First Team Match Reports 2008/09

Season Ends On A High

Tuesday 28th April - SCFL Div 2 - Storrington 1 Loxwood 0

So this was it, the final game of Storrington’s roller-coaster season. Loxwood were this evening’s visitors to The Rec, with the home side very much keen on finishing their season on a high and achieving the enviable accolade of being unbeaten in the month of April. This fixture earlier in the season had resulted in a 1-0 victory for The Swans in what was a very hard fought game against a physical Loxwood side, but Storrington are in a fine run of form at the moment and would no doubt go into the game high in confidence.
Hamilton was forced to make just the one change from the team that smashed Rustington 4-0 on Saturday - With Jon Bacon out through illness, James Blaydon slotted straight back into the side at right-back and the versatile John Rhodie moved across to left-back.
The pace of the game was fairly phrenetic from the outset, with both teams keen to attack. Greg Palmer and Kristian Bridle were performing well and battling hard against the physical midfield pairing of Loxwood, as were Ayres and Harding upfront against a stubborn back line.
The game was fairly even during the fast half, although Gary Elliot in the Storrington goal was very rarely called into action and you always felt that it would take either a wonder goal or a mistake for either side to break the deadlock. Kristian Harding’s goal for The Swans had a bit of both! The ball was played back to the Loxwood keeper who probably dwelled on the ball for too long as he was closed down by Richard Ayres, resulting in a poor clearance. His clearance fell straight to Harding about 25 yards out who took one touch and half-volleyed the ball straight back into the empty net.
The only other key incidents of the first half were the losses of both Dean Potter and Dave Tidman through injury. Potter pulled up with a calf strain, so Liam Humphreys came on at right back and Blaydon moved to play alongside Tom Carter in the middle. Young Matty Rance came on to replace Dave Tidman, who appeared to have fallen awkwardly on his ankle.
As expected, the second half saw Loxwood try and push for the equaliser. However, Storrington’s back line rarely looked stretched and Gary Elliott only had to make one save during the second period, from a curling shot that was arguably going wide anyway. Storrington’s defence stayed strong and disciplined, dealing especially well with Loxwood’s aerial threat from set pieces. In fact, the best chances of the second half really fell to Storrington… Greg Palmer went on a fantastic run from midfield but his shot lacked any conviction as he arrived in the box. Liam Humphreys played a great one two with Tasker in the box and should probably should have done better with his effort and Sam Witherden really should have scored with almost his first touch after coming on for Steve Tasker. He was only denied by a superb save from the Loxwood keeper from close range.
If games were won and lost on possession alone, then Loxwood would maybe feel they deserved something out of the game but Storrington looked comfortable and would feel the better team one on the day. That win puts Storrington up to 10th in the League which, depending on other results from the weekend, is where they will finish and will cap a fantastic finish to the season. Ricky, Nigel and the boys can now relax and look forward to the End of Season Awards Night before the serious business of pre-season kicks off again in just 7 weeks time!!

TEAM: Elliott; Blaydon, Rhodie, Potter (Humphreys), Carter; Tidman (Rance), Bridle, G Palmer, Tasker (Witherden); Ayres, Harding. Subs not used: M Beaumont

Dizzy Heights As Swans Run Riot!

Saturday 25th April - SCFL Div 2 - Rustington 0 Storrington 4

The short journey to Rustington for this afternoon's fixture would be a true test for the first team's new found confidence and recent run of form. The Blues are looking to finish the season with a third place for the second consecutive season, and The Swans are aiming to climb as high up the table as they could on the back of their unbeaten run. Hamilton was forced to make two changes to this week’s starting eleven, with James Blaydon jetting away to play pitch and putt in Spain, and Liam Humphreys practicing his double axle at Guildford’s ice-rink. The missing personnel meant that the versatile John Rhodie filled in at right back for Blaydon and a reborn Greg Palmer slotted in midfield for the in place of Humphreys.
Storrington started brightly, although the neat passing game of Rustington kept the away side focused. The pairing of Kristian Bridle and Greg Palmer in the midfield was blossoming as they started to dictate the play with David Tidman and Steve Tasker surging down the flanks with their pace. The first goal came on 13 mins with a textbook move down the Storrington left. Jon Bacon played the ball to the ever lively Tidman who in turn sent a good ball down the wing for Richard Ayers to give chase. Ayres, not for the first time this season, gave the full back no chance and with a delightful ball across the six yard box into the path of Tidman who had continued his run and finished with style. Storrington continued to press forward and cause problems for the Rustington defence with their pace and range of passing, along with the solid Storrington back line snuffing out any threat of a Rustington equaliser before the half time break.
The second half was more of the same as Storrington went looking for the second goal with Ayres and Harding causing havoc in the Rustington defence with every attack. The second goal came on 57 mins with a through ball from midfield for Harding to chase into the corner of the 18 yard box, and from the byline the confident Harding curled an audacious shot past the stranded keeper and inside the far post.
With the very next attack it was Ayres’ turn to turn the opposition defence inside out. He skipped past a couple of challenges to unleash a curling shot towards the top corner. His shot was well saved but only palmed into the path of Harding, who was first to the ball to smash in from close-range. Not to be out done it was Ayres who capped off another fine display by adding a fourth on 72 mins with a trademark move in the box to outwit the keeper and sidefoot past a dispairing defender and into the goal. The only save of note by the mostly redundant Elliott in the Storrington goal was from a driven cross where he was required to push the ball away from the onrushing forward. To the delight of the home side, the final whistle blew and Storrington pick up another three points to make it 14 out of a possible 18 in April.
A superb result for The Swans who were well worth their 4 goal win, outplaying their hosts with a solid defence, a tough and creative midfield and a ruthless front two. Loxwood are next up in Storrington’s last game of the season, where Hamilton’s men will be looking to do the double over their local rivals and finish the season on a high.

TEAM: Elliott; Rhodie, Bacon, Potter, Carter; Tidman (Rance), Bridle, G Palmer, Tasker (Cook); Ayres, Harding (Witherden)

Two Points Dropped As Midhurst Face Tough Run-In

Tuesday 21st April - SCFL Div 2 - Midhurst & Easebourne 2 Storrington 2

This evening's fixture presented another opportunity for Storrington to climb the table. The Swans are in a rich vein of form at the moment and Midhurst were struggling for results at the wrong end of the table. Another loss for Midhurst today would see them take another step towards Division 3 football. With Kristian Bridle missing the game through injury, Liam Humphreys took up his more familiar role in the centre of midfield. Jon Bacon received the call-up to occupy the left-back slot, with Greg Palmer, Chris Chilvers and young Matty Rance taking position on the bench.
On what was a glorious evening, the playing surface was in good condition and should favour the away team. Storrington did start strongly and looked threatening going forwards, with Dave Tidman seeing a lot of the ball down the left. However, Midhurst enjoyed a long spell of dominance of their own during the fist 45 minutes with Gary Elliott being the busier goalkeeper. In fact, had it not been for two world class saves from Elliott in the first half, The Swans could have found themselves two goals down. Storrington did find the cutting edge though and managed to take a two goal lead into half time. The first came via what is becoming a Richard Ayres signature goal... He got to the byline on the left hand side of the goal and cut back in on his right and fired into the far corner. Kristian Harding got Storrington's second with another cool finish. His pace, not for the first time, got the better of the Midhurst defence and he slotted home from just inside the box.
Storrington were aware that they were slightly fortunate to have the lead they had and were warned against complacency against a Midhurst side that would no doubt come out all guns blazing in the second half. Storrington contained Midhurst for the first 20 minutes but you sensed that a goal might come for the away side. James Glue popped up to give Midhurst a lifeline just after the hour mark. Rick Hamilton made changes, with Greg Palmer and Chris Chilvers coming on up front and Matty Rance getting his debut out on the right of midfield. For the final ten minutes the game was open, with both sides pushing for another goal. Sadly for Storrington, it was Midhurst who got their equaliser. It came in unlikely circumstances as a rare mistake from Gary Elliott allowed James Glue to grab his and Midhurst's second. Dean Potter's backpass was not cleared and Glue nicked the ball off of Elliott, who was caught out in possession.
Midhurst deserved their point for the way they attacked in the second half but Storrington will feel very disappointed not to have protected their lead. Storrington travel to Rustington on Saturday - a win there would create a huge dent in Rustington's hope of grabbing the third place spot.

TEAM: Elliott; Blaydon, Bacon, Potter, Carter; Tidman (Rance), Rhodie, Humphreys, Tasker (Chilvers); Ayres, Harding (G Palmer)

Harding Double Ensures Senior Status

Saturday 18th April - SCFL Div 2 - Storrington 2 Littlehampton 0

Littlehampton made the short journey north to The Rec for this afternoon's fixture in what was to be a double header - the reserves would take on Chichester later in the day. Storrington ran out 2-1 winners against The Golds earlier in the season, thanks to goals from Harry Abraham and Chris Chilvers. The only change today from the starting eleven that beat Sidlesham on Monday was the absence of Chris Watton who was injured and also returning back to university to finish his final exams. Liam Humphreys showed his versatility and stepped up to fill the left-back slot.
Storrington certainly started the brighter of the two sides and enjoyed much of the early possession with both Ayres and Harding having chances to give the home side the lead. However, the longer the half went on, the more you felt that Littlehampton would get into it and both sides enjoyed periods of dominance. Littlehampton had the best opportunity of the half, coming at the hands of a penalty. Dean Potter tripped Mark Burgess in the box and Burgess stepped up to take the penalty. Another fine save from Gary Elliott in the Storrington goal prevented Littlehampton taking the lead just before half time.
The second half was a different story as Storrington attacked with the wind behind them. The breakthrough came soon after the break as Kristian Bridle intercepted a poor clearance, sending a hopeful ball over the top. Kristian Harding gave chase and smashed the ball on the volley past Guy Souch in the Littlehampton goal to make it 1-0. Storrington dominated the second half and were afforded some breathing space fifteen minutes later. A goal-mouth scramble resulted in Kristian Harding getting the final touch to claim his fifth goal in as many games for The Swans. Storrington did a professional job and saw out the rest of the half with Elliott not tested at all.
With this win and Bexhill losing today against high-flying Peacehaven, Storrington confirmed their place in the division for next season. Performances have been strong of late and it will now be interesting to see just how high The Swans can fly up the table.

TEAM: Elliott; Blaydon, Humphreys, Potter, Carter; Tidman, Bridle, Rhodie, Tasker (Simpson); Ayres, Harding. Subs not used: Grantham, Bacon

A Real Six Pointer!

