U’s in good spirits ahead of long journey

The U’s go into the Ryman Premier fixture having just celebrated their first win of the season, a 2-1 success at home to Wingate & Finchley.

“It’s a tough old trip but at least we go there in good spirits,” said Hastings player-boss Sean Ray. “We’re two unbeaten (after previously drawing 2-2 against Margate last Tuesday) and the aim now is to go three unbeaten. We’re confident we can get three points.”

Ray will not play at Earlsmead Stadium and his absence could be one of a couple of alterations to the team that started on Saturday.

He explained: “We’re going to make a couple of changes so I won’t be playing. My knee won’t take two games in three days. Scott Manning will come in and we’ll make one or two other changes as we see fit but like I’ve said before we’ve got the squad to do it now.

“It will be nice to be able to keep the team fresh and make sure we don’t pick up any unnecessary injuries from players being overused early doors.”

Tom Vickers is set to start after being on the bench against Wingate.

Closer to home, Westfield will be up against Little Common at The Parish Field and Bexhill United visit Eastbourne United AFC. Both Sussex County League Division Two games kick-off at 11am.

Sidley United’s Division One trip to Hailsham Town has been postponed as the Blues have an FA Cup replay on Wednesday.