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Archived News 2004 / 2005 Season
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Rydon Group - Main Sponsors of East Grinstead Town F.C.
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| :: Saturday 14th May 2005 :: |
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End of Season Presentations
FULL back Adam Dart took the two main awards at East Grinstead Town’s presentation evening last night. The 20-year-old fullback won the first team players’ player and the award given by manager Bob Smith. Supporters’ player of the year was another defender, Drew Cooney, and a trophy was presented to top scorer Kris Trevor whose 21 goals failed to prevent Wasps from sliding back into Division Two of the Sussex County League after two seasons in the top flight.
The reserves also lost their place in the Premier Division of the Reserve Section, but manager Phil Major was able to report an enjoyable season for his young side. Players’ player, for the second year running, was goalkeeper Lee Whibley. Managers’ player went to young defender Tom Green. Leading goalscorer Steve Norris also collected an award.
The third team award for players’ player went to Jim Blades and manager Richard Goodwin’s trophy to Seb Mann.
Boss Micky Buckingham chose Andy Goodwin as his under-18s player of the season while the players’ player was Hayden Coomber.
The ladies team, who finished second in the Sussex League, chose Tanya Warner as their player of the season. Manager Jim Muir’s award went to Kim Vince.
The club person of the year went to a player for the first time for nearly 20 years when popular first team defender Grant Hearn took the honour.
Outgoing Chairman Bruce Talbot was presented with an award by chairman elect Richard Tramontin who was pleased to announce that Bruce would be happy to give his total support and take on the role of vice-chairman.
THE biggest pitch renovation project in the history of the club is underway at East Court.
A team from Machines Direct, a Surrey-based firm who have carried out similar work at many top non-league clubs, moved in last week to start work.
 The top surface was removed to a depth of around 1.5 inches and the sub-surface broken up and combined with 120 tonnes of top dressing to leave a fine tilth ready for levelling and the application of seed and fertilizer.
The work will take 4-5 days and is due to be completed early next week.
The project is costing the club a five-figure sum but outgoing chairman Bruce Talbot believes it is money well spent.
He said: “We solved the perennial problem of bad drainage of our pitch three years ago. We are now giving as much attention to the surface itself as we did to the drainage then.
“We have also invested in new equipment which will help us irrigate the pitch better than before which is absolutely crucial.
“We are grateful to the assistance of Richard Gooding and his team at Machines Direct. In a few weeks time we should see the fruits of his labour – a pitch the club can be proud of and one our players will enjoy playing on next season.”
The area behind the goal at the pond end has also been renovated to provide a grass training area.
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| :: Friday 13th May 2005 :: |
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Major pitch renovation work well on its way
 The most extensive pitch renovation project ever undertaken on our East Court pitch besides the previous major drainage work during the summer of 2002 is proceeding extremely well.
The top surface of the pitch was removed yesterday by means of a koro machine and 120 tonnes of top dressing was applied today to be followed by power harrowing.
Richard Gooding and his team at Machines Direct, who are carrying out the extensive project, are keeping their fingers crossed that the weather holds out for the rest of the works to be carried out over the whole of the coming weekend.
Ideal conditions would then be for a good mixture of sun and plenty of rain. It would however be foolish and short-sighted to simple rely on the weather, so the club has invested considerably in new irrigation equipment to ensure the best possible playing surface for next season.
Further regular updates will follow.
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| :: Saturday 7th May 2005 :: |
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FOOTIE FUN DAY 2005
 IT was a long day for all those involved, but FFD 05 was another resounding success which once again showed how much importance the club places on one of its core aims - to provide football for the community of East Grinstead.
Around 400 youngsters aged from under-7 to under-10 took part and the final match, symbolically refereed by organiser Martin Hill, didn't kick off until 8pm, nearly 11 hours after the first match of the day had got underway.
EGTFC would like to thank all those managers, parents and, of course, the players for making sure the event passed off without too many hitches.
Martin Hill and his hardworking backroom team deserve our thanks as well. Organising and running an event of this sort is a massive undertaking and wouldn't be possible without the many volunteers who did everything from erect the portable goals to cooking literally hundreds of burgers and hot dogs!
Here's to FFD '06 and thanks once again for making this year's event such a success.
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| :: Thursday 5th May 2005 :: |
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 A minute's silence was respectfully observed at the start of the Wasps Under 8 match last weekend in memory of George Joslin who sadly passed away a couple of weeks ago.
George will be sadly missed. His daughter Gillian who is known to many supporters from her following of the First Team is pictured next to her son Paul, who is the furthest player on the right of the photo in Grinstead strip, which grandad George bought for the team at the beginning of this their first season at the club. The amber and black balloon tribute was arranged by Kay Benniman, the Under 8's manager.
The club's sincere condolences go out to George's family.
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| :: Tuesday 3rd May 2005 :: |
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 Despite the alternative attraction of tonight's Liverpool v Chelsea Champions League Semi Final, a fair few people came along to East Court for a benefit match for Kevin Wright who broke his leg in February during a match against East Preston.
On behalf of Kevin and all at EGTFC we would like to thank all the Grinstead players who turned out for Kevin as well as the supporters and Kevin's friends and family with special thanks going to Sammy Donnelly, his players and all connected with Three Bridges for having provided the opposition for this benefit match.
Donations were taken at tonight's gate instead of charging an admission fee and these were presented to Kevin by Bobby Smith after the match. The three officials, Richard Daniells, Andrew Presland and Paul Lodge also generously waived their fees.
Kevin is now on the road to recovery from his broken leg despite his housemate Dave Gellatly's attempts at nursing him and we all hope to see Kevin back in a Grinstead shirt again soon.
Bobby Smith said "Kevin was the first player I persuaded to come back to the club after my appointment as manager in 1998. Since then he has given total committment to the cause and we have certainly missed him since his unfortunate injury."
