Pre-Match Reports

Before each Hastings United game Rogers Match Reports will appear here:

Leyton v Hastings United- Saturday 26th April 2008
“I’m Roger Sinden here at Lea Bridge Road where today Hastings United visit Leyton”

It was just a year ago that Hastings United secured their Premier Division status by winning a thrilling play off match at Tooting and Mitcham, and their final match of the season this afternoon will determine whether football at this higher level will be protected or lost through relegation.

The story will unfold at bottom club Leyton this afternoon and events occurring simultaneously at other Ryman grounds will all be vital parts of that complex jigsaw. In essence United start this afternoon sitting above the relegation zone, despite their home defeat against Ramsgate Athletic last Saturday, with a cushion of one point and a superior goal difference. Fortunately two of the relegation candidates are playing each other at Folkestone in a dog eat dog situation. A  point this afternoon will enable all at the club to relax and enjoy the Spring sunshine. A double decker bus will ensure that Hastings are well supported for this crucial game and even mascot Leonard the Seagull will be there, by bus rather than flying.

For this afternoon’s encounter against Leyton, who claim to be London’s oldest football club, Hastings will be without goalkeeper Lee Worgan who was sent off for handball at Carshalton and Jani Seitsonen will deputise. Other than that manager Tony Dolby will look to his settled side that has done so well in recent weeks. The form  book is not in Leyton’s favour as they have gone  25 matches without a win, and only 2 of these been draws with 23 defeats. During this miserable spell Hornchurch netted nine goals against Leyton and Hendon went better and scored eleven. Their last victory was back on 10 November against Hastings United. Surely it couldn’t happen again could it? 

Hastings United v Ramsgate Athletic - Saturday 19th April 2008
I’m Roger Sinden here at the Pilot Field where today Hastings United entertain Ramsgate Athletic

A battling win last Saturday against relegation rivals Carshalton Athletic by a single goal gave United a huge boost and hauled them away from the relegation zone at just the right time. It was a nail biting experience for Hastings supporters, as having seen their team take an early lead through a Sam Adams penalty Hastings were reduced to ten men early in the second half. Goalkeeper Lee Worgan was shown a red card for handling the ball outside the penalty area, paving the way for goal scorer Sam Adams to take over in goal. Hastings defended deeply and curiously the stand in goalkeeper had hardly a shot to save as three valuable points were won. Carshalton’s position deteriorated mid week when a defeat at the hands of Staines town plunged them further into trouble.

With just two games to go United are not mathematically safe from the drop and must not assume that next week’s final match away to bottom club Leyton is a foregone conclusion. However their destiny is now in their own hands as a result of a consistent run in recent weeks. Today’s visitors Ramsgate Athletic are a bit of a bogey side and eliminated Hastings at the Pilot Field in the FA Cup by a single goal and then won by 4 goals to 1 in the league match in Kent earlier in the season. They are still outside contenders for a play off place and therefore need the points today as much as Hastings, so an open game should ensue.

Manager Tony Dolby is likely to remain faithful to the squad that has served him so well in recent weeks in a bid to guarantee Ryman Premier Division football at the Pilot Field next season.

Carshalton Athletic v Hastings United - Saturday 12th April 2008
“I’m Roger Sinden here at Colston Avenue, where today Hastings United visit Carshalton Athletic”

Last Saturday’s home defeat by the odd goal in seven may have entertained supporters of both sides but will have done nothing to soothe relegation nerves as United prepare for the final three matches of the season. Hendon just about deserved to go home with the spoils last Saturday but it certainly was a spirited second half rally as Hastings strove to overcome a two goal deficit.

The outcome makes today’s visit to Carshalton all the more important as the Robins are just one point behind United with a game in hand. The form book is no guide for today’s encounter as the arrival of three new players at Carshalton has rejuvenated a tired side at just the right time with consecutive wins at Leyton and Wealdstone and with nine goals flowing in their favour. In that respect this fixture has not come at the right time for Hastings.

Having said that, United’s home form has seen a string of victories, which has enabled them to build a platform for survival from relegation. It has been on the road that Hastings have disappointed, with just two league wins all season and significantly two of the final three games are away from home.

Tim Olorunda, who was suspended last week, is eligible to return to midfield this afternoon, and United will be looking to replicate the tight defensive performance that saw them emerge from Heybridge Swifts with maximum points just two weeks ago.

Hastings United v Hendon - Saturday 5th April 2008
I’m Roger Sinden here at the Pilot Field where today Hastings United entertain Hendon

Interest in this season’s campaign remains with just four games to go, as Hastings maintain their battle to retain their Premier Division status. The trouncing of Folkestone on Easter Monday, when supporters were treated to a flurry of six goals in twelve minutes, was followed  by last Saturday’s battling win against relegation rivals Heybridge Swifts. A first half penalty from Sam Adams was sufficient to edge a tight game, the outcome of which saw Hastings claw their way out of the relegation zone whilst Heybridge’s worries at the wrong end of the table were intensified. It was only United’s second win away from home, illustrating the fact that it is the away form which is proving problematic when home performances have been so solid.

