Horsham FC's Resilient Week: Narrow Defeat Followed by Late Equaliser in National League South
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Horsham, West Sussex – Horsham FC, the Hornets, experienced a mixed week in the National League South, suffering a narrow away defeat before securing a hard-fought draw at home. As newcomers to the division following their promotion from the Isthmian League, Dominic Di Paola's side continue to adapt to the step up, with two matches highlighting their determination and quality.
Maidenhead United SetbackThe week began with a Bank Holiday Monday clash on 25 August, as Horsham travelled to York Road to face Maidenhead United. The Hornets took the lead in the first half, going into the break 1-0 up against their hosts. However, Maidenhead mounted a second-half comeback, scoring twice to turn the game around and claim a 2-1 victory. Goals from Popoola and Mitchell-Lawson sealed the turnaround for the home side, leaving Horsham rueing missed opportunities despite a strong start.
This result followed a positive performance the previous weekend against Torquay United, but the defeat at Maidenhead reminded us of the challenges in the National League South, which manager Di Paola has described as "step three on steroids" in recent comments. Speaking ahead of the week's fixtures, Di Paola emphasised the intensity of the league, noting the need for composure and adaptability as Horsham prepare for a demanding schedule.Build-Up to Salisbury ClashMidweek brought preparations for the next challenge, with the club releasing a match preview on 28 August for their home encounter against Salisbury FC. The preview highlighted the first-ever meeting between the two sides at the Fusion Aviation Community Stadium, building fan anticipation.Dramatic Draw at HomeOn Saturday, 30 August, Horsham hosted Salisbury in front of an enthusiastic home crowd. The match proved to be tense, with Salisbury taking the lead through Atkinson's spectacular first-half strike. The Hornets dominated possession in the second half but struggled to break down a resolute defence until the 84th minute. Reece Myles-Meekums delivered a moment of magic, smashing a stunning equaliser into the top corner to level the score at 1-1.
The draw was marred slightly by a late red card for substitute Jack Brivio for an off-the-ball incident, but Horsham held firm through five minutes of added time to earn a valuable point. Post-match, manager Di Paola praised his team's composure: "Some of the football was really good – I thought it was exciting, interesting. I loved the way they came out in the second half. They stayed composed and didn’t force it, and they didn’t panic because we were a goal down."Celebrating a Club StalwartAdding to the day's significance, long-serving defender Harvey Sparks celebrated his 300th appearance for the club. The 28-year-old, who has been with Horsham for seven years, was honoured on social media by the club, which described him as "what a man." Sparks' milestone underscores the loyalty and continuity within the squad as they navigate their debut season at this level.Community Engagement and Looking AheadOff the pitch, Horsham FC continued to engage with their community. The club promoted volunteer opportunities throughout the week, encouraging supporters to participate in various stadium roles. A full gallery of images from the Salisbury match, captured by photographer John Lines, was also shared online, allowing fans to relive the action.
Looking ahead, Horsham face another home test against Eastbourne Borough, aiming to build on their unbeaten run at the Fusion Aviation Community Stadium. With four points from their last three matches, the Hornets sit comfortably in mid-table, showing promising signs of settling into life in the National League South.
This result followed a positive performance the previous weekend against Torquay United, but the defeat at Maidenhead reminded us of the challenges in the National League South, which manager Di Paola has described as "step three on steroids" in recent comments. Speaking ahead of the week's fixtures, Di Paola emphasised the intensity of the league, noting the need for composure and adaptability as Horsham prepare for a demanding schedule.Build-Up to Salisbury ClashMidweek brought preparations for the next challenge, with the club releasing a match preview on 28 August for their home encounter against Salisbury FC. The preview highlighted the first-ever meeting between the two sides at the Fusion Aviation Community Stadium, building fan anticipation.Dramatic Draw at HomeOn Saturday, 30 August, Horsham hosted Salisbury in front of an enthusiastic home crowd. The match proved to be tense, with Salisbury taking the lead through Atkinson's spectacular first-half strike. The Hornets dominated possession in the second half but struggled to break down a resolute defence until the 84th minute. Reece Myles-Meekums delivered a moment of magic, smashing a stunning equaliser into the top corner to level the score at 1-1.
The draw was marred slightly by a late red card for substitute Jack Brivio for an off-the-ball incident, but Horsham held firm through five minutes of added time to earn a valuable point. Post-match, manager Di Paola praised his team's composure: "Some of the football was really good – I thought it was exciting, interesting. I loved the way they came out in the second half. They stayed composed and didn’t force it, and they didn’t panic because we were a goal down."Celebrating a Club StalwartAdding to the day's significance, long-serving defender Harvey Sparks celebrated his 300th appearance for the club. The 28-year-old, who has been with Horsham for seven years, was honoured on social media by the club, which described him as "what a man." Sparks' milestone underscores the loyalty and continuity within the squad as they navigate their debut season at this level.Community Engagement and Looking AheadOff the pitch, Horsham FC continued to engage with their community. The club promoted volunteer opportunities throughout the week, encouraging supporters to participate in various stadium roles. A full gallery of images from the Salisbury match, captured by photographer John Lines, was also shared online, allowing fans to relive the action.
Looking ahead, Horsham face another home test against Eastbourne Borough, aiming to build on their unbeaten run at the Fusion Aviation Community Stadium. With four points from their last three matches, the Hornets sit comfortably in mid-table, showing promising signs of settling into life in the National League South.
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