Bobby added "Kevin is one of those players managers dream about. He is always committed, always positive and always supportive of what we are trying to achieve here at East Grinstead Town. Knowing Kevin's family as I do, I was sure that a match such as this should take place because I would like to think the club would look after a player who we proudly call 'one of our own'"
Chairman Bruce Talbot was unable to be at tonight's match as he would have faced a nine hour round trip drive because of work committments. He sent his apologies and best wishes for Kevin through vice-chairman, Richard Tramontin.
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| :: Monday 2nd May 2005 :: |
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BOB: WE'LL BOUNCE BACK
WASPS have been relegated after just two seasons in the County League's top flight following a dramatic finale to the season on Saturday.
We looked on course to get the win we needed to stay up when we led 2-0 at half-time at already relegated Sidlesham.
But the home side, inspired by a hat-trick from Jimmy Steward, hit back to lead 3-2 and although Simon Tadman got an injury time equaliser for Wasps it wasn't enough. To add to Grinstead agony, Dave Gellatly missed a penalty when the score was 2-2............ [Full Match report]
 Manager Bob Smith said: "The way the game unfolded was almost surreal. We looked comfortable at half-time despite not playing that well but once they scored their first they were a different side and we looked very edgy. We still had enough chances to have won comfortably though."
Southwick's win over Eastbourne Town enabled them to move above Wasps by a single point but Grinstead face second division football again next season along with Pagham and Sidlesham.
Smith added: "I feel sorry for the players and everyone who works so hard behind the scenes to keep the club moving forward that this has happened. I felt all season we would have enough about us to get out of trouble but it wasn't to be.
"We didn't go down because of Saturday. We have thrown away a lot of points this season and we have suffered continually from injury problems and suspensions. That's not an excuse it's a fact as our supporters will recognise.
"We are allowed to feel sorry for ourselves for a couple of days, but then we must start to look towards next season. Shoreham have bounced straight back up after relegation and there's no reason why we can't either."
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| :: Saturday 30th April 2005 :: |
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Division Two football next season for Wasps.......
Wasps had Division One survival in their hands at half time in their final match of the season against Sidlesham this afternoon, leading 2 - 0 at the break with goals from Kris Trevor and Ben Burns. The grit and determination that the team showed last Tuesday was sadly lacking and the bottom club came back to 2 - 2. Grinstead were awarded a penalty but Dave Gellatly put his spot kick over the bar and shortly afterwards the home team were also awarded a penalty which they converted. Wasps chased the game and substitute Simon Tadman equalised with 4 minutes to go, but it was too little too late............. [Full Match report]
Southwick's unlikely 2-0 win over Eastbourne Town ensured their survival and Grinstead's relegation.
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| :: Friday 29th April 2005 :: |
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Final day of the season
It couldn't be closer. Tomorrow's County League Division One matches are the final fixtures of the season and the battle is on to avoid the final relegation place. Wasps' fate is in their own hands when they play Sidlesham. A win would secure their position in Division One for next season while any other result would then depend on the outcome of the other two clubs that could end up in the bottom three, Southwick who face Eastbourne Town and Worthing United who meet Eastbourne United Association. We expect a good contingent of travelling supporters from East Grinstead to make the long journey to Sidlesham to cheer Bobby and the lads on. Come on the WASPS!!
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| :: Tuesday 26th April 2005 :: |
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WASPS OUT OF BOTTOM THREE
EAST GRINSTEAD TOWN 2, EASTBOURNE UTD ASSN 1
 WASPS gave themselves every chance of beating the drop after a spirited performance in their last home game tonight lifted them out of the County League relegation zone.
First-half goals from Phil Thompson and Dave Gellatly set up a crucial first win in five and means Grinstead go to Sidlesham on Saturday (3pm) knowing that victory will definitely keep them in the first division.
A draw could also be enough providing Southwick don’t win their final match at home to Eastbourne Town.
Manager Bob Smith said: “If we play like we did on Tuesday at Sidlesham I have every confidence we can get a result. We thoroughly deserved to win and should have scored a few more goals.”............ [Match report]
Final games for the teams in the relegation battle - all matches being played on Saturday 30th April:-
Worthing United - points 41 - potential points 44 - Eastbourne United Association (H)
East Grinstead Town - Points 40 - potential points 43 - Siddlesham (A)
Southwick - points 39 - potential points 42 - Eastbourne Town (H)
GRINSTEAD round off their season next Tuesday (May 3) when they take on Three Bridges in a benefit match for long-serving defender Kevin Wright who broke his leg in two places against East Preston nearly two months ago. Kick off is 7.30pm and the club hope as many supporters as possible turn up to support one of Grinstead’s most popular players.
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| :: Saturday 23rd April 2005 :: |
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Reserves fail to secure victory needed to stay in Premier Division
Despite going ahead just before half time from a headed goal from Matt Bradford, Wasps reserves failed to secure the three points that would have seen them swop places with Hailsham Town, conceding two second half goals.
Wasps had several good opportunities which they squandered, none more so than a chance that fell to Matt Bradford who managed to hit the ball over the bar from within the six yard box with the keeper not even trying to block him as it looked like a certain goal. It was truly disappointing to see so many lacklustre displays in what was the final and ultimately most vital match of the season for the team.
Today's Reserve Section Premier Division Results in full
Burgess Hill Town 0-1 Whitehawk, East Grinstead Town 1-2 Hailsham Town, East Preston 2-2 Hassocks, Eastbourne Borough 3-2 Chichester City United, Ringmer 1-2 Arundel
Today's Division One Results in full:
Redhill 0-3 Chichester City Utd, Rye & Iden 1-0 Worthing Utd, Sidley Utd 1-0 Arundel.
Sidley are now safe from the drop. Chichester are also realistically safe because of their goal difference, while Worthing Utd have now fallen into the fight to keep out of the final relegation slot.
