Tight game for 3rd XI ends in draw.

Earlier in the season Saxons defensive play with break away attacks saw them plunder three points from Hailsham with a 0-2 victory. It was fair to say that Hailsham arrived expecting a similar approach at Horntye Park. However, 'Buss's Bulldogs' had an unexpected tactic up their sleeve.

High pressing and attacking play was the order of the day. It was not long before the pressure paid off and a skillful run by Ben Simmons saw him round the keeper and open the scoring for Saxons.

Hailsham responded with some penetrating play, with some good passing movement opening up the midfield. Man of the match Mike Sutton keeping Saxons in the game with two inspiring saves in the space of just ten minutes.

Saxons continued to push forward with the Hailsham defence and keeper in equally good form kept Saxons at bay.

Hailsham fought back, again opening up the Saxons midfield and finding a forward in the D, who this time made no mistake to level the scoring.

Saxons were determined to get a goal back but the frustration from thwarted attacks began to show in both teams. Unfortunately Julian Buss was first to break when an umpiring decision failed to go Saxons way. A 'muttering Mutley' impression saw a green card upgraded to a yellow and Buss condemned to the 'dog house' to cool down. Ten man Saxons changed tact and spent the next five minutes defending. Coleman, Bontoft and Davis supported by the midfield working hard to keep Hailsham at bay.

Buss returned to the pitch and the 'end-to end' play continued to half time. Saxons went into the break 1-1.

With a low sun in their eyes Saxons restarted strongly. Teamwork providing the right combination to allow Buss to redeem himself and restore Saxons lead.

Hailsham pressed well in the second half and broke down a number of Saxons attacks. Hailsham finally found the equaliser when one of their attacks resulted in a penalty corner. Hailsham slipped the ball left from the top for a player to slot the ball between the posts.

The game ended 2-2. With both teams taking their share of the points, Saxons remain in 4th spot in Sussex Open Division 3 just one point off Hailsham. Saxons next fixture is away to Penguin 2nd XI.