Hawkinge Town Reserves Secure Narrow 1-0 Victory Over Lenham Wanderers Reserves

Hawkinge Town Reserves hosted Lenham Wanderers Reserves at their home ground in Hawkinge on 11 October 2025, with kick-off at 2:00pm in a keenly contested league fixture. The match concluded with Hawkinge Town Reserves edging out their visitors by a single goal to nil after 90 minutes of competitive football under the watchful eye of referee Chris Payne.

Deploying a 4-1-4-1 formation, Hawkinge Town Reserves set up with Reece Hougham in goal, protected by a back four comprising Rafe McGirr at right back, Jack Laws and Kyle Norvall as central defenders, and Lewis Baker operating at left back. Jon Black occupied the solitary defensive midfield role, tasked with shielding the defence and recycling possession. Ahead of him, the midfield line featured Freddie Laws on the right flank, Bailee Slater and Ellis Bailey centrally positioned as attacking midfielders, and Alfie Turvey on the left, all expected to support both defence and attack. Leading the line was striker Louis Milberry-Smith, charged with spearheading the offensive efforts. No substitutes were named for this fixture.

The first half unfolded with both sides probing cautiously, each looking to establish control in midfield. Hawkinge’s defensive solidity was evident, with Jack Laws and Kyle Norvall marshaling the central defensive area effectively, while full-backs McGirr and Baker balanced their defensive duties with occasional forward runs. Jon Black’s role as the lone holding midfielder was pivotal in breaking up Lenham’s attempts to build momentum. The attacking midfield quartet sought to create chances through quick interplay and wide movement, but clear-cut opportunities were limited in the opening 45 minutes. The half-time whistle arrived with the scoreline still goalless.

As the second half progressed, Hawkinge Town Reserves gradually increased their attacking intent. The midfielders began to find more space between the lines, with Bailee Slater and Ellis Bailey linking well with the wide players and the lone striker. The breakthrough came in the 75th minute when Jack Laws, positioned centrally in defence, capitalised on a loose ball inside the penalty area to slot home a tap-in, giving Hawkinge the lead. This goal was a testament to the team’s persistence and ability to convert pressure into tangible reward.

Following the goal, Hawkinge Town Reserves focused on maintaining their slender advantage. The defensive unit remained disciplined, repelling Lenham Wanderers Reserves’ attempts to equalise. Goalkeeper Reece Hougham was called upon to make a few important saves, ensuring the clean sheet was preserved. The match concluded with Hawkinge Town Reserves holding firm to secure a vital three points in their league campaign.