Burgess Hill Town boss Lovett hails supporters after frustrating trip to Guernsey

The Hillians’ game away to Guernsey was postponed on Saturday due to flight delays and unavailability of match officials.

The postponement left Burgess Hill fans hugely disappointed, as many loyal supporters had already travelled to the small island to back the team.

Lovett said he felt for the fans who had already made the journey to Guernsey.

He said: “I do feel for our loyal supporters who did travel over to bring us support. I know a few went on Friday as they made a birthday weekend of it.

“We were looking forward to coming over, playing well and then thanking them for the excellent support they always give us. They are a big part of us as a club.”

Even with the game being called off, Hill fans remained positive, with many expressing their pride for the club on Twitter.

One fan, Jack Naldrett, wrote: “Finally home from Guernsey. Yes, we didn’t get to see any football, but the overwhelming feeling by everyone isn’t regret and anger but pride. Pride in the fan base. The amount we took over there for a club of our size is remarkable. Forze Alliance.”

Lovett expressed his frustration over the postponement although he appreciated why the game couldn’t go ahead.

He added: “Saturday was a little frustrating for everyone.

“We never actually got off the ground. We pretty much spent half the day waiting in the airport, waiting for lots of different updates from cancelled flights, to staying overnight, to officials not being able to travel to overnight stay.

“I don’t blame them (the officials) at all for the game not being on.”

On Tuesday night, the Hillians picked up a point, drawing 2-2 with Ramsgate.

Pat Harding gave Lovett’s side the lead after some great build up play on 37 minutes.

But the lead only lasted two minutes when poor defending allowed the visitors to equalise.

The second half was quite until the 86th minute when Ramsgate took the lead from a set piece.

But the Hillians never gave up and won a penalty after Aaron Smith-Joseph’s cross hit a defender’s arm.

Scott Kirkwood smashed the penalty home to ensure a point. The Hillians currently sit in 15th in the BetVictor South East table.

The Hillians face VCD Athletic on Saturday at the Green Elephants Stadium (3pm kick off).