Final games for the teams in the relegation battle:-
Chichester City Utd - points 42 - potential points 45 - Three Bridges (H)
Worthing United - points 41 - potential points 44 - Eastbourne United Association (H)
Southwick - points 39 - potential points 42 - Eastbourne Town (H)
East Grinstead Town - Points 37 - potential points 43 - Eastbourne United Association (H), Siddlesham (A)
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| :: Sunday 17th April 2005 :: |
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WE'VE STILL GOT A CHANCE OF STAYING UP
WELL, we had one of those 'nothing to play for' ends to last season and it obviously doesn't agree with us.
The fight for first division survival will go to the last game of the season after a third defeat in four games on Saturday left us with it all to do to avoid relegation.
We can save themselves by winning the last two matches. They are against Eastbourne United Association at East Court next Tuesday week (7.30pm) and away to Sidlesham on April 30.
Pagham and Sidlesham are already down and the battle to avoid the third relegation place is effectively between Wasps and Southwick who have one game left at home to Eastbourne Town, also on April 30.
Southwick have a two-point advantage over Grinstead so Wasps need six points from their remaining games to definitely secure their top-flight status. Four or even three points could be enough, providing Southwick lose their last match.
A haul of one point from the last four games doesn't inspire a lot of confidence it has to be said, but Southwick are in freefall themselves with just two points collected from their last seven matches.
Manager Bob Smith had no complaints about Saturday’s result where Kris Trevor’s 20th goal of the season was one of the few highlights.
Smith said: “We were beaten by the better side. They had a lot of pace and troubled our defence constantly. We can have no complaints although I thought we were unlucky to go in 1-0 down at half-time because we’d created the better chances up until their first goal.”
Smith is glad of the ten-day break before the Eastbourne United game in which to prepare for one last push.
“One or two of the players are carrying knocks which they can rest and we have started to look a little jaded in the last week or so,” he added. “But we’re still in there fighting and the players believe we can stay up which is the most important thing.”
Yesterday's Reserve Section - Premier Division results
Burgess Hill Town 0-1 Hailsham Town, Horsham YMCA 2 - 1 Oakwood, Ringmer 0 - 5 Three Bridges, Sidley United 1 - 4 Hassocks, Southwick 4 - 2 East Grinstead Town, Whitehawk 1 - 4 Eastbourne Borough
Grinstead's loss to Southwick and Hailsham's away win at Burgess Hill means that Grinstead swop places with Hailsham and now occupy the final relegation place of fourth from bottom. Wasps will now need to win their last match of the campaign against Hailsham next Saturday at East Court (ko 3pm) to have any chance of survival in the Reserve Premier Division. Hailsham are currently two points ahead of Grinstead with a game in hand. Ringmer are already relegated and Whitehawk and Southwick occupy the two places below Grinstead, each with two points less, but Whitehawk have two games in hand.
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| :: Saturday 16th April 2005 :: |
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Wasps still 3rd from bottom
Grinstead stay rooted in the last relegation spot after losing to Eastbourne Town 3 - 1 this afternoon, with Kris Trevor scoring in the second half for Grinstead............. [Match report]
Pagham are relegated after losing to Eastbourne United Association. Sidlesham who Grinstead meet on the last day of the season were already relegated but they won their second match in a week beating third placed Whitehawk 1 - 0. Today's defeat means that Wasps are still third from bottom on 37 points.
Fellow relegation strugglers and last season's champions Chichester held this season's champions Horsham YMCA to a goalless draw and are now 2 points clear of Grinstead with the same number of matches played. Goal difference moves them above Southwick who have played one more game and lost to Littlehampton 2 - 1 today. Sidley United move up to join Worthing United on 41 points after beating Hailsam away.
Today's Division One Results in full:
Chichester City United 0 -0 Horsham YMCA, East Preston 2 - 3 Rye & Iden United, Eastbourne Town 3 - 1 East Grinstead Town, Eastbourne United Assoc 3 - 0 Pagham, Hailsham Town 0 - 2 Sidley United, Hassocks 1 - 1 Redhill, Littlehampton Town 2 - 1 Southwick, Sidlesham 1 - 0 Whitehawk, Three Bridges 0 - 1 Arundel, Worthing United 1 - 4 Ringmer.
RESERVES ALSO BATTLING TO AVOID DROP
The reserves were up against it after just three minutes at Southwick today when Hayden Coomber was sent off for deliberate handball on the line.
Southwick missed the resultant penalty but raced into a 4-0 lead before Dan Pike and an own goal made the final score 4-2.
Now the reserves have to beat Hailsham at home next Saturday to give themselves a chance of staying out of the bottom four relegation places.
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| :: Wednesday 13th April 2005 :: |
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A really well taken goal following a great build up coupled with an outstanding goalkeeping performance saw Wasps Under 18s win their last league match of this season's campaign 1 - 0 against Worthing.
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| :: Tuesday 12th April 2005 :: |
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OH NO - WE'RE BACK IN THE BOTTOM THREE!
EAST GRINSTEAD TOWN 0 HAILSHAM 1
WASPS seem determined to give their supporters and everyone at the club a white-knuckle ride between now and the end of the season. A home defeat tonight meant they slipped back into the County League first division relegation zone. Peter Cooper’s well-taken 23rd-minute strike ensured Hailsham’s excellent run continued and left boss Bob Smith reflecting on a succession of wasted opportunities – and, just as worryingly, a return of one point from the last nine............. [Match report]
Sidley’s 2-0 win over Ringmer lifted them above Wasps by a point and they also have a game in hand. Pagham are three points behind in next-to-bottom place after a 1-1 draw against Arundel.
