Saxons suffer fifth straight loss

The result leaves Saxons second-bottom of South Hockey League Kent/Sussex - Regional 2 and level on points with basement outfit Sutton Valence II, who they face in their final fixture at the end of March.

Saxons are also four points behind third-bottom Canterbury III with a vastly inferior goal difference having scored fewer than any other team in the division.

The Hastings club started the game well. Keeping possesion well with some good passing moves, Saxons created a few opportunities. They conceded an unfortunate first goal, however, which was followed quickly by a second from a penalty flick.

This left Saxons facing a big uphill battle against a Brighton side lying third in the table and boasting the division’s second best scoring record.

The second half also began encouragingly for Saxons, who carved out a few more chances, but were unable to prevent Brighton scoring a third.

Saxons then sat back and were more relaxed on the ball, although Brighton were able to extend their lead further and pushed on to win the game 5-0.

Despite the scoreline, Saxons actually played some of their best hockey in this game featuring strong link-up play between the midfield players with captain Paddy Cornish at the centre. This was backed up by some strong defending, but the lack of goals meant they returned home empty-handed.