This afternoon’s visitors, Hendon , still retain play off hopes although they did surprisingly lose by a single goal mid week which could prove a knock back. They were second placed in the Division for much of the season, and their victories included the swamping of bottom club Leyton by eleven goals to one, but have lost their way more recently. It is clear that they will be looking for maximum points in an endeavour to remain in touch with the leaders so an open game should result.

There is no definite team news from the United camp  other than the enforced absence of Tim Olorunda through suspension  following his dismissal for hand ball at Ashford Town, Middlesex but other than this there is no reason for manager Tony Dolby to change a squad which has performed steadily in recent weeks and has secured an impressive four wins out of the last five matches.

Heybridge Swifts v Hastings United - Saturday 29th March 2008
“I’m Roger Sinden here at Scraley Road, Heybridge where today Hastings United visit  Heybridge Swifts”

The Easter programme saw United’s Jekyll and Hyde home and away form continue, with a disappointing outing at Ashford Middlesex and  then a goal feast at the Pilot Field against Folkestone Invicta. Hastings have only managed one league win on their travels all season, at Margate, and they were always second best at Ashford Town ( Middlesex) on Good Friday. Losing by three goals to one, they had Tim Olorunda sent off for handball but  were helped by Lee Worgan’s penalty save to keep the score down.

In contrast on Easter Monday, Hastings turned on an impressive performance in the last twelve minutes, which saw the score change from a slender one goal advantage to an annihilation of the  dejected visitors by six goals to one. Frankie Sawyer’s hat trick in eight minutes had club and Ryman league officials searching the record books to discover if this was the fastest hat trick in recent times.

Monday’s success saw United climb out of the relegation zone but with most chasing clubs having games in hand, they are by no means out of danger. Heybridge Swifts sit just above United with an extra point but a game in hand, so both sides will be desperate not to lose in what is turning out to be an intriguing run in to the end of the season.

Heybridge have benefitted from the football contacts of their management team and have secured loan signings from Cambridge United and Colchester United to bolster their squad and try to avert relegation. A footballing move which some Hastings fans might say is not cricket!

Hastings United v Harrow Borough - Saturday 15th March 2008
I’m Roger Sinden here at the Pilot Field where today Hastings United entertain Harrow Borough

The mood at the Pilot Field visibly lifted this week with a well deserved home victory against Boreham Wood followed by some encouraging mid week results involving fellow relegation candidates.

Ade Olorunda notched two goals last Saturday to create a useful cushion although an uncharacteristic error in stoppage time by goalkeeper Lee Worgan gifted a consolation goal to the visitors who scarcely registered another shot on target all afternoon. The three points did not improve the league position but this, and Tuesdays results, has increased the congestion at the foot of the table. Such is the position today that three points against the visitors along with results going United’s way, would see Hastings climb from the relegation zone. In contrast, defeat would narrow the odds of escape.

 Mid table Harrow Borough are seeking to complete a double over United, having won the earlier fixture by a single goal. Last week’s result was particularly impressive as they thumped Sussex rivals Horsham by four goals without reply.  Although there is no definite team news, the United cause was helped this week with the  confirmation that defender Steve Elliott’s loan from Lewes has been extended until the end of the season. In addition manager Tony Dolby is quoted as remaining on the lookout for players to strengthen the squad for the final eight league fixtures.

Hastings United v Boreham Wood - Saturday 8th March 2008
I’m Roger Sinden here at the Pilot Field where today Hastings United entertain Boreham Wood

It’s been a difficult week for the club in terms of results, the outcome of which must have serious implications for prospects of avoiding relegation. Saturday’s defeat at AFC Wimbledon, by four goals without reply, arguably flattered the hosts slightly, and Danny Leach will point to two good efforts which struck the bar before United succumbed. In the event defeat was expected, against one of the leading clubs in the division .

On Tuesday United hit rock bottom against East Thurrock United who were then second from bottom. The match was played at a very modest ground on a bumpy pitch, and the ball spent most of the time ballooned in the air. A last minute  winner for East Thurrock saw United sink a further place in a match bereft of any real skill. Lee Carey scored the United goal from a free kick.

With matches rapidly running out, the pressure continues to build and the home fixture against Boreham Wood is a must win event. Rhys Whyborn is again suspended so manager Tony Dolby recalls Nathan Russell in an endeavour to plug a defence which has rarely looked watertight in recent weeks. In the earlier fixture United were comprehensively beaten by three goals without reply and had Tom Poole sent off only minutes after having come on as substitute

Today’s match will be watched by George Taylor, who graced the Pilot Field in the 1950s and he will be joined by several former team mates from that era. Perhaps they can inspire a performance which will be reminiscent of those glory days.