Monday 13th April - SCFL Div 2 - Storrington 2 Sidlesham 0

In order to complete a perfect Easter weekend of football, Rick Hamilton's side would have to overcome bottom place Sidlesham in their search for another three points. Fir the first time in a very long time, Hamilton named an unchaged side from the one that had comprehensively beaten Steyning on the Saturday. The only change being the addition of Jamie Tasker to the subs' bench. Storrington had beaten Sidlesham 1-0 earlier in the season, after a Dean Potter wonder strike in the dying minutes. This fixture meant so much more today... A win for Storrington would surely lift them out of the relegation zone and all but confirm that Sidlesham would be plying their trade in Division 3 next season.
Over the last two games, something had clicked. Storrington were certainly now playing with more confidence and belief and were fully aware of what they needed to do to avoid the drop. The home side pretty much dictated the pace of the game from the outset. Kristian Bridle was again having a good game in the centre of midfield and James Blaydon was proving to be a good outlet on the right, getting forward to support Steve Tasker whenever possible. The only thing lacking from Storrington's play in the first half an hour of the game was that killer final ball. However, that did come just before the half hour mark as Kristian Harding latched onto Bridle's first time through ball to make it 3 goals on 4 games for the young centre forward. The goal settled the home side and they continued to press until half time.
At 1-0 there was always a chance that Sidlesham could sneak back into the game so the second goal was critical. 15 minutes into the second half it came. Bridle again was involved as he delivered a ball into the box that the Sidlesham keeper really should have dealt with comfortably. He didn't and dropped the ball right into the path of Dave Tidman who had followed up, leaving him to finish from close range and give The Swans the cushion they deserved. The remaining half an hour was dominated by Storrington who, in all fairness, could have and should have won by more. Kristian Bridle, Kristian Harding and Dave Tidman were all brought off after feeling the strains of two games in three days as Storrington closed the game out.
Another convincing performance from Storrington with now just four fixtures remaining. Littlehampton visit Storrington on Saturday - another three points here would surely be half way to confirming The Swans' senior status next year...

TEAM: Elliott; Blaydon, Watton, Potter, Carter; Tidman (Cook), Bridle (Humphreys), Rhodie, S Tasker; Ayres, Harding (J Tasker). Subs not used: Simpson

Goals Are Like Buses!

Saturday 11th April - SCFL Div 2 - Steyning 1 Storrington 4

In traditional style, there is not too much build-up required for a local derby against old rivals Steyning. Storrington had put in a good performance against Crawley Down the previous week and Steyning had taken all three points away to a strong Rustington side. However, the form book gets ripped up for today's game as both teams would be up for this one. With Craig Grantham out injured, Storrington were forced to make a change to the side that drew with Crawley. Richard Ayres moved up to partner Kristian Harding upfront and Dave Tidman started at left midfield after coming on and impressing as a second-half substitute last week.
Storrington started the game well and did their best to exploit a less than agile Steyning back line. The away side certainly looked up for the fight and competed well in all areas. Storrington drew first blood just before the half hour mark when Richard Ayres picked the ball up wide out on the left. He cut inside and smashed a right-footed shot into the far corner from the edge of the 18 yard box. Storrington defended well for the remainder of the half and deserved their lead.
Storrington again started brightly in the second half with a lot of their most positive play coming from wide. Kristian Bridle was having an excellent game in the centre of midfield and it was his ball that found Richard Ayres breaking free. Ayres dribbled into the box and cut inside onto his left foot and shot. Steyning's keeper got his fingertips to the shot but could not prevent The Swans from going two up. The away side were now playing with confidence and looked threatening going forwards. Storrington's third goal came from a corner. Tom Carter flicked on Steve Tasker's delivery, leaving Kristian Harding to nod home unmarked from six yards out. Two minutes later, Harding capped a fine display by bagging his second of the game. He beared down on the Steyning defender who was caught in posession and nicked the ball off his feet. Showing good pace and a cool head, Harding calmly finished into the bottom left corner to put The Swans four goals to the good.
With only minutes remaining, complacency set in for the away team. After some sloppy defending, Storrington failed to clear their lines and substitute Greg Hearne nipped in to tap in from close range, despite Elliot in the Storrington goal getting a hand to it. Five minutes later Steyning were awarded a penalty after Chris Watton had pulled back Martin Rowe in the box. Rowe stepped up to take the penalty himself but Gary Elliott pulled off a fantastic save, getting down well to his left.
Storrington saw out the remaining time and thoroughly deserved their victory against their rivals. Storrington were difficult to cope with today and a special mention has to go to the front two of Ayres and Harding, who looked manacing all game. Half the job done then with bottom club Sidlesham visitors to The Rec on Monday morning. Another win here could see things shuffle at the bottom end of the table.

TEAM: Elliott; Blaydon, Watton, Potter (Humphreys), Carter; Tidman (Cook), Bridle, Rhodie, Tasker; Harding, Ayres (Simpson)

A Good Time To Turn The Corner...

Saturday 4th April - SCFL Div 2 - Storrington 1 Crawley Down 1

Storrington hosted free-scoring Crawley Down in today's fixture. The reverse fixture this season was played in awful conditions, with freezing temperatures, swirling winds and driving rain all a feature. Crawley ran out winners that night in a game that could have turned out very differently had Storrington taken their early chances. Dean Potter started alongside Tom Carter at the back today, with James Blaydon moving out to right-back. Steve Tasker returned on the wing, with Christian Harding starting up front once again with Craig Grantham. Among the substitutes were Dave Tidman, who has been impressing in the Reserves of late, and recent signing Adam Simpson.
Storrington again started well, with both Richard Ayres and Steve Tasker threatening from wide and Kristian Bridle and John Rhodie working well in the middle of the park. However, for the second week running, Storrington were undone again against the run of play by a wonder goal. Dan Sullivan cut in from the right and sent an unstoppable shot into the top corner, giving Swans' keeper Gary Elliott no chance. Storrington responded well after the goal and were rewarded with their equaliser just two minutes later. A Richard Ayres corner found John Rhodie at the back post who headed home. Craig Grantham went close twice before the break, as the home side continued to press.
Positive messages at half time as Storrington were the side on top going into the break. The home side carried on in the same vain during the second period nad may have even gone on to win the game. Steve Tasker drove wide and Christian Harding went close. Substitute Dave Tidman also had a good chance to earn The Swans all three points with literally his first three touches of the ball, but pulled his shot wide.
The home side can be pleased with their performance today and it was probably only a slight lack in composure and confidence that prevented them from taking the win. Ricky Hamilton and his team now have to look to next weekend, with taking at least four points from a possible six a real possibility.

TEAM: Elliott; Blaydon, Watton (Tidman), Potter, Carter; Ayres, Rhodie, Bridle, Tasker; Grantham (Simpson), Harding. Subs not used: Naylor

Miles Apart!

Saturday 28th March - SCFL Div 2 - Storrington 0 Mile Oak 3

Always going to be a tough fixture for The Swans. Mile Oak had run out 2-0 winners at Chalky Road earlier in the season but Storrington were looking to take something from today's game with the home advantage. Chris Watton was back from university and slotted straight in at left-back and Chris Johnson was preferred to Dean Potter in the other full-back slot. Steve Tasker was missing through personal committments so Liam Humphreys occupied unfamiliar territory out on the right, with Chris Chilvers starting on the bench after impressing at Wealden last week. New signing Christian Harding started upfront alongside Craig Grantham.
Storrington started much more brightly this week and contested well during the early exchanges. It was a goal that was possibly slightly against the run of play for the visitors that took the wind out out of Storrington's sails. However, it was also a goal straight out of the top draw. Lloyd Skinner, who had played well in the previous meeting, smashed the ball beyond Gary Elliott from all of 25 yards into the top corner. It was one of those goals that you really can't do a lot about but, The Swans continued to battle in search of an equaliser. Harding and Grantham worked hard up front and for the most part the home side looked assured defensively. The half time whistle came and, whilst Storrington had not played as well as they can, they were still in the match.
Storrington dominated possession for the first 10-15 minutes of the second half but were undone again by a quality Lloyd Skinner finish. Skinner had broken through from midfield and Gary Elliott came out to close him down. Elliott did well to force him back and wide but with the Storrington keeper now off his line, Skinner lobbed him from just inside the 18 yard box. This was the sucker punch for the home side. Whilst Mile Oak's front two had been kept quiet, it was another midfielder who scored the third, albeit from a free-kick. Graham Martin scored a well taken free-kick from around 20 yards out.
Storrington played some good football at times but need to work out how to turn some of the positive possession into real goal scoring opportunities. Crawley Down travel to The Rec next week, a side who have scored no less than 22 goals in their previous five games!

TEAM: Elliott; C Johnson, Watton, Blaydon, Carter; Ayres, Bridle, Rhodie (Chilvers), Humphreys; Grantham, Harding. Subs not used: Potter, Naylor

The Weals Have Come Off!

Saturday 21st March - SCFL Div 2 - Wealden 5 Storrington 1

No match report available

TEAM: Elliott; C Johnson (Potter), Humphreys, Rhodie, Carter; Ansley, Naylor (Simpson), Bridle, Chilvers (Tasker); Peake, Ayres

Torn To Peaces!

Saturday 14th March - SCFL Div 2 - Peacehaven & Telscombe 5 Storrington 1

Today was always going to be a tough test for The Swans and that is very much how it proved to be. Storrington were still without the injured Craig Grantham so Richard Ayres started the game up front on his own.
As always, there was a prevailing wind at Piddinghoe Avenue and the playing surface was not suited to either team, who both like to get the ball down and play. However, the home side adapted themselves to the conditions far better and really took the game to Storrington who struggled to cope. In a phrenetic first 30 minutes, Storrington found themselves 5-0 down. Callum Saunders, who had impressed against Storrington at The Rec, was again having a good game and causing problems down the left. He scored two goals himself, including a penalty. Tom Burton added two more with Tom Levitt also getting on the scoresheet. Storrington pulled one back late in the first half after some good work from Liam Humphreys. He broke from midfield and delivered a low driven cross into the box that Ben Sweatman turned into his own net.
The second half was a much more even contest but by this time the damage had already been done. Gary Elliott was rarely tested in the Storrington goal but the away side failed to create too many clear cut chances of their own. Richard Ayres worked tirelessly upfront and was later helped by James Peake and Peter Ansley but it was always going to be a huge mountain to climb.
Peacehaven are a strong side and will no doubt be right up there come the end of the season but Storrington now need to turn their attentions to those "win-able" games for the remainder of the run-in. Next week's tie against Wealden surely has to be an opportunity to pick up some much needed points...

TEAM: Elliott; Potter, C Johnson, Carter, Blaydon; Rhodie (Naylor), Bridle, Tasker (Tidman), Humphreys, Ansley; Ayres (Peake)

Still Rusty At Home!