THE RUN-IN
The run-in for the relegation candidates is:
Grinstead: Eastbourne Town (a), Eastbourne Utd Assn (h), Sidlesham (a)
Southwick: Littlehampton (a), Eastbourne Town (h)
Chichester: Horsham YMCA (h), Three Bridges (h), Redhill (a)
Sidley: Hailsham (a), Whitehawk (h), Arundel (h), Whitehawk (a)
Pagham: Eastbourne Utd Assn (a), Ringmer (a)
Pagham will be relegated if they lose at Eastbourne Utd Assn on Saturday.
HERE'S HOW WE CAN DEFINITELY STAY UP
The only scenario which would GUARANTEE our survival would be three wins from the last three games. A tall order, but certainly not impossible. Matt Bradford and Peter Benton are unavailable for Saturday’s trip to the Saffrons. Matt Thorpe and James Ricketts can expect recalls.
East Grinstead Town are holding their popular annual Footie Fun Day Tournament on Saturday 7 May 2005 at the Football Club - East Court. The day is open for teams in the under 7, 8, 9 and 10 age brackets and entries are invited from established and non-established teams from the locality. The organisers promise plenty of football for the youngsters who'll each go home with a medal commemorating their participation. To enter a team please contact the Football Fun Day Organiser Martin Hill at martin.hill@egtfc.co.uk or by calling 07813-136175 or 01342-302161 now.
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| :: Sunday 10th April 2005 :: |
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DART HITS THE THE BULLSEYE TO EARN VITAL POINT
WASPS inched closer to County League safety after coming from behind to collect a precious point against high-flying Whitehawk at East Court on Saturday............. [Match report]
The battling spirit which has been in abundance during a run of one defeat in their last six games was again evident as Bob Smith’s men fought bravely to restrict the visitors, who are favourites to finish runners-up to new champions Horsham YMCA, to the odd opportunity.
CHI AND WICKERS NOW IN THE MIX
Wasps are two points ahead of Sidley, who fill the last relegation spot, going into Tuesday night’s home match against Hailsham. But we are only three points behind Southwick and have two games in hand while Chichester, who are just a point better off, have played one more match than Grinstead.
Bob Smith said: “Our good form in the last three weeks has dragged Southwick and Chichester into it. We would have liked to have won on Saturday, but I would have taken a point before kick-off.”
REINFORCEMENTS ON THEIR WAY
Bob Smith should have a few more selection options for our remaining four games. Matt Thorpe is close to a return after ankle trouble and may be on the bench on Tuesday, James Ricketts and Zimmatore are due back for the Hailsham game and Simon Tadman, who missed Saturday’s match through injury, is hoping to be fit next Saturday when Wasps visit Eastbourne Town.
CLUB TO FACE REPAIR BILLS OF MINDLESS VANDALS
Despite police having apprehended a teenager at the scene when a bunch of youths took great delight in vandalising the football club premises a week ago, it looks as if the club will again have to fund the repair bills itself which will run to some £800. Isn't it just indicative of today's society that the mindless acts of unruly youngsters intent on causing wilful damage hits an organisation run by volunteers who aim to provide football in the community to youngsters of all ages. The cry has gone out to at least name and shame perpetrators.
UNFAIR FOOTBALL MATCH
Meanwhile, the football club is proud to host an "Unfair Football Match" between an East Grinstead Town Under 14 side and East Grinstead Minnows, a scratch team of 11 to 13 year olds from the youth club of Our Lady & St Peter's Catholic Church.
The event is being organised by the East Grinstead Justice and Peace Group, an inter-church community group which campaigns on social issues, and who are keen to raise awareness of fair trade. The match will take place at our East Court ground on Saturday April 16th (ko 3.30pm) and coincides with the Global Week of Action on fair trade, when millions of people around the world will be joining together to protest about how unfair trade is on the world's poor. Many people in developing countries cannot make a living selling goods they grow or produce themselves due to unfair competition from subsidised western producers.
The idea behind an "Unfair Football Match" where the odds are stacked vastly in favour of one side leaving the other side struggling, is to highlight these issues in a meaningful but fun way. All are invited to come along and give their support.
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| :: Saturday 9th April 2005 :: |
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East Grinstead Town 1, Whitehawk 1
Wasps went behind after five minutes when an attempted clearance from a corner hit Whitehawk's Andy Beech and the ball ended up in the back of the net. A sweetly struck left foot shot from Adam Dart from a well worked free kick on sixteen minutes put Grinstead level............. [Match report]
Today's Division One results in full:
Arundel 0 - 1 Horsham YMCA, East Grinstead Town 1 - 1 Whitehawk, East Preston 2 - 0 Ringmer, Eastbourne Town 1 - 1 Worthing United, Eastbourne United Assoc 2 - 0 Hassocks, Hailsham Town 2 - 1 Chichester City United, Littlehampton Town 1 - 3 Redhill, Rye & Iden United 4 - 0 Sidlesham, Sidley United 4 - 0 Pagham, Southwick 0 - 2 Three Bridges.
Grinstead Reserves lost to Chichester City United 2 - 1
Belated congratulations to Dave Tidy and Lee Whibley on the birth of their baby boys last Wednesday. Quite a coincidence that our two goalkeepers both became fathers for the first time on the same day. Mothers and babies are all doing well.
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| :: Wednesday 6th April 2005 :: |
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East Grinstead Town Reserves 1 Burgess Hill Town Reserves 2
On paper it looked a difficult match for Wasps, facing a Ryman League reserve team flying high in second place in the table. Wasps trailed 1-0 at half time but had two good appeals for penalties turned down. The second half saw Andy Goodwin equalise before the visitors regained the lead with ten minutes to go. Wasps piled on the pressure and with the final kick of the game nearly equalised.
Police apprehend teenage vandal
Police were alerted to a gang of youths causing malicious and mindless damage at our East Court ground last Friday night. One youth was apprehended but too late to prevent the young teenagers from smashing two clubhouse windows, two wooden gates and goal net supports. Damage will run into several hundreds of pounds, with the glass repair alone having already cost £280.
