The U’s started off strong winning most of the early second balls and ground duels as well as creating several opportunities in the early minutes where the their number 10 showed off his creative flair with flicks and turns.

However, Ollie Vodden got the first shot on target of the game when he was played through by Fin Smith with plenty of space to run into, he dribbled past his man and cut in on his left, but his shot flew straight at the opposition goalkeeper.

The Rebels struggled in the opening quarter creatively with all their long balls being swallowed up by the Hastings defenders, Brean Plaku the sole striker up top was being outmuscled by defenders on passes over the top but still had some great hold up play.

Despite looking a little off pace, the host broke the deadlock in the 35th minute after a darting run from inside his own half by Vodden who gapped his defender before he fizzed a low shot across goal leaving the Hastings’ goalkeeper with no chance.

The Reds continued to press forward, scoring their second goal not even seven minutes after the first goal went in, and it was the man who scored the opener.

Vodden once again was in space on the right, he crossed the ball in towards the back post, but the delivery caused all sorts of problems for Hastings United’s number 1 who watched the ball loop over him and in off the post.

Our Under 18’s started the second half with more control, playing with aggression and tenacity.

They were outstanding defensively halting most of Hastings’ chances and forcing them to find space down the wings. On top of that, our young side were also causing problems for their opponents playing dangerous balls for Plaku to chase.

Vodden had a chance to make it a hat-trick after Bobby Lee found him unmarked at the back post with a cross. His header across goal was inches away from nestling in the net but instead agonisingly struck the post.

However, with 20 minutes left on the clock, Worthing’s right winger got his hat-trick, as he caused chaos down the right.  He used his pace to get away from the defender, and coolly chipped a finish ove the goalkeeper – giving him the right to take the match-ball home.

The Reds then made it four within minutes, through substitute Ignas Azuolaitis, who found himself open at the back-post with all the time in the world to take a touch and place it into the far post from 10 yards out.

In the closing stages, the Rebels controlled the tempo of the game,  took care of the ball in possession and were adamant to win the ball back whenever they didn’t have it.

The visitors had a chance to grab a consolation on as the ball fell to their number 11, however under pressure from Worthing’s young defenders he hit the post from five yards out.

Another three points for our U18s ensured they completed their incredible record of staying undefeated at home all year in the league.

They now get to enjoy their Christmas with a well-earned break with their next game against
Lewes U18s away not until the middle of January.

Match Report by Marcel Adamkiewicz