Played in the right spirit both sides started brightly and there was some good attacking play from both teams . Hailsham nearly took the lead on 10 minutes when a terrific dipping volley by Tristan Jarvis from the edge of the area rocked the Crows crossbar.

Crowborough were also carving out some great opportunities with Callum Ridley, Tom Saunders , Harry Thompson and Sam Carrington guilty of all missing good chances. On 31 minutes we had a massive shout for a penalty when Hailsham’s Steven Eearly appeared to block a shot with his arm but the referee waved play on. At the other end Shane Saunders had a great opportunity but an excellent last ditch tackle by Kevin Everest prevented him pulling the trigger.

The half ended with Carrington trying to lob Benoit Beaujeau in the Hailsham goal but the Frenchman saved excellently to keep the match goalless at the interval.

Crowborough started the second half much the better side and Hailsham were continually pushed back by some controlled possession and incisive passing. The goal was coming and on 54 minutes a great piece of work by Thompson gave Paul Butler the simple job of tapping in from close range.
Two minutes later Carrington scored a great individual goal finishing across the goalkeeper into the far corner to the delight of the home crowd.

In probably their best performance this season the Crows were now in total control and creating chances at will however sloppy finishing and poor decision making in front of goal meant the game wasn’t put to bed.
The crows management now gave a first team debut to 17 year old Theo Cunningham who replaced Thompson on 65 minutes; another exciting prospect for the Crows joining the growing list of under 18 players progressing to the senior side. He quickly demonstrated the potential he has to offer with his quick and intelligent play.

On 85 minutes against the run of play Shane Saunders slammed the ball in for Hailsham to make it a nervy end for Crowborough but they held out well to earn the three points