Premier Division
Hedinghams United 3 Brightlingsea Regent 5
Saturday, 30 April 2011
Hedinghams United v Brightlingsea Regent
“Four goal Terry Rymer rescues “Regent”
in Eight goal feast as a
Resourceful “United” show great fight”
In front of a good sized shirt-sleeved crowd at Lawn Meadow the visitors took another vital three points but their destination was in doubt until the final minutes following a great effort from Dave Heather’s home side. Indeed inside half an hour the game seemed all but lost to Hedinghams as they trailed by two goals with Brightlingsea in cruise control but they had not bargained for the explosive start to the second half when the game took another direction.
The visitor’s showed one change from the Bank Holiday Monday side that beat Alresford Colne Rangers so comfortably. Ryan Salter returned to the right back position with Darryl Wallis on the bench.
The home side’s reserve keeper did well in the first couple of minutes when a long throw from Ryan Salter to the near post picked out Liam Morley whose deft header was turned over by Clark Wells for a corner. At the other end Praize Mayzika chased a long through ball but good alert goalkeeping from Daniel Beeson foiled the danger. Then followed a free kick for the home side from the left by Alec Pyman who found the head of Keith Argent at the far post but he was unable to get sufficient purchase and the effort went wide.
Brightlingsea Regent took the lead in the 5th minute when a long clearance was headed into the path of leading scorer TERRY RYMAN who strode into the box and drove past the keeper – his 40th goal of the season. Ryman was again through but just caught off side whilst the home side’s Benjamin Parker drove over. Both sides were committed to offensive play with the visiting side showing a little more fluency in the early stages. In fact Brightlingsea strung six effective passes together but the end product saw Ritchie Meadows in an off side position.
The home side showed good technique when Keith Argent and Tom Cook combined well but the ensuing danger saw Ryan Salter make a fine and timely interception. Praize Mayzika then struck a decent shot from the edge of the box that went narrowly wide and Jack O’Hare had his shot blocked as Hedinghams tried to get back on terms. At the other end as the game continued at a high tempo a good move developed between Luke Hughes and Sam Holman that culminated with the ball being played out on the left to Phil Kelly whose educated left foot sent a precision chip over the outstretched Clark Wells that struck the bar and was subsequently cleared.
However the visitors went further ahead in the 27th minute when PHIL KELLY took advantage of a fine ball played behind the full back enabling the player to move inside to thread the ball past the oncoming keeper inside the far post.
Brightlingsea were stepping up the pace playing some decent approach play and Phil Kelly dispatched a fine teasing cross from the left but Keith Argent made a decisive header to clear. then created a good opportunity when Praize Maysika sent a superb diagonal ball from the half way line into space that saw Jamie Chandler move menacingly down the right flank and he produced an excellent cross beyond defenders that should have been converted but the visitors got away unscathed.
The game continued to ebb and flow and Brightlingsea created a great chance when Liam Morley released a fine ball to Luke Hughes but from a good position lifted the ball over the keeper and the bar. Terry Rymer then held the ball up well before a short pass to Luke Hughes but his strike was comfortably held by Clark Wells. The half finished with the visitors on top and another fine move between Terry Rymer and Sam Holman enabled Phil Kelly to show his strength cutting on the left but drove into the side netting. The visitors chasing the Premier Title looked comfortable at the break and deserved their lead.
Half Time: Hedinghams Utd 0 – 2 Brightlingsea Regent
There was a dramatic start to the second period with three goals in as many minutes. In the 47th minute Praize Mayzika sent a corner kick into the box and BENJAMIN PARKER totally unmarked headed home for Hedinghams to reduce the arrears. However a minute later the two goal margin was restored when Phil Kelly threaded a fine ball through to sharp shooter TERRY RYMER who with some ease drove the ball home to make it 1-3.
However, home manager Dave Heathers had clearly had some words at the interval as in the 49th minute Hedinghams pulled a goal back for the second time when TOM COOK struck a tremendous left foot shot from 25 yards that was still rising as it hit the roof of the net giving the despairing Daniel Beeson no chance.
The game had taken on another dimension as the home side roared on by their supporters looked increasingly dangerous and the visitors were visibly shaken. Brightlingsea had a great chance to extend their lead again when Terry Rymer ran through the defence but he passed the chance by unselfishly squaring the ball to Luke Hughes who at the far post contrived to lift the ball over from two yards with the goal at his mercy. Sam Holman then struck a decent shot straight at keeper Clark Wells and Phil Kelly’s corner was volleyed over by Jake Holman.