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| :: Tuesday 5th April 2005 :: |
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HASSOCKS 2, EAST GRINSTEAD TOWN 1
WASPS missed the chance to climb further away from the relegation zone on a bad night at the Beacon on Tuesday where our discipline deserted us, we finished with nine men and were beaten by an 88th-minute winner............. [Match report]
To complete a miserable night, Hailsham pulled further away from trouble with a 3-1 home victory over Three Bridges.
Wasps are three points above the relegation zone, but Sidley, second bottom and four points behind us, now have a game in hand.
On Saturday while Wasps entertain Whitehawk, Sidley are at home to Pagham and Hailsham entertain Chichester.
Tonight's Division One results in full:
Arundel 7 - 1 Southwick, Hailsham Town 3 - 1 Three Bridges, Hassocks 2 - 1 East Grinstead Town
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| :: Sunday 3rd April 2005 :: |
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WASPS climbed further away from the County League relegation zone after a third successive win over fellow strugglers Pagham on Saturday.
It looked like being a comfortable afternoon when we led 2-0 after 11 minutes, but Bob Smith’s men gifted the visitors two goals either side of half-time before Peter Benton emerged as an unlikely match-winner when he finished off a flowing move to score his first senior goal for the club.
Of the eight teams battling to avoid the drop from Division One with already relegated Sidlesham, only Grinstead and Hailsham won.
Bob said: “We didn’t play particularly well but it makes a nice change to have three points at the end of it rather than a defeat or draw.
“We lost our way when they got a goal back in the first half and became a bit nervous. But I thought our second-half performance was a lot better. There were a few scares, but there were always going to be because Pagham needed the points as much as we did. In the end I felt we deserved the victory.
“I was really pleased for Peter Benton when he scored. Peter and Adam Dart were our best players although the work-rate from the whole side was excellent.”............ [Match report]
Wasps are three points clear of the bottom three going into Tuesday night’s game against Hassocks (ko 7.45pm). They face another tough fixture against high-flying Whitehawk at East Court on Saturday (3pm) before Hailsham, one place and two points better off than Grinstead, are the visitors Tuesday week (12/4 ko 7.30pm).
Manager Bob Smith said:“We’ve had a great run and another couple of results would bring sides like Southwick, Chichester and Worthing United into the relegation battle. Those are the sides we will be trying to overhaul, rather than looking at the teams below us.
“We are not out of trouble by any means, but we have given ourselves a chance now.”
Selection for the Hassocks game will be delayed. One or two players have knocks, although nothing serious, while Dave Tidy’s wife is due to give birth any day now so he might have to drop out.
Bob has re-signed last season’s top scorer Steve Banks. Banks has been persuaded to come out of retirement to give Smith another option up front in the remaining three weeks of the season although he will need to get his fitness back first and is expected to play for the reserves against Burgess Hill at East Court on Wednesday kick off 7.30pm.
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| :: Saturday 2nd April 2005 :: |
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Another vital three points for Wasps.....
 Grinstead looked to be cruising to victory against fellow relegation strugglers Pagham with two goals within the first ten minutes from Matt Bradford and Kris Trevor. But then an own goal from Matt Bradford as he miskicked a clearance following a free kick in the fifteenth minute gave the visitors a boost in confidence and Wasps faltered. This was followed by a Pagham equaliser early in the second half. Good build up play by Wasps in the latter stages of the match ended with Peter Benton scoring his first 1st team goal and clinched a 3 - 2 victory for Grinstead, despite a few more scares. Man of the match - Adam Dart. Match report to follow......
Elsewhere, Hailsham beat Worthing United 3 - 2, Sidley lost 3 - 2 at home to East Preston and last season's champions, Chichester, have been drawn into the relegation fight after losing at home to Hassocks 2 - 1. Grinstead remain fourth from bottom, but are now three points above Pagham and 4 points above Sidley and are just two points behind both Chichester and Hailsham. Both Chichester and Pagham have played two more games than the others. Sidlesham beat Eastbourne Town away by 1 - 0 but are already relegated.
Today's complete Division One scores:-
Arundel 0-5 Eastbourne United, Chichester 1-2 Hassocks, East Grinstead Town 3-2 Pagham, Eastbourne Town 0-1 Sidlesham, Hailsham Town 3-2 Worthing United, Horsham YMCA 4-2 Littlehampton, Redhill 0-1 Whitehawk, Rye & Iden United 2-0 Three Bridges, Sidley United 2-3 East Preston, Southwick 1-2 Ringmer
Grinstead's next match is away to Hassocks on Tuesday night (ko 7.45pm)
Grinstead's other senior sides both lost today, the reserves going down 2 - 0 away to Hassocks and a young Third Team losing 5 - 0 to Burgess Hill Albion.
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| :: Monday 28th March 2005 :: |
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OUT OF THE BOTTOM THREE…BUT THERE’S MORE WORK TO BE DONE
WASPS have turned around their County League season in the space of six days after a haul of seven points from three Easter fixtures lifted them out of the first division relegation zone for the first time since December.
We followed up last Tuesday’s creditable goalless draw against Ringmer by beating Sidley United 2-0 on Saturday.
But Bob Smith’s men saved the best until today when a 49th-minute goal from top scorer Kris Trevor was enough to seal a 1-0 win over second-placed Rye............. [Match report]
That win moved us up to 17th place after fellow strugglers Sidley, Hailsham and Pagham were all held to draws. It could have been worse for Sidley who only equalised at home to Redhill in injury time.
Bob believes Monday’s win as his side’s best since we returned to the top flight two years ago, bearing in mind the status of the opposition.
But he warned that there was still a lot of hard work ahead before we could consider themselves safe.
Five of our seven remaining games are at East Court and we cannot afford any slip-ups when Pagham are the visitors on Saturday (3pm).
Smith said: “We’ve had a great week and Monday’s result was outstanding. The confidence has returned to the side and we really feel we can carry on our good run until the end of the season.