Saturday 7th March - SCFL Div 2 - Storrington 1 Rustington 2

Rustington came to The Rec today on the back of a tough defeat in the week to Seaford in the semi-final of the Challenge Cup and also without a number of their first team squad through injury. Potentially, a good day to face a side that are normally there or there abouts at the end of the season. The Swans were without a couple of players themselves, including notable absentees goalkeeper Gary Elliott and defender Tom Carter. However, today's game saw the return of Luke Palmer to the starting line-up, slotting straight in at left-back. Mark Beaumont came straight in to replace Elliott and Dean Potter slotted into the centre of defence, with Dave Cook slotting in to deputise at right-back.
The game started well for the home side who were keeping the ball well. Storrington proving once again that they tend to fare better against the footballing sides in the division. Slightly against the run of play though, it was Rustington who took the lead. A fairly hopeful cross found Lee Gibbs in way too much space at the back post for him to finish calmly, firing the ball past Beaumont into the bottom corner. Storrington did have chances of their own but found themselves getting back into the game in controversial circumstances. Craig Grantham was brought down on the edge of the penalty box, with the away dugout and supporters adamant that a free-kick was the correct decision. Fortunately for the home side, a penalty was awarded and Richard Ayres stepped up to slot past McCarthy, sending the Rustington keeper the wrong way. The remainder of the half was a fairly evenly-fought contest with both sides having chances, Richard Ayres going closest for The Swans with a decent effort going just wide on the stroke of half-time. However, The half ended on a sour note for The Swans, with Craig Grantham forced to come off, going over awkwardly on his ankle.
Unfortunately for Storrington, the second half was more a one-sided afair in favour of the visitors. The lively Adam Clayton and Joe Cumber were causing the home side some problems with some clever attacking football but Rustington extended their advantage in much sloppier circumstances. Rustington had a corner on the hour mark and James Bennett was left un-marked about four yards out to score one of the easiest goals he is ever likely to! Sadly, Storrington never really threatened the Rustington goal during the entire half, leaving them thankful of their own woodwork and some fine saves by Mark Beaumont that the scoreline wasn't slightly more embarrassing.
The situation is now very real and Storrington find themselves just three points off the drop zone with a tough away fixture to Peacehaven next Saturday. Fingers crossed that Grantham's injury is not as serious as it looked...

TEAM: M Beaumont; Cook, L Palmer, Potter (Humphreys), Blaydon; M Carter, Rhodie, Bridle (Harris-Hardy), Tasker; Grantham (C Johnson), Ayres. Subs not used: Naylor

Late One For A School Night!

Tuesday 24th February - Brighton Charity Cup, 2nd Round - Wick 2 Storrington 0 AET

After Saturday's win at home to Westfield, tonight gave Rick Hamilton and the team the opportunity to play a pressure-free game away from the League against Division 1 high-flyers, Wick. Hamilton named a fairly youthful side to pit their wits against higher-ranked opposition with Chris Johnson coming in at right-back, Sean Harris-Hardy and James Naylor starting in the centre of the park with Richard Ayres and young Matt Carter starting the evening on the bench.
Maybe fairly predictably, Wick started the brighter and kept the ball well as Storrington's midfield trio of Ayres, Harris-Hardy and Naylor took time to settle. Although Wick enjoyed the early possession, Gary Elliott was rarely called into action as the home side were reduced to long-range attempts on goal. After the first 20 minutes or so, Storrington got back into the game and James Naylor came close for The Swans after his late run from a corner saw him power his header just over the bar. The remainder of the half was a more evenly fought contest although the best chance did fall to Wick when the lively Scott Murfin struck his effort against the post just before half time.
The second half could have gone either way with both sides creating chances. However, it was Storrington who were giving the ball away too easily and were called to defend for longer periods during the game. The introduction of both Greg Palmer and Matt Carter gave Storrington a slightly different look about them with Palmer holding the ball up very well and Matt Carter constantly looking to get to the byline. Tom Carter and James Blaydon defended excellently all night and saw the game end 0-0 after 90 minutes.
Two goals either side of extra time meant that Storrington's Charity Cup run came to an end. Scott Murfin, who had been Wick's outstanding player, rose well to first nod home from a corner and then latched onto John Rhodie's deflected clearance via Kristian Bridle's back to slot home from close range. The visitors can be proud of how they went about their business tonight and for large spells they played the kind of football that would not look out of place in Division 1. However, fitness and better finishing won the day and Wick were probably worthy winners. Bexhill are next up for The Swans in a bottom of the League clash where surely Storrington will need to come away with something...

TEAM: Elliott; C Johnson, Rhodie, Carter, Blaydon; Tasker, Naylor (Bridle), Harris-Hardy, Ayres, Cook (M Carter); Grantham (G Palmer)

A Change In Fortune!

Saturday 21st February - SCFL Div 2 - Storrington 1 Westfield 0

East Sussex's Westfield were today's visitors to The Rec in what was surely a 'must-win' game for the home side. With Luke Palmer still suspended and Stuart McCall unavailable, Storrington started the game with make-shift full backs in Dave Cook and John Rhodie. Dean Potter returned to the side in midfield with James Naylor dropping to the bench and Richard Ayres dropped back out to the left side of midfield in the absence of Jordan Johnson. Today's game also saw the welcome return of Kristian Bridle to the side who had recently re-discovered his passion for the game after featuring for the Reserves in previous weeks.
Thankfully, Storrington started how they had left off against Rye enjoying some good attacking play in the early stages. The back four looked solid, with Cook and Rhodie bedding in well in their new positions and the additions of Potter and Bridle back in the midfield meant that things seemed more organised. Westfield are a physically imposing and strong side and were always a handful at set pieces and the game was a good old-fashioned battle at times but Storrington competed well. The home side enjoyed much of their success down the right hand side during the first half, with Cook and Ayres linking up well together. The goal came just before the first half whistle as Craig Grantham reacted well to a high through pass and beat the out-rushing Westfield keeper to head home. A rare home goal for the Storrington faithful to celebrate and the first time that Storrington had taken the lead in a game since their defeat of Sidlesham back on 27th December!
Storrington also started the second half brightly as they were urged to push for a second goal. James Naylor had replaced the injured Sean Harris-Hardy in the first half and was now starting to play well and Craig Grantham always looked a threat up front. The decisive moment in the game came with about a quarter of an hour to play. Tom Carter passed the ball back to Elliott in the Storrington goal who swung and sliced the ball into the path of Westfield's Dom Clarke with an open goal for him to aim at. Clarke somehow missed the target and Storrington got away with it. As expected, Westfield continued to look dangerous from set plays and applied some pressure during the dying minutes but Storrington held firm to take all three points.
A solid performance by The Swans who can enjoy this win and a night of football away from the League on Tuesday as they take on Division 1 high-flyers, Wick in the Brighton Charity Cup.

TEAM: Elliott; Cook, Rhodie, Carter, Blaydon; Potter, Ayres, Harris-Hardy (Naylor), Bridle (C Johnson), Tasker; Grantham. Subs not used: Ansley

Everything But The Goals!

Saturday 14th February - SCFL Div 2 - Storrington 0 Rye United 1

Some people’s favourites to go straight back up, Rye United were today’s visitors to Storrington, making the two hour trip across the county to The Rec. The same fixture in East Sussex earlier in the season saw Rye run out comfortable 5-1 winners against a Storrington side that capitulated in the second half, leaving Rick Hamilton embarrassed. Several changes were made to the side beaten by Lancing the week before… With Luke Palmer serving a one match suspension, John Rhodie slotted in at right back. James Blaydon moved back into the centre of defence alongside Tom Carter and Stuart McCall returned to the side, taking up the other full back slot. With Dean Potter unavailable, Liam Humphreys and James Naylor started in the centre of midfield and young Jordan Johnson started his first game for the front side on the left side of midfield. Richard Ayres was preferred to Greg Palmer up front alongside Craig Grantham.
What would have been pleasing to messers Hamilton and Tewsley was the way that Storrington started the game, in what appeared to be a side with more balance to it. During the early exchanges, it was Storrington who looked the more threatening in the attacking third. Both Steve Tasker and Jordan Johnson were seeing a lot of the ball out wide and Craig Grantham and James Naylor both came close with early chances. Unfortunately, it was one lapse in concentration that allowed Rye to take the lead just after the quarter of an hour mark. A good Rye delivery was not cleared properly and Rye midfielder Marc Munday was not tracked and left free to slot home from just inside the 18 yard box. The remainder of the half was a fairly even contest, although the impressive Simon Price and Duncan McArthur for the away side were doing their best to prize open The Swans' defence once more.
The second half was more of the same really. Storrington's defence never really looked too troubled and Elliott was barely called into action. However, being 1-0 down Storrington were required to chase the game and Rye proved to be a very tough nut to crack. With time running out, Rye went about their business and ran down the clock.
Apart from scoring, there were plenty of things for the Storrington management to be pleased with. The home side competed well from the outset and never gave up, looking to get the ball down. The side also continue to defend well both as a back four and as a unit with the only real worry being Storrington's lack of goals. Spirits remain high at The Rec with the firm belief that they will stop the current rot. Westfield visit Storrington next Saturday - Westfield ran out 4-3 winners earlier in the season but the home side have to look at this fixture as a genuine three point opportunity...

TEAM: Elliott; Rhodie, McCall, Blaydon, Carter; J Johnson, Naylor, Humphreys (Harris-Hardy), Tasker (Cook); Grantham, Ayres (G Palmer)

You've Been Griffin'd!!

Saturday 7th February - SCFL Div 2 - Lancing 1 Storrington 0

Today’s fixture was a possible six pointer against a side that were just a couple of points above The Swans in the League. The same fixture at The Rec earlier in the season saw both teams earn themselves a point in a fairly dour goalless draw. One notable absentee from that fixture was Dan Griffin, a former Storrington favourite who started today’s game for the home side, no doubt keen to make his mark.
Storrington lined up in a familiar 4-4-2 formation, with Lee Saxby coming in at right back in favour of Luke Palmer and Craig Grantham and Greg Palmer starting up front together for the first time in a competitive match this term. After impressing in recent performances for the Youth Team, Jordan Johnson was called up to the squad for today’s game and started on the bench.
Sadly, after a good warm up, The Swans did not start well and lacked fluency in their passing. Lancing's Richard Carter was dominating the midfield and the home side looked threatening when breaking out wide. Whilst there were chances for both sides during the first quarter of an hour, it was Lancing who took the lead. Who else but Dan Driffin should receive the ball in the box with his back to goal. He managed to roll Tom Carter and slot the ball beyond Elliott from about 12 yards out. The remainder of the half was fairly even with the best of the chances probably falling to Storrington with both Grantham and Greg Palmer going close. The only other notable event was the injured Lee Saxby coming off with Luke Palmer coming on at left back and James Blaydon switching over to right back.
The second half was really all about Storrington. They enjoyed large periods of possession, without ever really looking threatened. Jordan Johnson came on for his debut in place of Greg Palmer and looked lively on the left and almost came close to opening his senior goal account with a cross-come-shot that hit the post. Storrington continued to dominate in terms of possession but lacked any cutting edge that suggested they might pull level. Lancing almost doubled their lead right at the death when young Darren Boswell went close with a spectacular volley.
Goals continue to be in short supply for The Swans but surely these will come if they continue to dominate games. Rye are next up for Storrington who ran out 5-1 winners earlier in the season.

