H&B out for revenge

HASTINGS & Bexhill manager Rob Hamilton is targeting an emphatic dismissal of Burgess Hill as they resume their quest for Sussex One glory.

As well as vital league points, H&B have a score to settle with their bottom-half opponents having lost to them on the opening day of the season - a result which could ultimately cost them a top two spot.

Hamilton said: "I'm confident the squad has got enough depth and I'm looking for a convincing disposal of them in a manner that will give us confidence for the week after (they play Seaford in the final of the Greene King IPA Sussex Shield on Sunday, March 21). We really want to win that and get a trophy. I think the manner is important - I think sides that struggle on to narrow victories will eventually come a cropper.

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"I think we under-estimated them first time around but I really don't think the players would allow that to happen again. I think we've come on a long way since then whereas Burgess Hill have lost their way a bit and I think home advantage will help. I hope we're refreshed and raring to go (following their fixtureless weekend) - I think it was what we needed."

H&B are a point behind Horsham in the race for second place with just three games remaining but the stuttering West Sussex club would appear to have a tougher run-in. H&B are in turn a point ahead of fourth-placed Heathfield & Waldron.

"I think it's a possibility Horsham will slip up, Seaford is not the easiest place for them to go but I know they will be really motivated," Hamilton added. "We're still outsiders because we can't do it on our own. But it's a very competitive league where anybody can beat anybody."

Rob Sparks, Paul Flood and Neil Redman should all be fit for the Burgess Hill match on Saturday March 13 but Martin Sheppard (cartilage damage) is a major doubt. Paul Sandeman is expected to be available but Jimmy Adams has departed to Australia. Hamilton added: "I would just like to wish him well, he's been staggeringly consistent for us." Kick-off is 3pm.

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Sussex One promotion run-ins: Hastings & Bexhill - March 13 Burgess Hill (h), April 3 Crowborough (a), April 17 Rye (h). Horsham - March 13 Seaford (a), April 3 Rye (a), April 17 Hove (h). Heathfield & Waldron - March 13 Norfolk Arms (a), April 3 Pulborough (h), April 17 Seaford (a).