McFadden and Chappell complete comeback win in top of table clash
Hassocks Ladies and Shoreham faced off for the second time in three weeks in a Sussex County Women’s League Premier Division top of the table clash at Middle Road.
And just like the first occasion, the Robins were made to work very hard but did so to head home with three points and their unbeaten start extended to seven matches.
It finished 2-1 with Hassocks coming from behind and scoring second half goals through Shannon McFadden and Katherine Chappell to take the win.
Robins manager Sean Perkins said afterwards: “Shoreham proved to be a formidable opponent with a strong and organised team.”
“Their unwavering desire to avenge their defeat from two weeks ago was evident, as they strived to disrupt our flowing play.”
“Despite their determined efforts, we fought our way through with some great passages of play, eventually levelling the score and snatching the lead towards the end of the game.”
“Our leaders displayed exceptional leadership, inspiring us to maintain our momentum and secure a memorable victory against a worthy adversary.”
Hassocks were forced into two changes from the side who edged out Pagham 5-4 in a nine goal thriller at the Beacon last Sunday.
McFadden was one of the players coming into the starting XI along with Maddie Cannon. They took the places of Jo Brown and Holly Webb.
It looked like Shoreham were going to turn the tables on the Robins as they led 1-0 up until the 59th minute.
McFadden chose a good moment to score for the first time this season, levelling the tie at 1-1 after being well set up by Kirstin Mair.
It could have gone either way after that with both sides having chances. Hassocks though are lucky enough to have the league’s leading scorer in their ranks.
When a 76th minute opportunity came the way of Katherine Chappell, there was no mistake as the Robins took the lead for the first time.
Mia Pordage did some great work in the build up to create the opportunity for Chappell to strike for the 25th time this season in just 11 appearances. Hassocks saw out the game from there to pick up their sixth win in seven league games this season.
The Bedlam Brewery Star Player award went to McFadden, who put in a real shift in midfield as well as providing the foundation for the comeback with the equaliser.
Shoreham will get another opportunity for revenge with the sides set to face off in their third and final Premier Division clash of the campaign at the Beacon next week. Kick off is at 2pm and admission is free for the completion of the top of the table trilogy.
Hassocks: Sarah Chappell, Claire Stevens, Kirstin Mair, Emma Flin, Holly Webb, Tallie Bright, Maddie Cannon, Jess Craig, Shannon McFadden, Jodie Johanson, Mia Pordage, Katherine Chappell.
Subs: Katie Read (unused).
Bedlam Brewery Star Player: Shannon McFadden.
