SPARKS FLY IN DERBY

THIS derby was always going to have atmosphere since the sides had not met in a league match for many years but the rivalry has not diminished.

The opening phase was one-way with Lewes displaying exceptional skill levels. The passing up front, especially on the right wing, was attractive and the pressure resulted in two goals.

The first was a shot towards the D from Ryan Standing which was deflected on to Simon Hobden allowing him to record his first of the season. It was Hobden's day and shortly afterwards another pressure play from Lewes put him into position to lob the ball over the Brighton keeper to make the score 2-0.

With five minutes to go in the first half there was some unnecessary confrontational play from Lewes and Marnix Achterberg was yellow-carded. In his spell off the pitch Brighton were able to pull one goal back from a short corner.

The second half saw Brighton change their tactics and it took a long while for Lewes to respond. A second Brighton goal seemed inevitable and the follow-up from a short corner brought Brighton level. There were a number of exchanges between players with yellow cards being handed out in an effort to get the game back on track.

With 10 minutes remaining Lewes started to show the skill they had demonstrated in the first half and Simon Hobden nearly got his hat-trick from an open play move but shot over the bar.

Lewes maintained the pressure and were rewarded with a short corner. The first play saw Brighton leave the line too early and the delay took the game over time. All the pressure was then on Brighton and Lewes used a classic routine for Will Champness to strike the ball hard under the diving keeper.

It was a game that could easily have ended in a draw but yet again Lewes managed a last- minute score. Tomorrow (Sat) Lewes visit second-placed Spencer for an encounter that will show whether they have real chances of winning the league.

More hockey: Page 75