Lewes dig deep to continue top four pursuit

On a lovely sunny winters day at the Southdown Club, a depleted Lewes side knew that they would have to be on their game as they faced an improved Horsham team, despite the opposition sitting rock bottom of the league. Lewes hampered by injuries, got off to a good start, dominating possession as expected without creating anything too clear cut. Fifteen minutes in, Lewes won a short corner and flick specialist Lloyd did what he does so often this season and despatched with aplomb into the bottom corner to put the hosts ahead. Matt Hickman then scored a brilliant solo goal beating three defenders before unleashing an unstoppable reverse stick hit from the top of the D, through the legs of the keeper and Lewes were two goals to the good.

Horsham began to create their own chances and with a slice of fortune, a deflection that deceived keeper Isaacs got themselves back in the game just before half-time. Lewes knew that a fast start to the second half was required to keep Horsham at bay and with the help of some rather aggressive tackling from the opposition, who found themselves down to 10 men, allowed Lewes to control the game and counter in numbers and after great work down the right hand side by forward Jonny Rea saw him pick out Harry Heitman at the back post to finish well from close range and restore Lewes’ 2 goal advantage.

The game then began to become very scrappy as both sides tired and further cards were brandished by the umpires for either team. It was Horsham who took advantage of this by scoring a well worked deflection at the back post to give them hope with ten or so minutes remaining of the second half.

Lewes did have the chance to score again as Spruce was taken out when through on goal by the Horsham keeper. However, the resulting penalty flick was well saved - with Lewes feeling aggrieved the keeper was still on the pitch to make the save. This led to a nervy final five minutes, but Lewes were able to see the game out and celebrate another well-earned three points. Keeping them on track with their push towards the top four.

They travel to London Academicals this Saturday, looking to make it six wins out of their last seven league games and continue the great form shown since the end of October.