Popular Horsham FC goalkeeper returns to Eastbourne Borough
Goalkeeper Lewis Carey has departed Horsham FC to rejoin Eastbourne Borough.
The 32-year-old enjoyed a trophy-laden career at the Hornets after arriving from Sussex rivals Lewes in July 2023.
Carey lifted back-to-back Sussex Senior Cups and Sussex FA Community Shields, as well as the Isthmian Premier title and the Isthmian League Charity Shield.
The shot-stopper also played a vital role in Horsham’s successive runs to the first round proper of the FA Cup – producing a man of the match display in the thrilling 3-3 draw at Barnsley in November 2023.
Of the 180 competitive fixtures played during his three-years at the Hornets, Carey was between the sticks for all but five. Having last missed a match in October 2024, he ended last season on an unbroken run of consecutive 103 appearances.
Carey becomes the fourth member of last season’s squad to exit Horsham this summer. The goalkeeper follows Shamir Fenelon, Isaac Philpot and Rhys Murphy in departing the club.
Posting on Twitter on Saturday (June 6), Carey said: “It’s been a pleasure @HorshamFC 175/180 games in the last 3 seasons. FA cup & trophy runs, league titles & Senior cup wins.. Great club & even better people. Let’s see what’s next.”
Also posting on Twitter, Horsham manager Dominic Di Paola said: “Before Lew we weren't the team we became. Huge catalyst for the last 3 seasons success. Best footballer at the club. Without Lew we would have never had the night we had at Barnsley. Someone's getting a brilliant keeper and even better bloke!”
It was announced on Monday (June 8) that Carey had sealed a return to Eastbourne Borough.
A familiar face to Sports supporters, Carey previously represented the Borough across three seasons between 2014-15 and 2017-18, becoming a popular figure during his first spell with the club after making 111 appearances.
Speaking to Borough’s website, manager Steve King said: “Lewis is going to bring stability and experience to the back line.
“He’s played consistently for three seasons with Horsham and he’s won the league, which is important for the league we’re going into.
“They called him Mr Consistent at Horsham and plays every game.”
Meanwhile, the Hornets’ pre-season fixture schedule has had a slight change.
Horsham will now face National League outfit Eastleigh at the Fusion Aviation Community Stadium on Friday, July 10 at 7.45pm.
The home fixture against Isthmian South East side Eastbourne Town – originally scheduled for July 10 – has been rearranged and will now take place on Saturday, July 18 at 3pm.