Honours even in derby clash

The result leaves both teams still searching for their first wins of the Macron Store Sussex County Football League Division Two season, although Common at least now have their first point.

Lewis Hole rattled the underside of the crossbar for Common before Westfield opened the scoring in the 36th minute. A long free kick was headed down by the Common defence only as far as Sam Willett, who controlled with his chest before firing an excellent left-foot shot into the roof of the net.

Common goalkeeper Matt Cruttwell made good saves to deny Mike Booth and Andy Hales early in the second half before Martin Denny levelled the scores in the 51st minute with a cracking finish into the top right-hand corner.

Common then had a glorious opportunity to turn the game on its head. Willett slid in on Paul Feakins and the referee awarded a penalty, but Hole’s spot-kick was well held by Carl Morris low to his left.

Elsewhere in the same division yesterday, Bexhill United made it four points from their opening two league games with a goalless draw away to an AFC Uckfield side which is also unbeaten.

See Friday’s Observers for full reports on both matches.