Pagham cup win can spur new spell of consistency

Ben Anderton’s first senior goal for Pagham helped see the Linos through to round two of the RUR Cup as they won 3-1 at home to Worthing United.

It followed a draw and a defeat in division one of the Sussex League which took some of the gloss off a great start to the season at Nyetimber Lane.

Price has no complaints with the way Pagham are playing but says they need to take more of their chances – and with that will come more consistent results.

He said of the Worthing win: “It was hard-fought – they made us graft for 120 minutes. We created loads of chances but we’re not taking enough of them at the moment.

“I’m pleased with a win in any competition because wins breed confidence. We have a big-enough squad to cope with the cups and I want us to carry on making progress.

“We’re a bit inconsistent but it’s my job to make sure we find consistency.”

Wes Hallett replaced the injured Andy Smallpiece in goal and was involved from the off.

Max Thoms and Callum Cutler threatened Worthing in the first half but it ended goalless.

Worthing scored against the run of play when Tom Donnelly netted a fine goal.

Thoms’ header on 66 minutes levelled things up and after Anderton and James Temple came on, Anderton soon went close.

In extra time Joe Briggs almost scored twice, forcing the save of the game as Harris tipped over a stinging shot. Anderton made it 2-1 in a goalmouth scramble and in the second half of extra-time Briggs got the third with a penalty.

The Lions face Lingfield in the next round but are back to league action this Saturday at Redhill.

JON ROSE & STEVE BONE