First Team Match Reports 2009/10

Tuesday 20th April - SCFL Division 2 - Midhurst & Easebourne 0 Storrington 4

Match report to follow...

TEAM: G Elliott; Blaydon (Grantham), McCall, Carter, S Elliott; Cook (Humphreys), Rhodie, Watton, Davis; Ayres, Harding. Subs not used: S Tasker

Double Trouble!

Saturday 17th April - SCFL Division 2 - Storrington 3 Steyning Town 1

Match report to follow...

TEAM: G Elliott; Davis (Blaydon), McCall, S Elliott, Carter; Tasker (Cook), Rhodie, Humphreys (Watton), Harding, Ayres, Grantham

Swans Demonstrate Progress!

Saturday 10th April - SCFL Division 2 - Storrington 2 Southwick 1

Match report to follow...

TEAM: G Elliott; Blaydon (Cook), McCall, T Carter, S Elliott; Tasker, Rhodie, Harding, Davis; Ayres, Grantham

Stunning Strike Settles Derby!

Monday 5th April - SCFL Division 2 - Steyning Town 2 Storrington 3

As usual, no real build up needed for this game, although a poor performance and convincing defeat on the Saturday should also add to The Swans' desire to win this afternoon's game. Storrington started today's game in 10th place whilst Steyning have found themselves firmly in the wrong half of the table all season. However, form tends to go out of the window in these games and a number of changes were made to the side that lost to Worthing United. Craig Grantham and Stuart McCall returned from injury and Kristian Harding returned from suspension. Tom Carter started in the absence of Chris Watton and Sam Elliott was given his first start in a Storrington shirt since signing in favour of James Blaydon.
The game started out a fairly cagey affair with both sides just trying to feel each other out and find their footing on a fairly terrible surface. It was never going to be one for the purist and both sides opted for a fairly direct approach with Steyning taking the lead, probably slightly against the run of play on 20 minutes. Pat Rose picked up the ball on the edge on the penalty area and his left foot shot bobbled horribly over Gary Elliott's outstretched hand and into the back of the net. Storrington responded well and got themselves back on level terms on the half hour mark with a well worked goal from Steve Tasker. Kristian Harding's ball in was well dummied by Craig Grantham, leaving Tasker with plenty of time to pick his spot. The game remained fairly even until half time with the scoreline staying at 1-1.
Storrington started the second half brightly and took the lead on 55 minutes through a Liam Humphreys wonder goal. Steve Tasker's left footed cross was well controlled on the chest by Humphreys who proceeded to fire his overhead kick into the top corner, giving The Swans the advantage. Steyning then levelled seven minutes later in unfortunate circumstances. Lee Waterhouse had done well to get into the box and get his shot off, but it looked like Elliott had it covered until Tom Carter slid in and deflected the ball into his own net. The final 20 minutes were played out with both sides huffing and puffing and it looked like the spoils would be shared. That was until Richard Ayres pulled out the goal of the season to win it! With the ball deflected high into the air and falling about 18 yards out, Richard Ayres spun and hit the ball first time on it's way down from a cute angle and watched as it smashed the underside of the crossbar and into the back of the net.
Steyning may feel slightly aggrieved but the goal was a worthy winner and Storrington bounced back to take all three points. Sothwick are up next at The Rec where a win will see Storrington improve on their points total from last season.

TEAM: G Elliott; Davis, McCall, S Elliott (Blaydon), Carter; Johnson (Humphreys), Rhodie, Harding, S Tasker; Ayres, Grantham. Subs not used: Hunter, J Tasker

United Get Their Own Back!

Saturday 3rd April - SCFL Division 2 - Worthing United 5 Storrington 0

Match report unavailable.

TEAM: G Elliott; Davis, Colwell, Blaydon, Watton (Carter); Johnson (Hunter), Rhodie, Humphreys (S Elliott), S Tasker; J Tasker, Ayres

Ayresy Brace As Rhodie Changes The Game!

Saturday 13th March - SCFL Division 2 - Lancing 1 Storrington 4

Having lost to Lancing twice already this season in both the Division 2 Cup and the reverse League fixture at The Rec, a loss today would start to set an unwelcome trend for The Swans. With James Adebayo unavailable today, Hamilton was forced to make a change to the side that beat Worthing United on Tuesday. Kristian Harding moved up-front to partner Richard Ayres, meaning Liam Humphreys started today alongside John Rhodie in the centre of midfield.
Worryingly for Hamilton, The Swans did not start particularly well as they seemed to lack the energy and the fight that they had displayed so well earlier in the week. The game wasn't particularly open but it seemed that the better chances were falling to Lancing, with Lee Garnham breaking from midfield and also going very close with a header almost on the goal line - a chance that was probably harder to miss! Darren Boswell was causing some problems wide out on the right but Storrington were failing to really utilise the services of their own wide men. As the half continued Storrington got themselves more into the game. Jordan Johnson delivered a couple of quality deliveries from the left, only for no-one to be on the end of them. Ayres and Harding also both saw chances going off target. However, with only about five minutes of the half remaining, The Swans took the lead. James Davis continued his run down the right and received the ball in the box from Steve Tasker. Davis showed great composure to calmly slot the ball into the top right corner and give Storrington the lead. Lancing responded to going a goal down almost immediately. Following a Storrington corner, Lancing broke quickly with Darren Boswell on the right who delivered a teasing cross into the box. With players caught out of possession, Dan Griffin was allowed to nod in the equaliser from about 6 yards and prove yet again how much he enjoyed scoring against his former club. Storrington would have been the happier side going in 1-1 at half time, with Lancing left to rue some of their early chances.
The second half was a different story, with Storrington seemingly bouyed up after the half time team talk. Stuart McCall had picked up a calf strain and was replaced by Nathan Sleat at left back and John Rhodie also made way to Dave Tidman as Rhodie was unable to shake off the knee injury he had picked up earlier in the day. Liam Humphreys got The Swans' all important second goal on the hour mark. As Lancing's centre half attempted to dribble the ball out of defence, Humphreys dispossessed him and opened his body up to slot past the Lancing keeper and make it 2-1. Lancing's heads visibly dropped at this point and from there on in it was pretty much one way traffic. Richard Ayres added a third on 75 minutes as he latched onto Steve Tasker's cross to volley home from about 15 yards out. Ayres then completed the rout with about 10 minutes of the game to go. Tasker and Ayres combined again as Ayres was first to react to his short corner, who then cut onto his left foot and slotted into the bottom corner for his second and Storrington's fourth.
So, six points from six in their last two games means storrington appear to be finding another spell of form at the right time. A much welcome win over rivals Lancing is just the sort of result to take into the weekend's game away to bottom-placed Midhurst as Storrington look to continue to climb the table and show progress from last season.

TEAM: Elliott; Davis, McCall (Sleat), Blaydon, Watton; Johnson, Rhodie (Tidman), Humphreys, Tasker; Harding, Ayres

Swans Stop The Rot!

Tuesday 9th March - SCFL Division 2 - Storrington 2 Worthing United 0

Tonight saw the first meeting between the two sides this season and The Swans would really need to carry on from where they left off against Sidley on Saturday if they were to get anything out of tonight's game. Storrington are in the middle of a bad run of results at the moment and Worthing United have only lost 3 times in the League all season. Rick Hamilton brought James Blaydon back in after a short lay-off through injury and Gary Elliott returned after an illness. Hamilton also started with youngsters Jordan Johnson and James Adebayo with Craig Grantham, Tom Carter, Dean Potter and Dave Tidman all still on Storrington's injury list.
From a Storrington viewpoint, the game could not have started any better. The Swans looked up for it and competed well in the early exchanges and it was them who took the early lead. John Rhodie's through ball found Kristian Harding who took it on to his right knee, teeing him up to smash his left footed volley right into the right hand corner of the net past Ross Standen in the United goal. The goal gave Storrington real belief and the game really opened up from here, with Storrington taking the more direct approach and United trying to play almost too much football in the final third. Half way through the first half, the game descended into controversy as Worthing claimed that Stuart McCall had handled the ball, preventing Julian Curnow's header from crossing the line. The referee missed the incident and awarded Storrington the free kick and the game continued. The decision clearly rocked United and, as the frustration set in, The Swans tried to capitalise. James Adebayo was proving a real handful up-front as Storrington continued to try and get the United back four turning with balls in behind. Storrington also coped well with the obvious threat from Green and Annis up-front but were probably reasonably happy once the half-time whistle was blown.
During the early part of the second half United came back into the game more and more, with two good chances going begging. Gary Elliott made a good save from a Chris Hibberd effort and also did very well to smother a Jack Hayward shot after some good work by Darren Annis. With only minutes of the game remaining however, it was the Storrington substitutes who combined to ensure all three points would go to The Swans. Dave Cook picked up the ball out wide and his well delivered cross was fumbled by Standen, only for Liam Humphreys to react the quickest and hook the ball back past Standen into the open goal. Worthing continued to press and moved to three up-front but the Storrington back line remained resolute to hold out for a very hard fought three points.
There is no better way to bounce back after three successive defeats than to beat the title favourites with a clean sheet in the process. This is the standard that Storrington must now look to for the remainder of the season. The quality within the squad has always been there but with the work rate to match, The Swans proved they can more than mix it with the best the division has to offer.

TEAM: Elliott; Davis, McCall, Blaydon, Watton; Johnson, Rhodie, Harding, Tasker (Cook); Adebayo (Humphreys), Ayres. Subs not used: Sleat, Beaumont

A Costly Defeat!

Saturday 6th March - SCFL Division 2 - Storrington 0 Sidley United 2

Storrington ran out 2-1 winners in the reverse fixture earlier this season in a contest that could have gone either way, but for a late Kristian Harding strike. Storrington find themselves in the middle of a mini 'blip' at the moment while Sidley continue to push at the right end of the table, so today's result would be important for both teams. Changes again with Mark Beaumont starting in goal in the absence of Gary Elliott who was out through illness, James Blaydon misses today's game through injury and Stuart McCall was unavailable due to work commitments. Hamilton also opted to play Grantham as the lone striker with Kristian Harding dropping out wide on the left of midfield.
The game started fairly slowly for both sides and it looked as though it might be a fairly dour contest. However, on five minutes the game sparked into life as Sidley took the lead in in fairly soft circumstances. A well delivered, in-swinging corner from the right was not dealt with at all well and Josh Elliott-Noye was allowed to head home, practically on the goal line. Storrington tried to respond positively and were getting a lot of joy down the left hand side, with Kristian Harding having a particularly good game. On 20 minutes, unfortunately, Sidley extended their lead with another soft goal. Mark Beaumont, who had otherwise been having a good game, mis-judged a speculative effort from Allan McMinigal and could only watch as the ball floated over his head and into the back of the net. The remainder of the half was fairly even as Storrington did their best to push for goals of their own. Kevin Rose always looked lively up-front for the visitors but The Swans dealt with the threat well. Towards the end of the first half, Storrington lost Liam Humphreys to a hamstring injury and was replaced by James Adebayo.
Storrington came out much livelier for the second half, although they had now also lost Tom Carter through injury with John Rhodie deputising at centre-half. James Adebayo was having an excellent second half and his direct and positive approach was causing Sidley problems at the back. James Davis was also having a good game at right back, with The Swans dominating possession. Sadly, half way through the second half, Storrington gained another casualty in the form of Craig Grantham who turned nastily on his ankle and had to be replaced. Jamie Tasker came on to partner Adebayo up-front but it seemed like, despite all their possession, The Swans were going to have to create something out of nothing if there were going to get anything out of the game. With about 10 minutes to go, Storrington's Nathan Sleat saw red for dissent, making the task of getting back into the game all the more difficult. Sidley held out to take all three points and Hamilton woould be left reeling the poor start and the injuries sustained this afternoon.
Worthing United are next up at The Rec on Tuesday night in a must win game if The Swans are to stop this current run of defeats. Worthing United are the team to beat this season but it is normally in these games that Storrington seem to find the desire to win.

