Goals from Benson, Geard, Harding and Frankland secure a 4-1 win at the Menace Arena
Two months after the 2022-23 season ended in Sussex Principal RUR Charity Cup quarter final defeat at Peacehaven & Telscombe, Hassocks were back in action as their pre-season friendly fixtures kicked off at Peckham Town.
It proved to be a lovely jubly afternoon for the Robins as they ran out 4-1 winners thanks to goals from Liam Benson, Sam Geard, Super Pat Harding and Tom Frankland.
Hassocks had never previously played Peckham before. The opportunity to face new opponents from the Kent League at an unvisited venue proved popular with supporters, with several Robins fans embarking on their own Jolly Boys’ Outing to the wonderfully named Menace Arena.
Of particular interest was the “world’s smallest stand” which held less people than a three wheel van. Equally interesting was the kit Hassocks took the to the field wearing.
With Peckham’s colours being red and white striped shirts, blue shorts and white socks, the Robins were forced into an interesting mish-mash of blue away tops and red home shorts and socks.
Such a garish combination meant they would not have looked out of place presenting an episode of Michael Portillo’s Great British Railway Journeys.
Despite the unusual colours, Hassocks made a start quicker than a Capri Gear. Peckham goalkeeper Nathan Gamester had to make two early saves in the sixth and seventh minutes before Benson put the Robins 1-0 ahead with 19 on the clock.
The hosts gave away the ball on the edge of their box, offering Benson the chance to punish the mistake. Benson said “mange tout” and duly converted beyond Gamester.
Hassocks should have doubled their lead twice before a drinks break arrived on 25 minutes, allowing the sides to take on some local water from the Peckham Spring.
One opportunity was skied so far over the bar from four yards that it might have hit a window on the top floor of Nelson Mandela House.
Hassocks then rattled the post with a Peckham defender sweeping a follow up shot off the line as effectively as Trigger with his 20-year old broom.
The pause for fluids proved helpful to Peckham and within five minutes of the game resuming, they had an equaliser.
Hassocks got in a bit of a mess at the back and A Trialist took advantage, levelling the tie via a heavy deflection off the unfortunate Harvey Blake.
Peckham enjoyed their best spell after half time. Tidi Barry had the ball in the back of the net on 56 minutes but an early offside flag ruled it out.
A one-on-one chance following a mazy run by Camilo Andres Nieva was squandered and Kieran Dowding was just wide with a 20 yard pile driver.
James Westlake made a treble change just past the hour mark which helped the Robins regain the control they had enjoyed in the first half, leading to three unanswered goals.
Geard, Harding and Frankland all found the back of the net in the final 30 minutes to give the score a one-sided look which was a little harsh on the hosts. Peckham had not played like plonkers.
Ultimately this was a useful runout for Hassocks and they were grateful of the opportunity as they said bonjour to the Menace Arena and headed back to Sussex.
This time next week, Hassocks will be millionaires back in action when they travel to Southern Combination League Division One opponents Billingshurst.
