progress in the FA Cup by the same score. There can be no surprise by the outcome as Hastings seemed sharper in all respects and were able to control midfield for much of the game. Although the first half was goalless, it was entertaining for both sets of fans as there were chances at both ends.

For the home side, a Ryan Hayes free kick drifted just wide of the post after Jay May had raced clear of the Hastings defence, but failed to control after rounding Will Toal is the Hastings goal. Toal also saved well at the foot of the post following a low drive from Eddie McClement. For Hastings Ade Olorunda and Lee Carey had decent chances to open the scoring.

Marc Whiteman, who had come on for the injured Olorunda, broke the deadlock on 59 minutes. Controlling a cross well on the chest, he swivelled and beat Hudson from 8 yards with a fierce volley. Hastings defended their advantage well and Toal was solid in goal for Hastings and Sean Ray outstanding in the air.

On 89 minutes Dartford were caught without numbers at the back and Russell Eldridge drove in off the far post from an acute angle on the left flank.

Dartford left the pitch to the theme of “Mission Impossible” whilst the jubilant Hastings players celebrated. For Dartford, the music was most apt.

Croydon Athletic (3) Hastings United (2) 

Hastings United suffered their third successive defeat of the new season to Croydon Athletic this afternoon and remain pointless at the foot of the table. Having clawed their way back into the game after going two goals down, they would argue that they at least might have deserved a point. 

It was a nightmare start for Hastings goalkeeper Matt Bromby when he saw a flighted free kick, wide on the left, sail into the top corner from fully 25 yards on 7 minutes. Gareth Graham was the scorer and that after Olorunda had gone close for the visitors straight from the start. 

The game seemed all but over on the stroke of half time when a corner was headed home from close range by Paul Scott. 

Hastings looked more convincing after the break and when home keeper Wastell punched and missed, Russell Eldridge had time to pick his spot and lash home on 51 minutes. It was Eldridge again, mid way through the second half, who found the net. His chipped free kick over the defensive wall was perfectly placed to make it honours even. 

With Hastings pressing for a winner the unthinkable happened. Charley Side cut in from the flank, swivelled and showing close control fired home on 82 minutes enabling Croydon to maintain their bright start to the season and leave Hastings pointless again.

Hastings United (0) Maidstone United (2) 

Hastings can have few complaints for conceding all three points to much fancied new boys Maidstone United. The visitors were better than Hastings in all departments and from the start looked hungry and sharp. Nick Hegley looked dangerous for the Stones on the left flank and Nathan Paul posed threats on the right with some surging runs. 

The opener came on 35 minutes when the referee adjudged that a shot had been charged down by Rhys Wyborne’s outstretched hand and a penalty was awarded. That commentator’s nightmare Mo Takalobighashi had his first shot well saved by the diving Matt Bromby but early movement off the line was spotted by the referee’s assistant and the kick retaken. The same player made no mistake with the retake. 

The killer second goal on 60 minutes had an element of tragedy. A lobbed back pass by Rhys Wyborne from some distance was chested by Bromby in the Hastings goal and the ball rebounded to Lynden Rowland who had no difficulty slotting into an empty net having rounded the hapless keeper. 

There was still time for a late surge, assisted to a degree by the dismissal of Maidstone captain Jim Strouts for his second yellow card. Sean ray was pushed up front in the quest for goals and they huffed and puffed to no avail.