Hastings United are delighted to announce the retention of attacking player, Priya Thapa.
Thapa, who joined The ‘U’s from Ashford United at the back end of last season, added a real difference in the 5 game unbeaten run to finish the campaign, scoring 2 goals.
Priya Thapa:
“I’m excited to play a full season with the team, hopeful we can build on the end of last season and be more successful this season.”
Billy Wood:
“I’ve been very fortunate to work with some really talented young players but Priya is one of the most exciting attacking players if had the privilege of managing. Her technical ability, creativity and for an attacking player the bite she has will make her an absolute headache for other teams next year. She’s the sort of player you just have to let off the reigns and go and make things happen. To retain Priya shows we are moving in the right direction.”
On Sunday, 6 July, Hastings United Inclusive and Disability Team made the long journey up to Dorking, where they hosted their annual football tournament, and the first including a Hastings United team.
When Hastings arrived, they found out that there was some serious competition playing, with teams such as Brighton, Fulham, and Crystal Palace all sending their own teams into this tournament. Regardless of this, Hastings were determined to put on a good show for those that came to support them, and played arguably their best football to date.
Game 1 – Hastings United played against Fulham, and settled into the game from the first minute. Despite the Fulham goalkeeper making incredible saves early on, Hastings eventually found a way through, with a brilliant header from defender Alex, who went up and was delivered a brilliant cross from a corner by Elijah. Hastings then battled hard to push for a second goal, but remained firm and never looked like conceding, due to brilliant pressing from Leeroy, Charlie and Ed. In the final few minutes of the game, the Fulham goalkeeper went upwards to help the teams effort, but after a brilliant clearance by Alex, Elijah managed to run onto it and just about reach it to tap the ball into an empty net, making it 2-0 to Hastings. Elijah was being a nuisance to the Fulham defence all game, and Gary and Jack would constantly cut out any danger that could potentially lead to a chance for Fulham. Joe was able to contribute to tackles and throw ins, and Sam managed to help build attacks from goal, helping us dominate the game over Fulham. Aaron captained the game brilliantly, leading the team throughout the game to the full time whistle, securing an amazing win for Hastings. After the first game, the team were in high spirits and were looking forward to their next games, trying to replicate their previous performance.
Game 2 – was against Hampton, who had travelled all the way from near Peterborough, and were there to win. They took an early 1-0 lead due to a defensive mixup, however Hastings battled extremely hard to create chances and get back into the game. This paid off, as Elijah had a shot which the defender couldn’t stop going in the net, and Hastings could have had more through brilliant chances created by Jack, Charlie and Shaun. It was a very fierce game, with some controversial tackles flying in from both sides, and Sam’s goal being peppered with shots, but due to some amazing saves and defensive composure from Alex and Aaron, the scoreline remained 1-1 at full time. This was a result Hastings were ultimately happy with, however they knew that they could improve and do even better.
Game 3 – was against Brighton, who had a mixture of players that Hastings have played many times before in the league, but also players from the division above. This meant they had to battle extra hard if they wanted to top their group and get into the grand final, and battle they did, as Hastings constantly created chances, playing out from the back with Sam, Alex, Aaron and Shaun spreading passes around, and moving the ball up field. An early chance came for Aaron which he was very unfortunate to get to, but he got his first official goal for the club a few moments later, with a brilliant finish from close range. However with other scores, Hastings had to push on for more goals, and Ed scored a second for Hastings, another very good finish. But Hastings needed more, and kept pushing onwards, getting a third goal, with a brilliant finish from range by Ed again. Due to the brilliant resilience, perseverance and determination from the whole team, Hastings ended up winning 3-0, however it was not enough to top the group, as Hastings missed out by just one goal. Despite this, Hastings still had an opportunity to do themselves proud, and had finished 2nd place in their group, and qualifying for the 3rd place playoff. This game was against Crystal Palace, and every member of the Hastings team not only wanted to win, but showed with their performance that they wanted to win this game. A bullet header from Ed early on put Hastings 1-0 up, before Ed took his tally and Hastings’ tally to 2 goals with a lovely top corner finish. Crystal Palace weren’t going to go down easy, and they fought back with a brilliant goal to make it 2-1, which Sam couldn’t do anything about. A goal from Charlie came next to make it 3-1, before Alex rounded off the scoring with another top corner finish, making it 4-1 to Hastings. Crystal Palace still battled on, but an immense defensive effort from Alex and Shaun prevented most chances, with Sam making brilliant saves when needed to. Gary and Jack controlled the midfield, and Aaron captained the side to another win, securing 3rd place for Hastings United. During the thunderstorms and heavy rain, Hastings United shone through, and went unbeaten throughout the whole tournament, which is an unbelievable achievement, considering the nerves on the journey towards the football ground. This was the first tournament with new coach Charlie Gordon, and it shows huge promise for us going into pre season for 25/26.
