Lingfield complete Steyning double

A solid, professional win against Storrington, saw a much stiffer test in Steyning Town. Our away form has let us down so far this season, and Steyning a side we’d credit as if not the, one of the strongest sides we’ve played. Skipper Graves was out due to receiving a 4-Game suspension. Horn was sidelined due to illness as Clements returns to action. Wilford replaced Mwanza at left back.

Steyning hosted a 3G artificial pitch, so no excuses for not being able to knock the ball around in our useful progressive manner. It was Lingfield who started in more possession, however Steyning who struck first... their very first effort on goal, from what seemed their first attack, a half chance from a long ball down the left hand side was hit early by the centre forward and caught Moore unaware, 1-0. Lingfield continued to keep playing, trying to create openings. But it was Steyning who doubled their lead, down the right hand side, with the centre forward cutting in and appear to cross, as Bakhit and the oncoming attacker went for the ball, both missed it and went passed Moore at the back post, 2-0. Up against the pump now for Lingfield, never appeared so, however a goal was needed before the break. Chances were being created, just not being clinical enough. We did get one back from a right hand side Wilford corner met by Twig Johnston with a strong header, 2-1. The half finished that way, however the overall weighting of the game still felt in our favour as Steyning didn’t create anything other than the goals they’d scored. HT

Lingfield still had to go and score the goals though. Relentless possession, pressure and what started to come as chances... Steyning trying to utilise the counter with pace in wide and forward areas. Took to the 70th minute before the equaliser.. a Johnston move and cross behind the back line saw Wetton pounce as ever to nod home, 2-2. Game shifted completely now as Lingfield continued to go forward, and more clear cut chances fell our way. We went in front 15mins from time, Summers produced a replica delivery of Johnston’s previously, this time for Dembele to volley home! 3-2. The game was stretched, and became more fiery! Lingfield won a free kick down the left hand side, and a reaction from Wetton saw his hands raised towards a player, and sent off shortly after. Steyning threw a few more bodies forward, going very direct for the equaliser. Nevertheless, Lingfield sealed the win moments from the end, a break down the middle, Summers threaded it behind for Dembele to round the keeper and tuck home, 4-2. And it finished that way! FT

A huge win in relation to what was happening else where in the league with Langney and Wick both being held to draws, resulting in us going 2nd in the League on goal difference. Also a big double against a side capable of beating teams up and around us during the season. A week off next week for Lingfield, and returning to action on the 23rd Dec again Away at Midhurst & Easebourne. Back to back League wins for Lingfield and hopefully the start of a big potential winning run over the Christmas and New Year period chasing down League toppers Little Common. Thank You to all travelling support and Steyning Town for their super hospitality.

MOM: Conor Wilford

Up the Lingers

Sammy Clements