TEAM: Elliott; Saxby (L Palmer), Blaydon, Potter, Carter; Ayres, Rhodie (Humphreys), Naylor, Tasker; G Palmer (J Johnson), Grantham

In The Absense Of Common Sense!

Saturday 31st January - SCFL Div 2 - Storrington 0 Peacehaven & Telscombe 2

Another very difficult fixture this afternoon as Storrington host Peacehaven, a team hotly-tipped by many for the title this season. Tom Carter returned to the starting line-up alongside Lee Saxby in the centre of defence, John Rhodie was sacrificed in favour of Dean Potter who dropped into the holding midfield role and Greg Palmer started as the lone striker up front. John Tewsley also returned to the dressing room after a week on the slopes, to add some much need impetus to the pre-game preparations.
For the first time in a number of weeks, Storrington started with tempo and with passion - two ingredients that had been lacking of late. Both teams looked up for it and, whilst Peacehaven arguably looked slightly more threatening in the final third, Storrington were more than a match for the table-toppers. Sadly, after 20 minutes, the game turned on its head. I always try and be as impartial as possible when writing our reports but, it has to be said that Storrington were victim to some non-sensical refereeing. Liam Humphreys appeared to have been fouled but the free-kick was awarded to Peacehaven. In showing his frustration, Humphreys was dismissed from the field and shown a straight red card for dissent. Two minutes later, Luke Palmer was shown a yellow card for delaying a Storrington throw-in and asked to retake it. A further delay resulted in a second yellow card and Storrington being reduced to nine men. This effectively killed the game off in terms of Storrington having any realistic chance of taking anything from the game. The home side battled well but Peacehaven were awarded a penalty just before half-time after James Blaydon was penalised for a seemingly inoxuous challenge. Callum Saunders stepped up to convert the penalty and give Peacehaven a 1-0 advantage going into half-time.
The team came out for the second half determined not to rollover and to try and make it hard work for Peacehaven. As expected, the visiting team continued to press but the home defence stood strong. Their second came just before the hour mark when Callum Saunders, the game's outstanding player, cut in from right midfield and fired in a low left-footed strike beyond Elliott. Had it not been for another fine performance by Gary Elliott and the Storrington woodwork, the scoreline could have been more damaging. However, Storrington defended well and both Richard Ayres and Steve Tasker did have have half-chances in the second half at 1-0. The most pleasing thing was the desire that the home side showed and if this were present from the outset every week, results would surely start to come again.

TEAM: Elliott; L Palmer, Blaydon, Saxby, Carter; Potter, Tasker (Ansley), Humphreys, Naylor (Rhodie), Ayres; G Palmer (Grantham)

Tough At The Top!

Saturday 24th January - SCFL Div 2 - Mile Oak 2 Storrington 0

Following last week's defeat to Bexhill, today's performance was arguably going to be more important than the result. Several changes were made to the side that lost last week, with Lee Saxby coming in alongside Dean Potter in the absence of Tom Carter. Dave Cook was carrying a slight knock so started today's game on the bench and Craig Grantham earned his first start after coming off the bench and impressing last Saturday.
The pitch was heavy and fairly cut up in places, which was reflected in some of the early football that was played. No doubt, the home side started the brighter as they tried to use the wide players whenever possible. It was the first time that Naylor, Humphreys and Rhodie had all played together in the Storrington midfield and it showed. During the early exchanges they struggled to get a grip on the game and at times their passing lacked cohesion. In light of their early dominance, although Storrington had defended reasonably well, it was Mile Oak who drew first blood. Lloyd Skinner latched on to a low cross to fire the ball past Gary Elliott and make it 1-0 just after the half an hour mark. As the half continued, Mile Oak continued to threaten although the Storrigton defence remained resolute. Craig Grantham was working hard upfront for the the away side but was getting very little change out of a strong Oak defensive unit.
In true Swans style, they did seem to up a gear during the second half and did enjoy their own periods of possession and dominance, but they still lacked the cutting edge required to break Mile Oak down. Changes were made half way through the half with Greg Palmer coming on in place of Steve Tasker to play alongside Craig Grantham up front and Peter Ansley came on in place of James Naylor on the left side of midfield. Greg Palmer had an obvious and immediate impact, holding the ball up well up front and bringing both Grantham and the wide players into play. He also had Storrington's best chance of the game, going very close with a header that was well saved. However, Mile Oak killed off the game with about five minutes remaining... Schoolboy defending from the away team from a corner gifted Chris Paine a free header from 8 yards out, 2-0.
All in all, not a great performance from Storrington. Some good possession at times but never really looked like scoring. A special mention has to go to Gary Elliott, who was superb in the Storrington goal.

Team: Elliott; L Palmer, Blaydon, Potter, Saxby; Rhodie, Tasker (G Palmer), Humphreys, Naylor (Ansley), Ayres; Grantham. Subs not used: Cook

Start How We Finish!

Saturday 17th January - SCFL Div 2 - Storrington 1 Bexhill United 2

Today was a day when Storrington were warned of complacency. They always competed well against the top sides but had proved that they found it more difficult against teams at the other end of the table, when sometimes you just need to grind out a result. Dean Potter slotted into the centre of defence, with James Blaydon moving out to left-back and Craig Grantham started his first game back in a Storrington shirt on the bench.
True to form, Storrington started the slower of the two sides. Bexhill are a big, phsyical team and played to their strengths, using the accomplished left foot of their centre half to catch the home defence out with balls over the top and into the channels. In fact, had it not been for Gary Elliott in the Storrington goal, the home side could have been one or two down after the first 20 minutes. Storrington did enjoy their own period of dominance in the first half though, but failed to capitalise on some good possesion. Probably fair but slightly against the run of play, Bexhill broke the deadlock just before half-time. A loose ball over the top caught Storrington flat-footed and Carey finished with a well executed chip to make it 1-0.
The hair-dryer treatment in the dressing room at half-time left the home side with no questions about what they needed to do in the next 45 minutes. Storrington looked as though they came out fired up but were undone by a cross come shot with only five minutes of the half played. Elliott could do nothing as he watched Harris' delivery float over his head and into the back of the net. Changes were made soon after the goal - Steve Tasker was replaced by Craig Grantham, with Richard Ayres dropping into left-midfield and John Rhodie made way for Liam Humphreys, who was making his first appearance since his one match ban. Grantham and Greg Palmer continued where they left off earlier in the week at Worthing United and linked up well and from then on in it was all Storrington. Craig Grantham pulled Storrington back into the game with a well struck effort on 80 minutes and both Humphreys and Ayres had good opportunities to equalise for Swans but squandered their chances.
So, 2-1 it finished and another poor performance against lower placed opposition. Positives being the return of Craig Grantham doing what he does best, scoring goals and the football that Storrington produced in the second half. However, if Storrington don't start to produce their best from the first whistle, it could be a rocky road between now and the end of the season.

TEAM: Elliott; L Palmer, Blaydon, Potter, Carter; Tasker (Grantham), Rhodie (Humphreys), Naylor (Day), Cook; G Palmer, Ayres

Take The Positives!

Saturday 3rd January - SCFL Div 2 - Storrington 0 Steyning Town 0

As always, there was a lot of hype in the build-up to today's game and, although Storrington's season would not hinge on results against Steyning, it's always nice to get one over on your local rivals. Due to the recent bout of very cold weather, there was a pitch inspection before the game but the referee decided that the pitch was safe and the game should go ahead.
For the first time this season, Ricky Hamilton named an unchanged side. The 11 players starting today's game were the same 11 that started in the 1-0 win over Sidlesham the week before, meaning that there was a very strong bench at Hamilton's disposal today, including the likes of Lee Saxby, Greg Palmer, Chris Chilvers and Stuart McCall, who returned to the squad today after a number of weeks out owing to work committments. In fact, the only notable absentee from today's squad was Liam Humphreys who was out due to illness.
Storrington definitely started the brighter of the two sides, with Steyning struggling to find their rhythm. Rhodie and Naylor were combining well again in the middle and the defence were rarely troubled. However, the first half was a relatively drab affair and while The Swans enjoyed the lion's share of possession and played the majority of the football, their final ball was often poor and Darren Ford in the Steyning goal was rarely tested. Steyning did have the ball in the net from a corner in the first half first but the goal was disallowed for a fairly indiscreet push on James Blaydon. So, all square at half-time with Storrington urged to continue to increase the tempo and be more clinical in the final third.
The Swans started brightly again in the second half with both James Naylor and Dave cook going close with long-range efforts early on, signalling their intent. Again, Storrington looked to be the side trying to play football and when they did, Steyning were finding it difficult to cope with. Aside from a couple of incidents in the second half where Gary Elliott was tested with some questionable backpasses and a frozen goal-mouth, he was rarely called into action and most of the events took place at the other end of the pitch.
Storrington themselves also had the ball in the back of the net, but again the goal was ruled out because of an infringement. The one major and potentially controversial incident of the game came in the second half... Richard Ayres appeared to have put The Swans one up as he and a large section of the supporters at that end of the pitch felt that the ball had crossed the line. The referee's assistant did not flag and the referee then missed what appeared to be a fairly obvious handball on the line. Storrington continued to dominate and introduced fresh legs in the shape of Stuart McCall, Greg Palmer and Chris Chilvers, switching to a 4-4-2 formation for the final 15 minutes. The changes had a postive impact and it was Greg Palmer's pass that gave Richard Ayres the opportunity the seal victory for the home side with five minutes remaining. Unfortunately, Ayres pulled his close-range effort wide and 0-0 was how the game finished.
On a positive note, Storrington continued to press and threaten right up until the final whistle and that is also back to back clean sheets. A tough tie at home to Rye United awaits next Saturday, providing temperatures can stay above freezing!

TEAM: Elliott; Day, L Palmer (McCall), Carter, Blaydon; Potter (G Palmer), Tasker (Chilvers), Rhodie, Naylor, Cook; Ayres. Subs not used: Saxby

The Italian Job!

