Selsey surprise Sussex League leaders

Stuart Souter struck in the eighth and the 68th minutes at the Jubilee Field, making the most of two one-on-one opportunities. Manager Ian Martin (pictured) was understandably pleased saying: “It’s another three points and against the team at the top of the league at their own ground. It’s something special.

“We were organised and worked for each other – it was a good team performance. But we didn’t pass the ball very well so there’s room for improvement.”

The hosts put pressure on Selsey in the second half, striking the post and the bar, but were unable to get back in the game, giving Selsey their fourth clean sheet in five games.

Martin said: “They put pressure on but we frustrated them. There was a decent crowd and they got on their backs – it was pleasing to hear that.

“They’re a good side with good players but we defended well and looked dangerous on the counter.”

Martin said the match showed the improvement shown by his attack and defence, and reinforced his vow that his side will continue to improve.

And the result – which was Three Bridges’ sixth defeat of the season – lifted Selsey to ninth.

The win was in contrast to the previous week, when Selsey drew with 20th-placed side Eastbourne United, and Martin said his side were well aware what was expected of them.

“I told the team there was no reason for the high standard we’d set in recent weeks to drop,” he said. “Everybody knows what their roles are.

“As long as they all go out and do their best, there’s no reason we shouldn’t keep playing like we have been.”

Selsey welcome second-placed Crawley Down to the High Street Ground on Saturday (Feb 26) with the visitors well-placed for the league title thanks in part to Selsey’s latest win.

MARK ALLAWAY