Adam Murray will be looking for his first Eastbourne Borough win, but knows he is in for a tough test at Hampton & Richmond Borough.
The Beavers are in good form, and will be out to avenge the Sports’ 1-0 win on the opening day of the season.
Whilst that day seems like a lifetime ago for Borough fans, supporters would have been encouraged from what they’ve seen so far under Murray.
Please note there is a 10.30am pitch inspection planned at The Beveree Stadium.
The Opposition
Hampton & Richmond Borough come into the game in great spirits, beating National League side Hartlepool United in the FA Trophy last weekend.
After a goalless draw away from home, Adam Desbois produced a save in the penalty shoot-out, with Ben Seymour scoring to win the tie 4-2 on spot kicks.
The Beavers haven’t lost at home since September when Yeovil were 2-1 winners, and have only lost once in the league since that game on September 23.
That run of form under Mel Gwinnett has seen the Beveree outfit rise up to third in the National League South table ahead of this weekend’s action.
However, they will be looking to return to winning ways in the league having succumbed to a 3-1 loss at Braintree Town two weeks ago.
Matthew Ward and a brace from Shaq Coulthirst put the Iron in control, with Josh Anifowose’s effort proving to be a consolation for Hampton in Essex.
Last Time Out
There were plenty of positives for the Sports last Saturday, but ultimately the result didn’t match the performance as they were narrowly beaten by in-form St. Albans City at Priory Lane.
Looking to build on a good point at Torquay United in Murray’s first game in charge, Siya Ligendza’s first goal since his arrival from AFC Fylde on loan put Borough in front at half-time.
But two moments proved to be the difference, with former Borough winger Dom Hutchinson drawing Saints level before Shaun Jeffers dealt the decisive blow twenty minutes from time.
Improvements have certainly been made under Murray – the Sports registered their highest xG of the campaign against St. Albans – but it’s a familiar story of making chances count.
Head to head
It seems like an eternity ago since the opening day, where the Sports got their campaign off to the perfect start. Billy Vigar’s diving header proved to be the difference as Borough won 1-0 in the sunshine at Priory Lane.
Historically, the Sports have enjoyed their trips to South West London – with Hampton winning just one of the last five meetings at The Beveree.
That win came last season, however, as Hampton won a close contest last February. Goals from Alfy Whittingham, Dean Inman and Connor Kurran-Browne saw the hosts come from behind to win 3-2. Charlie Walker had put Borough in front, before Shiloh Remy’s late penalty set up a tense finale.
How to Follow
For those not making the trip to South-West London, you can follow The Sports’ progress across our social media channels – including live match commentary on our X (formerly Twitter) Channel – @EBFC_Official.