TEAM: Beaumont; Davis, Sleat, Carter (Cook), Watton; Harding, Rhodie, Humphreys (Adebayo), Ayres, S Tasker; Grantham (J Tasker)

Swans Lack The Cutting Edge!

Tuesday 2nd March - SCFL Division 2 - Storrington 0 Clymping 2

Another tough fixture this evening as a resurgent Clymping travel to The Rec looking to take revenge for the 1-0 defeat they suffered at the hands of Storrington earlier in the season. Storrington would be looking to bounce back from both the defeat and poor performance against Wealden, with Ricky Hamilton ringing the changes. Both Tom Carter and James Blaydon started the game on the bench, with Dean Potter, Nathan Sleat and Richard Ayres all returning to the starting line-up.
Clymping appeared to set the tone of the game early on as they started with a high tempo and a desire that wasn't matched by the home side. The first problem occurred on 10 minutes as Dean Potter pulled up with a hamstring injury and was immediately replaced by Blaydon. Clymping were lively and looked the more likely to score in the first half as Gary Elliott was certainly the busier of the two goalkeepers. It was Storrington though who thought they had taken the lead as Kristian Harding tucked away Craig Grantham's cross, only for it to be ruled out for offside. Grantham and Harding continued to battle but Clymping's attacking play was rewarded with the first goal of the game just before half time. A Richy Moss corner was met by the head of Seb Di Paola who headed in from close range, beating at least two Storrington players to the ball.
The second half was better from The Swans' perspective as they raised their game in the knowledge that they were still in the contest. Harding and Grantham both had further chances and it looked as though Storrington may get their equaliser after all, especially towards the end of the half. However, you would never discount this Clymping side from creating chances, especially given the speed at which they moved the ball and the pace that they had up-upfront. Joe Shelley grabbed Clymping's second and ultimately killed off the tie in the dying minutes of stoppage time. Shelley was played in by David Gaskin and finished very well from about 10 yards out, succumbing Storrington to their third successive defeat and their fifth defeat in six games.
Storrington were testament tonight to the saying that nice guys finish last as Clymping showed that desire for the ball and a willingness to put the tackle in wins you games on their own. The Swans will need to raise the tempo and show desire to compete on Saturday as they host title contenders, Sidley.

TEAM: Elliott; Davis, Sleat (Carter), Potter (Blaydon), Watton; Humphreys, Rhodie (Bradshaw), McCall, Ayres; Harding, Grantham

Harding Brace Not Enough After Terrible Start!

Saturday 27th February - SCFL Division 2 - Storrington 2 Wealden 3

After The Swans' disappointing defeat at Westfield last week, Hamilton had more changes to make for this afternoon's game at home to Wealden. James Blaydon and Steve Tasker returned straight into the starting line-up following absences through illness and suspension respectively. Wealden have had a similar season to Storrington with it being fairly up and down but The Swans would really be looking for three points today.
The start to this game was not a good one by any stretch of the imagination and possibly one of the worst displays from a Storrington side in some time. Wealden took the lead after just three minutes as Andrew McDowell got the better of Tom Carter to slot home from close range and on seven minutes things got worse. James Blaydon's headed backpass was too weak and was well intercepted by Daniel Barnard, who then rounded Elliott to double Wealden's advantage. Storrington looked lacklustre and disinterested as they struggled to make any sort of impact on the game and, unsurprisingly, it was Wealden who scored the next goal. Barnard again was allowed to travel with the ball, he got to the byline and pulled it back for an unmarked Daniel Turner to slot home from close range.
Rick Hamilton had seen enough and made changes, taking both Tom Carter and Dave Tidman off in favour of Liam Humphreys and Nathan Sleat. Chris Watton dropped back into the defence with Humphreys on to partner John Rhodie in midfield. The changes did seem to spark Storrington into life but it was going to be a tall order to come back from here. However, a brace from Kristian Harding before the end of the half made the comeback a realistic possibility. His first saw him played in behind the defence by Steve Tasker and Harding made no mistake with a fierce finish from close range and his second was one out of the top drawer. The same two players combined again and as the ball bounced up, Harding smashed his volley beyond the Wealden keeper.
The second half was a different story and Wealden looked rocked by the late Storrington flurry. Storrington pushed really hard for the equaliser but credit to Wealden who defended like their lives depended on it. James Davis rattled a shot against the bar and both Humphreys and Tasker went close but the damage had already been done in the opening 30 minutes and The Swans failed to complete what would have been a remarkable comeback.
If Storrington start a game of football again this season the way they started this afternoon then it could be a very long couple of months ahead. However, the quality of Harding's finishes would not have looked out of place at a much higher level of football. In summary, it might be fair to liken Storrington to a high handicap golfer... At times some of Storrington's game can be brilliant but it never all comes together at the same time over ninety minutes, meaning they are capable of the brilliance but also capable of the very poor.

TEAM: Elliott; Davis, McCall, Blaydon, Carter (Humphreys); Tidman (Sleat), Rhodie, Watton, Tasker; Harding, Grantham (Potter). Subs not used: Beaumont

Wasteful Swans!

Saturday 20th February - SCFL Division 2 - Westfield 2 Storrington 1

No match report available.

TEAM: Elliott; Davis, McCall, Carter, Watton; Tidman (Sleat), Rhodie, Humphreys, Ayres; Harding (Cook), Grantham

The Late Show With Liam Humphreys!

Saturday 13th February - SCFL Division 2 - Seaford Town 1 Storrington 2

A stark contrast at The Crouch today compared to the reverse fixture on the opening day of the season at The Rec - today was cold and miserable with a surface really not condusive to any sort of football being played. The Swans ran out 3-2 winners that day but Seaford have been performing well of late and today would be a tough contest. Hamilton made a few changes to the side that lost to Littlehampton with Chris Watton dropping into the centre of defence alongside Blaydon and Liam Humphreys came straight back in to partner Rhodie in midfield. With Richard Ayres absent, the in-form Craig Grantham resturned from holiday to slot straight in up front with Kristian Harding.
The first half was a fairly drab affair whilst being a fairly evenly fought contest. The style of both sides was fairly predictable as they both tried to get the ball up to the forwards as early as possible, with very little football being played in midfield. Neither keeper was seriously tested during the opening 45 minutes in a game that was so far dominated by the defences of both teams. The paying spectators could only hope for a more action-packed second half. Thankfully, the second half delivered many more talking points than the first. The game seemed to have opened up far more and both teams went in search of the opener. As the game went on, Grantham and Harding's pace up front started to show for The Swans and they were both involved in the first goal. Harding received the ball out on the right and cut in onto his left where his cross was met by a towering and powerful header by Craig Grantham, who grabbed his eighth of the season. Soon after the goal, Seaford actually had the ball in the back of the net but it was rightly ruled out for offside. Seaford did, however, get the equaliser with only a few minutes of the game remaining. Storrington's defence, which had been watertight all afternoon was undon by some poor marking from a Seaford corner. Lewis Parsons arrived late at the back post and headed in from close range.
With the game seemingly destined to be drawn and the points shared, there was still time for a final twist. Stuart McCall picked up the ball in his own half, skipped past two challenges and laid the ball off to Steve Tasker. Tasker looked up a his cross was met by the late run of Liam Humphreys who smashed his volley past the Seaford keeper from close range.
Humphreys' winner capped a strong second-half performance from The Swans, who always seem to do well at The Crouch. A special mention also today for the young referee you had made the long trip East to officiate today. Whilst he may have been a bit 'whistle-happy' at times, he had complete control of the game and continually talked to the players on the field of play.

TEAM: Elliott; Davis, McCall, Blaydon, Watton; Tidman, Rhodie, Humphreys, S Tasker; Harding, Grantham. Subs not used: Carter, Rance, J Tasker

Schedule Takes Its Toll...

Tuesday 9th February - SCFL Division 2 - Storrington 0 Littlehampton Town 5

Tonight was Storrington's 5th game in two weeks and they faced John Suter's Littlehampton side that hadn't played for 10 days. A bitterly cold night but the pitch was again in great condition as The Swans looked to bounce back from the defeat at Rye. Tom Carter was still out injured and Craig Grantham was still out of the country which meant James Blaydon moved back into centre half alongside Dean Potter and Richard Ayres moved up-front to partner Kristian Harding. Nathan Sleat was 'promoted' to left midfield with Humphreys, Hunter and Tidman all starting tonight's game on the bench.
Storrington started the slower of the two sides and took a little bit of time to find their feet, inviting some early pressure from The Marigolds. Both sides had their chances during the first half an hour, with Kristian Harding breaking through on a couple of occasions for The Swans and the home side winning a number of corners. The game sparked into life without about 10 minutes to go of the first half. Storrington felt they should have been awarded a penalty that was not given and then Storrington actually had the ball in the back of the net, only for the linesman to raise a late flag for offside. The home side then lost Dean Potter with a pulled hamstring and Littlehampton edged their noses in front with virtually the last kick of the half... John Rhodie brought down Littlehampton's Jamie Buckett in the box and this time the referee did point to the spot. Joel Sayers stepped up to give Littlehampton a 1-0 half-time advantage.
Storrington's Jekyll and Hyde syndrome was sadly evident for all to see during the second half as they were completely undone in 20 second half minutes. Instead of coming out and taking the game to Littlehampton, Storrington came out and sat back, inviting pressure. The home side looked tired as a lively Littlehampton began to run riot. Adedoja and Boutwood put Littlehampton three goals to the good before Storrington lost Nathan Sleat through injury and Stuart McCall was replaced by Dave Tidman. At 3-0 down, The Swans looked beaten but Littlehampton were not done. The fourth came in bizarre circumstances as the normally ever dependable Chris Watton, with nobody within 10 yards of him, managed to power his headed 'clearance' straight into the top corner past his own keeper! With the 90 minutes of normal time virtually up, Storrington failed to clear the ball effectively, allowing Joe Charman to score from only a couple of yards out.
A surprising result but one that probably warranted The Swans' second half performance. Storrington were just not at the races today and didn't compete. Littlehampton benefited from the rest and Storrington were left with nothing in the tank. If Storrington want to push at the right end of the table this season then everyone will need to take accountability after tonight and respond in the right way in Saturday's tough fixture away to Seaford.

