Ladies suffer tough start but new signings boost the men

The went down 1-0 in a nip-and-tuck afternoon away to Sevenoaks, who leapfrogged them into second place with the victory.

In the first half, Sevenoaks had the majority of possession, but Horsham created some good passages of play.

Both teams went close and both goalkeepers were forced into making a number of saves.

After the break, Horsham created a number of opportunities, but failed the find the breakthrough.

There were also a number of green and yellow cards for both teams but neither side was unable to take advantage of having an extra player.

Sevenoaks earned a short corner which led to a goal and they were able to hold onto the lead and take the three points.

Captain Hannah Simpson said: “Saturday was a very difficult game as we knew it would be. The game was very even and could have quite easily been a draw.

“We are disappointed to lose in what was a very even game but we had some good play throughout the game.

“This week will be another tough game and a local derby against East Grinstead who have been performing well so far this season.”

Horsham: Simpson, Adams, Shingles, White, Allen, Hilsdon, Clapp, Stares, Baggett, Dent, Crossley, Keefe, Denman, Williams.

Horsham first team skipper Duncan Howarth praised his new signings for making impressive debuts to help them beat Ashford 3-1 on Saturday.

Former Worthing striker Cirdec Atkinson and Horsham Under-17s star Noah Chinn both scored while goalkeeper Neil Burlinson, who was signed from Worthing, made a key save when Horsham were losing 1-0.

Howarth said: “I’m happy with a win as it was the first game of the season but I was unhappy we didn’t score more goals but was pleased we created the chances.

“Neil Burlinson was my Man of the Match for making such a great save and it was most encouraging our new players did really well to.”

Horsham recovered from going a goal behind through goals by Atkinson, Chinn and Howarth.

Horsham: Burlinson, Akande, Leadbitter, Hugh, D.Humphreys, Make, Campbell, J.Humphreys, Dean, Howarth, Burroughs. Subs: Chinn, Atkinson, Neave, Cohen

This Saturday Horsham are away to Tunbridge Wells.