The hosts, who moved up to fourth place in the table, had most of the game but were frustrated for long periods by a determined Hastings defence, even without inspirational player-manager Sean Ray, and by their own wasteful finishing.
Elvis Hammond shot narrowly wide in a rare Hastings attack during the first half but otherwise it was the Trawlerboys pushing forward.
The goal came after 51 minutes and was a cruel blow for 19-year-old debutant keeper Matt Cruttwell.
He pulled off a point-blank save at the feet of Lee Smith but could do nothing to prevent Chris Henderson (pictured) scrambling in the loose ball.
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