“But it is still very tight at the bottom and there is a lot of hard work ahead of us. But if we show the same qualities we’ve had in the last three games then I think we can carry on climbing the table.
“Everyone is entitled to enjoy that win, but it’s back to work on Saturday.”
BRADFORD BACK FOR PAGHAM TEST
CENTRAL defender Matt Bradford, who has been superb in his three appearances since joining Grinstead, returns to the squad for Saturday’s crucial match against Pagham (3pm) after missing Monday’s win over Rye because of work commitments.
Drew Cooney should be fit after struggling with a hamstring injury in both Easter weekend games, but Wasps’ boss Bob Smith is unlikely to make many changes to the line-up.
There could be another new face before the deadline for signing players on Thursday. Watch this space…
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| :: Saturday March 26th 2005 :: |
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 VITAL WIN FOR WASPS
EAST GRINSTEAD TOWN 2, SIDLEY UNITED 0
WASPS gave themselves a lifeline in the battle to avoid the drop from Division One with a thoroughly deserved win over relegation rivals Sidley at East Court this afternoon. Only our second league victory in 14 league games was secured thanks to first half goals from Drew Cooney and Aaron Zimmatore, his first for the club.
Manager Bob Smith said: “At times it wasn’t pretty but the three points are all what matter and I felt we fully deserved them. “Defensively we were solid again and we could easily have finished up with four or five goals.”
With Jordan Leatherdale unavailable, Zimmatore partnered Kris Trevor up front in the only change to the team which drew 0-0 with Ringmer in midweek. ............ [More]
COONEY SHOULD BE FIT FOR RYE TEST
Drew Cooney, scorer of our first goal against Sidley this afternoon, limped off after an hour after tweaking his hamstring, but he hopes to be fit for Easter Monday’s home game against second-placed Rye & Iden United (ko 11am).
If Drew makes it, the team is likely to be unchanged although Jordan Leatherdale is available and returns to the squad.
Elsewhere, Hailsham made it two wins in four days after a 3-0 success at Sidlesham who will be relegated if they lose at East Preston on Monday. But Pagham were walloped 5-0 for the second successive game, this time by Hassocks.
Our win makes sure we stay in touch with the teams above us. Elsewhere on Monday, Pagham are at home to Chichester, Hailsham entertain Ringmer and Sidley face Redhill.
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| :: Wednesday 23rd March 2005 :: |
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Reserves do double over Ringmer...
Wasps hit the woodwork in the first half, but had to wait until half way through the second half before Simon Tadman opened the scoring with a header following a free kick. Gary Wright opened his tally for Grinstead with another headed goal shortly afterwards, but then Ringmer came back with a goal which lifted the home side. Substitute Marc Tramontin had his shot saved by the keeper and from the resultant corner, Simon Tadman netted his second of the match and put the match safe. Three vital points that keeps Grinstead two places above the relegation zone.
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| :: Tuesday 22nd March 2005 :: |
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HARD EARNED POINT GIVES WASPS HOPE FOR THE BATTLE AHEAD
EAST GRINSTEAD TOWN 0, RINGMER 0
 A FIRST clean sheet for over four months was one of the many positives for Town boss Bob Smith at East Court tonight............. [More]
Smith said: “I thought both sides went all out to win what was an entertaining game. Defensively I was delighted with our performance and with a bit of luck in front of goal we could have won the match.
“Ringmer will definitely finish in the top six and they are a quality side but I thought we matched them. The performance has got to give us a lot of encouragement for the games ahead.”
The first of those is on Saturday when Sidley visit East Court for what is a must-win fixture really. Kick off is 12noon.
Hailsham’s 2-1 win over Southwick means the gap between next-to-bottom Wasps and Hailsham and Sidley has increased to four points, but the battle for survival in County League division one is far from over, especially with home games against those two and fellow strugglers Pagham, who lost 5-0 at Horsham YMCA tonight, to come.
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| :: Sunday 20th March 2005 :: |
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CRUCIAL EASTER FOR GRINSTEAD
WASPS face a crucial Easter programme which could go a long way towards determining whether we can avoid relegation in the Sussex County League. Wasps are five points adrift of safety going into Tuesday night's home match against Ringmer (ko 7.30pm) after losing 2-1 at Littlehampton on Saturday, our ninth defeat in the last 12 Division One games. But boss Bob Smith was pleased with a lot of aspects of Wasps’ performance against a Littlehampton team chasing runners-up spot and whose last home defeat in the league was back in October.
 Smith gave starts to three new faces – defenders James Ricketts and Matt Bradford and midfielder John Penelver – while another newcomer, striker Jordan Leatherdale, came on as a second-half substitute. All four made a favourable impression at the Sportsfield on Saturday and Smith believes, with seven of their remaining nine games at East Court, that the side are still capable of climbing up the table.
After Ringmer, we face two crucial home games over Easter. On Saturday, Sidley United - who are five points and two places better off than Wasps – are the visitors. Please note that kick off is 12noon to avoid a clash with England’s World Cup qualifier. That really is a must-win game while Easter Monday’s encounter with second-placed Rye (ko 11am) is shaping up to be a much tougher proposition. But Grinstead go into the trio of home games in a much more positive mood than they were a week ago after the shattering defeat to fellow strugglers Pagham, and Smith puts that down to the impact of the new faces. “I thought all four lads made a big difference on Saturday,” he said. “We controlled long spells of the game and if we’d shown a bit more sharpness in front of goal we would have won. All round we looked much better.”
Smith gave starts to three new faces – defenders James Ricketts and Matt Bradford and midfielder John Penelver – while another newcomer, striker Jordan Leatherdale, came on as a second-half substitute. All four made a favourable impression at the Sportsfield on Saturday and Smith believes, with seven of their remaining nine games at East Court, that the side are still capable of climbing up the table.