As the home side fought with great determination both Jack O’Hare and Praize Mayzika had shots blocked. Then in the 59th minute their efforts were rewarded when a free kick was struck into the wall and struck the outstretched hand of Terry Rymer. Referee Mr Steve Woods awarded the inevitable penalty that saw ALEC PYMAN send the keeper the wrong way with a confident strike to level the scores at 3-3.
However the visitors – with only one league defeat this season - showed their character when in the 62nd minute free kick specialist TERRY RYMER completed his hat trick when he perfectly bent a free kick around the wall with sufficient pace to beat Clark Wells.
The Brightlingsea management made a double substitution introducing Darryl Wallis and James Cole for Ryan Salter and Ritchie Meadows. The home keeper did well to save from Luke Hughes and then Terry Rymer received a yellow card for a poor challenge. Hedinghams made their first substitution when Keenan Page replaced Praize Mayzika who had made a good contribution for the home side. Alec Pyman - a strong performer for Hedinghams - struck a fine volley but straight at the keeper whilst at the other end Terry Rymer crashed a shot from 20 yards that Clark Wells did well to tip over.
Brightlingsea made a further change when Dean Sillett replaced Luke Hughes. The visitors made a strong break down the wide right when James Cole released Terry Rymer again unselfishly squared the ball to Dean Sillett who fired well wide when well placed. The home side then had the visiting defence in all sorts of trouble for a sustained period of two minutes but with some good fortune Bightlingsea managed to retain their lead.
The game was finally wrapped up for Brightlingsea Regent through none other than the “Man of the Match” - Terry Rymer when, following a break on the right, home defender Stuart Bryant won the ball then gave it away cheaply. Sharp shooter TERRY RYMER rounded the keeper and from a tight angle found the net to extend the lead to 3-5 to round off a 9* personal performance.
It had been a highly entertaining game that saw “Regent” enhance their title chances – three points behind long time leaders Gas Recreation with three games in hand but with an inferior goal difference. However, full marks to Hedinghams United for a tremendous effort where they not only showed plenty of character but great determination particularly to fight back when they looked a beaten side at the break.
Full Time: Hedinghams United 3 – 5 Brightlingsea Regent
Hedinghams United;
Clark Wells; James Chandler, Stuart Bryant, Jack O’Hare, Daug Mills; Benjamin Parker, Tom Cook, Keith Argent, Sam George; Praize Mayzika, Alec Pyman.
Substitutes: Keenan Page, Jordan Partridge, Oliver Little, Sky Ozer.
Brightlingsea Regent:
Daniel Beeson; Ryan Salter, Jake Gould, Liam Morley, Jake Holman; Joseph Warren, Ritchie Meadows, Sam Holman, Phil Kelly; Terry Rymer, Luke Hughes.
Substitutes: Darryl Wallis, Dean Sillett, James Cole, James Webster, Mark Gridley.
Referee: Mr Steve Woods (Colchester)
Man of the Match: TERRY RYMER – 4 goals this afternoon – there are insufficient superlatives to describe his contribution - other than outstanding.
Entertainment Value: * * * *
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Pre Match Thoughts:
I hope you all enjoyed the Royal Wedding – I thought it was compulsive viewing. It was bargain hunting morning at Tesco and I purchased a nice bottle of Rioja Antano usual retail price £9.99 but today reduced to £4.99 a real bargain!
Brother Phil arrived on schedule as usual. He parked his flashy Jaguar and we boarded my vintage Honda that I selected for the trip.
Today’s music for the 55 minute trip to Hedingham featured “Memories are made of this”. Some terrific classics included “My Blue Heaven” – Frank Ifield “Dreamboat” – Alma Cogan, “Ragtime Cowboy Joe” – Jo Stafford,”I’ll Get By” – Peggy Lee, “Call me Irresponsible” – Dinah Washington, “Mr Wonderful” – Keely Smith, “Crazy” - Kay Star, “Just in Time” – Dean Martin. Oh such joy.
On arrival at Lawn Meadow car parking was at a premium but caused no problem and I sat in the car overlooking the pitch that was sprouting a few daisies in parts. We walked into the ground and I was met by manager David Heather who gave a very warm welcome a friendly handshake that was most pleasing. David had gone to much trouble as he had created “my own” press area – (referred to later in the post match comments).
