Run of home wins comes to an end

Saxons had to settle for a 2-2 draw at home to Southwick in a see-saw Sussex Open Hockey League Division One match where they trailed 1-0 before leading 2-1.

The result means Saxons remain in fifth place and continue to trail fourth-placed Southwick on goal difference having played an extra game.

Saxons went into the game wanting to improve on the previous week’s disappointing loss at Hailsham. Both teams carved out chances early on, but it was Southwick who took the lead.

The hosts were soon back on terms through Toby Reed, who finished off a short corner routine that has worked so well in previous weeks.

Alex Coombs then put Saxons ahead from another short corner and it seemed as though they were heading for an eighth home victory of the season in the sunshine.

But Southwick spoiled the party with a goal that led to poor discipline from Saxons, who ended up with players in the sin-bin.

The Hastings side tried to push for a late winner, but it wasn’t to be and a draw seemed a fair result.

Man of the match went to Paddy Cornish for his performance in an unfamiliar sweeper position. Mentions should also go to Tudor Stainsby for a hard-fought match and Dan Burnett for a decent performance on his return to the game following a break.

Saxons will face ninth-placed Crawley II in their final away game of the league campaign this coming Saturday.