After Ringmer, we face two crucial home games over Easter. On Saturday, Sidley United - who are five points and two places better off than Wasps – are the visitors. Please note that kick off is 12noon to avoid a clash with England’s World Cup qualifier. That really is a must-win game while Easter Monday’s encounter with second-placed Rye (ko 11am) is shaping up to be a much tougher proposition. But Grinstead go into the trio of home games in a much more positive mood than they were a week ago after the shattering defeat to fellow strugglers Pagham, and Smith puts that down to the impact of the new faces. “I thought all four lads made a big difference on Saturday,” he said. “We controlled long spells of the game and if we’d shown a bit more sharpness in front of goal we would have won. All round we looked much better.”
INJURIES CONTINUE TO MOUNT
Injuries continue to plague the squad. Kevin Wright, James Horner and Lee Hanson are all out for the rest of the season. Lee sees a specialist about his knee problem on April 1. Mark Hillen (thigh) and Michael Turville (groin) were absent from the squad on Saturday as a result of knocks they picked up against Pagham eight days ago. Hillen and Turville could figure for the reserves, who visit Ringmer on Wednesday night, along with Ben Brockbank who is available again after suspension, and Aaron Zimmatore. Dave Gellatly is banned until April 24, which means he will only be available for the last two games of the season.
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| :: Saturday 19th March 2005 :: |
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Littlehampton Town 2, East Grinstead Town 1
AS seems to be the case with struggling sides, Grinstead were punished for their defensive lapses despite dominating long spells of Saturday's game at the Sportsfield. Wasps created some decent opportunities in either half, but Ben Burns, Kris Trevor, Matt Thorpe and Simon Tadman were all guilty of hurried finishing when they had good opportunities inside the penalty area. Wasps got something for their efforts in injury time when Adam Dart, back in the side after a month out with a toe injury, exchanged passes with Burns down the left and Burns’ cross was turned in by substitute Andy Goodwin, the 18-year-old’s first senior goal.
Manager Bob Smith said: “If there was one criticism I would have it was that we weren’t sharp enough around the box. But we created chances, which was the good thing, and in midfield and at the back we looked very solid."
“Despite the defeat, the boys were very positive afterwards,” added Smith. “They feel we can get out of trouble now we have strengthened the side. The Easter games are crucial, but if we get a couple of good results we will have a platform for the last month of the season.”............ [More]
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| :: Friday 18th March 2005 :: |
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NEW FACES BOOST SQUAD FOR LITTLEHAMPTON TEST
BOB Smith has improved the squad today with four new signings as we face the important run-in until the end of the season.
The quartet are all added to the squad for tomorrow¹s trip to Littlehampton where a win would lift Wasps out of the relegation zone were Hailsham to lose away to champions-elect Horsham YMCA.
As revealed on the website earlier in the week, two of the new faces are defender Matt Bradford and striker Jordan Leatherdale.
The other newcomers are John Penelver, a goalscoring left-sided midfielder signed from Combined Counties League side Monotype, and James Ricketts who is a highly-rated rightback. James played in a pre-season friendly and Bob wanted to sign him at the start of the season. Now he has got his man. His previous senior club was Felixstowe Town in the Eastern Counties League.
Adam Dart is back in the squad after a month out with a toe injury, but Paul Davies and Ben Brockbank are unavailable while Mark Hillen and Luke Dunstan have injuries. James Horner is out for the rest of the season after damaging ankle ligaments at Pagham last week.
Dave Gellatly¹s suspension for his red card at Hailsham in January means he will now be banned until April 24. Dave will only be available for the last two matches of the season.
Rob Anderson, James Holland and Peter Benton all play for the reserves as they seek to end a six-match losing sequence at home to Chichester. Striker Gary Wright, who has scored 70 Mid Sussex League goals for Copthorne this season, makes his debut.
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| :: Saturday 12th March 2005 :: |
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NEW SIGNINGS SET TO BOOST SQUAD
BOB Smith could have three new faces available next weekend as he tries to strengthen his injury-ravaged squad. The most interesting of the arrivals is 18-year-old striker Gary Wright, who played youth team football for Wasps last season in midfield. He joined Copthorne Rovers this season, switched to a forward role and has scored 66 goals in 20 games in the Mid Sussex League. It’s obviously a big step up to the County League first division, but Smith believes he can bridge the gap. He said: “A couple of people who are good judges have seen Gary and tell me he is first team material. It’s a huge step up, but I’m a great believer that good goalscorers can do it at whatever level and Gary’s record suggests he is a natural in front of goal. I can see him playing a role in the team before the end of the season.”
Wasps have also made seven-day approaches to Conference South club Lewes for Jordan Leatherdale, who joined the Rooks last season after playing in Wasps’ under-18 team, and midfielder Mark Bradfield. Leatherdale has had to be content with reserve team football at the Dripping Pan after recovering from a broken ankle while Bradfield, who played in the same youth team as Grinstead’s Drew Cooney and Adam Dart, has first team experience with Carshalton, Molesey and most recently Kingstonian. He signed for Three Bridges last month, but Wasps are confident of bringing him back to his home town club. Smith said: “I think all three lads could improve what we have and they will definitely give us competition for places.”
 The squad certainly needs strengthening as a crippling injury list seems to get worse rather than better. Kevin Wright (broken leg) and Lee Hanson (ankle) were joined on the long-term casualty list by James Horner after he damaged ankle ligaments at Pagham today. Michael Turville, Mark Hillen and Kris Trevor are all suffering from sore groins and Smith may rest top scorer Trevor for next Saturday’s trip to Littlehampton (3pm) in order to get him fit for the three home games over Easter, the first of which is against Eastbourne United Association on Tuesday 22nd March (7.30pm). Adam Dart, out for a month with a toe injury, and Paul Davies (knee) could be available for the trip to Littlehampton and Ben Brockbank is back after a two-match suspension, but Dave Gellatly remains banned until April 3 which means he misses a further five games.