TEAM: Elliott; Davis, McCall (Tidman), Potter (Humphreys), Blaydon; Sleat (Hunter), Rhodie, Watton, Tasker; Harding, Ayres

A Very Good T-Rye!

Saturday 6th February - SCFL Division 2 - Rye United 2 Storrington 0

The journey to Rye is a long one in any case but the A27 roadworks would ensure a nice early start for the travelling Swans players and management for today's game. Rye is never an easy place to take anything away from and Rye have been performing very well of late, taking a number of higher ranked scalps in Cup competitions along the way. Hamilton was again forced to make changes for this afternoon's fixture with the young James Adebayo coming in for the absent Grantham up-front and Chris Watton slotting in at centre-half in place of the injured Tom Carter who was out with a thigh strain.
The game started at a frantic pace with both sides trying to signal their intentions early on. The momentum shifted in Rye's favour as they created some good chances during the first half. Duncan McArthur was having a good game and his movement both with and without the ball was causing the visitors some problems. However, most of the chances were efforts outside the box and Gary Elliott was actually only called into action a couple of times. He did have to be on his game though and the Storrington defence needed to remain resolute. James Adebayo was proving a real handful up-front but the Swans' best chances fell to Kristian Harding who went close whilst through on goal and a Nathan Sleat free-kick only just cleared the bar from 25 yards out. Although Rye had had more attempts, the half ended all square and provided a platform for Storrington to build upon.
The second half was a different contest as the game seemed to really open up with both sides keen to get that first goal. Storrington kept trying to turn the Rye defence to utilise the pace of Harding and Adebayo but Rye continued to press themselves. The deadlock was eventually broken on around 70 minutes with Rye getting their noses in front. A long throw in deep in the Storrington half was only half cleared and fell to McArthur who sent the ball back across goal, leaving Elliott no chance. Storrington responded well however and pushed for the equaliser. Darryll Hunter had come on in place of Nathan Sleat and his attacking bias was noticeable. He actually went very close himself with a header from a Storrington corner, putting his attempt just wide. Rye effectively killed the game off though with less than 10 minutes to go. Sam Cole appeared to be a good yard or two offside but the linesman's flag stayed firmly by his side. Cole continued his run and lobbed Gary Elliott from just inside the 18 yard box.
The final whistle went and Storrington would face the long drive back without a point to show for their troubles. However, the way Storrington applied themselves today was a big positive as they showed good fighting spirit and never gave up against a Rye side that will no doubt be up there at the end of the season.

TEAM: Elliott; Blaydon (Bradshaw), Sleat (Hunter), Potter, Watton; Tidman (Davis), Rhodie, Ayres, Tasker; Adebayo, Harding

Swans Don't Make It Ease-y!

Tuesday 2nd February - SCFL Division 2 - Storrington 3 Midhurst & Easebourne 2

Tonight was always going to be a potential banana skin. Midhurst have proved they can win games and Storrington saw enough in them last time round to know that it would by no means be an easy fixture. Hamilton made two forced and two unforced changes for this evening's game. With both Stuart McCall and Steve Tasker unavailable, Nathan Sleat and Dave Tidman took up both slots on the left. Chris Watton and Richard Ayres were preferred to Liam Humphreys and Craig Grantham on account of availability for upcoming fixtures. On a night that games around the county were being called off, all credit to Derek Dyer for the surface at The Rec and for getting the go-ahead.
Storrington started brightly, unlike on many occasions this season, and tried to keep the tempo high from the outset with a view to getting a cushion early on. Storrington enjoyed most of their positive play from out wide although the final ball was sometimes lacking in quality. However, on 15 minutes the hiome side broke the deadlock. Kristian Harding's flick found Richard Ayres who did well to stay on his feet and round the Midhurst keeper, slotting the ball into the open goal. The goal spurred Storrington on and they continued to press, with Dean Potter going closest next with a long range effort that just cleared the bar. Just before the half, the home side doubled their advantage through Kristian Harding. Steve Taskers corner found James Davis's head who nodded back across goal for Kristian Harding to rise and send his lobbed header beyond the oncoming Midhurst goalkeeper.
Positive words at half time with more of the same encouraged and a warning against complacency. Not so much complacency, more implosion for Storrington during the second 45 minutes. It was a different side that came out at half time with confidence and fluidity appearing to completely vanish from the home side's play. Storrington sat way to deep and just invited Midhurst to attack, although their first came in slightly dubious circumstances on the hour mark. A through ball was seemingly well gathered by Gary Elliott but Luke Sheldrick carried his run and slid in on the home side's keeper. The ball came loose and Sheldrick slotted the ball home, although the home side clearly felt Elliott had the ball in both hands. This was just the start of The Swans' problems as they then lost both Dean Potter and Tom Carter through injury with Watton and Blaydon taking up position at centre half and Liam Humphreys joining Rhodie in midfield. With the Storrington defence somewhat re-shuffled, Midhurst capitalised. With two Storrington players going for the same ball, it allowed the Midhurst winger to run through and cross for the un-marked Sheldrick to grab his second of the game. 2-2 with 10 minutes to go but Storrington were not finished and brought Grantham on upfront for Harding. It was Grantham who was to have the last word in this game as, with virtually the last kick of the game, he sealed victory for The Swans. Dave Tidman whipped in a nice corner from the left which was met by a good leap from the powerful striker, who glanced his header into the back of the net.
Midhurst can be pleased by the way they got back into the game but Storrington, despite their poor spell in the second half, stuck to the task and credit to them for pushing for the winner. On reflection, the home side did enough to win the game but made hard work of it. Storrington make the long trip to title contenders Rye on Saturday and should look to build on the first 45 minutes of tonight's game.

TEAM: Elliott; Blaydon, Sleat, Potter (Bradshaw), Carter (Humphreys); Tidman, Rhodie, Watton, Davis; Harding (Grantham), Ayres

Snatched A Draw From The Jaws Of Victory!

Saturday 30th January - SCFL Division 2 - Storrington 2 East Preston 2

East Preston made the short trip for this afternoon's game. Storrington lost 2-1 at The Lashmar earlier in the season in a hard fought contest but EP have made some wholesale changes since then with new faces both on and off the pitch. Rick Hamilton also made changes today to the side that lost in the week to Loxwood. In reverting to a 4-4-2 it meant that Dean Potter slotted in alongside Tom Carter in the centre of defence, whilst James Blaydon moved out to right-back. Liam Humphreys was chosen in the centre of midfield ahead of Richard Ayres after impressing against Loxwood and Kristian Harding made his first start upfront since 12th December alongside Craig Grantham.
Storrington started brightly and appeared to be giving Hamilton the response he was looking for after Tuesday's game. Grantham and Harding were proving a real handful upfront and both had chances during the first half. On another day, Kristian Harding may have had a hat-trick inside the first 30 minutes had in not been for some good saves and some less than clinical finishing. Steve Tasker and James Davis were also playing well out wide and were able to break forward on numerous occasions. Just after the half hour mark, Storrington finally capitalised on their early pressure. Kristian Harding was played in and this time made no mistake with the finish. Against the run of play, EP pulled level 10 minutes later after a rare slip up by Gary Elliott. After a routine backpass, his clearance could only be rolled into the path of EP's Kevin Budge who then rounded Elliott and rolled the ball past him and into the back of the net. Fortunately, Storrington responded in the right way, their heads did not drop and they got their noses in front again just before half time. Craig Grantham picked the ball up in the final third and his fantastic solo run saw him break into the box and calmly slot the ball past the EP keeper beyond his near post. Storrington will have been disappointed that they hadn't put themselves out of sight but a similar performance in the second half would see to that.
Unfortunately, for the home supporters, Storrington did not come out and play the same positive football they had done during the first 45 minutes. Grantham and Harding did not have the same spark and the EP midfield pair were getting more and more into the game. Having said that though, it looked very much as though Storrington would come away with all three points. Whilst EP enjoyed most of the possession during the second half, with The Swans inviting pressure by sitting deep, Gary Elliott never really had a save to make. That was until the 86th minute when EP got their equaliser. A normally routine cross was spilled by Elliott who dropped the ball into the path of Jehan Huet for an easy tap-in. The final whistle went with a severe feeling of two points dropped.
Gary Elliott proved he was human today by the mistakes he made but Storrington will really feel the game should have been put to bed by half-time. Anything less than 3 points in Storrington's next match at home to Midhurst will surely be unacceptable.

TEAM: Elliott; Blaydon, McCall, Potter (Sleat), Carter; Tasker (Tidman), Rhodie, Humphreys, Davis; Harding, Grantham (Ayres)

Loxwood Complete The Double!

Tuesday 26th January - SCFL Division 2 - Storrington 0 Loxwood 3

In the words of the mighty D:Ream 'Things can only get better' compared to the 7-1 thrashing that The Swans received against Loxwood earlier in the season. Loxwood are currently top of the division and are a well organised side but Storrington had an off day that afternoon and Rick Hamilton would be looking for a reaction for today's game. Only one change to the side that beat Southwick at the weekend, with Dave Tidman making way for Steve Tasker out on the left of midfield.
The game started out fairly evenly as both sides contested the ball and sized each other up. Grantham worked tirelessly upfront but the main contest was in the centre of the park. In the previous encounter, Loxwood's main threat came from out wide but Storrington seemed to have negated that threat this evening and the back four appeared to be in control. Sadly for the home side though, it was Loxwood who drew first blood. Claude Pett was able to break from midfield and continued his run into the Storrington penalty area, latching onto a pass and slotting the ball under Gary Elliott. Loxwood's second goal came about in bizarre circumstances about five minutes later. Damon Aston, the Division's leading goalscorer, picked up the ball wide on the left and continued his run to the byline. His cross managed to evade everybody and nestle into the back of the next to give Loxwood the cushion. After the goal the home side seemed to sit off their opponents and show them too much respect up until half time, on top of that The Swans lost John Rhodie with an injury to the knee.
Hamilton's words did the trick at half time as Storrington came out a different side. They had a really good 20-25 minute spell in the second half where they played with much more confidence and created some good chances of their own. Liam Humphreys went the closest to pulling one back for Storrington as his header was well saved and tipped onto the crossbar. Humphreys was playing well since coming on and might even had scored one or two more on another night as he continued to get into the right areas. However, as Storrington continued in search of their goal, the game was all but killed off with about 10 minutes to go with a first class piece of counter-attacking play. Loxwood broke away after clearing a Storrington corner and Nick Branch's cross from the right was met with the sweetest of lobbed volleys by Damon Aston.
The difference between winning and losing in this League is miniscule and Storrington need to learn that lapses in concentration and mistakes lead to defeats. Loxwood are a good side but Storrington showed they are more than capable of matching them - they just need to be slightly more clinical and maybe even a little bit fitter. East Preston visit The Rec on Saturday in what will be another tough encounter.