Saturday 27th December - SCFL Div 2 - Sidlesham 0 Storrington 1

After last week's embarrassing home defeat to Wealden, it was imperative that The Swans bounced back. Hamilton opted to revert back to the 4-1-4-1 formation that had served them so well in recent away fixtures against the likes of Seaford, Loxwood and Sidley. After a recent dip in form, John Rhodie was due to start today's game on the bench but because of the late arrival of Lee Saxby, Rhodie was given a reprieve. With Liam Humphreys suspended, it was James Naylor who slotted in alongside Rhodie in the middle of the park. Greg Palmer was also missing today through suspension but Chris Watton was back from university and started on the bench.
Before the game, John Tewsley had likened Storrington FC to an Italian woman on the basis that it could be very good to look at at times but was often unpredictable! He called for today's team to deliver and respond positively after the performance last week.
Sidlesham are a big and physical side and tried to stamp their authority on the game early on but it was clear that Storrington were keen to get the ball down and play. It was a fairly tentative first 45 minutes with neither goalkeeper being really tested. However, Rhodie and Naylor were performing well in midfield and, with Potter in behind them, were given the freedom to be able to get forward whenever possible. The Storrington defence looked relatively untroubled and Richard Ayres was working hard upfront and holding the ball up well.
In the second half The Swans got much more on top of the game and started to dictate the pace. However, the longer the game went on the more you felt that it was either going to take something special or something very lucky to decide the outcome. All of Storrington's good work and good football was rewarded in the 86th minute when up stepped Dean Potter to have the final word on today's game. The ball was laid to him around 25 yards out and he instictively smashed home a half-volley into the top left hand corner of the net. The run back to the dugout was all to much for Potter who then made way for Chris Watton who helped The Swans see out the final five minutes.
All in all, it was a good Storrington performance and the team showed patience and composure, continuing to press right to the final whistle. A welcome three points and morale booster ahead of the local derby game against Steyning next Saturday.

TEAM: Elliott; Day (Saxby), L Palmer, Carter, Blaydon; Potter (Watton), Cook, Rhodie, Naylor, Tasker (Chilvers); Ayres. Subs not used: Ansley

Four-getful Performance!

Saturday 20th December - SCFL Div 2 - Storrington 0 Wealden 4

Bottom of the league, Wealden were today's visitors to The Rec. Rick Hamilton made a couple of changes to the side that lost last week to Seaford and opted for a change in formation too with Dean Potter coming back into the side, making up a back three alongside Tom Carter and James Blaydon while Lee Saxby, Stewart Day and Chris Chilvers all started on the bench.
For the first 10 minutes of the game Storrington dominated and moved the ball around well. Sadly, this was to be the only time during the game where this happened as the home side just had one of those days! Wealden's first goal came from the penalty spot. A 20 yard strike hit Blaydon in the face and landed at the feet of the forward who was brought down by Steve Tasker. Prodger stepped up to slot home, although Gary Elliott was unlucky not to get more of a hand to it. A minute later, Swancott grabbed Wealden's second and now Storrington were in trouble. There was no cohesion to their play and, man for man, the side was not performing. Half time came and so did the hair-dryers. No-one on the Storrington team was able to come into the changing room with their head held high and needed to be prepared for a dressing-down.
The second half started how the first had finished, poorly. Storrington continued to struggle to find their rhythm and Wealden continued to enjoy the easy ride they were being given. Two more goals either end of the half and a penalty save from Gary Elliott in the Storrington goal sent the home side crashing to a 4-0 defeat. The best chance of the entire game fell to Richard Ayres in the second half and he managed to put his effort over from inside 6 yards, which just about summed up the afternoon.
Today was just one of those days and a game to put out of the memory and move on. Next week sees a tough test away to a resurgent Sidlesham side, who have finally started to find a bit of form.

TEAM: Elliott; L Palmer, Blaydon, Potter (Day), Carter; Tasker (Chilvers), Rhodie (Saxby) Humphreys, Cook; G Palmer, Ayres

Swans Lose Battle As Humphreys And Palmer See Red!

Saturday 6th December - SCFL Div 2 - Storrington 1 Seaford Town 2

Today's fixture was always going to be a difficult one. Seaford Town are still flying high in the League and would be looking for revenge after Storrington's 2-0 win at The Crouch earlier in the season. Storrington were also playing their first game for two week's after last Saturday's game away at Bexhill was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch. Ricky Hamilton opted for a 4-4-2, with new signing Tom Carter coming straight in at centre-half alongside James Blaydon. Lee Saxby, who is still suffering from a slight groin injury, started on the bench with Chris Chilvers. Alongside them was James Naylor, who was called up to the squad after some impressive recent performances in the Reserves.
Both teams started the game well and competed during the early exchanges, although it did seem to be the away team who got on top first. Seaford's midfield seemed to be dominating the play for the first 20 minutes or so and the home side's pairing of Rhodie and Humphreys in the centre of the park were finding it hard to put their stamp on proceedings. Humphreys did, however, have two decent efforts in the first half. One a shot from 20 yards out going just over and the other a free-kick going just wide. It was Seaford who caused the first scare though as Nathan Millroy struck a good low shot onto the far post that fortunately ran out of play for a goal kick. It looked as though Storrington were going to get away with a poor first half performance and go in at half-time having not conceded and all square. However, a crazy two minutes meant that this was not to be. A rare mistake by Elliott in the Storrington goal allowed Seaford to take the lead. Elliott failed to clear a Seaford corner and Jones was on hand to nod home from close range. Their second came two minutes later and, whilst they had been the better side, this was a sucker punch for the home side. Sultan struck a seemingly weak effort from outside the box, only for it to take a wicked deflection off Stewart Day and end up in the back of the net, leaving Elliott no chance.
The management needed more from Storrington in the second half. Stewart Day was replaced by Lee Saxby at left-back, in an attempt to try and combat the threat of pace down the wings but the game had a couple more twists left in it as things went from bad to worse for The Swans soon after the break. Liam Humphreys had been booked in the first half for a foul that could probably just about have been deemed worthy of a booking, but early in the second half a second yellow was produced for a tackle that was barely a foul. Storrington were forced to make changes and reverted to a 3-4-2 with Luke Palmer slotting into the centre of midfield alongside James Naylor who had come on for John Rhodie. The following period of play was probably Storrington's most positive, as is often the case when a side is reduced to 10 men. Sadly though, Storrington were reduced further with about 20 minutes remaining. Greg Palmer received his second yellow of the game, which could only mean a serious uphill battle now for the home team. The Swans did battle hard and the defence looked resolute as Elliott was barely tested for the remainder of the game. Richard Ayres, who had worked tirelessly up-front for The Swans did get his reward very near the end of the game as his first headed effort struck the bar, he volleyed home the rebound.
A lot can be said for the way Storrington showed character and battled during the second half, but the damage had already been done. However, they will need to show discipline if they are hopeful of putting a run together and continue to climb the league, as the loss of Humphreys and Greg Palmer could prove costly. Constant changes in personnel will only hinder their chances of challenging towards the top end of the table.
Things don't get any easier next week as Storrington welcome Rye United to The Rec.

TEAM: Elliott; L Palmer, Day (Saxby), Carter, Blaydon; Tasker, Rhodie (Naylor), Humphreys, Cook; Ayres, G Palmer. Subs not used: Chilvers

Double Trouble for The Wickers!

Saturday 22nd November - SCFL Div 2 - Storrington 4 Southwick 2

This fixture last month saw Storrington run out 4-2 winners, but no doubt Southwick would be coming to The Rec today seeking revenge. James Blaydon returned to the squad after a week's absence through holiday and slotted straight in alongside Lee Saxby in the heart of the defence. With Greg Palmer unavailable, Peter Ansley made his first start of the campaign alongside Richard Ayres up-front and youngster Sean Harris-Hardy got his first call-up of the season and started on the bench.
Keen to dispell the myth that Storrington are slow starters, the home side started the stronger. Ansley and Ayres worked hard to hold the ball up and the midfield battled well. The home side broke the deadlock after a quarter of an hour... Storrington's top goal scorer, Liam Humphreys, got forward well once more to find himself in the right place at the right time and bundle home from 10 yards out. Unfortunately for The Swans, the lead didn't last long. They were warned before the game about being alive to quick free-kicks and that is what undid them for Southwick's equaliser. A quickly taken corner found an unmarked Southwick player at the far post who headed back across goal for Heffernen to smash home from close range, despite the efforts of Liam Humphreys. Once Southwick had scored their equaliser, Storrington seemed to switch off a little with the back four in particular being guilty of some poor decision-making.
Although level at half-time, the management made their feelings heard about the performance and urged the home side to raise their game. The home fans were left disappointed with only 5 minutes gone in the second half. A Southwick throw-in found James Wotherspoon, who held off his man well in the box and turned to fire home from six yards out, giving the away team a 2-1 advantage. The goal was fortunate for Storrington for two reasons; One, it was very early in the second half and two, it seemed to kick The Swans back into life. On 70 minutes, Steve Tasker made the scores level with a great strike into the left-hand corner from outside the box. The Swans made a double change, with Ansley making way for Chilvers and John Rhodie making way for Sean Harris-Hardy. Chilvers had an immediate impact when his pace caught out the Southwick defence as he was brought down in the box whilst through on goal. Only a yellow card for the Wickers' defender but Richard Ayres stepped up to convert the penalty and give the home side the lead going into the final quarter of an hour. Similar scenes as the ones at Old Barn Way five weeks ago, with Storrington keen to now protect their lead. The Swans wrapped the game up though with five minutes to go as Richard Ayres got his second. Latching onto a through ball, Ayres was forced out wide but finished brilliantly with his left foot into the opposite corner.
The win today completes a double over Southwick in the league this year as Storrington climb another two places to 8th. Certainly not a great performance by the home side today but a very welcome three points as they look forward to an away tie versus newcomers Bexhill next weekend.

TEAM: Elliott; L Palmer, Day, Saxby, Blaydon; Tasker, Rhodie (Hardy-Harris), Humphreys, Cook; Ansley (Chilvers), Ayres. Subs not used: C Johnson

Honours Even At Glovers Lane

Saturday 8th November - SCFL Div 2 - Sidley United 3 Storrington 3

Heavy rainfall on Friday evening and Saturday morning meant that the drive East to Sidley could all be in vain if it persisted through the afternoon. Fortunately, the rain did ease up and, although the pitch was very heavy going, the game went ahead. Storrington had lost 1-0 at The Rec earlier in the season so would be keen to reverse their fortunes today. Dean Potter returned to the side after a week out with injury, Luke Palmer slotted in at right back and, with the late withdrawal of Stuart McCall, Stewart Day started at left-back for his first start in three weeks. Greg Palmer was missing today through suspension so Richard Ayres started upfront again.
True to form, Storrington started the slower but it didn't last long this time as they took the lead after 10 minutes. Steve Tasker found himself in space in the box and coolly slotted past the Sidley goalkeeper. The conditions were not good but The Swans competed well and seemed up for it this afternoon. Sidley were an improved side from the team that beat Storrington last month so The Swans would need to expect the home side to attack. Attack they did... Their equaliser did however come slightly against the run of play and was a little fortuitous. James Blaydon stuck out a leg to intercept a Sidley strike, only for him to see it pass by the diving Gary Elliott. Storrington continued to press and looked to be the side trying to play football. The Sidley goalkeeper had spilled a couple of Storrington efforts during the half and this is how The Swans' second came about. Richard Ayres, who had an impressive game, was quickest to react to a spilled shot and slid in to give Storrington the lead going into half-time.
Overall, Hamilton was pleased with the way that Storrington attacked during the first half but felt that some of the problems had been created by themselves. It was a case of knowing when to resort to one touch defending and when not to over complicate it. Although Storrington led, the game was still very much in the balance and it was Sidley who got back on level terms. The referee adjudged Stewart Day to have pulled the Sidley striker's shirt in the area and awarded a penalty. Willard stepped up and slotted home the penalty, sending Elliott the wrong way. Shortly after the penalty, Lee Saxby had to come off through injury. Day slotted in alongside Blaydon and Chris Johnson came on at right-back for the last 30 minutes. The wind had now really picked up and was certainly playing it's part in proceedings, with it now being very strong into the visitors' faces. Just after the hour mark, Storrington went ahead for the third time. John Rhodie continued his run, latching onto a through ball. He duly smashed the ball home from just inside the box. The Swans failed to consolidate and their lead lasted only 2 minutes after another piece of fortune for the home side. Stewart Day's clearing header hit the back of Berry and landed at the striker's feet, who finished easily from 6 yards out. Both teams had chances to win the game during the last 25 minutes. Richard Ayres' shot somehow managed to stay out and was eventually cleared off the line and Berry went through on goal again for the home side, only to see his shot hit the post and go out for a goal kick.
All in all, a draw was probably a fair result on the day, although Storrington may feel that they should have gone in with more of an advantage at half time for all their possession during the first 45 minutes. Away from League action next week, as The Swans host high-flying Rustington in the Division 2 Cup. Hamilton will be looking to give the home crowd something to cheer about as Storrington look for their first home goal!

