Games set to start earlier with rising energy prices biting
Several of Hassocks’ Saturday home games from the start of November to the end of March will kick off at 2pm in an attempt to ease the significant financial burden placed on the club by rising energy bills.
Earlier starts through the winter months will remove the need to turn the floodlights on during the second half of matches which kick off at 3pm, when there are reduced lighting conditions.
Since the alarming increase in the price of electricity, it has become increasingly expensive to use the floodlights. Admission prices were increased marginally in the summer but that does not even scratch the surface.
Reducing floodlight use as much as possible will help save money at a time of real uncertainty, without the need to pass on costs to supporters by a further increase on the gate.
It has been agreed between Hassocks, the opposition and the Southern Combination League to move five games so far.
More may follow, whilst the Robins are also expecting fixtures away from home to kick off at 2pm at the request of their hosts.
The visit of Bexhill United to the Beacon this coming Saturday 5th November will be the first 2pm kick off. It will be followed by the Robins’ home match with Lingfield on Saturday 19th November.
Hassocks’ first Beacon fixture of 2023 against AFC Uckfield Town on Saturday 7th January will be a 2pm kick off, as will Loxwood at home on Saturday 4th March and Newhaven at home on Saturday 25th March.
Home fixture definitely remaining as 3pm kick offs are Saltdean United on Saturday 26th November and Crowborough Athletic on Saturday 18th March.
A decision is still be taken on the games against Peacehaven & Telscombe on Saturday 10th December, Horsham YMCA on Saturday 21st January, Alfold on Saturday 4th February and Little Common on Saturday 18th February.
Please keep an eye on the Hassocks website and social media channels for updated kick off times as and when games are confirmed.
