An understrength Icklesham Casuals 1st team got off to a disappointing start to the season on Saturday with a 3-1 home loss to Mountfield United in Division One of the East Sussex Football League.
The side were a goal down inside the first minute after conceding an indirect free-kick in the area following a back pass to the goalkeeper. A scuffed shot from the free-kick was heading well wide before hitting another Mountfield player and deflecting into the net. Mountfield dominated a largely one-sided first half and added two further goals to lead 3-0 at the interval.
An improved performance in the second period saw Icklesham reduce the deficit with five minutes remaining when Phil Badrock finished from close range following a pass from Kafka Skubay.
This coming Saturday sees the 1st team away to Hawkhurst United while the reformed 2nd XI begin their league campaign at home to Sedlescombe Rangers III. On Sunday the veterans have their opening match in the new Hastings F A Veterans League when they take on Bexhill United Veterans. The match is being played at Buxton Drive in Sidley with a 2 p.m. kick-off.