TEAM: Elliott; L Palmer, Day, Saxby (Johnson), Blaydon; Potter, Cook (Chilvers), Humphreys, Rhodie, Tasker (Ansley); Ayres

That Winning Feeling...

Saturday 1st November - SCFL Div 2 - Loxwood 0 Storrington 1

Today was an important fixture for The Swans for a number of reasons. It was the first time in both clubs' history that they had met in a competitive fixture at Senior football, a win today would mean back to back wins for Storrington and there were three or four members of the away team squad that would be looking to claim bragging rights over former Storrington hitman, Craig Grantham, who started for the home side upfront today.
With Dean Potter still carrying the hamstring injury that he picked up against Seaford last weekend, it meant that Luke Palmer slotted straight in to act as cover for the back four. Rick Hamilton was also able to name a strong bench for today's game, including Greg Palmer who had only returned from Las Vegas this morning.
Today's conditions were pretty awful, freezing cold temperatures, heavy rain and strong winds but the game did start at a fairly frantic pace. Unfortunately, Storrington were not alive to the bright start by Loxwood and were second to everything, including being switched on to a number of quick free-kicks. The home side continued to press and had around seven corners in the first 20 minutes, coming close with an Ollie Lambkin header. Nick Tilley then forced an excellent save from Gary Elliott in the Storrington goal and Craig Grantham saw an effort go just wide. However, Storrington weathered the storm well and for the last 20 minutes of the half, the tide turned somewhat. The away team started to get the ball down and play the football they are capable of and, at times, were very difficult to live with. Dave Cook was having a lot of joy down the right-hand side and the back four along with Luke Palmer now looked very assured. The deadlock was broken in the dying moments off the half when Liam Humphreys rose well to nod home a Stuart McCall cross.
Although 1-0 up at half-time, the Storrington management team were not happy. It was fair to say that the away side had ridden their luck a little and were urged to contest more fiercely in the second half as well as get the ball down and try and outplay Loxwood. Storrington came to life in the second half and looked the better side, creating some good opportunities. Richard Ayres made way for Greg Palmer just after half-time who came on and performed the lone striker role to great effect, linking up the midfielders and wide players whenever possible. Liam Humphreys nearly doubled both his and Storrington’s tally when he fired in a free-kick from 20 yards against the post and second half substitutes, Chris Chilvers and Arran Tewsley, linked up well linked up well for what should have been the goal that killed the game off. Chris Chilvers’ low, driven cross found Tewsley unmarked inside the box with space and time only for him to shoot over from about 10 yards. However, 1-0 it ended as Storrington proved for the second week running what a hard team they can be to break down. The Swans can now travel to Sidley full of confidence, with the onus now on them to start with tempo from the outset of matches in the hope their impressive away form continues.

TEAM: Elliott; McCall, Fitzgerald, Saxby, Blaydon; L Palmer, Cook (Chilvers), Rhodie, Humphreys, Tasker (Tewsley); Ayres (G Palmer). Subs not used: Day, Ansley

Swans' Good Run Against Seaford Continues

Saturday 25th October - SCFL Div 2 - Seaford 0 Storrington 2

Storrington have had a good record against Seaford over the last couple of seasons but they would need to play considerably better than they did against Rye if they were going to get anything out of this game. Seaford have started the season in fine form with the East Sussex side yet to lose at home in the League. More changes again for Storrington with Stuart McCall returning at right back in place of the injured Luke Palmer and two starts given to former Horsham YM boys, Phil Fitzgerald and Dean Potter. Gary Elliott returned from injury to start in goal and Richard Ayres started upfront in place of Greg Palmer who was away with work committments.
The game started out as a fairly evenly fought contest with both teams having chances. Richard Ayres was working hard to keep the ball upfront, bringing the wide players into play and, when called into question, Elliott looked assured in the Storrington goal. Storrington stepped up their performance mid way through the first half and started to knock the ball around well and, more importantly, keeping it. With around 10 minutes of the half remaining, Storrington drew first blood. A free-kick was swung in by Stuart McCall that was cleverly flicked on by Lee Saxby for Liam Humphreys to be on hand with a looping header back across goal and beyond Levett to make it 1-0. Storrington's second came just three minutes later as Dave Cook's delivery found Steve Tasker with space in the box to slot home and give The Swans the cushion going into half-time.
Storrington would need to avoid complacency in the second half as Seaford would no doubt come out all guns blazing. Unfortnately, early in the second half The Swans lost Dean Potter with a hamstring strain which meant that Richard Ayres dropped back into midfield and Peter Ansley coming on upfront. Storrington were required to defend for large parts of the second half, which they did well. The back four looked very assured, with deubtant Phil Fitzgerald giving a particularly strong performance. Whilst Seaford enjoy the lion's share of possession in the second half, they only really had two memorable chances. Gary Elliot tipped a long-range Drew Greenall effort over the bar and Greenall should have scored with five minutes to go from only six yards out!
So, three points and a clean sheet away from home against a high-flying Seaford Team, just what was required after the defeat against Rye. The underlying message is still the same though - Storrington must start showing some consistency if they are to climb the table.

TEAM: Elliott; McCall, Fitzgerald, Saxby, Blaydon; Potter (Ansley), Tasker, Rhodie, Humphreys, Cook; Ayres. Subs not used: Chilvers, Day

Swans Fly East But Fail To Impress

Saturday 18th October - SCFL Div 2 - Rye United 5 Storrington 1

Storrington come into today's game on the back of a good win and good performance against Southwick in the week and it was important that the attitude displayed on Tuesday night was carried over to this afternoon. Two forced changes for Hamilton before the start of this fixture - Gary Elliott was still nursing a back injury sustained against Southwick and Stuart McCall was unavailable due to work commitments. Reserve team keeper Mark Beaumont came straight in and Stewart Day slotted in at left-back.
With a long drive along the East coast it was imperative that The Swans shook off any cobwebs and started brightly against a good Rye side. Unfortunately, that wasn't what happened as Storrington struggled to cope with Rye's direct style. Rye are a good side with both physical presence and pace out wide which caused the visitors problems. Their first goal was one to forget as it was a real gift. Woodley was left unmarked for a free header beyond Beaumont. Their second was no better - Beaumont's decision to come off his line was probably the wrong one and McArthur coolly rounded Luke Palmer to slot home. John Rhodie gave The Swans some hope just after the half hour mark. He pulled the ball down well on the edge of the box and fired home a screaming left footed shot into the top corner. For the last 10 minutes of the first half, Storrington competed better and showed more fight as the home side argued amongst themselves and appeared to be losing their grip on the game.
Half-time probably came too soon for Storrington as the side that re-appeared for the second half did not heed the advice offered by Hamilton in the dressing room. Rye were getting a lot of joy from their wide players and Storrington were not making Rye's defence work hard enough. To add to Storrington's worries, they lost Lee Saxby mid-way through the half with a back strain with Jon Bacon coming on into the centre of defence. The final fiftenn minutes was won by Rye at a canter, with three more goals coming to finish off the Swans.
The scoreline probably flattered the away team as they just did not show up today. You generally get what you deserve from performances like this which is nothing. The sad thing is the way that Storrington capitulated and if this were to happen next weekend it could be a similar scoreline against high-flying Seaford.

TEAM: M Beaumont; L Palmer, Day, Saxby (Bacon), Blaydon; Cook, Humphreys (Tasker), Rhodie, Ayres; Chilvers (Selby), G Palmer

Swans Find Their Way At Old Barn

Tuesday 14th October - SCFL Div 2 - Southwick 2 Storrington 4

A strong squad was at the disposal of the Storrington management for tonight's game, with several changes being made to the side that were unlucky to lose to Sidley at the weekend. Lee Saxby dropped into the centre of defence alongside James Blaydon, with Luke Palmer and Stuart McCall taking the full-back slots. Dave Cook started at right midfield and, having impressed in recent performances, Liam Humphreys started in the centre of the park. The Swans also welcomed back Greg Palmer upfront. Stewart Day and Steve Tasker were among the five subs named for tonight's game.
The game started at a fairly frantic pace - there was a real zip to the surface from the earlier rain and both teams were keen to make their presence felt early on. Southwick drew first blood with no more than five minutes played. Jamie Stideford reacted quickly to a low driven cross and slotted home from close range. Unfased by the early setback, the visitors continued to press. The football on show was not particularly attractive but Storrington did try and get the ball down and play. Their equaliser came just before the half hour mark from a corner. James Blaydon got the flick that fell to Greg Palmer to smash high into the roof of the net for his first goal of the season. The remainder of the half was a fairly stop-start affair, with most teams enjoying their best passages of play when the ball was played wide. It was a clever piece of anticipation from Chris Chilvers that gave the away side the lead going into half time. He reacted quickly to an under-cooked back pass to the Southwick goalkeeper and nipped in to cleverly slot the ball home with a neat finish.
With 2-1 being the most uncomfortable scoreline in football, the next goal was always going to be vital. Fortunately, it was Storrington who got it. The wall was not cleared properly and it fell to Liam Humphreys who rifled his shot goal-bound. It did take a slight deflection on the way but Liam was, of course, adamant that his shot was going in regardless! With an hour gone and at 3-1 up, Storrington would have hoped that, with the defence looking as comfortable as it did, that the last half an hour would have been relatively straight-forward. However, on the hour mark Storrington lost their goalkeeper, Gary Elliott with a back injury. With no substitute goalkeeper named, Storrington turned to the experience of left-back Stuart McCall to don the gloves with Stewart Day coming on for the injured Elliott. Storrington kept McCall well protected for the next quarter of an hour until Nick Green popped up to scramble home Southwick's second to ensure a fairly frantic final fifteen minutes. McCall did have to make one very important interception when a well-delivered, inswinging corner hung under the crossbar. McCall rose well and his punch ensured the danger passed. Then, with only moments remaining, Storrington made sure of all three points. New signing Dean Potter won the ball well in midfield and found Richard Ayres who then popped a beautifully weighted pass to Liam Humphreys on the edge of the box. Humphreys took the ball on his chest and then volleyed home into the top corner.
This is the sort of performance that Hamilton and Tewsley had been pushing for and should provide the platform for Storrington to get their season going and try and put a run together. That won't be easy though with a tough trip away to recently relegated Rye next up for The Swans.

