Rangers secure bragging rights to put a dent in Hassocks title hopes
Mid Sussex Derby day did not go the way of Hassocks Under 18s as they were beaten 2-0 by local rivals St Francis Rangers at Colwell Road.
The defeat meant the Robins continued to lose touch with new Southern Combination League Under 18 Central Division leaders Montpelier Villa, who overtook Hassocks after last Sunday’s round of matches.
A 4-3 defeat in a seven goal thriller against Shoreham seven days previously knocked Hassocks off top spot, replaced by unbeaten Villa.
Hassocks will face the table toppers at Culver Road next week, looking to avenge last month’s 4-2 loss at the Beacon – the Robins’ first league defeat of the campaign.
It has been something of a struggle since then with only one victory in the subsequent four matches, including this defeat against St Francis.
The Robins knew they would be in for a tough morning at the Hospital. The sides had played out a 1-1 draw at the Beacon in October, watched by former Brighton striker Glenn Murray.
Hassocks technical director Dave John tried to coax Murray out of retirement with a tempting offer to sign for Hassocks and lead the line for Brad Sweetman’s first team, but unfortunately Murray turned down the opportunity.
An already difficult task against a good Rangers outfit was made more difficult by Hassocks missing two of their first choice players for the short journey north.
Top scorer Sam Geard and goalkeeper Jayden Dunkley were both absent and Harry Bundy dropped down to the bench. The three players who came into the starting XI were Jack Thomas, Harry Carter and Ismaila Housainou Njai.
There was little to separate the teams in the opening 30 minutes until Samuel-Elie David N’Cho put Rangers 1-0 ahead. After that, Hassocks remained in the game right up until the 80th minute.
The Robins were pushing forward for an equaliser when Rangers were able to counter and add a killer second through Luke Oneil, ensuring that the three points and bragging rights remained at Colwell Road.
Hassocks: Dan Lade, Dan Llewellyn, Harry Carter, Jamie Douglass, Max Beston, Jack Thomas, Ismaila Housainou Njai, Beau Howard, Oliver Parker-Williams, Archie Hill, Archie Russell.
Subs: Alfie Beck, Wilson, Bundy, Rob Newman (used).
