ENCOURAGING START FOR RESERVES AT SUSSEX HQ

The Chi 2^nd XI got their season off to the perfect start with a 3-1 away win at Lancing.  The pitch at the Sussex FA head quarters was in perfect condition with the surface offering plenty of opportunities to play crisp, passing football.

The first 20 minutes Chichester retained possession extremely well, took full advantage of the surface and created wave after wave of attacking play but without success.  The nearest opportunity fell to Timmy Harruna, who went one on one with the Lancing keeper who saved well with his feet.

As the first half came to an end, Lancing came back into the game with a share of the possession but their attacks were well marshalled by George Mackel and Rowan Wallis who rarely put a foot wrong all game.

After some half time words of encouragement from Manager Jamie Smith and instructions to remain patient the Chi team were rewarded when Mike Long broke down the right in the 54 min to slot under the Lancing Keeper.  Matt Cooper was restricted to efforts from distance and then against the run of play Lancing equalised despite the linesman flagging for off-side the goal was given.

This only spurred the Chi team on and a neat trade of passes on the edge of Lancing's penalty area allowed Mike long to drive to the goal line and square that was met by a strong header from Rowan Wallis to make it 2-1 Chichester.

It was then damage limitation as Josh Jefferies and Matt Docherty both ran tirelessly in the middle of the park breaking through on numerous occasions.

The game was tied up with best move of the match as Lenny Warner, fresh on as a sub, went short for a corner, whipped in a perfect ball that saw Timmy Harruna drive in a well deserved goal from close range to make it 3-1 with 5mins left to play.

A very encouraging start to the campaign, and the next match will prove to be a testing one Friday evening away to East Preston (KO 7:30pm).

Report written by Jamie Smith