Back to back wins as Blues beat Affa
(April 19, 2023)
Bexhill A.A.C 1 - 2 Sidley United - ESFL Premier Division
Sidley United made it back to back comeback wins in the ESFL Premier Division with victory in the local derby.
With both teams and the referee agreeing to play 40 minute halves, the Blues faced off against an Athletic side featuring a number of former Sidley players and they began positively with Archie Ball looking particularly threatening and it was he who came closest to scoring as he poked the ball past the onrushing goalkeeper only to see a covering defender clear off the line.
But Athletic took the lead on 33 minutes as Ben Ferguson headed home a corner. Sidley thought they had responded just minutes later as Logan Copley's free kick from the right appeared to evade everyone and nestle in the net but an offside flag saw the goal ruled out.
Sidley remained positive though and on the stroke of half time they did level. Again a set piece proved to be key as Hempe's lovely free kick found Andy Atkin who made no mistake in heading home to bring the sides level at the break.
Sidley looked threatening and Lewis Wade almost got on the end of a ball across from Atkin before they took the lead. On 47 minutes another excellent free kick from Copley was met by Steve Mote who powered an effort into the back of the net.
The Affa pushed forward looking for a leveller and had the ball in the net with another free kick being turned home but the referee had blown for a push on a Sidley defender by the time the ball found the net.
Sidley may have even had a third goal as Ball was denied well when through on goal late on but that mattered little as Sidley held on to take all three points.
The Blues welcome Punnetts Town to Hooe Rec on Saturday looking for a third consecutive league win before they wrap up their campaign with a trip to Hawkhurst United.
Sidley Team: Gray, Bradbury, Wade, Hempe, Mote, Carey, Dann, Witham (Corke), Ball, Atkin, Copley.
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