McFarlane hoping history repeats itself

Hornchurch head to Leiston still looking for their first win of the new Ryman Premier Division season tonight (Tuesday).

Urchins have taken one point from a possible nine, following a 1-0 loss at Kingstonian at the weekend.

But they claimed a 3-2 win in Suffolk last season thanks to a hat-trick from Stefan Payne, who subsequently moved on to Conference Premier outfit Dover, and McFarlane is desperate for another victory to open this term’s account.

“It would make a massive difference,” he said. “There’s nothing wrong that a win won’t put right.

“I watched Leiston against Billericay and we’ve just got to do exactly what we did last Wednesday and Saturday, but put a few chances away.

“It was a perfect hat-trick for Stefan last season, but it was a real game of two halves. It could’ve been 8-0 at half-time!”

Leiston beat Billericay 2-1 last Tuesday, but slipped to a 2-0 home defeat against Dulwich at the weekend.

Urchins will be without Joey May, who picked up an ankle knock in the 2-2 draw at Lewes last Wednesday, and Tobi Joseph – who is at least back in training after injury.

But Chris Bourne should be ok to return, while Frankie Curley and George Purcell made their first appearances of the season at Kingsmeadow.

McFarlane added: “George had been injured for four weeks, but he’s available now and it’s a nice little headache.

“Frankie took a bit of time to get used to the pace of the game but then he was into his stride and does what he does.

“Our defence is looking in control, but we need our shooting boots on.”