Hastings see off 10-man Westfield

Tim Olorunda marked his return from suspension by scoring the second goal in Hastings United's 3-0 win over Westfield. Picture by Terry S. Blackman

The U’s saw off neighbours Westfield 3-0 at The Pilot Field tonight (Tuesday) thanks to first half goals from Trevor McCreadie and Tim Olorunda, and a second half strike by Kenny Pogue.

Ryman Football League Division One South high-flyers United fielded a strong team against Sussex County League Division Two side Westfield, with new boys McCreadie, Tom Vickers and Bruno Pacheco all catching the eye.

Vickers saw a left-foot shot from just outside the area well tipped over by Westfield goalkeeper Carl Morris before United took a 20th minute lead when Pogue’s cross from the right was headed home at the far post by debutant McCreadie despite the best efforts of Morris to keep it out.

After Vickers pulled an angled drive wide of the far post having been played in by McCreadie, United doubled their advantage in the 39th minute as Pogue flicked on Jordan Woodley’s right wing corner for Tim Olorunda to turn home from close range.

A lovely turn and throughball from McCreadie allowed Pogue to make it 3-0 in the 49th minute, and things went from bad to worse for Westfield moments later as Gordon Cuddington was sent-off for a second bookable offence.

The visitors therefore did well to survive the final 40 minutes a man down, although last season’s semi-finalists United will feel they could have added to their tally with better finishing.

United: Pelling, Gilbert, Pacheco, Olorunda, Hare, Kelly, Vickers, Dolan (Darby 60), McCreadie (Adams 60), Pogue, Woodley (Ellis 61).

Westfield: Morris, Willett, Parsons, Rose, Warren (Durrant 35), Dadswell, Booth (Munnery 56), Cuddington, Clarke, Parris (Markham 61), Ham. Subs not used: Bell, Holland.