Football always delivers surprises, and AS Crawley’s latest encounter in the Sussex County Cup was no exception. What began with travel chaos and logistical headaches quickly turned into a commanding 4-0 victory over Peacehaven, with AS Crawley showcasing their dominance and advancing to the next round. Let’s take a closer look at how the action unfolded.
Starting Lineup for AS Crawley
Here’s the starting lineup AS Crawley went with for the match:
- Goalkeeper: Frano
- Defenders: Maher (Left-back), Karim (Centre-back), Hayd (Centre-back), JJ (Right-back)
- Midfield: Finn (Central midfield), Neathey (Central midfield), Mase (Central midfield)
- Forwards: Daz (Left wing), Jermaine N (Striker), Jahobi (Right wing)
This strong lineup indicated AS Crawley’s intent to control the game, with a solid defense and a midfield trio that aimed to dominate possession.
Early Struggles: Pre-Match Drama
The journey to Peacehaven’s ground was anything but smooth. AS Crawley players and staff were caught up in unexpected road closures and delays that threw off their pre-match preparations. The early start also added frustration, as the team had to be up at the crack of dawn for a 10:00 AM kickoff.
“It’s been a long morning,” remarked one player, clearly reflecting the team’s frustrations. The coach, however, was quick to refocus the squad, reassuring them about the quality of the pitch and emphasizing the importance of staying loose and ready to compete.
Despite the setbacks, AS Crawley’s determination never wavered. The team had a game to win, and nothing—not even a lack of warm-up time—was going to distract them from their goal.
First Half: AS Crawley Find Their Feet
The game kicked off with Peacehaven showing promise in the opening minutes, but AS Crawley soon found their rhythm. The home side had a couple of early chances, including a dangerous free-kick that tested AS Crawley’s keeper, Frano. However, Frano and the rest of the defense stood strong, and AS Crawley began to assert their dominance.
AS Crawley’s attacking trio of Daz, Jermaine N, and Jahobi started to click, creating problems for Peacehaven’s defense. Daz, in particular, looked lively down the wing, repeatedly pushing forward and causing havoc with his pace and trickery. One of the game’s key moments came when Daz whipped in a dangerous cross, but Peacehaven managed to scramble it clear.
Then came the breakthrough. Neathey latched onto a loose ball, danced past two defenders, and coolly slotted it into the back of the net to put AS Crawley 1-0 up. The goal was a display of calm composure and precision finishing, with Neathey showing exactly why he’s regarded as one of the most reliable finishers in the team.
Halftime: A 1-0 Lead, But Plenty to Improve
As the first half drew to a close, AS Crawley were in control but hadn’t taken full advantage of their dominance. During the halftime team talk, the gaffer made it clear that while the performance was solid, the team needed to be more clinical in the final third. “It should be 3-0,” he told the players, urging them to convert their chances and put the game out of Peacehaven’s reach.
He also stressed the importance of discipline and game management. With a 1-0 lead, there was no room for complacency, and the coach reminded his squad that a single mistake could allow Peacehaven back into the contest.
Second Half: AS Crawley Turn on the Style
The second half saw AS Crawley come out with renewed intensity, and it didn’t take long for them to double their lead. Lambo, who had been a constant threat down the wing, sent in a curling cross that somehow found its way into the back of the net. Whether it was a cross or a shot, no one was quite sure, but the result was the same: AS Crawley were 2-0 up, and Peacehaven were left with a mountain to climb.
Daz then made it 3-0 with an incredible solo effort. Skipping past defenders with ease, he showed off his dazzling footwork before firing the ball into the net. His goal was a perfect example of the kind of flair and confidence AS Crawley had been building throughout the game.
With a comfortable lead, AS Crawley didn’t let up. They continued to control possession, moving the ball around with confidence and pushing Peacehaven further back. JJ and Hayden were rock-solid at the back, cutting out any danger before it could develop.
AS Crawley Seal the Win: 4-0 and Through to the Next Round
As the game entered its final stages, AS Crawley put the result beyond any doubt. Money Mase, who had been brought on as a substitute, made an instant impact by driving through the midfield and linking up with Daz once again. The ball found its way back to Daz, who finished clinically to make it 4-0.
AS Crawley were now in complete control, and despite a few late attempts by Peacehaven, the game was over as a contest. The final whistle blew with AS Crawley securing a 4-0 win and a place in the next round of the Sussex County Cup.
Post-Match: Praise for the Team’s Discipline and Focus
After the match, the coach praised his players for a disciplined performance. “It wasn’t just the fact that we won 4-0; it was the discipline behind the result,” he said. Despite the scoreline, AS Crawley remained focused throughout, never giving Peacehaven a chance to get back into the game.
Special mention went to JJ and Hayden for their defensive work, as well as Jahobi, who had one of his best performances for AS Crawley. Daz, too, received praise for his two goals and all-around contribution. “You’re back,” the gaffer told him, clearly pleased with his return to form.
Looking Ahead: Nationals on the Horizon
With this convincing win under their belts, AS Crawley now turn their attention to the Nationals, a competition they’ve never entered before. The coach emphasized the importance of maintaining the same level of performance, urging the players to continue their good form into what will be a historic game for the club.
Next week’s fixture against Alfold in the Nationals is set to be a huge moment, and AS Crawley will need to carry the momentum from this win into that match. “Play like that, and you’ve got half a chance against any team,” the coach reminded his players.
Conclusion: AS Crawley Make a Statement
AS Crawley’s 4-0 victory over Peacehaven in the Sussex County Cup was a commanding performance, showcasing both their skill and discipline. From the early logistical issues to their clinical finishing on the pitch, AS Crawley showed resilience and professionalism throughout. With the Nationals just around the corner, this team is on the rise, and if they continue playing at this level, they could be set for a memorable season.