AFC Wimbledon v Hastings United - Saturday 1st March 2008
“I’m Roger Sinden here at Kingsmeadow Stadium, Kingston where today Hastings United visit AFC Wimbledon”

Whenever the fixture list is published each season, some of the first fixtures that supporters look for are those matches against AFC Wimbledon. Second placed Wimbledon are exceptionally well supported, have the use of a fine stadium with a good atmosphere and matches invariably involve entertaining football. They are not however the fixtures you want when you are involved in a relegation dog fight for you know that points will be very hard to come by.
Last Saturday Hastings secured maximum points at home to ten men Harlow Town but were disappointed mid week to see that all of their relegation rivals enjoyed favourable  results which effectively undid all the good of the previous Saturday. Tim Olorunda and Lee Carey scored the all important goals.
Second placed AFC Wimbledon are still some ten points behind leaders Chelmsford City but they have not given up the hope of catching the Clarets. They have registered five wins from six starts and include a new signing, Alfie Potter from Peterborough United in their squad this afternoon. Their reliable goalkeeper James Pullen has scooped the Division’s golden gloves award for February, awarded to the in form goalkeeper with the meanest defence. Hastings in contrast will need to do without the services of defender Rhys Whyborn who is suspended after his dismissal against Staines Town and striker Ade Olorunda through illness, posing Hastings manager Tony Dolby an intriguing selection problem.
If today’s match places more expectations on Wimbledon this afternoon, the opposite is true on Tuesday night when United are away to fellow strugglers East Thurrock United when maximum points will be essential.

Hastings United v Harlow Town - Saturday 23rd February 2008
I’m Roger Sinden here at the Pilot Field where today Hastings United entertain Harlow Town

A controversial last minute penalty at Horsham last Saturday saw Hastings leave the Atspeed Stadium without a return for their labours, which did their battle against relegation no good at all. A free kick in stoppage time hit the raised arm of Russell Eldridge as he jumped to block the cross, and it was deemed to have been intentional. The converted penalty scarcely left United time to restart the game.

The importance of taking all three points against Harlow Town this afternoon can not be underestimated as United desperately seek to escape from the relegation zone. Supporters have analysed the run in fixtures to the end of the season and have determined on balance that today’s fixture is within United’s capabilities to win. Certainly Hastings spirits were lifted when it was confirmed that Danny Leach’s loan spell from Eastbourne Borough has been extended for a further month. Danny scored in his home debut against Staines Town with his first touch and has certainly brought an additional dimension to the Hastings striking potential.

 Harlow have pulled free of the relegation zone and have only suffered one loss in the last six games, that being against runaway leaders Chelmsford City. The earlier fixture at the impressive  new Barrows Farm stadium in Harlow ended in a goal less draw  and United will need to go one better this afternoon as they rapidly run out of games.

Horsham v Hastings United - Saturday 16th February 2008
“I’m Roger Sinden here at the Atspeed Stadium, Horsham where today Hastings United visit Horsham

Hastings redeemed themselves after a disastrous performance at home to relegation rivals Wealdstone last Saturday, when they lost the three points and slipped back in to the relegation zone, but followed it up with a superb battling point away to second placed Staines. The performances were chalk and cheese, with Saturday’s events marred by individual errors and suicidal defending , whilst midweek saw United battling against one of the best sides in the division. They swept to a two goal lead thanks to Lee Carey and Ade Olorunda, but following the dismissal of defender Rhys Whyborn, they needed to settle eventually for  a share of the spoils in a four goal thriller.

 This afternoon sees a trip to Sussex rivals Horsham, who lost the corresponding fixture by a single goal at the Pilot Field. Horsham  grabbed the headlines with a stirring FA Cup run earlier in the season. It seems to have taken its toll  however as they strive to play their league games in hand and injury is likely to rob Horsham, who still have playoff aspirations, of a number of their squad this afternoon.  Definitely out with injury are Lee Carney and Nigel Brake and there are also niggling dates on the fitness of others and with Kevin Hemsley  unavailable . To compound matters Horsham have gone three games without scoring so will look to rectify matters this afternoon.

Manager Tony Dolby has seen just one defeat in four outings with seven  points collected and it is unlikely that there will be any major changes in the squad which has served him so well in recent weeks.

Hastings United v Wealdstone - Saturday 9th February 2008
I’m Roger Sinden here at the Pilot Field where today Hastings United entertain Wealdstone

Hastings belatedly secured their first away win on the road against a much fancied Margate side last Saturday, and as a result are in good heart for their match against Wealdstone this afternoon. Sam Adams opened the scoring in the first half and aslthough Margate came more into the game after the break and equalised, Antonio Gonella grabbed the winner with his first goal for the club. It was manager Tony Dolby’s second successive win  since taking over the reins and significantly took United out of the relegation zone .

Today’s opponents Wealdstone are also involved in relegation struggles of their own. Their form has been poor of late with five defeats and just one draw from six starts and are second from bottom in the league table. In a bid to stop the rot, Wealdstone have signed two young players on loan from Watford reserves Liam Henderson  and Dale Bennett for this afternoon’s relegation six pointer.

