Hassocks head to Horsham YMCA for first of two big games in 48 hours
Easter Weekend will see Hassocks play two very important away games in the space of 48 hours, starting with the trip to Horsham YMCA on Saturday afternoon.
The Herbert Direct Stadium used to be a graveyard for the Robins, but not so much anymore with two wins in their past three visits.
With just 10 points covering the top six going into the final month of the campaign, Hassocks know just how important maintaining that improved record at YM will be in terms of staying firmly in the playoff picture.
Horsham YMCA this season
On the pitch, this has been a solid if unspectacular season for Horsham YMCA. For the second campaign running, they sit in mid table having neither troubled the upper reaches nor been in any sort of relegation battle. Eight wins, eight draws and 16 defeats leaves them 14th in the standings.
Off the pitch, YM have been given permission to install a 3G pitch at Gorings Mead – a transformative moment if the new facility brings similar success to that seen at Lancing, Steyning Town and Newhaven in recent years.
Horsham YMCA v Hassocks head-to-head
YM have been one of Hassocks’ most frequently faced opponents since the Robins joined the Southern Combination League in 1982.
There have been 57 games between the sides. 27 have been won by YM, 18 by Hassocks, leaving 12 draws.
YM’s dominance of the fixture stems largely from their strong record in the fixture at the Herbert Direct Stadium.
The Robins have won just three times in the league there since 2000; and as already mentioned, two of those victories have come in the past three seasons.
Last time Hassocks played Horsham YMCA
One of only two 0-0 draws of the season so far involving the Robins came against Horsham YMCA at the Beacon back in October.
After scoring 15 times in five consecutive away games through September, Hassocks could find no way past a mean YM defence.
It was a game in which neither Fraser Trigwell nor his opposite number Aaron Jeal had a serious save to make. Hopefully, there will be more entertainment this time around.
How to get to the Herbert Direct Stadium
The ground is situated on the outskirts of the town centre. Take the A272 to Cowfold before joining the A281 towards Horsham.
Once in the town, Gorings Mead is located on the left before the railway bridge as directed by the “YMCA” sign.
There is extremely limited parking at the ground and when that is full there is no parking in the street leading to the ground. Visitors are advised to park in one of the many car parks that are a five-minute walk away.
Kick off is at 3pm and admission prices are £7 adults, £5 concessions and free for under 16s.
