We meet again, as a well-known Dame from just along the B2116 in Ditchling used to sing. Peacehaven & Telscombe are back at the Beacon for the second time in two weeks, looking to repeat the experience of their last visit to Hassocks.
The Tye advanced to the second qualifying round of the FA Vase on that occasion thanks to a 3-0 win. Mark Shutt’s side will face Balham at the Sports Park in the next round – the same team that Hassocks eliminated from the FA Cup back in September.
Peacehaven will fancy their chances of winning that one too, especially as they have a reputation as a team who excel in the cups. Prior to their Vase win against the Robins, the Tye picked up a hugely impressive FA Cup victory away at Bearsted in the extra preliminary round.
Unfortunately, Peacehaven fielded an ineligible player in that 5-3 win and so the tie was awarded to their opponents, but those two results just serve as a reminder of just what dangerous opponents the Tye can be on their day – not that Hassocks should need much reminding!
The Robins will at least come into this one full of confidence. On Tuesday night, they ended Pagham’s unbeaten start to the season as two goals from Charlie Pitcher secured a 2-1 win over the Lions. Another display like that and Hassocks should give Peacehaven a lot more to think about on this occasion.
Peacehaven & Telscombe this season
Whilst their exploits in the national knockout competitions have been impressive, the Tye’s Premier Division form so far has been a little more patchy.
Two wins from six is perhaps not how Peacehaven imagined their 2020-21 Southern Combination League season beginning. One of those victories came on Tuesday night when Langney Wanderers were vanquished 2-0 at the Sports Park. The other was a 4-0 home win three weeks ago against Horsham YMCA.
Peacehaven have not been helped admittedly by a tough opening set of fixtures; they have faced last season’s top two pre-curtailment in Lancing and Eastbourne Town; a Crawley Down Gatwick side who could be dark horses for the title this time around and Eastbourne United who have also been in good nick.
Hassocks’ record against Peacehaven & Telscombe
Peacehaven have dominated the fixture, securing 21 wins to the Robins’ seven with seven draws thrown into the mix. In 25 league meetings, Hassocks have only won four times with just one of those coming at the Sports Park.
You have to go back to August 2016 to find the last time that the Robins tasted victory over the Tye. Phil Gault and Nathan Miles were on target in a 2-1 victory, giving Hassocks back-to-back wins to start a top flight campaign for the first time in 20 years.
Last time Hassocks played Peacehaven & Telscombe
It might have had a mention – two goals from Tyler Scrafton and a stunning free kick from Peacehaven captain Jake Brocklebank gave the Tye a 3-0 FA Vase success at the Beacon just two weeks ago.
Important information for fans attending the game
It is pay on the gate at the Beacon with entrance priced at £6 adults, £3 concessions and under 16s free. We are now accepting contactless payments at the turnstiles and in the clubhouse.
Upon entry, we need to collect supporters’ details for track and trace reasons. If you have the relevant app, you can scan a QR code on your phone upon entry. If not, then please fill in the contact form when you arrive at the ground.
Once inside the ground, supporters are asked to maintain social distancing at all times. The clubhouse is operating a one way system: entrance is through the pitchside doors between the dugouts and exit is via the doors by the turnstiles.
Supporters are asked to wear masks inside unless they are eating or drinking or are medically exempt. The Robins Bar is well stocked with lots of craft beer and the T Bar will be open for hot food, teas and coffees. Our award winning matchday programme will be on sale for £1.
