**stones Stutter Against Bexhill**

Old Hastonians 1-1 Bexhill Athletic Club

"Take a point and move on" was the general feeling in the stones dressing room after a disjointed 90 mins against a Bexhill side who did more than enough to warrant the 3 points.

For the 2nd week running the stones were forced into an early change when captain Johnson was injured in an early challenge and was replaced by Burton. The conditions didnt help matters with a typical Bulverhythe cross wind affecting all aspects of play. The stones failed to create anything other than half chances and Bexhill finished the 1st half strongly, kept at bay by a smart low save by Saunders and some excellent defending by Winks. HT 0-0

The second half bought more wind and rain but not much for the stones faithful to cheer. The stones back 4 defended well and Saunders was called upon to make a couple of excellent saves. It seemed inevitable that a goal would come despite the good defending as the stones midfield and forward line looked out of sorts in difficult conditions. Bexhill pressure finally told when a cross from the right was finished at the 2nd attempt by the Bexhill forward. The goal didnt change the pattern of the game and Bexhill probably shoudve been 3 or 4 up when Hand broke down the right and the ball eventually found Davies who scrambled the ball home from close range to bring the stones level. An end to end final 10 minutes but neither side was able to force a winner and the game ended 1-1.

It certainly wasnt easy on the eye but the stones can take some pride in salvaging a point, largely down to some strong defensive performances. Youngster Ben McNicol looked very comfortable at right back, Saunders was excellent again between the sticks but just edging them both for MoM this week is Jacob Winks who had his best game in a stones shirt to date.

Next up is Peche Hill Select on the 2nd November.

#UTS