TEAM: Elliott; McCall, Watton, Blaydon, Carter (Sleat); Potter; Tasker, Rhodie (Humphreys), Ayres, Davis (Harding); Grantham

Swans Win When It Counts!

Saturday 23rd January - SCFL Division 2 - Southwick 1 Storrington 2

All credit to Southwick today for getting the game on after 24 hours of rainfall throughout Friday. The two sides had met twice already this season but today was the first League encounter. Southwick had run out winners in both previous meetings, although Storrington may feel slightly aggrieved, particularly after the 2-1 defeat in the Senior Cup.
Rick Hamilton opted for the same formation as Tuesday night, although there were some slight changes in the personnel. Tom Carter was available and slotted straight in at centre-back alongside James Blaydon, with Chris Watton and Stuart McCall occupying the full-back slots. The only other change saw James Davis starting wide right in favour of Steve Tasker.
Southwick started the better of the two sides and enjoyed most of the possession in the early exchanges, albeit without ever really penetrating a robust Storrington back line and The Swans asked a lot of Grantham during the first half as they failed to get the ball into his feet. James Davis was allowed to get forward and supported Grantham where possible but it was Southwick who seemed to be pushing the hardest. However, against the run of play it was Storrington who had the first big chance of the game on the half hour mark. Neil Harris handled in the area and the referee pointed to the spot. Craig Grantham's impersonation of Dimitar Berbatov did not pay off and it was a comfortable save for the Southwick keeper. The remainder of the first half seemed to peter out although Dan Rahaman did come close for Southwick but for a fine close range save by Gary Elliott.
The second half was a slightly different story as Storrington sought to grab the game by the scruff of the neck, taking the lead within minutes of the restart. As the ball broke, Stuart McCall played a through ball that John Rhodie latched on to. With Southwick's keeper rooted to his goal line, Rhodie slotted the ball past him low down to his left. The goal seemed to boost Storrington's performance and they now looked firmly in the driving seat. Grantham was now starting to play very well up front and both Davis and Tidman were having a lot of joy out wide.
Kristian Harding came on for Dean Potter with about 20 minutes to go and his impact was felt immediately. His pace caused problems and with 10 minutes to go he was also involved in Storrington's second goal. Grantham was fouled on the edge of the box and his free-kick found the head of Harding who nodded down for James Davis to smash home from close-range. The game was pretty much won at that point but the visitors still allowed Southwick to claw one back as Dave McNeil scored a thunderous header from a Southwick corner, making for a tense final couple of minutes.
The first League action since December and a welcome three points, making that the first win against Southwick this season and an important one at that. Storrington host a good Loxwood side on Tuesday night next in a fixture that is sure to be fiercely contested, with Storrington absolutely looking for payback following the earlier result this season.

TEAM: Elliott; McCall, Watton, Blaydon, Carter; Potter (Harding); Tidman (Tasker), Rhodie, Ayres, Davis; Grantham. Subs not used: Sleat, Beaumont

Swans Feel The Cold...

Tuesday 19th January - Brighton Charity Cup 1st Round - Storrington 1 Chichester City 3

Finally, after a lay-off since 12th December, The Rec was able to host a competitive football match! The weather has taken it's toll across the county for over a month now but, with the snow finally appearing to be melting, football was back on the agenda. It was always going to be a huge and tiring test when your first game back is against current Division 1 high-flyers, Chichester but the fact that it was in the Charity Cup meant the The Swans could hopefully enjoy the evening and get some key minutes of football under their belts.
Although it had been a while, the line-up was fairly familiar. Tom Carter was unfortunately missing due to work committments so Chris Watton and James Blaydon lined up at centre-half. Stuart McCall made a very welcome return to the Storrington line-up at full back, having missed most of last season and this season through work. Dean Potter also made his first start this evening since August last year as Storrington lined up in a 4-1-4-1 formation, with Craig Grantham playing the lone striker role.
Considering the amount of time off, the game started at quite a pace and it was actually the home side who appeared to adjust the quickest and put together some nice passages of play. Craig Grantham went close with an audacious snap shot effort from all of 30 yards and Steve Tasker really should have put Storrington one up as he found himself in the clear and one on one with the Chichester keeper. Unfortunately, he pulled his shot wide of the target. Despite all their positive play, Storrington found themselves 1-0 down on 20 minutes and the fashion in which the goal was conceded was disappointing. A routine free kick was delivered into the Storrington penalty area and Chi's Jamie Ford was the only player to react as he was left totally free to head home from 12 yards out. Storrington heads didn't drop and they continued in search of their equaliser as there attacking play threatened from out wide. However, two goals in two minutes on the half hour mark put Chichester firmly in the driving seat. Their second was almost a carbon copy of the first but the third goal was a touch of class. Ben Vassallo linked up very nicely with Chi's wide midfielder whose return chipped pass was inch perfect and Vassallo finished calmly for his second of the game. Storrington's attitude and good play was rewarded with a goal just before half time. The ball fell to Dave Tidman who smashed the ball into the net with his left foot from close range to give The Swans a glimmer of hope.
Although there were no goals in the second half, the game was an enjoyable footballing spectacle. Bar the final 10 minutes, the home side arguably had the better of it with two guilt edged chances. The first fell to Dave Tidman when Craig Grantham's perfect delivery was volleyed wide from no more than 10 yards out. The second fell to Grantham himself as he found him self one on one with the keeper. His shot was fired straight at Chi's stopper who collected the ball easily.
The home side can be pleased with the way they approached the game this evening and they enjoyed some good periods of possession and attacking play against a very good Chichester side. Attention now turns to Saturday as Storrington travel to Southwick - a team seven places lower in the league but also a team who have beaten The Swans twice in Cup competitions this season.

TEAM: Elliott; Davis, McCall (Sleat), Blaydon, Watton; Potter (Humphreys); Tidman (Harding), Rhodie, Ayres, Tasker; Grantham

Hero To Zero!

Saturday 12th December - SCFL Division 2 - Storrington 0 Rustington 2

Match report unavailable

TEAM: Elliott; Blaydon, Hunter (Sleat), Carter, Watton (Davis); Tidman, Rhodie, Humphreys, Tasker; Harding, Grantham (Potter)

In-Form Grantham Secures All Three Points

Saturday 5th December - SCFL Division 2 - Little Common 0 Storrington 1

With more adverse weather, a slight surprise that today's fixture went ahead. All credit to Little Common for getting the game on but the pitch was far from perfect. Common had beaten The Swans in the League earlier in the season but Storrington ran out 2-1 winners at the back of September in the RUR Charity Cup. Hamilton made three changes to the side that lost to Lancing last week - Liam Humphreys was preferred on the left to Dave Tidman and Kristian Harding came straight in to partner Grantham upfront, with James Adebayo unavailable. Tom Carter was to arrive late due to work committments so Chris Watton slotted straight in at centre half alongside James Blaydon.
The conditions were far from ideal but it was The Swans who took a hold of the game and adjusted the quickest. Inside the first two minutes the visitors took the lead. Liam Humphreys made his return to the side felt as he saw his volley tipped onto the post only for Grantham to smash home the rebound. Storrington continued to dominate the half as Grantham and Harding were linking up very well up front and the confidence throughout the side was evident. Watton and Blaydon looked assured at the back, bar one speculative ball over the top that almost caught them out. Storrington might also have had a penalty in the first harlf in what seemed a fairly blatant foul on Grantham, only for the visitors' shouts to be waved away. In fact the only negatives of the first half for the visitors were the fact that their lead wasn't greater and the loss of Richard Ayres who had fallen awkwardly on his ankle.
Dave Tidman took up position out wide for the start of the second half, with Humphreys slotting into his more familiar central midfield role. The Swans were obviously keen to avoid a similar situation to the week before were all the hard work and good play would be undone during the second 45. Little Common came at Storrington as they enjoyed the lion's share of possession during the second half, but Storrington soaked up the pressure and defended well. Tom Carter and Storrington new boy, Darryll Hunter, were introduced in the second half, replacing Nathan Sleat and James Davis. Two more controversial incidents in the second half saw a blatant handball by the Common winger go un-noticed and also the late challenge on Gary Elliott go un-punished but Storrington remained resolute and saw down the clock.
A very welcome three points as Storrington climb to eighth in the table with seven wins and seven losses, leaving Hamilton with only one question... What if? What if The Swans could avoid the lapses in concentration and the silly mistakes? Possibly the area to now focus on as Storrington look to continue their climb up the table. An impressive debut for Hunter this afternoon and an attacking partnership that is really starting to gel as The Swans prepare to host relegation battlers Rustington at The Rec next week.

TEAM: Elliott; Davis (Carter), Sleat (Hunter), Blaydon, Watton; Humphreys, Rhodie, Ayres (Tidman), Tasker; Harding, Grantham

Return of the Bogeymen!

Saturday 28th November - SCFL Division 2 - Storrington 2 Lancing 3

Question marks over whether or not today's game would go ahead given recent conditions but it was all systems go at The Rec. No introductions needed for this game as it had now become apparent that Lancing were proving to be Storrington's 'bogey' team, without a win since December 2007 in a game that saw Craig Grantham get a brace in Swans' 2-1 win. Craig Grantham was in the starting line-up again today up-front but alongside young James Adebayo who replaced Kristian Harding who could only make the bench after picking up a knock in the week. Liam Humphreys was also unavailable for today's game so Dave Tidman slotted straight back in out on the left.
Storrington, for the second week running, started brightly and the front two of Grantham and Adebayo caused the Lancing back line real problems. There was also a lot of joy coming from out wide, with James Davis and Nathan Sleat both being able to get forward. On 10 minutes, it was the home side that took the lead in stylish fashion. Craig Grantham was picked out in the box and his quick flick, turn and volley was fired into the bottom corner, leaving Luke Green in the Lancing goal totally flat-footed. It looked like it could well be a comfortable afternoon for The Swans as the chances continued. Craig Grantham went very close again but managed to head James Blaydon's cross wide of the mark and all of the football and set pieces were taking place in the Lancing third. Sadly, Lancing got their equaliser against the run of play just before the half hour. Rob Partridge avoided the offside trap and held the ball up well to cut back for Darren Boswell to tap in from close range. After the equaliser, the tempo seemed to drop out of Storrington's attacking play but surely more of the same would be encouraged during the second half which would be enough to see Storrington take all three points.
Lancing took the lead soon after the re-start as Dan Griffin popped up to act as Storrington's nemesis once more. Griffin was afforded to much space in the box to turn and shoot from close range with Gary Elliott being left with no chance. The home side's body language changed instantly and heads started to drop. This game should have been out of sight during the first half but The Swans now found themselves chasing the lead. With 20 minutes left, Grantham got his second and gave The Swans renewed hope. Dave Tidman floated the ball in from the left and Grantham rose well to glance his header past Green. Ricky Hamilton introduced Matt Carter, Chris Chilvers and Kristian Harding for the final quarter of an hour as Storrington chased the winner but they were to be undone by some sloppy defending. Dan Ford arrived late for a Lancing corner and was allowed to volley Lancing's third from all of 18 yards. Lancing held out as Storrington desperately tried to push forward but they were left ruing a number of missed chances and the inability to turn long spells of dominance and possesion into clear cut chances and goals.
On a positive note, James Adebayo had a fantastic full debut and Craig Grantham looked as sharp as he as ever been and great to see him back amongst the goals. Swans travel to Little Common at the weekend in what will be a tough fixture.

