MATCH REPORTS - YOUTH TEAM

Sussex County Youth League Cup
Sunday 29^th October 2006
HASSOCKS CRASH OUT OF CUP
Hassocks 1-3 Arundel

A disappointing performance from the young Robins saw them crash out of the League Cup at the Beacon on Sunday. Not for the first time this season Hassocks were unable to convert their ball possession domination into goals. The early exchanges were pretty even but Arundel took advantage of poor defending after 10 mins to slot home an excellent goal. Hassocks kept up the pressure and went close with a free kick effort from skipper Michael Bates which the Arundel keeper made a parried save that was not followed up. Despite some good approach play the Robins were unable find that final ball and finish that their overall play deserved. Instead Arundel against the run of play went further ahead with another well executed finish. With a two goal deficient at half time the Hassocks management decided tactical changes were required to try and retrieve the match. Nathan Miles joined Matt Amos and Laurence Robinson up front and Sam Franks was moved into midfield from his first half defensive position. Hassocks started the 2nd half strongly and 15 minutes later were able get back into the game when Matt Amos flicked the ball in from close range to bring the score to 2-1.Robins continued the pressure and forced corner after corner but were unable to add to their tally. With the game in the last stages, Arundel broke away to score a third goal to seal the tie. The scoreline did not really reflect the match, but unless the young Robins can rectify their inability to convert more of the created openings, more disappointing scorelines like this will be the result.