Hastings lose but Sidley win thriller

United’s miserable run of form continued when they were beaten 2-1 at home to lower grade Fleet Town in round four of the Ryman League Championship Manager Cup.

Fleet, who are 17th in Division One South, took a 17th minute lead following a mistake by Scott Chalmers-Stevens, but United, 18th in the Premier Division, levelled through a Harry Beautyman tap-in 10 minutes before half time.

The Hampshire-based visitors sealed their place in the quarter-finals, however, with a 73rd minute penalty awarded for a foul by Ben Davisson.

Elsewhere, Sidley United set up a plum third round tie at home to Brighton & Hove Albion reserves in the Sussex Senior Cup with a thrilling 4-2 victory at home to Arundel.

The visitors opened the scoring after 10 minutes, but despite Andy Hales having a penalty saved, Sidley were deservedly level at half time after Mark Chandler bundled in a Hales free kick.

Danny Spice headed home two more Hales free kicks either side of Chris Rea being sent-off to make it 3-1. Arundel pulled one back only to then have two players red carded and Terry Payne made sure with a late fourth.

The first ever midweek floodlit game at The Polegrove was also packed full of goals as the reserves of Bexhill United and Westfield fought out a 3-3 draw.

Rye United are due to take on Hailsham Town in a ‘home’ Sussex County League Division One fixture to be played at Hailsham tonight (Wednesday), although the wet weather must place it in doubt. Return here for updates.