Robins come close to first point in five goal battle at Hastings
There were five goals shared between Hassocks Ladies and Hastings United at the Pilot Field but unfortunately, the Robins came away with nothing to show for their efforts.
A topsy turvy game in which both teams led ended 3-2 to the hosts. It was a harsh result on the Robins who battled hard throughout against talented opponents in front of a big crowd.
Having ended last week’s 3-1 defeat to Eastbourne United with only nine fit players on the pitch, Hassocks were pleased to welcome back Kirstin Mair, Lola Moon and Holly Webb. Ellie Moquet also came in for an outfield start.
Hastings took the lead with 15 minutes on the clock. The Robins cleared an initial effort from distance but United were able to return it into the box, where Naomi Corrigan clinically finished across Sarah Chappell into the bottom corner.
Hassocks though came fighting back. Kirstin Mair equalised 10 minutes later to ensure the sides went into the break level.
That left the game delicately poised at the start of the second half. The Robins came flying out of the traps and on 49 minutes, they took the lead in a game for the first time this season.
Katherine Chappell was the scorer as her second of the campaign gave Hassocks something to defend. The Robins though were not content to merely sit back and instead they went in search of a third.
It was when attempting to add to their scoreline that Hassocks were caught on the counter, allowing the hosts to pull level just before the hour mark.
Hastings won possession just inside their own half and broke down the Robins right at pace. A low cross into the box was helped onto the back post, where United captain Lauren Sharp arrived to volley home.
Hassocks introduced their only substitute Steph Wingeatt from the bench. Hastings in contrast were able to call upon three replacements and the extra fresh legs helped made the difference in finding a winning goal.
The hosts won a penalty and although Chappell went the right way, the spot kick from Brooke Nicholson-Rogan had too much power for the Robins goalkeeper to keep it out.
Hassocks managed to muster a couple of opportunities late on but could not find a way past United number one Asha Moody.
Whilst ultimately disappointed not to take anything from the game, there were plenty of positives for the Robins to take as they came closer than ever to that elusive first win of the campaign.
It was good to see two of last season’s leading scorers in Chappell and Mair back in the goals whilst Jess Craig gave an excellent performance in midfield to take the Hassocks star player award.
Hassocks: Sarah Chappell, Tallie Bright, Katie Read, Claire Stevens, Holly Webb, Jess Gray, Jess Craig, Lola Moon, Ellie Moquet, Kirstin Mair, Katherine Chappell.
Subs: Steph Wingeatt (used).
Silver Rocket Brewing Star Player: Jess Craig.
