Hassocks head north to take on reigning runners up
The final game in a run of five consecutive away matches takes Hassocks to last season’s Southern Combination League runners up Crawley Down Gatwick.
Despite so many games on the road, the Robins campaign continues to motor along. Hassocks sit fourth in the Premier Division and come into the match off the back of one of their most impressive results of the season, having won 4-1 at Little Common last weekend.
The trip to the Haven will provide an equally stern test. History also suggests an entertaining 90 minutes should be in store for those making the short trip north.
Crawley Down Gatwick this season
Crawley Down enjoyed an excellent year in 2022-23, pushing champions Broadbridge Heath all the way in the title race.
Finishing second took Down into the promotion/relegation playoff with Isthmian League side Sutton Common Rovers, where they were unfortunately beaten 2-0.
Unsurprisingly, there has been something of a hangover following that near miss leading the Anvils to make a slow start to the new season.
Their form has, however, picked up in recent weeks with four wins from their past five matches in all competitions.
In league terms, Down currently sit 12th in the table with four victories and seven defeats from 11 matches. They are one of only three sides yet to draw a game this season.
Crawley Down Gatwick v Hassocks head-to-head
Historically, Hassocks against Crawley Down Gatwick has always delivered goals. 89 have been plundered in 27 previous matches, with some of the more ridiculous scorelines including 5-3 and 6-4 wins for the Robins.
The two meetings last season were a break from the norm. Down completed the double, edging out Hassocks 1-0 on both occasions.
Hassocks just about lead the head-to-head with 12 victories to the Anvils’ 10 from 27 matches. There have been five draws.
Last time Hassocks played Crawley Down Gatwick
There was a distinct end of season feel around the Hassocks camp when Down came to the Beacon on Easter Saturday back in April.
The Robins were without several regulars, giving James Westlake an opportunity to hand league debuts from the bench to Under 18s duo Sam Fernley and Oliver Parker-Williams.
Down in contrast needed three points as they attempted to overhaul Broadbridge Heath in the title race. Oli Leslie duly scored the only goal of the game with 30 minutes played to give the visitors a 1-0 success.
How to get to the Haven
Head through Haywards Heath to Ardingly and onto Turners Hill on the B2028. After Turners Hill, you will enter Crawley Down and come to a fork in the road.
Take a right onto Vicarage Road, following this through the village as it joins Hophurst Lane until the Haven appears on your left.