TEAM: Elliott; Davis, Sleat, Blaydon, T Carter; Tidman (M Carter), Rhodie, Ayres (Harding), Tasker (Chilvers); Adebayo, Grantham. Subs not used: Beaumont, Hunter.

Ch-Oakers!

Saturday 21st November - SCFL Division 2 - Storrington 3 Oakwood 0

Back to the League today as Oakwood made the trip south, no doubt hoping to do the double over Storrington as they had won 2-1 at home earlier in the season. It has been a stop-start couple of weeks for The Swans with the midweek game against Midhurst being abandoned and the League game at the weekend being postponed due to the adverse weather. Dave Tidman picked up an injury in the game against Southwick so Liam Humphreys started out on the left with Craig Grantham coming back into the starting line-up upfront and Richard Ayres dropping back into midfield.
The conditions for today's game were testing. The rain was coming down in intervals and there was driving wind that would should play it's part. The Swans won the toss and attacked for the first half with the wind behind them, making their presence felt early on. Liam Humphreys gave the home side the lead on three minutes - Steve Tasker's cross was missed by everyone until Humphreys arrived late at the back post to poke home. Humphreys might also have got his second but his lob was cleared off the line and shouts for a penalty for the tackle that followed were waved away. The remainder of the first half was dominated by The Swans although this was mainly through possession without ever really trying to make the wind advantage count. Tom Carter went close on two occasions from corners. His first effort was volleyed just wide and his second was a well saved header. Oakwood are a good footballing and physical side and did have two good chances towards the end of the half. Storrington could consider themselves fortunate as they watched the Oakwood forward put two one-on-one chances wide of the target.
Hamilton warned against complacency during the second half and no doubt Oakwood would come out all guns blazing. Storrington did come under a little bit of pressure after the restart but dealt with it well and actually doubled their lead just before the hour. James Blaydon carried the ball out of defence and laid the ball off to Tasker. Blaydon continued his run and received the one-two from Tasker. Blaydon's low-driven cross was met by Grantham who slid in from close range for hi first goal since the middle of August. Storrington continued to look threatening going forward, whilst Oakwood were reduced to long range efforts and imposing themselves at set pieces.
Storrington got their thrird and killed the game off with about ten minutes remaining. Kristian Harding was played in and took his shot early. His well struck effort found the bottom right corner for his fifth of the season. It actually should have been four for the homeside after Grantham was fouled in the box in the dying minutes. Sadly, Liam Humphreys spot-kick was well saved. Nevertheless, a strong performance from Storring and another three points, lifting them to 9th in the League. Surely now it was time to put a bit of a run together and chase the leading pack?

TEAM: Elliott; Davis, Sleat, Blaydon, Carter; Humphreys, Rhodie, Ayres, Tasker; Harding, Grantham. Subs not used: Chilvers, Tidman, Watton

Sixty Minute Swans!

Tuesday 17th November - RUR Charity Cup 3rd Round - Storrington 1 Southwick 3

With last Tuesday's home game under lights abandoned after 45 minutes of football, tonight was to be the first full competitive fixture under the new Storrington floodlights. Derek Dyer had worked hard to bring the playing surface up to a fantastic standard for this evening's game against Southwick in the RUR Charity Cup. Lining up for the opposition tonight was former long-serving Swan Kristian Bridle, who had signed for The Wickers three weeks ago. Storrington made one change to the side that were leading Midhurst last week in the absence of Craig Grantham, Richard Ayres moved up to partner Kristian Harding in attack and Liam Humphreys slotted back in alongside John Rhodie in midfield.
The conditions made for a good first half with both sides trying to playing football. Storrington definitely enjoyed the better of the first half without forcing too many saves from the Southwick keeper. Gary Elliott in the Storrington goal was largely a spectator during the first half and the home team's back four looked very comfortable. Richard Ayres pulled out a couple of long range efforts with Liam Humphreys also going close with his effort sailing just over the bar. Kristian Harding saw an effort well saved down to the the keeper's right. For all their possession in the final third though, the home side failed to break the deadlock and the teams went in at half time all square at 0-0.
Storrington came out all guns blazing in the second half and got the lead they deserved on the hour mark. Kristian Harding broke free down the left and his low driven cross was turned into his own goal by the Southwick centre half. Unfortunately for the home, this is where the good news ended. Southwick got their equaliser from a corner after The Swans' defence had failed to organise quickly, leaving Jamie Stideford to head home from close range relatively un-challenged. Storrington shoulders seemed to physically drop after the goal and they started to defend deeper and deeper, inviting pressure. Dave Tidman brought down a Southwick forward on the edge of the box and injured himself in the process which allowed Rick Hamilton to make changes. Adebayo came on for the injured Tidman and John Rhodie was relaced by Luke Jearum. Southwick's resulting free-kick was an absolute screamer and only matched by the truly world class save by Elliott, tipping the ball on to the bar and out for a corner. Disappointingly, from the corner, David MacNeill was allowed to head home virtually standing on the goal line to make it 2-1. With Storrington pushing for the equaliser deep into stoppage time, Southwick killed the game off. With a hint of offside, Ryan Walton latched on to James Wotherspoon's flick and rounded Gary Elliott to slot home into an empty net for the third.
For an hour of this game there only looked like one team who would win it but the manner in which Storrington capitulated was very disappointing. So the Cup runs are over for now and Storrington can concentrate on the League, with 'concentrate' being the key word. The Swans have more than enough ability to beat anyone in the division but they must stay switched on for the full 90 minutes an beyond.

TEAM: Elliott; Davis, Sleat, Blaydon, Carter; Tidman (Adebayo), Rhodie (Jearum), Humphreys, Tasker; Ayres, Harding. Subs not used: Colwell

Harding Pings The Winner!

Saturday 7th November - SCFL Division 2 - Clymping 0 Storrington 1

A big game for Storrington today in terms of points and the League table. Both sides have had mixed fortunes this season and struggled with consistency, meaning they are both close to each other in the lower half of the table. Three points today would put some light between the winner and the trailing pack. Clymping were newly-promoted this season and former Swan Aaron Meehan was in the starting line-up to face his old club. With both Chris Watton and Matty Rance unavailable for Storrington, Tom Carter and Steve Tasker slotted straight into the starting eleven. The lively pairing of Craig Grantham and Kristian Harding started up-front.
The game was a fairly nervy affair to start with, with the majority of the football being played in the middle of the park. It was Storrington, however, who appeared to stamp their authority on the game first. The visitors enjoyed a lot of success down the left and the pace of Harding and Grantham was causing problems for the Clymping defence, with both having good efforts early on. For all their good play, the visitors conceded a silly penalty just before half time when James Davis was judged to have pushed his man in the back. Joe Shelley smashed the spot kick against the bar and out for a goal kick to keep the scores level at half time.
The penalty was a warning shot and a reminder to The Swans not to let the concentration slip during the next 45 minutes. Storrington stepped up their game and really tried to take the game to Clymping, with the home side failing to produce any attack of real note. The Storrington back four looked solid and the threat was always likely to come from the Harding / Grantham pairing. It was Kristian Harding who broke the deadlock for the visitors as he latched on to an inch perfect through ball from Richard Ayres. He took his shot early and volleyed the ball into the bottom right corner. Clymping enjoyed some pressure for the final minutes of the game but The Swans held firm to take all three points.
A poingnant fixture in The Swan's calendar on Tuesday night as they host Midhurst & Easebourne at The Rec for the inaugural game under the new Storrington floodlights.

TEAM: Elliott; Davis, Sleat, Blaydon, Carter; Tidman, Rhodie, Ayres, Tasker; Harding, Grantham. Subs not used: Colwell, Humphreys, Jearum

Down and Out!

Tuesday 3rd November - John O'Hara Cup 3rd Round - Crawley Down 2 Storrington 0

Away from League action tonight as The Swans travel to Crawley Down. After a good win against Crowborough in the previous round, Storrington would need to claim another Division 1 scalp if they were to progress in the competition. With Tom Carter and Liam Humphreys out of tonights fixture through injury, Chris Watton slotted into the centre of defence alongside Blaydon, with Richard Ayres dropping into centre midfield and Grantham starting up-front aongside Kristian Harding.
Tonight was a real opportunity to play with confidence and a nothing to lose mentality. The signs of this were eveident early on as the visitors seemed to cope with the challenging conditions and knocked the ball around well. However, the wind was taken out of the visitors' sails with less than 10 minutes gone... After some good work down the right by The Anvils, Storrington failed to stop the cross coming in that was in turn met by the head of Matt Beeston to give the home side the lead. Their second came 10 minutes later, sadly, in similar fashion but from the opposite flank. This time it was Daniel Sullivan who was allowed to head home from close range to double the home side's advantage. On the plus side, from this point on Storrington looked a good side but couldn't break down the Crawley Down defence. Craig Grantham actually had the ball in the back of the net on three separate occasion but all were ruled out for various reasons. Also, if Kristian Harding had timed some of his runs just a little better things may have been so different. Some very positive running made by the young forward but he was caught offside on too many occasions this evening.
Despite some good spells of possession by the visitors, Crawley Down closed out the game and held on for the win. Storrington can take many positives out of the game but must eradicate the silly mistakes and lapses in concentration if they are to really compete against the big boys. A very important fixture next as Storrington travel to newly-promoted Clymping who find themselves in a similar position so far this season.

TEAM: Elliott; Davis, Sleat, Blaydon, Watton; Tidman (Tasker), Ayres, Rhodie, Rance (Humphreys); Harding, Grantham. Subs not used: Colwell

Little To Shout About!

