November 5, 2024

Whitehawk’s struggles continued as they fell to a 2-0 defeat at the Pilot Field against Hastings United. Despite a spirited performance, the Hawks couldn’t find the cutting edge in front of goal, extending their winless run in the league.

First Half

The match got off to a challenging start as Hastings quickly found the breakthrough. Former Hawk Jack Dixon capitalized on a defensive lapse in the ninth minute, slotting home from close range to give the hosts an early lead. Whitehawk responded well, with Luke Robinson coming close on 20 minutes, followed by George Taggart narrowly missing out after a promising run.

Despite pushing forward, Whitehawk struggled to find an equalizer before the break. A late first-half yellow card for Andrew Briggs added to the tension, and Hastings carried their 1-0 lead into halftime.

Second Half

The second half began with Whitehawk on the front foot. Will Huffer made a crucial save in a one-on-one situation to keep the Hawks within touching distance. However, Hastings capitalized on another set-piece, with Finn O’Mara doubling their lead in the 67th minute after a free-kick delivery.

The Hawks made a series of substitutions to inject fresh energy, with Oscar Borg and Greg Luer coming on to add attacking options. Moe Shubbar looked lively, beating his marker several times, but the final ball just wouldn’t fall for the visitors.

Whitehawk pushed hard in the closing stages, with Jerry O’Sullivan coming close from a corner. However, a bizarre moment in injury time involving flat match balls and a prolonged delay only added to the frustration, and Hastings comfortably saw out the game.

Manager’s Reaction

Post-match, manager David Altendorff expressed his disappointment, stating that while the team dominated in possession and created more chances, the lack of cutting edge proved costly.

“We can’t shy away from the fact that we’re struggling to score,” Altendorff admitted. “We need to address this quickly. The players gave their all, but we need to be more clinical in front of goal.”

Despite the result, Altendorff remains optimistic, noting some positive individual performances and expressing confidence that the team can turn their form around with renewed focus and effort.

Watch the full post-match interview with David Altendorff below:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PPK0tF8ISKo

League Standings

The result leaves Whitehawk sitting in 20th place on 12 points, with Canvey Island up next.

Next Fixture
Non-League Premier – Matchday 15
Canvey Island vs. Whitehawk
Saturday, November 9, 2024, 15:00

The Hawks will be eager to bounce back and start climbing the table.