RUSTINGTON OTTERS 1 HORSHAM 3

Kieran Towse, Dan Petchey, Stuart Chester, Joss Knowles, Matt Mayes, David O’Callaghan, Daryl Jeeves, Marcus Collier, Matt Clarke, George Hall, Louis Masih Subs – Lewis Goldsmith, Mackie Law, Zack Gray.

Goalscorers – Matthew Clarke, George Hall, Matt Mayes

Matt Bulley’s Horsham side travelled to Rustington Otters for an important league match, Otters being equal on points at the moment and one of the form teams in the Arun & Chichester League's 'A' Division.

The match was just six minutes old when Horsham went ahead when a cross by Louis Masih was mishit by Marcus Collier and ran on into the path of Matt Clarke who slotted into the bottom right of the goal. A further seven minutes of attacking play by Horsham saw them double their lead when a ball, lofted over the top by Daryl Jeeves, was then lifted over the oncoming 'keeper by George Hall. The rest of the half was fairly even with Rustington trying to find a way back into the game.

The second half saw the Otters coming out all guns blazing and, in the 42nd minute, a fine diving save by Kieran Towse denied them pulling a goal back. At this point Horsham replaced Marcus Collier for Zack Gray. Rustington carried on attacking in force and Towse was again called on to save a point blank shot. A minute later, from the ensuing corner, a block by Stuart Chester on the line and then a clearance from Joss Knowles kept the home side at bay.In the following break Horsham won a corner, taken by Matt Mayes. The ball crossed the goalmouth untouched before hitting the far post and going in.

At 3-0 down, the Otters still didn’t give up and finally pulled one back when a shot from outside the box cleared the 'keeper and hit the underside of the crossbar. With nine minutes to go, Lewis Goldsmith came on for Daryl Jeeves who was struggling with a knock. The play continued to be very open with Horsham having a couple of good chances to extend their lead.

Horsham’s 3 – 1 win takes them to the top of the table ahead of Adur Athletic on goal difference. Next week sees Horsham host Worthing United Youth B, who they beat at the start of the season.

NEXT MATCH: v Worthing United Youth B (h) Sunday 28th October