For the third time this season, the Young Hawks failed to beat the Hillians, who impressed throughout.

Hawks had a slightly undeserved 1-0 half time lead after Danny Kingston converted a Callum Esnouf flick on, but they soon found themselves 2-1 down in the second half as their normally rock solid defence was breached twice in three minutes. Only a stunning save from Elliot Dailly prevented further embarrassment before a Josh Nandhra header with just over 20 minutes to go led to a frantic finish.

Ricardo Silva twice shot narrowly wide and had another effort cleared by the keeper with his foot, before Nandhra headed inches wide at the death. The two points dropped are a major blow to the Hawks chances of taking the league title.

The next match for the Young Hawks is the Dennis Probee Youth U18 Cup Final against Hastings United on 6th April at Culver Road, Lancing (7.30pm KO).

Hawks: Dailly, Williamson, Fogden, Donovan (Gilbert 81′), Weber, Godfrey (c), Kingston, Silva, Duckett (O’Neil 62′), Esnouf (Reeder 81′)

Subs not used: Martin, Jones

Goals: Kingston 26′, Nandhra 67′