Men's 1s moving away from relegation zone

If all the chances had been taken the score line would have been much higher but the three points were what mattered.

The pattern of the game was quickly established with Lewes making quick probing runs and Purley being forced to resort to dour defence. Within five minutes Matt Clark was tackled heavily on the edge of the opposition circle but Lewes were unable to take advantage of the penalty corner. A few minutes later James Fuller embarked on a solo run down the right wing, beat all efforts of the defence and fired in a shot from a narrow angle to beat the Purley keeper. It was Fuller who continued to be a thorn in the Purley side and his pace into attack won a couple more penalty corners but Lewes were unable to use the opportunities. A host of other scoring chances were created but it was once again the final shot on goal that was lacking.

The second half was much the same with Lewes maintaining consistent pressure and Purley only making the occasional counter attack. Gaston Golstein enjoyed a welcome return to the team after a three week absence and it was from one strong run through the centre of the Purley defence that the second goal was scored following quick passing from Golstein to Clark and then on into the circle for Alex Baxter to finish. In spite of two more penalty corners Lewes were unable to find the goal again bit it was a win!

The season breaks now until 17th January but the improvement in the Lewes side that has been apparent over the last three weeks needs to be maintained by fitness training and one or two friendly matches. The focus in the second half must be on moving out of the relegation zone.