It’s a third postponement in a row for Hassocks with the news that this afternoon’s Southern Combination League Premier Division clash away at AFC Uckfield Town has been postponed due to a waterlogged pitch.
Storm Ciara and Storm Dennis have hit Sussex hard over the past couple of weeks and that coupled with more overnight rain left the Oaks unplayable.
The Robins have now not kicked a ball since Tuesday 11th February when they defeated Horsham YMCA 3-2 at the Beacon. Since then, home games against Langney Wanderers and Little Common have both been lost to the weather.
For Uckfield, it’s an even longer period without a fixture. Anthony Storey’s side last played on Tuesday 4th February when winning 3-0 away at Little Common.
They too have had three consecutive matches called off, leaving them up to five games behind some of the sides around them in the Premier Division’s top 10.
The Oakmen’s visit to the Beacon suffered a similar fate in October when the first scheduled meeting was postponed. The game took place at the second attempt and it was a good night for the visitors as they ran out 4-0 winners, although the scoreline only told half the story.
Liam Baitup scored twice with Bailo Camara and an own goal also on target. Despite that, Hassocks dominated the final 15 minutes and saw five or six scoring opportunities either wasted or kept out by the outstanding Phil Hawkins in the Oakmen goal – including a fine penalty save from Ben Bacon.
Finding a date for the rearranged tie could prove tricky. Not only are Uckfield facing a fixture backlog in the league, but they also remain in two cup competitions as they hunt what would be a first ever piece of senior silverware.
In the Peter Bentley League Cup, they face Eastbourne United in the last eight. In the Sussex Principal RUR Charity Cup, Peacehaven & Telscombe stand in their way in the semi finals.
As always, please keep an eye on our website and social media channels for news of the new date.
