Hailsham Hockey Club |
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Affiliated to: Sussex Hockey Association |
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Hailsham made sure that they would enjoy the Christmas break after a competent 2 -0 victory away at Brighton.
If this was not a vintage Hailsham performance it was still a game in which apart from the odd scare they were always in control. It featured one of the quickest goals of the season when James Dyer put the visitors ahead after good work from brother Laurens down the left hand side. In a way the early goal may have worked to Hailsham's disadvantage as it prompted hopes of an avalanche of goals but it was clear that in spite of the early setback Brighton were going to make their opponents work for the victory.
It was another thirty minutes before Hailsham scored again. Sam Rham the team's libero produced a mazy run from the half way line deep into the Brighton D and when he was clattered the ball ran invitingly to Mike Dixon who had the simple job of sweeping the ball home from less than a metre.
In the second half Hailsham looked likely to score again. Ben Stiles had an excellent game on the right wing constantly making himself available for long passes from the back and skilfully feeding the rampaging, overlapping Steve Johnson. However the final shots produced by Hailsham were always just wide or well dealt with by the Brighton keeper whilst at the other end Dave Hathaway produced a brilliant left handed reflex save to deny the Brighton right winger.
In the end Hailsham were content with a comfortable victory and a recent run that has seen them take 15 points from a possible 18. At the half way stage division one is wide open with no team able to open up a gap at the top and Hailsham know that if they can replicate this recent form after Christmas the Championship is a real possibility. After the game skipper Richard Bishop commented: "I've told the boys not to overindulge over the festive period - this is our best chance of honours for many a year."
Hailsham ladies were in impressive form in the Knockout Vase trophy for teams in Division 2 and below.
Their 4 - 0 victory was achieved thanks to goals from Toni Hobden, Jo Edwards (2) and one from Liz Ball set free from her usual defensive duties.
Hailsham looked controlled and well organised throughout the match and attacked with imagination and flair suggesting that they could go all the way in this cup competition.