Unfortunately we do have to say goodbye to one of our players. Elijah Smith, who has been an integral part of the team for the past 20 months, who has gone on to progress his career and education, however he will always be welcome back into the team, should he wish to return. The manager’s player of the day goes to Alex Dyer for some amazing defensive performances, whilst also getting an assist and two goals. This award could have gone to any player however, as every single person played to the best of their ability
Lewis Willard – Head Coach
Our 25/26 Season Ticket Saver event ends at midnight tonight
Here is your last chance to save money with the Hastings United Saver Season Ticket. Sign up before midnight tonight to save each time you visit the Pilot Field
SAVER TICKET PRICES AVAILABLE UNITL MIDNIGHT
£155 Adult
(£7.38 per Game)
£105 Concession
(£5.00 per Game)
Thank you to everybody that has already renewed their season ticket this year, we really appreciate your support.
We have a special offer for you…. Introduce us to a new season ticket holder by emailing their name and contact details to commercial@hastingsunited.com and to say thank you, once they have purchased, you will receive a FREE 25/26 replica HUFC team shirt of your choice.
We have increased the football you can watch for FREE with your season ticket which now includes entrance to all League home games involving the following teams.
MENS FIRST TEAM
WOMENS FIRST TEAM
UNDER 23’S
UNDER 18’S
PLUS
An invitation to bring a guest for FREE to 2 fixtures during the season
(Club to choose which games this will apply)
Priority to buy Cup & Key Fixture Tickets .
The U’s started their 2025/2026 pre season with an away fixture against Horsham YM
Our man at the game today was our very own Hastings Radio host Tom Dyson-Laurie
On a scorching hot day in West Sussex, Lee Carey’s Hastings United were back in action for the first six pre season friendlies.
The U’s started with first time appearances in a Hastings shirt for Finn Holter, Dean Gunner and Brad Barry captaining the side as well as a youthful set of players all took shape and stage in a first half with both sides playing at a high tempo. It looked as though neither keeper would be tested until 7 minutes before half time and a blistering run into the penalty box from Freddie Legg who was played through by Callum Barlow and caught from behind resulting in a penalty to Hastings. Callum Barlow sent the goalkeeper the wrong way to give Hastings a 1-0 lead. An effort at the end of the half from Legg who was linking up well superbly with Barlow who flicked the ball onto him was struck fierce and agonisingly wide. The hosts best chance came when a dinked cross from the right was met by a powerful close range header which Finn Holter pulled off a superb save to keep the score at 0-1.
A few changes were made at half time with Tom Vickers replacing Brad Barry as skipper, Finn Chapman, Jamal Lubanga, JJ Walker and Joe Clifford all getting a run out too. Very few chances at the beginning however as the game went on, the home side went close with an effort going past the right hand post whilst at the other end one of the trialists went close with an effort just over the bar before James Hull flashed a shot over too momentarily afterwards. Just before the end of the game Hastings were awarded a free kick which was headed to the back post where James Hull found the back of the net making it 2-0 to Hastings. A trio of efforts late on from James Hull, Tom Vickers and Fin Chapman were all kept out superbly well from the home goalkeeper prevented Horsham YM from going further down.
The game finished with Hastings winning by two goals. A solid performance from the group as they all get to know each other
Tom Dyson-Laurie
Hastings United are delighted to retain central defender Rosie Muggeridge.
Rosie joined the club Winter 2020 and goes into her sixth season with The ‘U’s.
Rosie Muggeridge:
“Looking forward to another season with Hastings. The last couple have been a challenge but the commitment and spirit of this group has been absolutely fantastic throughout and there’s nowhere else I’d rather be.”
