Isthmian League

Hawks 2-1 Lewes: Bridle Brace Secures Sussex Derby Victory


Whitehawk edged out local rivals Lewes in a tightly-contested Sussex derby, thanks to a brilliant brace from young striker Harry Bridle. A lively evening at the Enclosed Ground saw the Hawks continue their climb up the Isthmian Premier table.

First Half: Frustration Despite Dominance

The Hawks started strongly, carving out the better chances in a goalless first half. Harry Bridle was at the heart of the action, with a close-range effort going agonizingly wide in the 25th minute and another shot saved by Lewes keeper Toby Bull in the 37th.

Lewes struggled to create much of note in the opening 45 minutes, as Whitehawk’s midfield worked tirelessly to control the tempo. Despite dominating possession, the Hawks went into the break still searching for the opener.

Second Half: Bridle Steps Up

The deadlock was finally broken in the 54th minute when Harry Bridle rifled home a powerful strike, giving the Hawks a deserved lead. The young forward’s relentless effort throughout the match paid off, and the home crowd erupted in celebration.

As Lewes pushed for an equaliser, Bridle struck again in the 75th minute with a towering header from an Oscar Borg corner. The second goal gave the Hawks a cushion and showcased the striker’s all-around quality.

Late Drama

Lewes pulled one back in the 89th minute when Tolu Ladapo headed home after a free-kick on the left, setting up a nervy finish. However, Whitehawk’s defence stood firm, and the hosts held on to claim all three points in front of an enthusiastic crowd of 648.


Shaun Saunders’ Post-Match Thoughts 🎥

Manager Shaun Saunders shared his thoughts after the match:

“It was a great night for us and a big win. I’m especially delighted for Harry Bridle—he’s been working so hard, and to see him get those two goals was brilliant.”

Watch the full interview here:


Match Information

  • Scorers: Harry Bridle (54’, 75’) | Tolu Ladapo (89’)
  • Attendance: 648
  • Venue: The Enclosed Ground

Line-Up

Whitehawk: 1 Joseph Osaghae, 2 Stefan Wright, 3 Oscar Borg, 4 Andrew Briggs (C), 5 Joe Tennent, 6 Jamie Watson, 7 Emmanuel Mensah, 8 Kai Jennings, 9 Rob O’Toole, 10 Charlie Lambert, 11 Harry Bridle ⚽⚽
Subs: 12 Eugene Asike ♻, 14 Charlie Walker ♻, 15 Callum Barlow, 16 Imran Kayani ♻, 17 Josh Nandhra ♻


Next Fixtures

  • Sat 25 Jan: Home vs. Cray Wanderers, 3pm
  • Sun 2 Feb: Away vs. Potters Bar Town, 4pm
  • Sat 8 Feb: Home vs. Horsham, 3pm

Leave a Reply