“Hillians Show Promise in Close 3-2 Defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion”
The Hillians had another excellent match as they continue preparations for the 2024/25 season, hosting a young Brighton & Hove Albion team at the HomeCall Carpets Community Stadium.
The Hillians took the lead at 14 minutes when Albion allowed Dan Perry time to turn and shoot, resulting in a powerful 25-yard goal.
Brighton quickly responded, with one player breaking away from the defense to slot past Slav Huk, and two minutes later, their No. 9 sped down the right to score low past Huk, reversing the scoreline.
At 25 minutes, Huk made an impressive double save, but Albion still led 3-1 at halftime after another neat play down the right. Just before the break, Hill nearly scored as Kieran Rowe set up Ollie Davies, but Davies shot over the bar.
In the second half, Hillians started strong and created several chances. Lewis Taylor sent a lovely pass to Tom Chalaye, who shot just wide. Alex Brewer had a goal disallowed for offside after Albion hit their own bar. Taylor forced a great low save from the Albion goalkeeper, who also made a brilliant double save at 72 minutes to deny Brewer and Chalaye.
With six minutes left, Hillians won a penalty after great work from Brewer, and Martyn Box converted to make it 3-2. In injury time, Damien Theodore had a chance to equalize but shot just wide.
The match ended with Albion winning 3-2. It was a great preseason game with strong performances from both teams.
Hillians: Slav Huk, Hamish Morrison, Alex Malins, Bobby Price, Elliott Bresciani, Martyn Box, Kieran Rowe, Ryan Worrall, Harry Lawson, Ollie Davies, Dan Perry. Subs: Lewis Taylor, Brannon O’Neill, Tom Chalaye, Marcus Allen, Damien Theodore.