Men's 5s lose 3-0 to Horsham 4

FIXTURE: Sussex Div 3
HOME TEAM: Lewes Men's 5s. 0
AWAY TEAM: Horsham Men's 4s. 3

From the off, Horsham 4s started with an unnerving synchronised warm-up whilst the Lewes 5s commended Phil Brown and James Hall on still sinking Harveys at 11.38pm the previous night. It may also have been suggested that the photographic proof was more likely taken at about 8pm and not posted until later when they were safely tucked up in bed!

Lewes had only a few chances in the first half; Alan Forster almost tapped in from close range and Malcolm Wain latched on to a cross from Ollie Pendered with a trademark diving strike, but neither found the back of the net. Mike Fuller's dribbling caused problems on the left but not enough to unleash a clear shot on goal.

Conversely, Horsham's backbone of experienced players surrounded by a team of well-drilled, pacey youngsters, moved the ball around quickly and passed their way through the Lewes defence on numerous occasions. Fortunately, returning Lewes goalkeeper Simon Bullmore, who was busy to say the least, produced a string of good saves and footed clearances that managed to keep the score down to 2-0 at halftime in Horsham's favour.

Lewes upped their game in the second period with Phil Brown, Mike Fuller and Reza Azimi regularly entering the Horsham 'D' only to find an experienced defence that had taken on the 5s usual 'hard to beat' mantra. 'Absent for a year' Sam Newman had a good game, proving his fitness and that his Saturdays should definitely include a game of hockey when new family life allows. Thanks Sam.

As the 'men in green' tired from chasing shadows and continued to give the ball away needlessly, Horsham capitalised once more to put the game out of reach with a goalmouth melee, a fine save and an unfortunate deflection that crossed the line........slowly, much to Bullmore's disgust.

Still looking for a point, the 5s travel to Steyning Grammar School next Saturday to face Southwick 2 at 1.30pm.