Hassocks hoping to embark on another memorable RUR Cup run
Hassocks rather enjoyed themselves in the Sussex Principal RUR Charity Cup last season. The Robins enjoyed a memorable run to the semi finals of the competition for the first time in a decade, eventually ended by all-conquering Littlehampton Town in front of the biggest crowd the Beacon had seen for many years.
The draw for the second round of the 2022-23 RUR Cup has handed Hassocks a trip to Division One side Forest Row. This will be the first ever meeting between the clubs in senior football, Frow being in only their second season as a Southern Combination League side.
For those who cannot make it to Tinsley Lane, Your Instant Replay will be live streaming the game on their YouTube channel – another first for Hassocks.
Coverage starts at 7:30pm ahead of the 7:45pm kick off, enabling the entire world to see who progresses to a home tie with high-flying Steyning Town in round three.
Forest Row this season
As already noted, this is Forest Row’s second season in the Southern Combination League following their promotion up two levels from the Mid Sussex Premier in the summer of 2021.
Their first campaign in Division One went well, culminating in an 11th placed finish. Frow have suffered from second season syndrome of sorts so far and currently sit bottom of the table.
Defying their lowly position is the fact their sole league win was a stunning 4-1 success over promotion hopefuls Seaford Town.
They also have a Peter Bentley League Cup victory against landlords Oakwood under their belts before a 5-0 elimination at the hands of Lingfield in the second round.
Forest Row v Hassocks head-to-head
Hassocks might not have faced Forest Row at senior level before, but the old Robins IIIs have experience of games against them in the Mid Sussex Premier between 2006 and 2011.
The head-to-head there reads eight matches, three Hassocks wins, two draws and three Frow wins. The Robins scored 16 times and conceded 13.
Remarkably, Phil Wickwar is responsible for two of those Hassocks goals. Such an impressive record might push Wickers into contention for involvement at Tinsley Lane…
Last time Hassocks played at Tinsley Lane
Frow might be new opponents but Tinsley Lane is not a new ground. Hassocks used to play there on a frequent basis against landlords Oakwood, although the Robins’ last visit was as long ago as April 2009.
It was not a good one either; a 1-0 defeat against hosts who would be relegated from the Southern Combination League Premier Division a few weeks later.
How to get to Tinsley Lane
Take the A23/M23, come off at Junction 10 and head towards Crawley on the A2011. At the first roundabout, go all the way around to the fourth exit for Gatwick Road and Manor Royal.
Take the second exit at the next roundabout, continuing on Gatwick Road. Tinsley Lane will be on your right, between the Kia showroom and the next roundabout. Take the first left onto Kenmara Court and the ground is at the end of the road.
Admission is £5 for adults and by cash only.