At a personal level it has also been a successful week for Hastings goalkeeper Lee Worgan who was voted player of the year last year  by supporters and whose form this season has been impeccable. He was confirmed as the winner of January’s “Golden Gloves” award for the Ryman Premier Division and there can be few who would argue with this well deserved decision.

Understandably Manager Tony Dolby opts for the same squad as last week in what should be an intriguing and tense afternoon.

Margate v Hastings United - Saturday 2nd February 2008
“I’m Roger Sinden here at Hartsdown Park, Margate where today Hastings United visit Margate”

Hastings United manager Tony Dolby got off to the best possible start last week at the Pilot Field when play off contenders Staines Town were defeated by a two goal margin in front of a relieved home crowd. After an uninspiring first half, goals from Ade Olorunda and new loan signing Danny Leach in injury time were sufficient to clinch the points. Hastings have gone three games without defeat and are perhaps showing signs of recovery.
For this afternoon’s encounter, Hastings have added a new midfielder Nathan Simpson to their squad and he is in contention for this afternoon’s encounter. Simpson was formerly with Crystal Palace and more recently Dorchester Town.

Margate are having a strong season and are in fourth position, having recorded three straight wins before today’s game. They were perhaps unlucky to end up losing by the odd goal in three when they called in to the Pilot Field earlier in the season. They certainly looked impressive that night and it took a long range shot from Dan Williams to settle the match.

Apart from last Saturday’s much needed three points there was further good news this week. It was announced that East Thurrock United were deducted a point for fielding an ineligible player and as a result United moved up a place in the Division without even playing. Now that’s the way to beat relegation

Hastings United v Staines Town - Saturday 26th January 2008
I’m Roger Sinden here at the Pilot Field where today Hastings United entertain Staines Town

The postponement of last Saturday’s fixture away to East Thurrock United was the ideal opportunity for newly appointed manager Tony Dolby and his assistant Mike Rutherford to assess their inherited squad and strengthen it. The signing of loan player Danny Leach, from neighbours Eastbourne Borough has been confirmed and both Dolby and Rutherford have signed Ryman forms to also enhance the playing options. Neither have played regularly for some while but both have the requisite experience that the club appears to lack at present.

United are in the relegation zone after a dismal run of form, although the last two matches have seen battling draws at Chelmsford and home to AFC Hornchurch. In neither match did Hastings carve out many clear cut goal opportunities and therefore much will be expected of new signing Leach. On a positive note, the defence in the last match has looked tighter, despite the continued absence of Dan Williams through injury.

Staines Town are having a successful season and are in play off contention although leaders Chelmsford City look as though the championship is theirs although they have played five more games than today’s visitors. In addition Staines achieved national recognition in battling their way to the second round of the FA Cup,being finally eliminated by Peterborough United .The enormity of the task facing United this afternoon is illustrated by the fact that Staines have only lost 4 league games in 21 starts.

Hastings United v AFC Hornchurch - Saturday 12th January 2008
“I’m Roger Sinden here at the Pilot Field where today Hastings United entertain AFC Hornchurch

A late long range strike from defender Kevin Rose gave United an unexpected point last Saturday in the visit to table topping Chelmsford City and briefly raised spirits within the club by bringing a halt to a disappointing sequence of defeats. The other side of the coin is that Hastings have not been able to pull themselves away from the relegation trapdoor and they lost Ade Olorunda injury last Saturday and will miss his contribution today.

Caretaker manager John Lambert does have the option of recalling Sam Adams and Tim Olorunda to the starting line up, and Danny Ellis, who fell out with former manager Nigel Kane has rejoined the club and is likely to be in the squad for today’s game. The post of manager was advertised nationally last Sunday but it is too early for further progress to have been made.

Persistent rain during the week put today’s match in doubt but happily the pitch was passed fit after a pitch inspection this morning. The going will be happy and it is likely that the surface will not be conducive for an attractive passing game.

The earlier encounter at Hornchurch was attractive for all of the wrong reasons. Sensing the opportunity to register a much sought after away win, United inexplicably conceded two late goals and ended up on the wrong end of a 3-2 scoreline.

Hopefully the luck which deserted United on that occasion will be much in evidence this afternoon.

Chelmsford City v Hastings United - Saturday 5th January 2008
“I’m Roger Sinden here at Salerno Way, Chelmsford where today Hastings United visit Chelmsford City

Beleagured Hastings United, without a permanent manager and with only one win from 13 starts, face the sternest possible challenge this afternoon with their visit to table topping Chelmsford City. The Essex side are currently top of the Ryman Premier Division and have already beaten Hastings comfortably by three goals to nil at the start of October at the Pilot Field.
Free spending Chelmsford have a playing squad which has gathered experience at a higher level and they looked a class act in a one sided affair earlier in the season.

The United plight is exacerbated by the fact that both Sam Adams and Tim Olorunda are both unavailable through suspension and therefore caretaker manager John Lambert, who has declared himself interested in the permanent position, will look to Russell Eldridge and Frankie Sawyer as natural replacements. John is also aware of the raw talent in the Reserves, being the regular Reserve team manager, so could spring a surprise by introducing one or two new faces to the squad.