TEAM: Elliott (Day); L Palmer, McCall, Saxby, Blaydon; Cook, Rhodie (Potter), Humphreys, Ayres; Chilvers (Ansley), G Palmer. Subs not used: Tasker, Tewsley

Time To Con-Sid-er Scoring!

Saturday 11th October - SCFL Div 2 - Storrington 0 Sidley 1

Rick Hamilton made only one change to the side that lost to St Francis Rangers. The Swans were without the influential Greg Palmer today so Steve Tasker moved upfront alongside Chris Chilvers and Dave Cook came in on the right side of midfield. Storrington started the game well and moved the ball around with confidence. The back four looked relatively composed and as though they would be difficult to break down. The problem today, however, was Storrington's inability to hold the ball up in an attacking position. With two small but pacey centre forwards, the instructions before the game were clear - get the ball in the channels and keep it down where possible. Sidley's two centre halves had a fairly easy first 45 minutes, coping comfortably with any high balls thrown at them. Storrington had the best early chances with Steve Tasker going close with a left foot shot that lacked power and John Rhodie having a what seemed goal-bound effort well blocked. It was Sidley though who drew first blood just before half-time... Two headers that should have been dealt with were not and Collier rose to head the visitors into the lead.
The half time team-talk was fairly heated as the frustration boiled over. Storrington needed more from their front two but felt it was a game there for the taking. Storrington again started well and continued to pass the ball well. If a game were to be decided based on possession alone then the home side would have run out comfortable winners but they lacked the cutting edge. The management decided to tinker with the side with Stewart Day making way for new signing Peter Ansley to play upfront and Liam Humphreys came on for John Rhodie in midfield. Steve Tasker dropped into right midfield, Dave Cook dropped into right back and Stuart McCall slotted in at left back in place of Day. Both Humphreys and Ansley made their introductions felt with arguably Storrington's best chance of the game falling to Ansley who put the ball wide from about 18 yards.
However, it wasn't to be The Swans' day and the final whistle blew. That's no goals scored in the last three games which is a worrying statistic but they do continue to create chances, so the feeling is that the goals will come. Tuesday sees Storrington travel to Old Barn Way to take on a youthful Southwick side who are performing well.

TEAM: Elliott; McCall, Day (Ansley), L Palmer, Blaydon; Cook, Saxby, Rhodie (Humphreys), Ayres; Chilvers, Tasker. Subs not used: A Beaumont

A Performance To Build On

Saturday 27th September - Sussex Senior Cup 1st Round - Storrington 0 St Francis Rangers 2

Today saw the visit of County One's high-flying St Francis Rangers to The Rec in the first round of the Sussex Senior Cup. Another tough fixture for The Swans who would be looking to bounce back from the heavy defeat to Horsham YMCA last weekend. Further changes were made to the starting 11 as Rick Hamilton continues to build and strengthen his squad. Debuts were given to Stuart McCall and Lee Saxby at right back and the centre of midfield respectively and Michael Brown-Lee started on the bench, making his comeback from the ankle injury he suffered against Midhurst during the first game of the season.
It was important that Storrington put in a performance today and, for the most part, they can hold their heads high. In possession, Storrington looked a good side, moving the ball well and getting width wherever possible. Richard Ayres was having a good game on the left of midfield and came close with a good effort from the edge of the box after around 15 minutes. St Francis weren't without there chances but Gary Elliott was having a very good game in the Storrington goal, commanding his area well. It was an entertaining first 45 minutes and The Swans would have been upbeat about there performance and the 0-0 scoreline.
In general terms, the Storrington back line was having a good game with Stuart McCall impressing on his debut. However, the home side were still giving away possession too easily and St Francis' first goal came just before the hour mark. Lee Saxby, who had also impressed on his debut, failed to pick up his man from a St Francis corner, allowing Sam Palmer to head home from close range. Rick Hamilton made some changes, with Liam Humphreys coming on for the injured Saxby and Michael Brown-Lee replacing Chris Chilvers up front. St Francis made some changes of their own, bringing on Sam Jeremiah who made an immediate impact. He got Rangers' second with 10 minutes to go.
The Swans are in a period of transition but there are constant themes in their play. They try to play football whenever possible, they create chances, they have pace going forwards but the constant negative is that they don't look after the ball well enough at times. This will improve but we will have to wait two weeks to see it with no game this weekend. Newly-relegated Sidley are the next visitors to The Rec.

TEAM: Elliott; McCall, Day (Bacon), L Palmer, Blaydon; Ayres, Rhodie, Saxby (Humphreys), Tasker; Chilvers (Brown-Lee), G Palmer

Swans Knocked For Eight!

Saturday 20th September - John O'Hara Cup 2nd Round - Storrington 0 Horsham YMCA 8

A poignant fixture today at The Rec with former Horsham YMCA duo Rick Hamilton and John Tewsley in charge of The Swans against their old club. However, old club only in terms of name and not so much in personnel these days with ex East Preston manager Chris White taking charge at the beginning of the season following YM's relegation from the Ryman League. Horsham come to Storrington today lying fifth in Division one and as one of the favourites for the Championship. The result was not necessarily the most important thing from a Storrington point of view but it would be a good test and Hamilton and Tewsley would be looking for a performance. James Blaydon came back in at centre-half after a week out through injury. He was partnered by new signing Luke Palmer from Three Bridges, with Stewart Day moving to left back. Liam Humphreys also gets his first start of the season alongside John Rhodie in the centre of midfield.
As expected, Horsham started brightly but Storrington were not overawed and competed well, trying to play football where possible. A rare mistake from Luke Palmer, missing a free header, gifted Shaheen Sadough the opportunity to open the scoring for the visitors slotting past Gary Elliott. The second goal for YM was a harsh blow, many people at the ground felt that Stewart Day was initially fouled before the referee gave the decision the other way and awarded a penalty. Lawley stepped up and successfully converted the spot-kick to make it 2-0. Credit goes to the home side for continuing to try and pass the ball against a well organised Horsham side. However, the killer blow came just before half-time as Hayward bundled the ball over the line to give the visitors a 3-0 lead going into the break.
Although the home side were three goals down, Storrington would have taken some positives from their first half performance, especially the fact that they had created some good chances from open play. Sadly, just before the hour mark, YM's Richard Carter's strike effectively killed off the game. Storrington had what seemed a genuine goal disallowed at 4-0 down which may have changed things but Horsham went about their business in a professional way and were clinincal in front of goal. Four more goals in the second half, including a second penalty, meant that Horsham ran out very comfortable winners in the end.
On another day, Storrington's performance this afternoon would have been enough to get a result against a number of County League sides. However, it was a reality check that if you give good sides space and time and don't press the ball, you will get punished. It doesn't get any easier next week as The Swans host St Francis Rangers at The Rec in the first round of the Sussex Senior Cup, a side that are also flying high in Division One at the moment.

TEAM: Elliott; Johnson, Day (Beaumont), L Palmer, Blaydon; Tasker (Cook), Rhodie, Humphreys, Ayres; Chilvers (Selby), G Palmer

Swans' Cup Jinx Continues

Saturday 13th September - RUR Cup 1st Round - Storrington 2 Wealden 3

Today’s game saw the first of three home fixtures with action away from the League. The 1st Round of the RUR Cup saw The Swans take on Wealden at The Rec on another uncharacteristically sunny afternoon. More changes saw Arran Tewsley drop into right-back with Chris Watton moving across to centre-half in place of the injured Blaydon and Richard Ayres returned to the starting line-up on the left hand side of midfield.
The game did not start well for Storrington as they appeared to be off the pace and Wealden were the side that seemed to want it more. However, football is a strange game at times and after just 10 minutes, Storrington took the lead. The home side were awarded a free-kick deep in Wealden’s half, which Tewsley stepped up to take. His fine delivery was met by John Rhodie who slotted the ball home at the near post to make it 1-0. All hope of this goal spurring The Swans on and kicking them into life was diminished for the remainder of the half as Wealden continued to dominate. It looked like it could be one of those afternoons, when even the simplest of passes or touches were just not coming off. In fact, the only real positive of the half for Storrington was that they lead at half time and that they had managed to keep a clean sheet. The appropriate fireworks took place in the home side’s changing room at half time in the hope that the message would get across.
Unfortunately, the second half started as the first had finished with Wealden starting the brighter. So bright was their start that they got their equaliser very early on. With the Storrington defence failing to clear their lines properly, it allowed Tom Swancott to seize the opportunity to shoot past Gary Elliott. Storrington went ahead again just minutes later in the most bizarre of circumstances. A straight-forward backpass from the full-back appeared to be controlled by the Wealden keeper until it bobbled under his foot and crossed the line in what seemed like slow motion. Changes were made soon after the goal with Chris Chilvers making way for Luke Selby up-front and Harry Abraham coming on as a straight swap for Kristian Bridle in the middle of the park. Even with three quarters of the game gone, Storrington were still not performing at anywhere near their best and were punished again for another failed clearance. Swancott pounced again with a neat finish, putting the ball past Elliott at the near post to make it 2-2. With the game looking destined for extra time, Stewart Day started a move from the back line and kept going, trying to lead from the front. However, when the move broke down and with Day out of position, Wealden got their winner with virtually the last kick of the game. A good cross from the right picked out Craig Olive who was left free to head home from about 10 yards.
The Swans have been notoriously bad in Cup competitions over recent seasons and I’m sure the new management team would have been keen to break the duck. Sadly, on this performance, an exit from the RUR Cup is pretty much what Storrington deserved. On a positive note, performances can only get better and, quite frankly they will need to, as Storrington welcome former Ryman League and current Division One side Horsham YMCA to The Rec in the Second Round of the John O’Hara Cup this Saturday.

