Match report by David Churton-

A crucial match for Lewes 5s as we get into the business end of the season. Lewes desperately in need of points to get clear of the relegation zone and Worthing 5s sitting more comfortably up the league table.

The match started with high tempo and spirits. The referees immediately made it clear that they would not stand for any chat or appealing. Under James’ captaincy, Lewes was incredibly disciplined but still received 4 cards during the match and were unlucky with a number of important decisions.

Lewes started very well and looked dangerous in attack. This translated into a series of short corners, with Sandy finishing off a David / Tom switch. 1-0 Lewes.

The pressure turned as the half progressed and despite being up, Lewes found themselves increasingly on the back foot and defending hard. Although they went into half time 1-0, the momentum has shifted to Worthing. Notably mentions from the first half - Sandy and Tom in midfield, both incredibly solid in defence and skillful to create space going forwards. Defence was brilliant too - everyone pitching in and George looking incredibly comfortable in goal making a number of saves.

Lewes started the 2nd half like it did the 1st and regained some control. The forwards looked increasingly dangerous. Some excellent runs from Inzi, Mark, Rupert and James, getting in behind the Defence. Eventually this pressure led to a 2nd goal; Mark beating a number of Defenders to run the bye line and crossing to James for an excellent first time finish. 2-0.

For the next period of play, it felt like honours even - pressure at both ends, including short corners. Our younger talent in Defence and Midfield, Felix, Ollie, Jakob making a real difference, chasing down players and balls and pressing Worthing - really well done. Eventually, a flash of brilliance by Inzi up front turned a long ball into a skillful (trade marked) one-handed dissection of the Defence, with Inzi’s 30 yard run only being thwarted by a desperate foul by the Worthing goalie. Penalty flick awarded. David tried bottom right but it was saved. Still 2-0 up.

For the remainder of the game, Worthing had the balance of the play. Lewes had some useful break-outs but this was about digging deep, putting pressure on the ball carrier and hanging on. Worthing scored from a short corner with about 10mins left in the game. 2-1. Despite a number of additional short corners and thanks to some brilliant saves by George and off the line saves by Tom and Simon and Peter’s and James’ ever reliable clearances, Lewes managed to hold on.

2-1 final score!!! A well deserved victory in very difficult circumstances and a massive team effort. Onwards and upwards the mighty 5s!