Irish on the spot as Rustington keep up pressure in title push

Josh Irish netted a hat-trick of penalties as Rustington kept up the pressure in their SCFL Division 2 title quest.

Irish remained cool to net three times from the spot, wrapping up a 3-2 home victory for Kerry Hardwell’s side against ten-man Upper Beeding.

But Blues were made to work hard for all three points against a Beeding side who had a man sent off after just 20 minutes.

Despite playing over an hour with ten-men, the visitors came from behind to lead 2-1 before Irish’s penalties took Hardwell’s troops to a win.

The victory ensures second-placed Rustington remain two points off leaders Angmering Seniors having played a game less.

Blues boss Hardwell said: “It was a big three points to start the year for us as we faced a well drilled Upper Beeding side.

“They found themselves down to ten men after 20 minutes.

“We started really well with lots of pressing and energy. It was a much improved performance from last week.

“Upper Beeding came flying out of the traps second half but Josh tucked away two penalties to win it for us.”