Hastings have that sinking feeling

Steve Lovell's side kicked off at AFC Wimbledon on Saturday in third place but a 3-1 reverse meant they lost more ground on the runaway leaders.

After a goalless first half in which goalkeeper Greg Nessling pulled off a trio of great saves Hastings were undone by a succession of body blows early in the second half.

Holding midfielder Alan Tutton had to go off injured and soon after Wimbledon grabbed two goals in as many minutes. Richard Butler broke the deadlock and Joe Sheerin added a second.

The visitors pulled one back through Sean Ray 16 minutes from time but it was the Surrey side who had the final word through Martin Randall in the third minute of added time.

The following Tuesday Hastings turned in their most disappointing performance of the season as they slumped 3-0 at home to Sussex rivals Horsham.

Hastings got off to a bright start but found themselves two-down inside the first half an hour, Ryan Rummery and Lee Carney finding the back of the net. Carney also missed a penalty awarded for foul on Florian Mateos by Ray.

Hastings tried to haul themselves back in the match but Rummery's second of the evening made sure the points went to West Sussex.