Saturday 31st October - SCFL Division 2 - Littlehampton Town 3 Storrington 0

Hamilton named an unchanged side for this afternoon's game following Storrington's win and first clean sheet of the season against Rustington. As usual, the surface at Littlehampton was in fantastic condition with Storrington looking for some consistency and Littlehampton looking to bounce back after their defeat in the week against East Preston.
Both sides started brightly, with Storrington enjoying their fair share of possession early on. Chances fell to both Richard Ayres and Kristian Harding but both fired their shots off target. Arguably, Littlehampton looked the more composed going forward but up until the half hour mark, the visitors had defended reasonably well. Littlehampton drew first blood on 37 minutes with a goal straight out of the top draw. After Nick Colwell had only half cleared his header, Town's Idriz Adedoja took the ball on his chest, spun and smashed home a 25 yard left-footed volley straight into the top corner. Sadly, Storrington received the sucker punch just before half time. Matt Russell had continued his run into the box and was oicked out from the left. As the Storrington back line all looked across for the offside flag, Russell calmly took his first touch and volleyed past Elliott from all of 4 yards out!
After the re-start, The Swans came out all guns blazing and enjoyed their best period of possession and attacking play. Tom Carter somehow managed to put a free header wide of the target from close range and both Dave Tidman and Kristian Harding had good chances to get Storrington back into the game. However, against the run of play, Littlehampton killed the game off. Barney Boutwood latched on to a through ball and slotted the ball between Gary Elliott's legs to make it 3-0.
Storrington continued to press but it was too little too late. Had they managed to pull the game back to 2-1, you got the impression they would have got something out of the game but the third goal sealed a disappointing afternoon for the visitors. Rick Hamilton continues to cry out for consistency in his side's performances and will no doubt be prepared to make further changes. The Swans travel to Crawley own on Tuesday night for a night away from League action.

TEAM: Elliott; Davis, Watton, Colwell (Blaydon), Carter; Tidman (Rance), Rhodie, Humphreys, Tasker; Ayres (Grantham), Harding

Swans Win With Rusty Performance!

Saturday 24th October - SCFL Div 2 - Rustington 0 Storrington 1

Given both teams' respective positions in the League Table, this game would not appear to be of any significance. However, with Rustington coming into today's fixture on the back of a 6-1 defeat to Worthing United and Storrington on the back of a 7-1 defeat to Loxwood, three points today would indeed be crucial. Rick Hamilton rang the changes, dropping Craig Grantham, James Blaydon, Nathan Sleat and Matty Rance to the bench and calling Chris Watton, Steve Tasker, Dave Tidman, Kristian Harding and Nick Colwell to the starting eleven. A statement of intent indeed...
The conditions for today's game were poor - a heavy pitch, strong winds and rain would surely not constitute an afternoon of sexy football! And that was the way it turned out. It was a hard fought first 45 minutes with neither side taking a firm hold of the game. A lot of Storrington's good work was coming down the left with both Watton and Tidman keen to cement their places. Kristian Harding too looked lively up front and, had it not been for a well disciplined Rustington back line, could have found himself through on goal on more than one occasion. However, the first half ended in stalemate, with neither goalkeeper being seriously tested.
The second half was better from Storrington's perspective. The back line had settled and looked solid, with James Davis getting forward whenever possible, and the better of the chances arguably fell to The Swans. The first really good chance fell to Dave Tidman who saw his well struck shot fly over the bar from only 12 yards out. John Rhodie also then went very close with a good long range effort that produced the save of the match from James Askew in the Rustington goal. Rustington did have chances of their own however and, had it not been for the upright and a superb last ditch tackle by Tom Carter, they themselves might have got their noses in front. With only 2 minutes of the game remaining, Storrington took all three points. The persistence of Liam Humphreys saw him slot the ball home from a very tight angle. A poignant day the The Swans midfielder, who was clearly delighted with his goal, which also moves him to top scorer.
Not a classic by any stretch of the imagination but a very important result after the Loxwood game. Storrington must now put a run together if they are to really climb the table.

TEAM: Elliott; Davis, Watton, Colwell, Carter; Tidman (Rance), Rhodie, Humphreys, Tasker; Ayres, Harding (Grantham). Subs not used: Blaydon, Sleat

Swans Embarrassed In Local Derby

Saturday 17th October - SCFL Division 2 - Loxwood 7 Storrington 1

This game should have had all the hallmarks of a fiercely contested local derby. Unfortunately for the travelling Storrington fans, The Swans did not come for the fight. To write a report on this game would suggest there was something worth writing but unfortunately, apart from the first 10 minutes of the game, there was not. Liam Humphreys put Storrington ahead from the penalty spot after Craig Grantham was brought down in the box but from there on in the afternoon deteriorated. Storrington were undone by a side that, on paper, would appear to be on a par but, in the desire to win, Storrington fell way short.
One can only hope this goes down as a horrible blip otherwise it could be a long season ahead.

TEAM: Elliott; Davis (Colwell), Sleat, Blaydon, Carter; Tilley (Tasker), Rhodie, Humphreys, Rance; Ayres, Grantham (Harding)

Harding To The Rescue!

Saturday 10th October - SCFL Division 2 - Sidley United 1 Storrington 2

After all the recent rain, the sun was shining in East Sussex for this afternoon's game against another one of the division's top sides. The playing surface was in great condition and the the visitors were very aware of the task in hand and the performance required. More changes to the starting line-up today... Nathan Sleat returned at left-back, allowing John Rhodie to take up position in the centre of midfield. Matty Rance got his first start of the season after impressing in the week at East Preston and Richard Ayres started up-front alongside Grantham, with Kristian Hardig starting on the bench. Also today, after a long lay off, Gary Elliott returned in goal for the visitors for his first competitive match since the middle of August. Nick Colwell and Steve Tasker occupied the other slots on the bench.
The game again started at a frantic pace with both sides keen to stamp their authority early on. It was Storrington who started the brighter and got their noses in front with barely three minutes of the game gone. With a free-kick awarded just inside their own half, it was Nathan Sleat's pin-point delivery that was met by the head of Liam Humphreys to nod home for his fourth of the season. The game was very open, with both sides having chances during the first half. Both Craig Grantham and Richard Ayres looked bright up-front and young Matty Rance was making a very good impression on his first start of the season. The best chances of the half after the goal fell to Nick Tilley who rounded the keeper on two occasions but could not find the back of the net. Storrington continued to press for their second but Sidley pressed equally hard for the equaliser and had it not been for a superb double save by Elliott and the Storrington woodwork, Sidley could have nudged themselves in front. However, on the stroke of half time, the home side got their equaliser. The Storrington back line had held firm and defended well all half but was eventually caught out by the long kick of the Sidley keeper. His kick was brought down well by Kenny Pogue who in turn set up Alan McMinigal to slot home from just inside the penalty area.
On their second half performance, Storrington can probably just about feel the three points were justified. The first big chance fell to Nathan Sleat. Some good work by Tilley saw him felled in the penalty area and the referee had no hesitation in pointing to the spot. Having scored against Oakwood from the spot earlier in the season, Sleat stepped up but managed to drag his shot wide of the target. Sidley were not without their chances during the second period and the game remained open but Elliott in the Storrington goal had less to do. Without about 20 minutes of the game remaining James Blaydon came off after a clash with Gary Elliott and Hamilton made changes. Blaydon was replaced by young Nick Colwell and Grantham was replaced upfront by Kristian Harding. Both substitutes made a positive impact on the game. Colwell slotted straight in as though he had been playing there all season and Harding got the visitors their winner. Harding raced on to a ball over the top and took his shot early, catching the Sidley keeper flat footed. Storrington defended well for the remainder of the game and battled hard for a very good three points away to an organised Sidley side.
Loxwood are next up for The Swans in what should be another tough encounter.

TEAM: Elliott; Davis, Sleat, Blaydon (Colwell), Carter; Tilley (Tasker), Rhodie, Humphreys, Rance; Ayres, Grantham (Harding)

Too Little Too Late!

Tuesday 6th October - SCFL Division 2 - East Preston 2 Storrington 1

The first midweek League action of the season saw The Swans travel to hotly-tipped East Preston tonight, in what should be a good encounter. Rain had fallen steadily throughout the day, leaving a zippy surface for two teams who like to play football. With both Nathan Sleat and Steve Tasker unavailable for tonight's game for Storrington, the versatile John Rhodie dropped in at left-back and Nathan Tilley moved inside to partner Liam Humphreys in the centre of midfield.
The game started at a fairly phrenetic pace, with the home side enjoying the lion's share of possession during the early exchanges. As the game went on, Storrington found themselves under the cosh for large periods of the first half as East Preston's movement off the ball caused the visitors problems. Craig Grantham and Nick Tilley both had chances in the first half and Liam Humphreys appeared to have his shirt pulled in the East Preston penalty area for what looked like a stick-on penalty. Despite all the appeals, the man in the middle did not reach for his whistle. However, it was definitely Nick Taylor in the Storrington goal who was the busier during the first half and, had it not been for three or four first class saves, Storrington could have found themselves with a mountain to climb. As it was, East Preston nudged themselves ahead by a single goal just before half time. Jay Huet found the net after the ball was well flicked on from an East Preston corner.
It took the stern words at half-time to spark Storrington into life and from the start of the second half, it was all out attack from the visitors. Richard Ayres went close with a long range effort from out wide and both Craig Grantham and Kristian Harding continued to look lively up front. Nick Tilley also went close again after a superb mazy run, but the finish wasn't quite there. Against the run of play, however, Terry Dodd doubled the home side's lead with about 20 minutes remaining. His excellent turn in the box lost James Davis and gave him enough time to finish calmly beyond Taylor. Storrington did not give up and Rick Hamilton introduced young Matty Rance in place of Dave Tidman out on the right hand side of midfield. Rance's impact was felt almost immediate as his pin point left footed cross found Liam Humphreys who volleyed home for his third of the season. At 2-1 down, it was a tense final 10 minutes but East Preston's defence held firm.
Storrington enjoyed their moments in this game and played very well for the final 20 minutes but they will need to come out all guns blazing if they are to really compete with the top teams in this division and East Preston are certainly one of those. A tough trip away to Sidley next in what will be another good gauge of Storrington's progress.

