The Mens 5s headed to Crowborough for their final game of the season knowing they needed a point to almost certainly remain in Division 3 for next season.

With a tricky week for selection the 5s had a squad of just 12 against a young Crowborough side who had a full squad and with the weather significantly warmer than recent games Lewes knew they would need to put in maximum effort.

An early penalty flick for the 5s was coolly converted by David Churton and the visitors defended resolutely for the rest of the half while countering with James Williams linking the midfield and forwards effectively.
The much needed half time break was reached with the 5s ahead and everyone was keen to keep the positive attitude going and support each to give everything they had for the final half of the season.

With a growing and well dressed crowd gathering on the sidelines the 5s faced an early onslaught and Crowborough were soon level with a scrambled goal. Heads didn't drop though and although Crowborough continued to push Lewes back the defence of James H, Simon and Felix held firm and Paul in goal made some good saves to keep the score tied.

Could the 5s hold out for the rest of the half though as they struggled to get into the Crowborough D? The midfield 4 of Tom, Julien, David and James W were immense covering so much ground against opponents who had a sizable age advantage and were able to call on fresh legs to sub in.
A well worked counter saw Rupert volley his shot high into the net and give the 5s some much needed relief and breathing space heading into the final 15 mins.

Again though the 5s had to work hard to see off the Crowborough challenge who were cheered on by the boisterous crowd. Inzi slotted home a third for Lewes with 6 mins to go, his 25th of the season mostly for the 6s. The 5s saw out the remaining time. The whistle to end the game was greeted with a mix of joy, pride and relief as the 5s knew they had secured the result they needed and didn't need to worry about relying on other results.

Such a nice way to the season, the whole team performance was a joy to see, forwards of Ashley, Rupert and Inzi led the line well not only going forward but also as the first line of defence, how the midfield 4 kept that work rate going all game is miraculous especially considering David is recovering from a knee injury that has kept him out of recent games. The defence with Paul in goal kept Crowborough at bay and held firm throughout. We were also appreciative of the support from the sideline from Peter and Warren.

So a rollercoaster of a season for the Mens 5s and what a ride its been, we don't know what the future will hold but for now we can be proud.