Report by Steve Cantle

Photos by BigSteve

At The Pilot Field, Hastings

Fleet's hopes of a play-off place were dealt another blow on Saturday after returning point-less from the long trip to second-place Hastings.

It was another set-back to Fleet's promotion hopes and continues a poor run of recent form which has seen the side win only once in the last eight league games. Andy Sinton's side is now sitting outside the play-off positions in 6th place with 11 matches remaining.

Fleet were undone on Saturday by a lively opening spell by the home side, which saw them go 3-0 up after only 33 minutes of play. Ade Olorunda and Russell Eldridge scored with early headers in the 3rd and 14th minutes, and Sam Adams converted the decisive third from the penalty spot just after the half-hour.

Fleet pulled a goal back shortly after the restart when James Field knocked in from close range after a low cross to the near post by Ed Smith. Fleet continued to press forward and enjoyed a good passage of play with Smith connecting well with Adam Wallace. On 70 minutes Smith appeared to be brought down in the penalty area, but his appeals to the referee only earned him a caution for diving.

Disaster struck for Fleet moments later when midfielder, Michael Douglas was shown red for a second bookable offence after clashing with defender, Lee Worgan.

After being reduced to ten men, Fleet's challenge began to fade and they managed only one further chance on goal when Field turned inside his marker and just missed the target from the corner of the area.

A new page in Fleet's long history will be written on Wednesday evening when they make their first ever appearance in a Hants Senior Cup semi-final. Opponents for the first of a two-leg tie at Calthorpe Park are Wessex League side, United Services Portsmouth. Kick-off is at 7.45pm. The return leg is due to be played on 29 March at Portsmouth. To commemorate the occasion a special limited Edition programme will be on sale on Wednesday evening at the game. It will be printed in full colour and goes on sale on the night at the price of £1.

On Saturday Fleet entertain Kingstonian in the league. Kick-off 3pm at Calthorpe Park.