After a challenging week for selection, Saxons 2s left Hastings on a rainy Saturday in pursuit of three points, with a squad featuring multiple 3s players.

The first goal of the game was scored by Mid Sussex early in the first half, following a misplaced pass from the defence.

Saxons tried to push forward during the first half, with strong midfield runs from Will Richardson. However, as a team, Saxons struggled to retain possession, which ultimately limited their attacking play.

The first card of the game came in the second half as a result of a mistimed tackle from Oliver Cornelius. After what seemed like an eternity of deliberation from the umpires, a green card was shown.

The second card of the game was received by Will Richardson for barging over a Mid Sussex player, earning a five-minute yellow card – a harsh decision considering the physical play he had endured.

During this period, Saxons defended resolutely, featuring strong short-corner defence from Russell Cole, who bravely wore a short corner to his hand.

Saxons drew level after Sam Stonestreet played an incisive ball into the D for Jamie Sheldon to collect, leading to an attempted upright reverse which he managed to slot home on the second attempt, providing a glimmer of hope.

Following the goal, Saxons tried to push forward with rapid wing play from Zac Musell and quality aerials from Wayne Sims and Paul Merison, which Sam Stonestreet was able to take down. However, the team ultimately struggled to create clear goal-scoring opportunities.

The winning goal for Mid Sussex came after a breakdown of possession in the Saxons midfield, resulting in a counter-attack that was lifted over keeper Carr-Taylor to secure the three points.

As the game drew towards its conclusion, the play became more physical. Following a stick tackle by Zac, he was pursued by a Mid Sussex player who ultimately pushed him to the floor – resulting in the Midi's player leaving the field with a card.

Overall, despite the result, the team put in a shift to be proud of, and we can only hope for better weeks ahead.

Final Score:
Mid Sussex 2s 2 – 1 South Saxons 2s
MOM: Samuel Stonestreet
DOD: Zac Musell