TEAM: Taylor; Davis, Rhodie, Blaydon, Carter; Ayres, Humphreys, Tilley, Tidman (Rance); Harding, Grantham. Subs not used: Colwell, M Carter

Lacklustre Swans Pay For Missed Chances

Saturday 3rd October - Division 2 Challenge Cup 2nd Round - Storrington 1 Lancing 2

Yet more Cup action today in a competition that perhaps Storrington may fancy themselves to do well. Lancing were the visitors today for the teams' first encounter this season, with two changes made to the side that performed so well last week in the win against Little Common. Dave Tidman was preferred to Steve Tasker out wide and Kristian Harding started up front in place of Richard Ayres who was carrying a slight knock and so started today's game on the bench. Matty Rance was also involved for today's fixture.
In very blustery conditions and on a very hard surface, this was never going to be one for the purists. The conditions did detract slightly from the way the home side usually like to play but, whilst Storrington never really looked like they had got going, they did certainly dominate proceedings early on. Dan Griffin and Rob Partridge up front for the visitors were always going to be a handful but Carter and Blaydon seemed untroubled during the early exchanges. It was Storrington who drew first blood just after the half an hour mark as Dave Tidman was played through on goal. Tidman showed great composure in front of goal and slotted home inside the near post. Storrington had further chances throughout the half with Humphreys going close with a free-kick and Harding and Grantham will also feel they could have added to the tally on another day. Despite a below par first 45 minutes, Storrington went in a goal to the good.
What happened in the second half can only be described as an implosion... Storrington went from being mediocre to poor in the space of 15 minutes. They didn't keep the ball anywhere near as well as they had done during the first half and the game was spun on it's head in 8 crazy minutes. Firstly, a fairly routine ball over the top was not dealt with and Rob Partridge ran clear to finish well, slotting the ball under Taylor in the Storrington goal. With 20 minutes of the game remaining, Lancing grabbed their second. Dan Griffin was felled by Nathan Sleat in the area and the referee pointed to the spot. Rob Partridge completed his brace and put the Lancers in control. The quality of the football deteriorated and the game became a bit niggly, mainly due to frustration setting in. Despite the introductions of Rance, Tasker and Ayres for The Swans, they still lacked that cutting edge in front of goal and were made to pay for some of the early missed chances. Lancing's Dan Griffin and Michael Sims were also denied by the woodwork late on.
Lancing probably just did enough to merit their victory but it was a very disappointing display from the home side, who may have felt they could have won the game comfortably on another day. Back to the serious business of the League on Tuesday night as The Swans travel to Lashmar to face newly-relegated East Preston.

TEAM: Taylor; Davis, Sleat, Blaydon, Carter; Tilley (Rance), Rhodie, Humphreys, Tidman (Tasker); Harding (Ayres), Grantham

Jinx! What Jinx?

Saturday 26th September - RUR Charity Cup 2nd Round - Storrington 2 Little Common 1

Although the teams' earlier meeting in the League this season might suggest otherwise, Storrington were confident going into this game on the back of their performance and result last week away at Crowborough. Tom Carter arrived on time this week to slot straight back into the heart of the defence and John Rhodie took up his familiar position alongside Humphreys in midfield. Nick Tilley reverted back to his role out wide with Dave Tidman dropping to the bench alongside Harding, Adebayo. Youth Team player Matty Rance also graced the bench for his first call-up of the season.
If the home side were to get anything out of today's game they would first need to negate the obvious threat from Little Common's attacking players and also really take the game to the visitors. For the third game running, the home side started well. It was a fairly even first 15 minutes but Nick Tilley looked lively down the left and Craig Grantham was proving a real handful up-front. The home side started to dominate proceedings and had their chances to take the lead early on, with the best of those chances falling to Tilley whose shot went back across goal but wide. Storrington were rewarded for their dominance in possession with about ten minutes to go until half time. Richard Ayres picked up the ball about 20 yards out and fired home into the net with the keeper well beaten. Common were almost gifted an equaliser as Nick Taylor attempted to take the ball round Lewis Hole but was disposessed. However, Taylor recovered extremely well to keep Storrington's sheet clean.
With only a few minutes of the second half gone, Little Common were given a lifeline, against the run of play. Tom Carter put in a great challenge in the box but in the melée that followed, James Blaydon was adjudged to have fouled and the referee pointed to the spot. Lee Davidson made no mistake withh the penalty, sending Nick Taylor the wrong way. Although Common pulled themselves back level, Storrington continued to play with confidence in search of another goal. Nick Taylor was rarely called into action in the Storrington goal but at the other end good chances again fell to both Nick Tilley and Liam Humphreys, who saw his point blank header well saved.
James Adebayo, Kristian Harding and Dave Tidman were all brought on for their pace in the last 15 minutes and it was the combination of Adebayo and Harding that resulted in The Swans' winner with only seconds remaining. Adebayo's flick found Harding who latched onto the ball at pace. He rounded the keeper and calmly slotted the ball home to give Storrington their second Cup tie win in as many weeks. Southwick are Storrington's next opponents in RUR Cup with The Swans looking for revenge after their Senior Cup exit. Lancing visit The Rec next weekend in the second round of the Division 2 Challenge Cup, a competition in which Storrington would very much hope to do well.

TEAM: Taylor; Davis, Sleat, Blaydon, Carter; Tilley, Rhodie, Humphreys, Tasker (Tidman); Ayres (Harding), Grantham (Adebayo)

A Result to Crow About!

Saturday 19th September - John O'Hara Cup 2nd Round - Crowborough Athletic 1 Storrington 2

More Cup action this afternoon as Storrington travelled to East Sussex to face newly-relegated Crowborough Athletic from the Ryman League. Crowborough have made a sluggish start to life back in the County League and Storrington would be hoping to bounce back from their midweek defeat to Southwick in the Senior Cup. Preparations were not ideal for the away side as Tom Carter announced he would not be able to start the game due to work committments over-running, meaning changes were forced. John Rhodie dropped back into the centre of defence with Nick Tilley moving into the centre of midfield and both Steve Tasker and Dave Tidman were recalled to the starting line-up after missing out on Tuesday evening's game. Richard Ayres partnered Craig Grantham up front with the youthful Kristian Harding and James Adebayo joining the more experienced Carter on the bench.
Fantastic facilities at Crowborough but the pitch was not quite up to the same standard, however, both teams did try to play football. As they had done on Tuesday evening, Storrington started with a high tempo and went ahead after just 10 minutes. Some good work down the right by Steve Tasker saw him get a first time ball into the box for Richard Ayres to latch on to and slot home from close range. The first half was fairly evenly contested after the goal but Storrington looked the more composed as the home side became increasingly frustrated. Craig Grantham was proving a real handful up front for the visitors and the back four, including the out of position John Rhodie, kept a high line and looked solid. The best chance of the half for Crowborough came just before the half time whistle and had it not been for an absolutely first class save from Nick Taylor in the Storrington goal the home side would have gone in on level terms.
As expected, Crowborough went in search of the equaliser and enjoyed some longer spells of possession, although without ever really testing Taylor. The away side made changes in the second half, with Liam Humphreys coming off for Tom Carter who slotted straight into the defence and James Adebayo and Kristian Harding coming on for Dave Tidman and Craig Grantham respectively. Soon after these changes, Crowborough found themselves level in controversial circumstances. Jamie Buckett was played in and appeared to be several yards offside, however, there was no flag and Buckett finished well, making for a tense final quarter of an hour. Storrington were determined to get the result and continued to press with the evntual winner coming about 10 minutes from time. Steve Tasker's corner was met by the head of Tom Carter who powered his header past the Crowborough keeper.
So, the Storrington Cup Jinx has finally been broken after an unenviable run and the home side can take many positives from today's performance in what would have been one of the afternoon's major upsets. More Cup action on Saturday as Storrington host Little Common in the RUR Charity Cup.


TEAM: Taylor; Davis, Sleat, Blaydon, Rhodie; Tidman (Adebayo), Humphreys (Carter), Tilley, Tasker; Ayres, Grantham (Harding)

Daylight Robbery on a Tuesday Night!

Tuesday 15th September - Sussex Senior Cup 1st Round - Southwick 2 Storrington 1

Away from League action for The Swans tonight as they travelled to meet Southwick in the first round of the Sussex Senior Cup. The prize for tonight's victors would be an away tie against a Brighton & Hove Albion XI in the next round. Historically, Storrington have always done well against Southwick and were on the right end of two 4-2 victories last season. With most of the first team squad available, Hamilton picked a strong side for tonight's game with James Blaydon slotting back in alongside Tom Carter and a front six that were to play together for the first time this season. Nick Tilley and Richard Ayres occupied the wide positions while Kristian Harding and Craig Grantham started upfront. Nick Taylor, dual signed with Crawley Town, came straight in between the sticks for the away side.
The tone and pace of the game was set from very early on. Both sides were keen to stamp their authority with some quick passing and strong challenges. Appearing to have a good hold on the game, Storrington suddenly found themselves 1-0 down after only five minutes. Dom Shepherd had drawn the foul in the Storrington half and the resulting delivery managed to find the head of the smallest player on the park who nodded back across goal for Ryan Walton to slot home Southwick's first from close range. Undeterred, Storrington stuck to the task and dominated possession for large spells during the first half. Tilley and Ayres always posed a threat out wide and the partnership of Rhodie and Humphreys worked tirelessly in the centre of midfield. Despite Storrington's dominance, they lacked that bit of creativity and clinical finishing in the final third and Southwick's defence held firm until half time.
Storrington started the second half as they had finished the first and kept the tempo high. Their equaliser came within 10 minutes of the restart as Liam Humphreys found himself in the right place at the right time. The ball was delivered into the Southwick penalty area and not dealt with. In turn it fell to Humphreys who was actually on the floor at the time but managed to stick a leg out and poke home from inside 6 yards. From that point on it felt like there would be only one team that would go on and win the game. However, someone once said that football was a funny old game and it proved to be the case tonight. For all their effort and attacking dominance, Storrington just couldn't finish the job off and it looked as though the game may head into extra time. Southwick still had something to say about the outcome and got their winner with less than 10 minutes remaining. Storrington were caught out on the break as the ball fell to Ryan Walton on the left who rounded his marker and delivered a low cross to the near post for Nick Green to smash home. Storrington threw everyone forward for the last few minutes but it wasn't to be.
Storrington's debutant goalkeeper's only responsibility was to pick the ball out of the net on two occasions and if The Swans play like this each week they will win far more than they lose. However, they must eradicate the silly mistakes and concentrate for 90 minutes if they are to come away with clean sheets but, for now, Storrington's early Cup exit taboo continues...

TEAM: Taylor; Davis, Sleat, Blaydon, Carter; Ayres, Humphreys, Rhodie (Jearum), Tilley; Harding, Grantham. Subs not used: Watton, Tidman, Tasker, Beaumont

Sexy Kit Equals Sexy Football!

