Worthing United’s league form is perfect response to cup exits
It’s been an eventful few weeks at Worthing United, with six games across three competitions, plenty of highs and lows and some important lessons along the way.
Joint manager Glenn Souter said: “Injuries have certainly tested us, with several key players unavailable and changes to the starting XI becoming a regular occurrence. However, it’s also provided opportunities for others to step up, and I’ve been particularly pleased with the character and determination shown throughout this period.”
The Mavericks won 2-1 at Mile Oak in the cup, and with injuries affecting first-team availability, several U23 players had the opportunity to represent the senior side, and they certainly didn’t disappoint.
In the FA Vase, United lost 5-2 at Hythe Town.
For the opening half-hour, they were excellent. Danny Kingston scored twice, including a penalty, for a 2-0 lead but Hythe pulled one back before half-time before taking control in the second half.
Away to Bognor Regis Town in the Sussex Senior Cup, Worthing lost 2-0.
Souter said: “Although we lost 2-0, there were encouraging aspects to the performance and valuable experience gained against higher-level opposition.”
Then it was back to SCFL Division 1 action at home to leaders Infinity.
After missing an early penalty, Worthing fell behind to a spectacular overhead kick, but the players refused to accept defeat.
They got their reward in the 95th minute when Joe Sadler calmly converted from the spot.
They followed that with a 2-0 win at Guildford City last week.
Souter said: “It produced one of our most complete performances of recent weeks. We played with intensity, moved the ball well and created numerous opportunities.”
Sadler opened the scoring early before Liam Appleton doubled our lead shortly after half-time.
Souter said: “These games always have an extra edge, and we knew we’d have to compete for everything. We secured another important three points and continued our positive response to the cup disappointments.
"Derbies aren’t always about producing the prettiest football, especially in the weather last weekend! Sometimes it’s about handling the occasion, showing determination and finding a way to win.
Seven points from our past three league games, including a draw against the leaders, represents a pleasing return. One of the biggest positives now is having injured players returning and back in contention to start matches.
“Competition for starting places is increasing, and that’s exactly what we want. Nobody has an automatic place in the team, and everyone will need to earn their shirt through performances and hard work.
“Looking back over these six matches, we’ve experienced some difficult moments, but we’ve also shown resilience, responded to setbacks and started building momentum in the league. There are still areas we need to improve, particularly our consistency, game management and being more clinical in both boxes.
Last season we came incredibly close to success, reaching a cup final and the promotion play-offs. Those experiences have only strengthened our determination to go one better this time.
"We’re not getting carried away. Nobody wins anything in October, and there’s still a long way to go. But with consecutive league victories behind us and more options available for selection, there’s plenty to be positive about.”