Hastings United and Hashtag United played out a 0-0 stalemate in an intriguing International Club Friendly at the Pilot Field on 1 August 2026, with both sides showing plenty of attacking intent but lacking the final touch in front of goal.

The pre-season fixture served as an important sharpening exercise for two clubs with contrasting histories but a shared ambition to kick off the league season strongly. Hastings United, competing in the Isthmian League, used the game to fine-tune their defensive shape, while Hashtag United — the ambitious Essex-based outfit founded by YouTube creator Spencer Owen — continue to build momentum in their own non-league journey.

Match overview

From the opening exchanges, it was clear that both managers wanted to see a high-tempo, competitive workout. Hastings started brightly, pressing high up the pitch and forcing Hashtag United into an early error that produced a tame shot wide of the post. The visitors gradually settled into possession, stroking the ball around confidently and creating the first genuine chance on 23 minutes when a well-worked corner fell to an unmarked defender, whose header was cleared off the line.

As the first half wore on, the game opened up. Hastings United grew in confidence and began to stretch the Hashtag midfield, with several surging runs from the flanks resulting in dangerous crosses that just evaded the forwards. Both goalkeepers were largely untroubled, however, and the teams went in level at the break.

Second-half tactical battle

The second half saw a flurry of substitutions as so often happens in pre-season, and with them came a change in rhythm. Hashtag United appeared to take control of midfield, dictating play through a compact triangle and forcing Hastings to drop deeper. The hosts responded by introducing fresh legs up front, and they nearly snatched a late winner when a swift counter-attack ended with a low drive fizzing just inches past the far post.

In the closing stages, both teams pushed for what would have been a deserved goal in front of the travelling support. Hashtag United came closest with a looping effort that struck the crossbar in the 88th minute, but the game finished goalless.

What this means for both sides

For Hastings United, this was a solid outing against a well-organised opponent, and the clean sheet will please the coaching staff. The match also gave valuable minutes to new signings and academy graduates looking to stake a claim for the starting XI.

Hashtag United, meanwhile, will take confidence from their controlled display and the fact they carved out the clearer chances despite being the away side. Club officials described the game as "a perfect test ahead of the season opener", with the result underlining the growing competitiveness of their squad.

Both clubs now turn their attention to final pre-season adjustments before the competitive curtain-raiser, where the real business begins.