First half free kick sinks Rye

The only goal of the Sussex County Football League Division One clash came in the 13th minute. Leon Dussard’s low free kick from the right appeared to go straight in, although David Gellatly may have applied a slight touch.

Although Rye’s starting line-up contained only four players who began the John O’Hara League Challenge Cup semi-final victory over Rustington on Tuesday night, they had the chances to have picked up at least a point.

Sam Cole volleyed over early on and was denied by former Hastings United goalkeeper when he really should have scored in the 21st minute. He also had a shot parried by May before Liam Upton put the rebound over.

Danny Leach and Jimmy Watson failed to hit the target in Rye’s best two moments of the second half of a keenly and fairly evenly contested game, but it wasn’t to be for Scott Price’s side.

Rye (4-4-1): Winchester; Moreby, Gall, Radley (Richardson 73), Tuppenney; Ellis, J. Watson, Franklin, Cole; Upton (Leach 59); D. Clarke (Alabi 73). Subs not used: Buay, Cooper.

The kick-off time in Rye’s game at home to Three Bridges on Saturday, meanwhile, has now been brought forward to 12.45pm.