Last Saturday, United were comfortably beaten by Tonbridge by 2 goals to nil, a tough baptism for Lambert and his assistant Wayne Farrier. Although Hastings gave a spirited performance on the day, Tonbridge were a class apart and Hastings only threatened occasionally and often needed to defend desperately.

I fear that the same situation is likely to be the case this afternoon.

Hastings United v Tonbridge Angels - Saturday 29th December 2007
I’m Roger  Sinden here at the Pilot Field where today Hastings United entertain Tonbridge Angels

With just one victory from eleven starts it was inevitable that manager Nigel Kane was to pay the price of the serious dip in form and he was relieved of his position this week. Reserve team manager and former United favourite in the late 1970s John Lambert  has taken temporary control of team affairs whilst a permanent replacement is sought. Two defeats over the Christmas period, each by a single goal against Billericay and Folkestone Invicta, sealed the manager’s fate.
 
The slump in fortunes has seen United move into the bottom four relegation places, and today’s visitors Tonbridge Angels are also one of the sides who are struggling this season. They have made significant progress in the FA Trophy so perhaps this is proving a distraction from the bread and butter league programme.  Lining up for the Angels this afternoon  is recent signing and former favourite Carl Rook who recently transferred from Horsham.

Hastings have relied over much in recent weeks on long ball football which has proved neither pretty to watch nor effective in terms of results. Don’t expect major changes straight away as there must be real doubts as to whether the current squad has the strength in depth to compete in footballing terms in a challenging Ryman premier Division.

Hastings United v Billericay Town - Saturday 22nd December 2007
I’m Roger Sinden here at the Pilot Field where today Hastings United entertain Billericay.

Firstly, it can be confirmed that today’s game has survived an early pre match inspection, felt necessary as part of the pitch had been frozen over the last day or so.

Billericay provided the opposition for the opening match of the season, and United were on the end of a six goal thrashing, providing an early baptism by fire in the Ryman Premier. Since then Billericay, expected to be serious championship contenders have seriously underperformed and to most people’s surprise are currently in the relegation zone. Managerial changes have left the club in a period of transition and hopefully United will experience a more equal contest than they did in the opening game of the season.

More recently Hastings have halted their alarming run of bad form and having snatched a slender victory at home to Heybridge Swifts, they did well to share the spoils at Maidstone last week. Ade Olorunda’s headed goal looked as though the first away victory may be forthcoming, but a late goal from an indirect free kick just six yards from goal meant that Hastings are still looking for their first away victory.

Dan Williams hobbled off early last week and must be considered a doubtful starter and striker Tom Poole is still serving a suspension. Whilst the weather is still very cold, let’s hope that United don’t freeze on the pitch as they did in the opening fixture against Billericay in August.

Maidstone United v Hastings United - Saturday 15th December 2007
“I’m Roger Sinden here at Bourne Park, Sittingbourne where today Hastings United visit Maidstone United.

Yes, follow the Christmas star rather than your Sat Nav this afternoon for Maidstone, still waiting for their new ground, play their home matches at Sittingbourne. Promoted with Hastings last season, they are finding the going equally tough in the higher flight. Early in the season Hastings won comfortably by 4 goals to nil at the Pilot Field but I anticipate a much more even match this afternoon.

An over due victory at home to Heybridge Swifts last Saturday, in appalling conditions at the rain swept Pilot Field, was secured through a second half strike by Frankie Sawyer. It was his first senior goal for the club. The three points took United out of the relegation slots but the table is as congested as the Christmas shops and United will need to ensure that they do not slip back into the danger area over the holiday period. Manager Nigel Kane will stick with last week’s squad, with Tom Poole still suspended and John Bradley making his way back from a groin injury.

Coincidentally, Maidstone United also played Heybridge Swifts mid week and suffered a setback when their goalkeeper was injured in the pre match warm up. Outfielder Lee Shearer needed to play in goal at the last moment in the 2-1 defeat. Maidstone have signed replacement Steve Northwood if Pat Mullin has not recovered from that midweek injury. Maidstone manager Alan Walker recalls how poorly Maidstone performed at the Pilot Field in August and warns that they have something to prove this afternoon.

Hastings United v Heybridge Swifts - Saturday 8th December 2007
“I’m Roger Sinden here at the Pilot Field where today Hastings United entertain Heybridge Swifts

Hastings United are anxious to halt a disastrous run in the Ryman Football League today when they entertain Heybridge Swifts.
The Us badly need a win at home to a 16th-placed Heybridge team which has triumphed just once on its travels all term and sits just one point above them.

United have dropped into the bottom four of the Premier Division table on the back of five consecutive league defeats. Last week they bslipped to a single goal defeat to Harrow Borough when a stoppage time goal denied them the opportunity of a battling point.

