Sussex cruise on thanks to YM
THERE was a heavy YM influence as Sussex thrashed Jersey 5-0 in the South-West Counties Championship at Lancing.
Matt Duffleld led the way with two strikes, Gorings Mead teamŽmate Ali Russell netted Sussex's fourth goal while YM defender Ellis Hooper played his part in the opening two goals.
Goalkeeper Ian Chatfield kept a clean sheet and James Grant - the fifth YM player who turned out for the county - also contributed to the comfortable win.
"Five-nil is a lovely scoreline," said Sussex chief John Suter, who also manages County League leadŽers YM.
Sussex enjoyed a dream start when they took the lead in the secŽond minute with a goal that was made in Gorings Mead. Hooper's long throw was flicked on by Russell to Duffield who hooked the ball in.
Jersey began to knock the ball around well as they sought a riposte and would have scored but for a fine save by Chatfield before Littlehampton's Gary Young hacked the ball clear.
Sussex extended their lead on the stroke of half-time when Gavin Jones beat the Jersey keeper to Hooper's up and under before rolling the ball into the back of an empty net.
The home side went 3-0 ahead on the hour with the goal of the game, Duffield volleying in Matt Hill's cross after a move that involved Russell.
Number four arrived five minŽutes later. Stuart Garrod and Duffield combined to set up Russell and the YM man made no mistake.
Duffield and Russell then linked up for Sussex's fifth goal which was finished off by Pat Harding of Hassocks.
"We did not play too well in the first half, Jersey played the better football, but we were stronger than them in the end," said Suter.
Sussex have now won all three of their ties and, should they beat Devon in their next game could meet Cornwall in a winner-takes-all clash.
"It could rest on that last game if us and Cornwall both do well against Devon," added Suter.