I enquired as to whether Secretary Julie George was present but alas she was unavailable this afternoon. We were greeted with cups of coffee and a good overall hospitable welcome. I met up with referee Steve Woods the first meeting of the season. Steve I always regarded as one of the league’s best – never seems ruffled in any way. We had a good chat and it was great to meet up again.
It was hello to James Webster and Mark Gridley the now renowned Brightlingsea Regent Team Management who over the period of the season I have come to respect with some affection. They have had a wonderful season as they chase their first piece of significant silverware. James, somewhat gleefully reminded me of the time when earlier in the season, following a somewhat fortunate victory on penalties against Wormingford Wanderers in the League Cup, I suggested that they would not finish in the top three places – but hey, what do I know!
I had a brief chat with Brightlingsea physio Carly Pickard resplendent in her match day uniform. I also met up again with 76 year old Ivor Skeggs – always in attendance at his Club’s games home and away. He is a very nice gentleman his daughter’s son is Dean Sillett. They have a close relationship and Ivor has followed Dean’s career from a young boy and always provided good advice to him.
It was a warm afternoon yet again and both sides were going through their paces. I had given some thought to the likely outcome and rather suspected that the Brightlingsea would confidently chalk up another three points. David’s side had been well beaten at Little Oakley the previous Saturday albeit they had two players dismissed. However they have also achieved some good results – more recently holding West Bergholt, which virtually put paid to Gary Wood’s title chances.
After a chat with the lady serving in the refreshment area the scene was set and the two sides made there way onto the pitch. I hastened round to my palatially designated ‘press area’ on the centre line – the best view available - and took ‘my seat’ - the rest is consigned to the record books.
Post Match Thoughts
With a comfortable lead on 27 minutes it looked like game over and the expectation of another resounding victory – twice in five days. Brightlingsea were looking to cruise to another three points and their fine run looked in little danger as they appeared to march on with their title aspirations held high. The management team of James Webster and Mark Gridley surely said “same again lads” at the break!
Whatever Dave Heathers said to his charges is unclear but perhaps some additive in the half time tea brought about an unexpected transformation that even had Referee Steve Woods amazed when I spoke to him after the game. Indeed the majority of home supporters, following their heavy defeat last week at little Oakley, believed this was going to be another “bad day” at the office. But yea of little faith, as my English master use to say to me years and years ago! The Lawn Meadow came to life and from my resplendent view in the cordoned off ‘press area’ I had to re-sharpen pencils and my concentration became intense hoping not to make another mistake as I did by crediting a goal to an alternative player on Bank holiday Monday.
During the first half although possession was nearly equal there was panache about Brightlingsea Regent. The likes of Phil Kelly, Liam Morley and Sam Holman particularly were sometimes on another planet with their vision. Terry Rymer was Terry Rymer with an almost imperious belief and he rightly made it clear that his opener was number 40 for the season. Indeed his predatory instincts have no equal in this league when he is on song.
As for the home side I was impressed with the output of Sam George and felt that Keith Argent’s performance at the back hardly warranted the concession of five goals. The goal of the game was the tremendous strike of Tom Cook that will surely last in his memory until he either replicates it or betters it which may be unlikely to accomplish – a goal that would have graced any ground on this sunny bank holiday weekend.
At the end there were perhaps contrasting thoughts from the respective managers. A certain relief from James and Mark and a good deal of contentment from Dave although he was disappointed with the latter goals conceded.
As for referee Steve Woods an excellent performance that surely achieved top marks. Cool calm and collected. A couple of bookings were indisputable - well done.
On a personal note I appear to have upset the Hedinghams Club on two occasions this season in my reporting. However, I was amused and flattered by the way I was received this afternoon. Manager Dave Heathers had “roped off” a small area for my reporting on the half way line with two notices displayed (i) “Match reporting Area Only”, and within (ii) “John’s Chair”. A good humoured touch, David, and very much appreciated.
I was disappointed not to meet Secretary Julie George who I had also upset. I told Dave I had planned to give Julie a kiss. He said “make a note in your notes” so I have done just that. I would also like to thank the Club for their excellent hospitality and the nice lady behind the tea counter.
It was a very pleasant afternoon and I drove back to base feeling as if some “bridges” had been re-built.