Manager Nigel Kane said in anticipation of the game: "We've won five games so far this season and we've kept clean sheets at home. We've got to have a positive mindset and go into the game expecting to win."

Kane is without groin injury victim John Bradley and Tom Poole, who begins a three-match suspension and effectively keeps the same side as last week with the exception of including Sam Adams instead of Antonio Gonella. Frankie Sawyer retains his place up front in the quest to score goals. Last week he showed an impressive turn of pace which was marred by some very wasteful finishing.

Harrow Borough v Hastings United - Saturday 1st December 2007
“I’m Roger Sinden here at Earlsmead, South Harrow where today Hastings United visit Harrow Borough

Neither Harrow Borough nor Hastings United are enjoying good form at the moment and it will be intriguing as to which side will emerge victorious this afternoon. Hastings are without a league win since mid October, have yet to win a league game on their travels and have lost the last six games in succession. Their hosts this afternoon, Harrow Borough also go back to mid October to recall their last league victory and actually sit three places below Hastings in the Ryman Premier Division. Both sides will be looking nervously at the relegation trapdoor and will want to put some distance from it.

Last Saturday United travelled to Borehamwood and were well beaten by three goals without reply. The second half was disappointing and saw striker Tom Poole sent off just a few minutes after his introduction from the substitutes bench. Goal bound efforts were few and far between on a miserable afternoon.

Manager Nigel Kane has added to his squad in recent weeks through the arrival of defender Ryan Andrews and striker Frankie sawyer. Local player Nathan Russell may also come into contention. They are young and relatively inexperienced players and whether they can lift United, whose fortunes have nosedived in recent weeks, is a tall order. It is however critical that defeat is avoided on the road this afternoon to boost flagging confidence.

Borehamwood v Hastings United - Saturday 24th November 2007
“I’m Roger Sinden here at Meadow Park, Borehamwood where today Hastings United visit  Borehamwood”

Hastings United face a stern test this afternoon against mid table Borehamwood having been reinforced by new signings in a bid to stop their free fall in the Ryman Premier Division. The last five matches have all ended in defeat and elimination from all other competitions leave United only having the League to play for. It’s been a period of transition with the departure of club Captain Sean Ray but has also seen the arrival of defender Ryan Andrews, a former West Ham trainee, Frankie Sawyer from Welling United and Antonio Gonella from Cambridge City. In addition striker Tom Poole is also returning from a hamstring injury and therefore manager Nigel Kane has plenty of options for team selection this afternoon.

Therein could lie the problem as the Hastings line up has been the subject of weekly changes as Kane has sought to avert the down ward spiral. It has been in defence that the vulnerability has been particularly worrying and this is an area where tightening up is essential. Last week saw United lose to an impressive AFC Wimbledon side in front of 1500 supporters at the Pilot Field.

We are entering  a critical stage of the season with congestion in the league table meaning that United are in touching distance of both the drop zone and the relative safety of a higher position and this afternoon may give us a clearer indication as to how it might shape out.

Hendon v Hastings United - Saturday 27th October 2007
I’m Roger Sinden, here at Claremont Road, where today Hastings United visit Hendon
 
Hastings have recorded three consecutive victories in three different competitions in recent weeks and make the journey to second placed Hendon with some optimism as a consequence. The three goal league success at home to Carshalton was closely followed by an FA Trophy win away to Edgware Town last Saturday. Goals came from Tom Poole, his first for the club, and Sam Adams  strike from 30 yards lined up an away tie at Uxbridge next Saturday. Mid week, Hastings cruised to a 7 goal demolition of Wealden in the Sussex  Senior Cup.
United welcome back goalkeeper Lee Worgan for this afternoon’s trip to North London after an ankle injury but must still do without the services of Ade Olorunda who must sit out the final match of a three game suspension. Hendon are amongst the early season pace setters and are undefeated at home in the league, but their form has dipped in recent weeks in other competitions. They have been eliminated from both the FA Cup and FA Trophy and suffered a heavy reverse at class act Chelmsford City in their last league fixture. The confidence of the London club will have been surely affected and manager Nigel Kane sees this game as a yardstick to compare United’s playoff aspirations against the claims of the other leading clubs. All will be clearer by 5 this afternoon.

Edgware Town v Hastings United - Saturday 20th October 2007
“I’m Roger Sinden here at White Lion Ground where today Hastings United visit Edgware Town”

Having returned to winning ways after a barren spell by brushing aside Carshalton Athletic by 3-0 midweek, United face a particularly tricky first qualifying round tie against Edgware Town this afternoon. They do so without the suspended Ade Olorunda who notched two goals mid week against Carshalton. His dismissal against Chelmsford City, a fortnight ago, means that he will need to sit out three matches and certainly his fire power will be missed. However, Sean Ray does become eligible after completing his suspension. A shock is that goalkeeper Lee Worgan is injured and Jani Seitsonen replaces him in the Hastings goal.

