Robins face the Sheers for the first time
For those Hassocks fans who like the chance to explore a new ground and see the Robins in action against unfamiliar opposition, the draw for the second qualifying round of the Isuzu FA Vase could not have gone much better.
Hassocks head to Eastwood Leisure Centre to face Combined Counties Premier Division South side Sheerwater, a club who the Robins have never before played.
The Sheers booked their place in this round of the competition via a 3-0 win over Clapton last month. Hassocks meanwhile received a bye.
Who are Sheerwater?
Sheerwater is a village more often considered a suburb of Woking. The football team were founded in 1958 and have played in the Combined Counties League since the 2000s.
The Jam played some of their early gigs in the clubhouse at Sheerwater’s former Recreation Ground home.
Sheerwater this season
Shherwater finished 16th of 20 teams in the Combined Counties Premier Division South last time around, narrowly avoiding relegation.
They currently occupy 16th spot having one two, drawn one and lost four of their six matches so far. Last Saturday saw them pick up the second of those victories, winning 4-2 away against Epsom & Ewell.
The Sheers have played two Sussex-based teams this season, beating Broadbridge Heath 1-0 away from home in the FA Cup before losing 3-0 to Eastbourne United at the Oval.
Sheerwater v Hassocks head-to-head
As already noted, this will be the Robins’ first meeting with Sheerwater. Hassocks most recently clashed with opponents from the Combined Counties in August 2021.
On that occasion, Spelthorne Sports left the Beacon with a 2-1 FA Cup extra preliminary qualifying round win.
What is Eastwood Leisure Centre like?
Eastwood Leisure Centre opened its doors in 2021 and features a mix of standing and seating along one side of the pitch, capable of holding 500 people. The pitch is 3G and it would appear that there is a very nice bar.
How to get to Eastwood Leisure Centre
Leave the M25 at junction 11, taking the first exit left onto St Peter’s Way. At the next roundabout, again turn left onto Guildford Road.
Once you reach the McLaren Technology Centre, exit the roundabout onto Martyrs Lane. Take another left at the end to join the A245, follow it around to the right and then turn right at the roundabout to join Albert Drive. The Leisure Centre is located a little way up the road.
For those taking the train, West Byfleet is the nearest station around a 10 minute walk away. It can be reached from Clapham Junction.
Kick off is at 3pm and admission prices are expected to be £8 adults, £5 concessions and free entry for Under 16s.