Miscellaneous:
Charles Hewitt:
It is with much regret that I mention the death of Charles on Monday evening. He was a mentor for many referees in the County who, with brother Richard, was both an assessor and great supporter of the Border League. I personally knew him briefly. Usually we would converse at matches where he attended with his brother but I know to many referees there is a deep gratitude for his wisdom and support. There will be others who are much better equipped to comment upon his foot balling career and life than I.
I received an email from referee Simon Bird who wrote –
“I was shocked and saddened to hear this morning that Charles Hewitt had passed away. Charles has assessed me twice in the last couple of seasons and I found him to be a lovely man and his advice has certainly made me a better referee. I have already sent my condolences to his dear wife Elsie and I for one shall miss the banter he shared with his brother Richie who was also a Referee and Assessor”.
Simon added that he officiated at the White Notley vs West Bergholt game today and he held a minute silence for Charles that was impeccably observed by all the players. Well done Simon and I’m sure your thoughts are echoed by all the referees who came into contact with Charles
All I can do is offer is my sincere condolences to Elsie, his family and brother Richard. He was a nice man who will be deeply missed by all the football fraternity, in particular. I understand that the funeral will be held on Monday 16th May at the Colchester Crematorium at – I believe 11.45 am.
Richard Hewitt:
As will be known brother Richard went into hospital last Monday for a knee operation and regrettably was unable to see Charles before he died. I spoke with his wife Pat who advised the feelings of despair that Richard endured – one cannot imagine the tragic circumstances at that time. Pat further advised that Richard is himself poorly and will undergo another operation on his knee on Tuesday. Richard is in Aldham Ward, Colchester Hospital. On behalf of all your friends and colleagues Richard, we wish you a successful operation on Tuesday and hope you will make a full recovery.
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Tommy Thompson Cup Final:
The League’s last Final will take place on Bank Holiday Monday when Lawford Lads FC host the match between Boxted Lodgers Reserves vs Rowhedge Reserves.
Rowhedge Reserves are having a great season and will be hot favourites to take their second piece of silverware having already won the Reserve Cup. They are also poised to take the Reserve Division One Title and promotion seems a certainty with three games to go.
The two teams had a dress rehearsal this afternoon with Boxted Lodgers beaten 0-2 at Cage Lane. This might be an omen for Rowhedge but Simon Lee’s side have had a decent season and an upset cannot be discounted. Let’s hope for a keenly contested final. The kick off is 11.00am.
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First Division Title Chase:
Barring a miracle Lawford Lads look destined to take the title with two games in hand of their nearest rivals Newbury Forest. Nobody will begrudge their promotion back to the Premier Division following their short period in the “First”. It will be a triumph for Chairman Andy Rudd who has presided over an excellent season that will culminate with the conclusion of their new impressive facilities that are due for completion prior to the start of the next season.
Newbury Forest is the likely runner up following a fine first season in the Border League having moved from the Romford & District League. They have bought their own unique style to the League and scored an amazing 148 goals from 29 games thus far. They have ‘perceived’ facility issues to overcome should they conclude the season in a promotion place, but let’s hope that football is the winner – for, like Lawford Lads, they will be a great asset to the Premier Division.
With the expectancy of Brightlingsea Regent moving to the Ridgeons League there is the potential third spot to fight for in the hope that the side who finish third may also receive promotion. Coggeshall Town currently occupy the third spot despite their reverse at West Clacton who are strong contenders whilst Clacton United’s game at home to Newbury Forest on Saturday promises to be vital for the coastal side.
As a footnote to “the Chase” well done to basement Club BELL UNITED who could have “stayed at home” but courageously made the journey to Newbury Forest this afternoon and “suffered a hiding”. Your commitment to travel, in the knowledge there was only going to be one winner, shows "guts" and does you great credit – indeed perhaps there were two winners today!
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One early arrival tonight in my post box was from referee Adrian Arnot. He was at Barnston AFC and he wrote “I cannot fault the hospitality given from all concerned at Barnston. They hopefully one day will be in the Premiership with the set up that they have”. Adrian has echoed similar comments received from other referees who have had the pleasure of officiating at High Easter Road. As for attaining Premier status I know that they are the aspirations of manager Leighton Williams and after their first season in the Border League there will, I am sure, be summer planning for a real push in the next campaign.
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Millwall – Yeah - OK I know!
Next Week’s Match Report :– Clacton United v Newbury Forest.
John Campany
email: ja.campany@gmail.com