Edgware Town compete in the Ryman Division One North, one division below United, but they have shown consistency from the start and currently lead their division having been beaten only once. United do not have a particularly good record in this competition although the former United made excellent progress in the 1980s. There is prize money at stake for each round, which increases incrementally throughout the competition and the winners of this afternoon’s tie will bank £1,500. The final tie is played at Wembley and the winners will pick up £50,000 in May.

Expect Tom Poole to start up front alongside Sam Adams and back from injury Tim Olorunda to play at least some part in the proceedings today.

Hastings United v Chelmsford City - Saturday 6th October 2007
I’m Roger Sinden here at the Pilot Field where today Hastings United entertain Chelmsford City

Today’s visitors Chelmsford City are one of the more attractive clubs in the Ryman Premier and are reputed to have the largest player budget in the Division. Not surprisingly they are handily placed amongst the early pace setters and have the best goal difference in the Division. They are four places above Hastings who sit seventh in the table. With Hastings without a win in five matches, this afternoon’s encounter is going to be a big ask for United, whose defence in recent weeks has become somewhat porous.

Last Saturday Hastings shared the spoils after a 2-2 draw against visitors East Thurrock United. A penalty from Sam Adams opened the scoring, but after some questionable defending had led to the visitors taking the lead, it needed a late strike from the same player to preserve United’s undefeated league position. Hastings must be a lot tighter in defence if they are to stop the Clarets running riot this afternoon.

Expect Danny Williams to slot into the last line of defence in place of Danny Spice and for Hastings to rely upon a strike force of Ade Olorunda and Sam Adams, with Tom Poole dropping to the bench. For the visitors Dean Palmer and Spencer Knight are both likely to pass fitness tests to strengthen a squad which has been hit by injury.

Last Saturday United really only played with passion and flair in the last quarter of an hour. They will need to put in a ninety minute performance if they are going to get anything out of this one today.

Hastings United v East Thurrock United - Saturday 29th September 2007
I’m Roger Sinden here at the Pilot Field where today Hastings United entertain East Thurrock United.

Hastings United are seeking to bounce back after a disappointing and largely fruitless week on the road which has seen them gather only one point from six. Last Saturday’s hard fought goal less draw at Harlow saw a well marshalled defence work hard and ride its luck, whilst the attack lacked inspiration and bite. A late chance came Lee Carey’s way but it would have been a travesty if Saturday had brought an away win.

Tuesday brought a heart breaking defeat by the odd goal in five at Hornchurch. Hastings had been reduced to ten men with the dismissal of Sean Ray, when he conceded a penalty as the last defender I the second half. Lee Carey and Russell Eldridge scored the valuable goals. It looked as though that first away win would follow but in a crazy few minutes of stoppage time, the defence leaked two quick goals and those hopes were in tatters.

Early pace setters East Thurrock United are this afternoon’s visitors, the ideal opportunity to bounce back and get Tuesday out of their system. Tim Olorunda is struggling this season with injury, but apart from that, expect Hastings to rely upon the same line up as recent weeks.

The league form this season has been solid, with a maximum return of points, but it remains to be seen what psychological damage the FA Cup defeat at home to Ramsgate and Tuesday’s cruel late twist has done. What is clear is that the division is wide open this season, with all teams struggling to maintain consistency in form, so if Hastings can string some results together now, there is no reason why they cannot remain with the early pacesetters.

Harlow v Hastings United - Saturday 22nd September 2007
“I’m Roger Sinden here at Barrows Farm, Harlow where today Hastings United visit Harlow Town”

Early elimination from the FA Cup before the leaves have fallen from the trees, has denied United the chance of fame and fortune in a magical cup run once again. The single goal defeat to a direct and physical Ramsgate Athletic side last week continues Hastings poor cup form and spoiled their perfect record at the Pilot Field for this campaign.

Attention is now switched back to the league where Hastings away travels have been a stark contrast to their impressive home league form Defeats have occurred at Billericay and Tonbridge, with a solitary point from the trip to Wealdstone. Clearly Hastings will need to improve on this if they are to maintain a comfortable league position.

Harlow are in good form at present and have had more success against those sides which have created problems for United this season. They have beaten Ramsgate Athletic convincingly at home and have also secured maximum points away at Tonbridge, and have picked up three consecutive wins. Supporters are rushing to their record books to endeavour to find any previous encounters between these two clubs.

Manage Nigel Kane has virtually a full squad to choose from, with only hustling midfielder Tim Olorunda unavailable through injury. It will be interesting if a place is found for new signing Tom Poole whose cameo performance against Horsham suggests that he has bags of talent and could be a prolific goal scorer in the future. Sadly he was cup tied last week and unavailable, just when his audacious and unpredictable skills could have been the undoing of Ramsgate.

Hastings United v Horsham - Saturday 8th September 2007
A spectacular long range shot from Dan Williams on Tuesday night gave Hastings maximum points against impressive visitors Margate and sets up nicely the Sussex derby against high riding Horsham this afternoon.