Billy Wood:
“Rosie has experienced it all at the club, from scoring the goal that set off the whirlwind comeback against Montpellier Villa in our league winning game, and being part of the meanest defence in the league the year after conceding just 10 goals. I couldn’t imagine anyone else wearing number 6, and delighted Rosie is staying with us for another year.”
Hastings United are delighted to announce Freddie Legg has signed a new contract with the club, and will be with The ‘U’s.
Legg, who joined The ‘U’s initially in Summer 2021 has played his way through the Under 18s and Under 23s to become a prominent first team player.
Freddie Legg:
“Four eventful years here and a few options were on the table this summer, however I’ve committed to a fifth season with this new group. I’m motivated, fired up and ready to show the fans what we are made of. Let’s get back to where we belong.”
Lee Carey:
“Obviously there was speculation this summer, but I am absolutely delighted he has committed to Hastings for the 25/26 season.
I feel he put in some good displays in the final five games and I feel in the right environment, with his ability he’ll thrive this season. I am looking forward to him driving us forward this year as a real attacking threat and believe he can cause any defence problems. Let’s go Leggy!”
Hastings United are delighted to announce the contract extension of JJ Walker following his loan spell last season at Eastbourne Town.
Walker, a product of our Academy, joins us with the first team squad ahead of the 2025/26 season.
JJ Walker:
“Buzzing to be back at the club. Was an easy decision to come back after the chat I had with the gaffer earlier on in the summer.
Obviously went on loan last year and I feel like it benefitted me massively. Feel like l’ve got a point to prove here and can’t wait to get going!”
Lee Carey:
“I believe JJ has been unlucky in recent years not have featured more for Hastings United, however he has picked up some invaluable experience last year going out on loan, which saw him play 40+ games at Step 4 last season.
A centre back with great quality and a passing range I am envious of, and we will make use of for sure through this season. I am pleased to be working with him for the 25/26 season.“
Hastings United can confirm the retention of Jamal Lubanga.
Lubanga, an Academy product stays with The ‘U’s for another season.
Jamal Lubanga:
“Very happy to get this done and extend with Hastings, can’t wait to get started.”
Lee Carey:
“Really please to of retain Jamal’s services for 25/26 campaign. He has come back full of energy and looks in great shape and will add versatility to the group which is a massive benefit.”
Hastings United are delighted to retain the services of Finley Chapman who signs a new deal with The ‘U’s.
An exciting creative midfielder and a product of the Hastings United Academy programme, Chapman made 50 appearances for the club last season.
Finley Chapman:
“Buzzing to have the privilege to wear the Hastings shirt again this season. It’s such a big year for the club and myself as we both look to push on. Speaking with the gaffa about his plans only excites me and gives me more motivation for the season ahead. Looking forward to seeing the Hastings fans flood the gates of The Pilot Field again, and who knows…there might be some more dance moves along the way.”
Lee Carey:
“Chappo is an individual that every changing room needs. The life and soul with bags of ability on a football pitch, I am really pleased to have kept him after us having interest from clubs at a higher level. We both feel this is the place he can really improve, and I believe it’s going to be a fantastic year for him, especially the way we want to play. He has come back into pre-season sharp and this shows how determined he is. Expecting Chapo to show the supporters just what he is all about this season.“
We are delighted to announce our first external signing for our Womens Team as former England U17 international, Chloe Fowler joins The ‘U’s.
Fowler, a creative attacking player, who represented her country alongside the likes of Alessia Russo and Georgia Stanway, previously has played for Chelsea, Charlton Athletic and Gillingham joins up with the club for the 2025/26 season.
Chloe Fowler:
“Excited to be joining Hastings Untied, looking forward to joining up with Billy, which is a few years in the making and hope to bring some good times back to the club.”
Billy Wood:
“To be able to get your number one target isn’t always easy, so to be able to bring a player of Chloe’s ability to the club shows the path we are going on. She is one of the most gifted footballers, both footed, vision and creativity unmatched by anyone in this league and will add goals to this team. Looking forward to how she connects with our forward players and add the bite in front of goal the club just didn’t have last season.”
Our Sponsors
