Mens 5s Win at Worthing

In this late push back at Durrington, Lewes 5s were made to work hard for the points against Worthing. The scoreline doesn't reflect what was largely an even contest for much of the game, but a resilient Lewes defence came out on top. Lewes 5s have conceded the fewest goals in all of Sussex hockey this season and despite missing a number of starting defenders, the team continued it's great record at the back.

The first 20 minutes were hard and evenly fought until, receiving the ball with his back to goal, Steve Fuller cleverly passed through his own legs to release Steve Loader who once again finished with his now trademark undercut - and the net billowed! The remainder of the half went Worthing's way with their playmaker Jack Hillier finding space and time to play balls through the Lewes midfield but the Lewes defence of Murray and Bullen stood strong to keep the Visitors in front at the break.

The second half was highlighted by the tireless efforts of both Dax Debice and Ben Wood. Debice was named man of the match at the final whistle after man-marking Worthing's most dangerous player throughout the second half. However, it was his attacking play that would have the most impact on the game as he doubled Lewes' lead.

Started by one of many Ben Wood runs into the Worthing half, a deflected shot fell to Debice who scrambled home the ball from close range. A third quickly followed from an identical move, this time ending with with a repaid assist from Steve Loader who provided Steve Fuller with a nice little tap-in.

Worthing sought a way back into the contest and following a disallowed goal finally found their way past 'keeper Jon Cornish. After stopping a number of short corners the hosts fired past a Lewes player at the far post, firing them up for the final 15 minutes.

Lewes remembered their coaching and with every player 'marking a man' a Worthing 16 was picked up by Ollie Pendered who thundered the ball back into the D requiring Steve Loader to simply lay his stick down for a nicely placed deflection to grab his brace.

Lewes travel to Brighton next week, in a top of the table clash.