Hastings United boss: Super Sammy couldn't have written a better 600th-match script

Much was made of the fact last Saturday’s Isthmian south-east clash with Hythe Town was the long-serving player’s 600th game for the club.

Such occasions don’t always go to plan after big build-ups – but Adams had clearly read the script and scored two first-half goals to mark his milestone and set up a 3-0 win which kept Hastings six points clear at the top of the Isthmian south east.

Most in the 1,102 crowd were willing Adams to complete a hat-trick but United’s only other goal came from Jack Dixon.

And Adams was withdrawn 13 minutes from time to keep his legs fresh for vital upcoming games.

That next set of games starts tomorrow with a visit to 10th-placed Sittingbourne, where Elphick expects another stiff test of his team’s credentials.

Elphick said Saturday was all about Adams.

“It was a great day for him and the whole club,” said the manager. “You couldn’t really have scripted it any better. Sam doesn’t really like a fuss.

“He’s very modest and just likes to get on with his football but I think he enjoyed it. He certainly enjoying scoring twice!

“I took him off the near the end because I’m thinking ahead and wanting to keep him fresh for the next game.”

Elphick described the 3-0 win over Hythe, watched by a 1,102 crowd, as ‘routine’.

“I don’t want to sound arrogant but we never really looked like we’d conceded.

“It was important to win but I’m not interested in the league table, I’m just taking it week to week.”

Elphick said the fact Sittingbourne’s form had tailed off recently made them dangerous opponents this weekend.

Striker Ben Pope is doubtful for the match amid concern he suffered a broken rib last Saturday, but Andrew Sesay should be available again and Ollie Black is also on the way back to fitness.

Elphick is delighted by the current lack of midweek games, giving him more time on the training ground with his players.

This week he gave some of his senior players a Tuesday night off training to help keep them fresh.

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