‘Let’s be a bit more positive’

The U’s lie third in Ryman Football League Division One South with the division’s last remaining unbeaten home record and second best defence, but Maggs feels things could be more upbeat.

He said: “I would ask everyone involved with Hastings Football Club, let’s be a little bit more positive. I keep saying if everyone sticks together at this football club, we’ve got something going for us.”

United were hammered 5-0 away to Ramsgate on Boxing Day, but came from 2-0 down to pull off a thrilling 3-2 victory at home to Burgess Hill Town 48 hours later.

“We were a complete shambles Boxing Day and we deserved criticism,” continued Maggs. “I accept that, but I do believe you’ve got to have faith in all the players and everyone. That’s the only thing that’s going to keep us going and push on to what we need this year.

“We took a hiding; that will happen at this time of year, you will see it at every level - Arsenal got thumped six the other week. It happens at every level and you’ve got to take it on the chin.”

The U’s will only reach the midway point in their league programme if the away game against Redhill tomorrow (Saturday) goes ahead. Assuming it does, United could well come up against their former captain Lee Carey.

United are running a supporters’ coach to the Redhill game, leaving The Pilot Field at 11.45am. The cost is £10 for supporters’ club members, £12 for adults and £5 for under-18s. Email [email protected] to book a place.