Worthing vs AFC Hornchurch Match Recap - Nov 29, 2025

Worthing's Dominance Shatters AFC Hornchurch's Title Hopes in a 5-0 Rout

Worthing's emphatic 5-0 victory over AFC Hornchurch marks a significant turning point in the National League - South, showcasing their attacking prowess and exposing Hornchurch's recent vulnerabilities. Worthing, now sitting third with 30 points, capitalized on their home advantage at Sussex Transport Community Stadium, while Hornchurch, despite leading the league with 38 points, faced a harsh reality check.

E. Dolaghan emerged as the standout performer, scoring twice and continuing his remarkable run of form. After netting four goals in his previous two matches, Dolaghan's contributions were pivotal in dismantling Hornchurch's defense. His ability to find the net consistently has transformed him into a key figure for Worthing, and today's performance only solidifies his status as a player to watch moving forward.

Hornchurch's recent form has been troubling, with only one win in their last five matches. The team's struggles were compounded by Welch receiving a red card early in the second half, leaving them with ten men and further diminishing their chances of mounting a comeback. This defeat highlights a stark contrast to their earlier season success, where they had only one loss prior to this match. The pressure is mounting on Hornchurch to regain their form as they prepare for their next fixture against Hemel Hempstead Town.

Worthing's offensive display was nothing short of clinical. They scored five goals while limiting Hornchurch to minimal chances, reflecting a significant shift in momentum. The home side generated an impressive xG of around 3.5 during the match, showcasing their attacking efficiency. This performance follows a trend where Worthing has scored 15 goals in their last five matches, indicating a potent offense that can capitalize on defensive lapses from opponents.

The tactical battle played out in Worthing's favor, as they effectively exploited Hornchurch's weaknesses. With a high pressing game that forced errors and created opportunities, Worthing demonstrated their ability to control the match tempo. Their midfielders, particularly Coleman De-Graft, played crucial roles in transitioning from defense to attack, contributing not just defensively but also on the scoresheet.

Hornchurch's defensive solidity, which had been their hallmark earlier in the season, crumbled under pressure today. They had allowed only eight goals all season prior to this match but were unable to cope with Worthing's relentless attacking waves. The absence of a cohesive response after going down early proved detrimental, as they struggled to regain composure throughout the match.

Looking ahead, Worthing's confidence will be soaring as they prepare for their next match against Ebbsfleet United. This victory could serve as a catalyst for a strong finish to the season, especially if Dolaghan continues his scoring streak. Meanwhile, Hornchurch must regroup quickly; their upcoming clash against Hemel Hempstead Town will be critical for restoring morale and maintaining their position at the top of the table.

This match serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of football. Just days ago, I predicted a close contest favoring Worthing due to Hornchurch's recent struggles. Turns out, I underestimated the extent of Worthing's resurgence and Hornchurch's fragility under pressure. The narrative has shifted dramatically; Worthing is now a team on the rise, while Hornchurch faces questions about their title credentials after such a heavy defeat.

In summary, today's result not only alters the league standings but also reshapes the trajectories of both teams. Worthing's dominance signals their intent to challenge for promotion, while Hornchurch must confront the reality of their recent form if they hope to reclaim their earlier season momentum.