The Hornets include Carl Rook and Stuart Myall in their squad, both of whom were favourites with United fans during their times at the Pilot Field. Rook has only just returned to fitness but scored twice last week and set up a further two goals. After a fine start Horsham surprisingly crashed 4-3 at bottom club Leyton in front of just 66 spectators. Definitely out for the visitors are striker Lee Farrell and Lewis Taylor.

Hastings for their part are still without striker Sam Adams with a broken bone in his hand and midfield hustler Tim Olorunda is also trying to shake off injury. Expect Dan Williams to take his place in midfield in an otherwise unchanged side from Tuesday. The god news also this week is that Hastings have signed a teenage cover striker Tom Poole who has been finding the net regularly at a lower level of football.

With three wins from three starts at the Pilot Field, Manager Nigel Kane is wanting the club to develop an expectation both within the side and also amongst United’s opponents that a it is a difficult place to come and gain points. That  belief will face a severe test this afternoon in what should be a tight competitive contest.

Wealdstone v Hastings United - Saturday 1st September 2007
Mid table Hastings, with two wins and two defeats are looking to get their first points on the road in their debut Ryman Premier campaign. They have secured maximum points in their two home matches, without conceding a goal, but on the road its been a different story and a last minute strike, at Tonbridge on Monday following a defensive slip broke a few hearts.

United are currently without key striker Sam Adams, who has broken a bone in his hand, and attempts to sign a  striker in time for today’s game have proved abortive. It means that Ade Olorunda will be the lone striker, with probable support from John Bradley. Happily manager Nigel Kane welcomes back Tim Olorunda after injury and Dan Williams after belatedly returning from America.

The novelty today is that both teams are playing away. Wealdstone currently ground share and as their normal venue is occupied they have needed to call upon neighbours Harrow Borough to assist in hosting the match today. Wealdstone started the season brightly with a fine away win at Folkestone Invicta but since then have experienced three consecutive defeats so confidence will not be high.

United need to secure at least a point to maintain their early mid table position.

Hastings United v Ashford Town - Saturday 25th August 2007

Hastings United manager Nigel Kane will reflect on the contrast of chalk and cheese as he reviews United’s two opening matches in the Ryman Premier. The two performances were markedly different, with Saturday’s six goal hiding being exacerbated by poor defensive errors and a team display which was second best in all respects to their Essex hosts Billericay Town.

 On Tuesday night, against Maidstone United, Hastings turned in a masterful power charged display featuring two goals from Ade Olorunda, the second of which will be a contender for goal of the season. It has to be said, in terms of those contrasts, that Maidstone were as poor as Billericay were outstanding. United supporters left the Pilot Field in a happy frame of mind and players surely will have boosted their confidence no end for the first ever visit of Ashford Town Middlesex to the Pilot Field this afternoon.

Hastings will look to gather as many points at home as possible in order to attain the safety target of 56 points and a top ten finish this season. There are one or two other clubs at the Billericay standard in this Division and these will clearly present a sharp learning curve to a young squad which will take time to adapt to the different standard of football. Interestingly, manager Kane reverted to what was his play off winning side for the Maidstone match with new midfielder Scott Kirkwood  taking a place on the bench. With Dan Williams still getting match fitness with the reserves, it is expected that Hastings will field a similar side to that on Tuesday against their visitors who have started the season with one draw and one defeat.

Hastings travel to local rivals Tonbridge on Bank Holiday Monday for what will be a tough encounter. As for today,let’s hope that the game is as open today as last Saturday when Ashford Town were defeated by the odd goal in nine by newly promoted AFC Hornchurch.

Billericay V Hastings United - Saturday 18th August 2007

I’m Roger Sinden here at New Lodge, Billericay where today Hastings United visit Billericay Town.

Having secured their Ryman Premier status with two stirring displays in the play off matches against Dover and Tooting and Mitcham, Hastings face a baptism of fire against Billericay Town this afternoon. Their opponents for this opening game finished fourth in the Premier Division last season, missing out on promotion following defeat in the semi finals through penalties against Chelmsford.

For the first time this season, home manager Matt Jones may have a full strength squad to choose from as the injuries that blighted the pre-season campaign ease off. In contrast Hastings manager Nigel Kane has a squad which is depleted by holiday unavailability and injury, with Dan Williams and Russell Eldridge yet to return from their travels and injury concerns with Tim Olorunda and new signing Tom Cusden. United have signed goal scoring midfielder Scott Kirkwood from Horsham YMCA but effectively rely upon the same squad that served them so well last year. The spine of the team of Lee Worgan in goal, Sean Ray at the heart of the defence and Ade Olorunda up front, will need to be at their best in what promises to be a challenging season.

How will United approach the campaign? Kane himself acknowledges that the higher standard will pose a challenge. He suggests that success or failure will depend on how many goals are conceded rather than how many are scored, suggesting that a solid defence is to be the priority. Specifically for today, he suggests that Billericay “will be expecting to win so we have got to go there and make life as difficult as possible for them," he said. "The most important thing on Saturday is not to get beaten."