Superb United hold title hopefuls

The U’s produced a terrific performance to clinch a 1-1 draw away to Ryman Football League Premier Division title hopefuls Lowestoft Town.

Scott Chalmers-Stevens pulled off a wonder save and former Norwich City forward Adrian Forbes headed against the crossbar as Lowestoft started strongly, but Hastings weathered the storm and reached half time on level terms.

Jason Hopkinson’s side then took a surprise 54th minute lead when a break down the left ended with Russell Eldridge delivering a cross which bounced up invitingly for Sam Adams to head home at the far post.

Lowestoft were beginning to look frustrated, but Hastings gifted them a 69th minute equaliser. Ryan Storrie’s back header was cut out by Michael Frew, who lifted the ball over Chalmers-Stevens and in off the bar.

Although Lowestoft had the bulk of the play, Hastings defended resolutely and were always a threat with their pace on the counter-attack. Either side might have won it towards the end, but a draw was probably a fair result.

A good day’s work on a grey and windy Suffolk coast was made even better by defeats for relegation rivals Aveley, Folkestone Invicta and Maidstone United which means Hastings remain just outside dreaded bottom four.

Hastings: Chalmers-Stevens, Rowe, Storrie, Olorunda, Ray, Jirbandey, Adams, Beautyman, Porter, Davisson, Eldridge. Subs not used: Perkins, Hall, Sutton, Newman, Taiwo.

A full report will appear in Friday’s Hastings Observer.

TODAY’S OTHER SENIOR RESULTS

Sussex County League, Division 1: RYE UNITED 1 Wick 0; SIDLEY UNITED 2 Crowborough Athletic 2.

Division 2: LITTLE COMMON 1 Lancing 5; Mile Oak 4 BEXHILL UNITED 2; WESTFIELD 1 Oakwood 1.