Lewes 1s lose to Oxford

The heady heights of fourth place in late October seem a long time ago.

They gave a good account of themselves for much of the game against a strong University side getting ready for the Varsity match in the new year and who are second in the league. In an even first half the hosts grabbed the lead from a penalty corner mid way through but Lewes were unlucky not to be level when they hit the crossbar from one of three successive penalty corners from a Matt Rickson flick just before halt time when they dominated possession. Missing normal penalty corner striker Toby Price saw Lewes have to change their normal routine.

In the second half Oxford stretched their lead early on before Lewes reduced the arrears with a well taken goal. Skipper Matt Clark, who led by example, threaded through a perfectly weighted pass to Dave Roberts who coolly struck the ball into the goal past the oncoming goalkeeper. With youngster Sam Heinzl enjoying his role in midfield and stretching the University defence it was against the run of play when they scored from another penalty corner midway through to make it 3-1. Lewes struggled to get back into the match and defensive lapses in the final ten minutes saw two further goals to go in to give a somewhat harsh scoreline although they could not have any complaints about the final result.

Lewes will have to regroup over the break but will have injured players Rory Jervis and Australian Grant Davey back available which will strengthen their squad. They will need to pick up points quickly in the new year to try and move away from the relegation zone.

Report by Paul Spruce