Saturday 5th September - SCFL Div 2 - Storrington 4 Westfield 2

With no game last weekend and the postponement of the Senior Cup tie in the week, it was Westfield who made the long trip across Sussex to The Rec for this afternoon's game in what was sure to be tough fixture. Storrington would be looking to blow away the cobwebs but Westfield have always been a difficult side to beat. More changes to the Storrington starting eleven, with starting places for Nick Tilley up front in the absence of the suspended Grantham and Harding and Tom Carter who goes straight back into the centre of defence after his return from holiday and the absence of Dean Potter. Liam Humphreys is preferred in the centre of midfield and two rising stars in the faces of James Adebayo and Luke Jearum start on the bench. Storrington's new kit had arrived in time for today's game and they would no doubt be hoping to play the part and not just look it!
The early signs were good as Storrington took the game to Westfield and, as they have done in recent weeks, opened the scoring early on. Richard Ayres' beautifully executed lob found it's way into the net after only six minutes of the game had been played. Storrington continued to press and there looked to be only one team in it during the first half. Liam Humphreys was having a particularly good game in the centre of midfield, dominating everything in the air. Storrington thought they had doubled their lead 10 minutes later, only for James Davis' effort to be ruled offside after he had "knee'd" home from 6 yards out! However, Storrington did increase their lead further as they rallied towards the end of the half. First John Rhodie, renowned for his spectacular goals albeit very few of them, was given too much time and space on the edge of the box, allowing him to smash home with his left foot into the top corner. The final goal of the half came two minutes later... Steve Tasker's corner was flicked on by James Blaydon who found Nick Tilley free at the back post to head home from close range. So, 3-0 the score at half-time with complacency being the only thing to be wary of.
The second half continued in the same vain although The Swans' next goal did come sightly on the counter attack. Westfield did not clear the ball effectively as it fell to Humphreys on the edge of their box who struck home left-footed on the half volley, putting Storrington four goals to the good with just over half an hour to play. It wasn't until the fourth goal had gone in that Westfield seemed to spark into life as they went about enjoying their own spell of dominance. The visitors threw men forward, with the most threatening of their outlets actually coming from their right-back. It was his surging run into Storrington's penalty area that created their first goal as the ball bounced around and fell to the Westfield forward who slotted in from close range. Kristian Bridle came on for Liam Humphreys who had picked up a knock and James Adebayo came on up front in place of Nick Tilley. Adebayo got involved quickly and actually had the ball in the back of the net with only 10 minutes to go, however, his effort was ruled out for offside. Westfield got their second with only a few minutes remaining. Another strong run by their right back saw him get fouled on the edge of The Swans' penalty area. The resulting free-kick was well dispatched into the top corner.
All in all, a good day at the office for the home side and nice to get back to winning ways, although the manner in which the goals were conceded was slightly disappointing. Storrington always look dangerous going forwards but must make sure they protect their lead and close out matches.

TEAM: Beaumont; Davis, Sleat, Blaydon, Carter; Tidman (W Brownlee), Rhodie, Humphreys (Bridle), Tasker; Ayres, Tilley (Adebayo). Subs not used: Jearum

Sluggish Swans have little to smile about...

Saturday 22nd August - SCFL Div 2 - Storrington 0 Little Common 3

The relatively unknown quantity of Little Common made the long trip to The Rec for this afternoon's game. Having finished last season as Runners Up, Little Common had secured promotion from Division 3 and had made a good start to their Senior football campaign by beating Steying on the opening day. Storrington were coming off the back of a decent performance against Rye last week but were forced to make two changes to that side. Mark Beaumont was called up to deputise for Gary Elliott between the sticks after Elliott had picked up a nasty infection in his leg and Will Brownlee made way for Dave Tidman after he was ruled out through injury. Kristian Harding returned to the squad but started today's game on the bench.
For the second week running, Storrington started brightly and signalled their intentions early on and really should have taken the lead after only 10 minutes. Steve Tasker found himself with time in the box and fired his shot goalwards, only for it to be stopped by the hand of the Common full-back. He then fired the subsequent rebound into the net but the referee had already blown his whistle and pointed to the spot. A yellow card and the penalty was deemed suitable punishment by the man in the middle but the normally pin-point accurate Richard Ayres saw his spot kick well saved by the Common goalkeeper. It was a significant point in the game as The Swans were in the ascendancy. The remainder of the half fizzled out as both sides started to cancel each other out, although Grantham and Ayres both had chances to give the home side the lead.
After the first half penalty miss, the next goal was going to be very important. Unfortunately for the home side, Little Common drew first blood within 10 minutes of the re-start. Lewis Hole, Common's centre forward and stand-out player, was released by a ball over the top and slotted past Mark Beaumont. Within five minutes, Common had doubled their lead with another straight forward move. Hole latched on to another through ball and despatched the ball past Beaumont once again, although this time Beaumont certainly left his mark on the centre forward. The good thing for The Swans was that there was still at least half an hour left to try and get something out of the game and John Rhodie very nearly pulled one back for Storrington, only to see his lobbed effort just clear the crossbar.
Changes were made with about 15 minutes to go with Kristian Harding and Liam Humphreys coming on to try and spice up the attacking options and Chris Watton replaced Blaydon in the centre of defence. Harding's impact was immediately felt and he looked very lively upfront, buzzing around the Common back four trying to make space for himself. However, it was to be one of those days as Common killed off the game and scored their third with less than 10 minutes of the game remaining. Adam Fisher's pace got him in behind the Storrington defence and he finished well from inside the box.
A very disappointing day at the office for Storrington. They created chances but lacked any real cutting edge and the defence did not deal with Little Common's pace upfront. At this stage in the season a game like this can be written off and forgotten about but it will take a strong performance in the next game to really put today out of people's minds. No game next weekend so The Swans will have to turn their attentions to either Southwick in the Senior Cup or Westfield in the League, depending on how results go.

TEAM: Beaumont; Davis, Sleat, Potter, Blaydon (Watton); Tidman (Harding), Bridle, Rhodie, Tasker; Ayres (Humphreys), Grantham. Subs not used: M Brownlee, Thomsom

Rye take all three points after Swans' very bright start...

Saturday 15th August - SCFL Div 2 - Storrington 1 Rye United 3

Rye United made the long trip West for today's clash in what would be a good opportunity for the home side to gauge their progress against a side tipped by many to be right up there at the end of the season. Confidence was high following last week's 3-2 win against Seaford but Rick Hamilton was forced to make three changes to that side. With Tom Carter and Liam Humphreys both away on holiday, John Rhodie slotted straight into centre midfield and James Blaydon moved to play alongside Dean Potter at centre half, giving James Davis his first start at right-back. Craig Grantham returned from holiday to start up front alongside Richard Ayres in the absence of Kristian Harding through illness.
The home side made the best possible start to the game... With not even a minute gone of the game and without a Rye player touching the ball, Storrington had taken the lead. Craig Grantham got his first of the season after he was released into the Rye penalty area following some lovely one-touch football. Grantham then finished clinically with his left foot to make it 1-0. Storrington could and possibly should have doubled their lead literally two minutes later as Ayres was released down the right. With the on-rushing keeper off his line, Ayres could only watch his effort clip the bar and go out for a goal kick. In spite of Storrington enjoying a great start and some early dominance, Rye have too much quality to not be able to retaliate but it was a soft goal that drew them level. Sam Cole arrived late at the back post from a Rye corner to nod home from close range amd make it 1-1. The disappointing thing for the home fans was the amount of freedom Cole was afforded. Rye enjoyed the majority of the possession during the remainder of the half but Gary Elliott was not required to make any meaningful saves.
Chris Watton appeared for the second half at right-back to replace Will Brownlee who was struggling with an ankle injury, with James Davis pushing up to the right side of midfield. Rye started the second half how they had finished the first, enjoying some prolongued periods but Storrington created some chances of their own. Storrington's best chance of the half probably fell to John Rhodie after a defensive mix-up. Rye's goalkeeper was well off his line but Rhodie's lobbed attempt hit the top of the net. The longer the game went on, the more you felt that maybe the home side could hang on and nick a point but, it wasn't to be. Rye bought on the former Westfield striker, Dom Clarke, who headed home from a Rye corner with his first touch of the ball with only 10 minutes remaining. Another soft goal to concede but Storrington continued in search of the equaliser. Rye wrapped up all three points with an injury time penalty, as Blaydon was adjudged to have handled in the area. Gary Elliott, who'd had a good game, was unlucky not to have saved McArthur's strike as he dived the right way getting down well to his left.
The 3-1 scoreline may have been slightly flattering to the visitors but Storrington would have been fortunate to have taken anything from the game. The defeat itself not the most disappointing thing for the home side but more the manner in which they conceded. The season is now underway and the focus on fitness and concentration will play it's part, starting next week as Storrington host Division Two new boys, Little Common.

TEAM: Elliott; Davis, Sleat, Potter, Blaydon; Tasker (Thomson), Bridle, Rhodie, W Brownlee (Watton); Ayres, Grantham. Subs not used: M Brownlee

Winning Start

Saturday 8th August - SCFL Div 2 - Storrington 3 Seaford Town 2

So today was the day for competitive football to start once again at The Rec. The floodlights had been erected, the pitch was in fine condition and the squad had seen some changes during a positive pre-season. After a strong finish to last season, there was an overall air of optimism around the club regarding the campaign ahead. Today's visitors were Seaford Town who The Swans had historically enjoyed a lot of success against, although it was one win each last season.
Two new signings started the match for the home side with Nathan Sleat arriving from Broadbridge Heath at left-back and Will Brownlee joining from Fleet at right-wing. The impressive pairing of Ayres and Harding started up-front, with the hope of carrying on from where they left off last season. Two further new signings started on the bench for Storrington in the form of James Davis who had signed from local rivals Steyning and Jon Thomson.
The game got off to a good start for the home side as they looked the more comfortable team on the ball, trying to exploit the pace of Harding up front where possible, and Kristian Bridle and Liam Humphreys in the centre of the park seemed to be winning the midfield battle. Storrington took the lead just after the half hour mark through Richard Ayres. Steve Tasker was challenged heavily but his header found Humphreys as the referee allowed played to go on. Humphreys in turn found Ayres in the box who turned and shot under the goalkeeper. Both sides had their chances during the first 45 minutes but Storrington were worthy of their half-time lead.
As expected, Seaford came out all guns blazing at the start of the second half and pressed for their equaliser. Scott Dartnell went closest for the visitors, but James Blaydon ensured his shot was blocked for a corner. Despite their dominance in terms of possession, Gary Elliott was rarely called into action and The Swans doubled their lead with a great piece of counter-attacking play with just 15 minutes remaining. Storrington cleared their lines with a hopeful ball upfield that probably should have been dealt with better, but the pace of Harding allowed him to get in behind Town's defence and finish with a superb lob over Levett in the Seaford goal.
The final 15 minutes of this game descended into mild chaos! With less than 10 minutes left on the watch, Rickie Mitchell managed to bundle home a right footed cross with his chest to make it 2-1. Five minutes later, Storrington increased the gap to two again as Harding turned provider, his cross setting up Ayres to head home for his second of the game. The game should then have been all over but Seaford continued to press and Storrington's tiredness was starting to show. With only a couple of minutes remaining, Adam Kneller made a tense finish even tenser as he got Seaford's second, latching onto a good cross from the right. Deep into stoppage time Seaford might have even got their equaliser had in not been for a fine save by Elliott from Tom Callaghan's well struck volley.
So not the best performance from Storrington by a long stretch but a very welcome win and a fantastic start to the new season. This will no doubt give the side confidence going into next Saturday's fixture, a very tough tie at home to hotly-tipped Rye United.

TEAM: Elliott; Blaydon, Sleat, Carter, Potter (Davis); Tasker, Bridle, Humphreys (M Brownlee), W Brownlee (Tidman); Ayres, Harding. Subs not used: Thomson, Ansley