TEAM: Elliott; Tewsley, Beaumont, Watton, Day; Tasker, Rhodie, Bridle (Abraham), Ayres; Chilvers (Selby), Palmer. Subs not used: Johnson

Bridle Brace Not Enough

Saturday 6th September - SCFL Div 2 - Westfield 4 Storrington 3

Today's fixture saw the first of at least four trips down to the depths of East Sussex to face a Westfield side that had made a 100% winning start to the season so far. Never an easy place to go and get points but The Swans were in bouyant mood after their win against Littlehampton in the week. Several changes were made from that side with Andy Beaumont returning at left back and a Swans debut for Aaron Tewsley starting on the right of midfield. After a season and a half away with Pease Pottage, Steve Tasker has re-signed for Storrington and started at left midfield. Luke Selby returned from injury and started on the bench alongside Richard Ayres and Harry Abraham.
The game started at a fairly frantic pace and it was Storrington who took the early lead. A storrington corner was only half cleared and fell to Kristian Bridle about 25 yards out who brought the ball down on his chest and smashed the ball on the half volley beyond the Westfield keeper. Unfortunately, the lead didn't last long when the Swans were slow to react to a quickly taken short corner that found Jones in the box to knock in from 6 yards. Westfield were posing a threat at set pieces and continued to put good balls into dangerous areas but Storrington defended well and kept trying to get the ball as wide as possible when they attacked. The only other real incidents of the first half were the loss of James Blaydon for The Swans, he had to leave the field after about 25 minutes with a nasty cut above the eye and a dis-allowed Westfield goal for offside. Harry Abraham replaced the injured Blaydon with Chris Watton slotting in at centre half and John Rhodie dropping in to right back.
The half-time instructions were clear... Keep getting the ball wide and press the Westfield back four as much as possible with the strong winds now behind Storrington. It was The Swans again who took the lead - a surging run from midfield by Bridle found him one on one with the oncoming keeper. His lob was arguably going wide but fortunately Chris Chilvers had carried on his run into the box and latched on to Bridle's effort to make it 2-1. The lead only lasted about 6 minutes when Westfield went on the rampage. 3 goals in 7 minutes really took the wind out of Storrington's sails. Sam Jamison scored Westfield's second, Duncan Jones got his second after a rare mistake from Stewart Day allowed him in and an excellent save from Gary Elliott could only be parried into the path of Dominic Clarke who made it 4-2 with 75 minutes gone. Credit has to go to Storrington who continued to try and play football and take the game to Westfield. Richard Ayres and Luke Selby replaced Tewsley and Chilvers and were involved in the action straight away. A Richard Ayres delivery met the head of Abraham who went very close with a towering header. It was Kristian Bridle who got a late consolation for Storrington with another bursting run from midfield, taking on two players and slotting home with his left foot from close range for his second, capping an excellent performance from the Storrington midfielder.
Storrington will very disappointed to have not held on for at least a point but on a positive note they were still creating chances very late into the game. Westfield are a strong side and there won't be many teams that come here and leave with all three points. Action away from the League next week as The Swans welcome Wealden to The Rec in the first round of the RUR Cup.

TEAM: Elliott; Beaumont, Watton, Blaydon (Abraham), Day; Tasker, Bridle, Rhodie, Tewsley (Selby); Chilvers (Ayres), Palmer

Nothing Little About Three Points!

Wednesday 3rd September - SCFL Div 2 - Littlehampton 1 Storrington 2

After an improved performance against Lancing on Saturday, the Storrington management team were looking to build upon that for tonight's game if The Swans were to take anything out of the fixture. The Littlehampton ground staff had excelled themselves with a carpet-like playing surface awaiting both sides.

Storrington lined up in a familiar 4-4-2 with three changes to the side that drew with Lancing at the weekend. Chris Watton slotted in at left back in place of Andy Beaumont, Dave Tidman made his first start of the season at left midfield in place of the absent Richard Ayres and Harry Abraham started on the bench with Kristian Bridle returning from holiday to take up his familiar role in the centre of midfield. This was always going to be a game of two halves, with strong winds bound to play their part for both sides. Littlehampton kicked off with the wind behind them and started brightly. With only two minutes gone, Littlehampton won a corner which was met by the head of Jason Power. Storrington had not switched on and Power was left virtually unmarked to head past Gary Elliott in the Storrington goal. Storrington did get their act together after the goal and started to make better use of the pitch, challenging hard for the first and second balls in what was turning into a midfield battle. Greg Palmer was doing some excellent work up front, holding the ball up whenever possible and winning the majority of flick-ons. Although neither side really looked like scoring for the remainder of the half, as the half time whistle blew Storrington would have been happy with the way they defended and could feel upbeat going into the second half.
The management were rightly not happy with the early lack of marking in the first half but urged The Swans to take the game to Littlehampton in the second half, and that's exactly what they did. The wind was really having an impact in the second half with Littlehampton struggling to effectively clear their lines and a poor clearance by the Littlehampton keeper led to The Swans' equaliser. Chris Chilvers pounced on Brodrick's kick and smashed the ball past him from just inside the 18 yard line to make it 1-1. The Swans had what they felt was a valid penalty claim turned down after Palmer was brought down by Brodrick in the Littlehampton box, which ultimately led to Palmer leaving the pitch. Storrington continued to defend high up the park and press the ball as much as possible. On the hour mark changes were made with Kristian Bridle making way for Ben Reilly, Dave Tidman making way for Dean Leaver and Harry Abraham coming on for the injured Palmer. The substitutes had an immediate impact with Dean Leaver causing Littlehampton problems down the left and going very close himself with an effort from 25 yards. It was young Harry Abraham who eventually gave Storrington the lead with about 10 minutes to go. John Rhodie had done some good work in the centre of park and picked out Abraham who slotted into the bottom left corner with the outside of his boot. Littlehampton rallied for the final 10 minutes but the Storrigton defence held fast and messers Day, Watton, Blaydon and Johnson can be pleased with the way they went about their jobs.
Tonight's result and performance is just what Storrington needed to take into Saturdays long trip away to Westfield, one of only two sides in the division with a 100% winning start to this season's campaign.

TEAM: Elliott; Johnson, Watton, Blaydon, Day; Tidman (Leaver), Bridle (Reilly), Rhodie, Cook; Chilvers, Palmer (Abraham). Subs not used: Humphreys

Honours Even

Saturday 30th August - SCFL Div 2 - Storrington 0 Lancing 0

Today's fixture saw The Swans welcome Lancing to The Rec, who had just come off the back of two convincing wins against Loxwood in the League and East Preston in the John O'Hara Cup. This is always an interesting fixture on the football calendar, namely due to the fact that Storrington stalwart Dan Griffin went back to Culver Road mid-way through last season, although Dan was unavailable for today's game. Ricky Hamilton made several changes to the side that lost to Midhurst. Kristian Bridle and Chris Watton were both unavailable and Michael Brown-Lee was out through injury. Harry Abraham made his first appearance of the campaign starting in the centre of midfield alongside John Rhodie, with Chris Chilvers getting a start up-front and Chris Johnson and Andy Beaumont filling the full-back slots.
For the second week running, Storrington started very well and got the ball out wide to Richard Ayres and Dave Cook where most of the positive passages of play were coming. The Rhodie / Abraham partnership in the middle of the park was also working well with Rhodie offering further protection for the back four. The first half didn't contain too much goalmouth action, but was a fiercely contested affair with Harry Abraham keen to stamp his authority on proceedings. Greg Palmer was holding the ball up very well up front and the pace of Chilvers clearly had the better of a rather flat Lancing defence. The Swans' best chance of the half came after some good work by Chris Johnson and Dave Cook on the right. Johnson started the move and continued his run into the box to meet Cook's cross with his head, only to be denied by a great save by the Lancing goalkeeper who almost tipped the ball into the path of Richard Ayres. Lancing's height posed a threat from set pieces but their best chance of the half came after Joe Howard found himself free in the home side's penalty area with just Gary Elliott to beat. Fortunately for Storrington, Howard cleared Elliott but also the crossbar.
The half-time team talk centred around the need for more communication and continued discipline. Lancing arguably started the stronger of the two teams with the likes of Lee Garnham and Tony Miles still proving to be difficult to contain at set pieces but Storrington were still the side trying to play football. Changes were made towards the end of the half. James Blaydon came off after an elbow left him with some nasty swelling around the eye, with John Rhodie slotting in at centre half and Liam Humphreys coming on in midfield for his Storrington debut. Richard Ayres and Chris Chilvers made way for Dean Leaver and Grainger Hodgson for their first appearances this season. It was in fact both the new boys who had the last of the chances for Storrington. Leaver found space in the Lancing penalty area only to fire his cross-come-shot into the side netting and Hodgson, who is normally keen to strike at goal at every opportunity, opted to lay the ball off where the move eventually fizzled out.
So, the first point of the season for The Swans and a much more disciplined performance. The only worrying thing now is the 'Goals For' count, which currently stands at zero!

TEAM: Elliott; Johnson, Beaumont, Blaydon (Humphreys), Day; Ayres (Leaver), Rhodie, Abraham, Cook; Chilvers (Hodgson), Palmer. Subs not used: Tidman, Reilly

Shaky Start

Saturday 23rd August - SCFL Div 2 - Storrington 0 Midhurst & Easebourne 2

The long awaited start to this season's campaign finally got underway on Saturday with the visit of Midhurst to The Rec. It was a fairly important game for both sides - For the home team it was the first game of the new season and the start of a new era with lots of new faces around the club both on and off the pitch. For the away side, they were coming here off the back of two straight away defeats so would be determined to put things right.
Storrington started the better side, really taking the game to Midhurst and playing with pace. Both Richard Ayres and Dave Cook were being given a lot of freedom out wide and new boys up front, Greg Palmer and Michael Brownlee were proving a handful for the Midhurst back line. Unfortunately, and against the run of play, the deadlock was broken on 16 minutes with a contender for own goal of the season. A decent ball was whipped into the Storrington box and a normally fairly routine clearing header from Ben Reilly was mis-judged and powered into the top corner to give the visitors the lead. This goal seemed to take The Swans out of their stride somewhat as their passage of play became a bit sloppy. Brownlee came close for The Swans when his header hit the post on around the half hour mark but Hamilton doubled the away side's lead on 42 minutes with a tap in after a fairly scrappy goalmouth scramble and that is how the half finished.
Messers Tewsley and Hamilton called for a reduction in silly mistakes, sharper passing and more communication going into the second half and, to be fair to the home side, they did improve. There was still the odd mistake and the odd wayward pass but Storrington had a more resilient look about them. The system was changed to a 3-4-3, which allowed Richard Ayres to move upfront alongside Greg Palmer and Luke Selby. Whilst Gary Elliott in the Storrington goal was rarely called into action, the home side lacked that cutting edge upfront to really cause Midhurst too many problems although Kristian Bridle went close with a curling shot from the edge of the box and what seemed to be a genuine penalty claim for handball was turned down.
Lancing are next up for The Swans. Ricky Hamilton and John Tewsley will be hoping Storrington can kick on another gear after today's performance.

TEAM: Elliott; Rhodie, Reilly (Selby), Day, Blaydon; Ayres, Cook (Chilvers), Watton, Bridle; Palmer, Brownlee (Tidman). Subs not used: A Beaumont, Humphreys