Smith added: “I don’t think any side could cope with the injuries we’ve had, it just seems to be one thing after another. It’s not an excuse, it’s a fact but hopefully the new lads will give everyone at the club a lift.” With the four sides near the bottom separated by just five points there is still plenty of time for Wasps to climb away from trouble, especially as seven of their last ten games are at East Court where their form this season has been okay. Smith added: “Littlehampton away on Saturday would have been tough even with a full-strength side, but they do like to play good football and that will suit us I think. “I still have every faith in the players that we can climb away from trouble. There is more than a quarter of a season to go which is a lot of points to play for.”
LATE GOAL AGONY FOR GRINSTEAD
Pagham 1, East Grinstead Town 0
WASPS are back in the bottom two after suffering a damaging County League defeat to fellow division one strugglers Pagham at Nyetimber Lane........... [More]
Reserves lose by same scoreline away to Arundel.[More]
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| :: Wednesday 9th March 2005 :: |
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East Grinstead Town Football Club has been successful with its application to the Inland Revenue and is now officially registered as a Community Amateur Sports Club
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| :: Tuesday 8th March 2005 :: |
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THE PENALTY THAT WASN’T COULD PROVE COSTLY
Redhill 2, East Grinstead Town 2
WASPS picked up a useful point in their battle against the drop, but they left Kilnbrow tonight feeling they should have had all three. Twice in front through first-half goals from Kris Trevor and Ben Burns, Grinstead had to play the last 30 minutes with ten men after Mark Hillen was sent off for violent conduct. But they still created the better chances and after Trevor had squandered a one-on-one midfielder Matt Thorpe was dragged to the ground by a Redhill defender with seven minutes left, but referee Neal Saxton, who was ideally placed less than ten yards away from the incident, kept his hands by his side. It looked a blatant penalty and boss Bob Smith’s frustration wasn’t helped by the refusal of the official to explain his decision at the end of the match. Grinstead also had two goals disallowed. .......... [More]
Elsewhere, Sidley lost 2-1 at Rye and Hailsham drew 0-0 with Eastbourne United Assn. Tonight’s point lifts Grinstead above Pagham into 18th place. On Saturday we visit Nyetimber Lane for a crucial match.
CLUB SECRETARY REQUIRED
Due to a re-organisation of the club's management structure, we are looking for a Club Secretary to start work in time for the 2005-06 season. Some experience of football club administration would be useful, but above all the successful applicant will be enthusiastic, organised and motivated. Although this is a voluntary position, normal out-of-pocket expenses will be paid. We are a progressive football club with exciting plans for future development. If you could spare a few hours a week to help the club go forward by filling this important role please contact chairman Bruce Talbot at bruce.talbot@egtfc.co.uk
200 CLUB WINNERS
The three lucky winners of the February 200 Club draw were: 1st prize of £100 Celia Huggett, 2nd prize of £40 Tony Brockbank and 3rd prize of £10 Stephanie White
January's winners were: 1st prize of £100 John Fisher, 2nd prize of £40 Sheila Noakes and 3rd prize of £10 Bruce Talbot
December's winners were:1st prize of £100 Guy Gentry, 2nd prize of £40 Viv Gibson and 3rd prize of £10 Tammy Fisher
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| :: Saturday 5th March 2005 :: |
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WE CAN GET OUT OF TROUBLE – BOB SMITH
MANAGER Bob Smith is still adamant Wasps can drag themselves away from relegation trouble. But after a seventh County League Division One defeat in the last nine games – 2-1 against East Preston today - the boss acknowledged the importance of the next two games – Tuesday’s trip to Redhill and the visit to Pagham next Saturday. It looks like any two from four to be for the drop with rock-bottom Sidlesham and Grinstead’s current form is an obvious cause for alarm, although defeats for Pagham (0-3 at Eastbourne Town) and Sidlesham (1-2 against Southwick) helped soften the blow. Bob remains as positive as ever and is convinced Grinstead are good enough to preserve their hard-earned top flight status. He saw some encouraging signs at East Preston on Saturday where a freak 79th-minute goal by Dave Walker gave the hosts revenge for the 2-1 defeat they had suffered at East Court a fortnight earlier.  He said: “The pluses were that we looked solid defensively against a good side and if we can maintain that It will give us an attacking platform against the teams around us who we have to beat, Pagham on Saturday included.“At 1-1 we had the two best chances and to lose to a fluke goal like that was a real kick in the teeth. The players worked their socks off again and the spirit in the camp is still good. We can still get out of this, but everyone is aware of the importance of the next two fixtures.” .......... [More]
Grinstead have been battling against a crippling injury list pretty much from the first kick of the season, but there is slightly better news on that front this week. Three weeks after suffering a toe injury against EP, Adam Dart could return on Saturday and midfielder Matt Thorpe is back in training after six months out with the recurrence of a long-standing ankle problem. Thorpe will need at least 90 minutes of reserve team football under his belt first and was hoping to get that today but the game at Arundel was postponed. However, Bob is contemplating taking him along as substitute when Wasps make the short trip to Redhill on Tuesday (ko 8.00pm) Kris Trevor’s groin problem continues to trouble him and he missed today’s game with a view to returning at Redhill. Paul Davies returned at EP after two games out but he suffered a reaction to his knee problem and had to be substituted in the second half. Lee Hanson (knee) and Kevin Wright (broken leg) remain long-term absentees. Dave Gellatly starts a three-week suspension Monday week which makes Thorpe’s imminent return to the side’s engine room a bonus for his manager. “We all know what an influence a fully fit Matt Thorpe can have and I’m delighted he’s on his way back. He could be a big player for us in the important last few weeks of the season.”
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| :: Tuesday 1st March 2005 :: |
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UNDER-18s GAME CALLED OFF
Wednesday night's Southern Youth League match against Worthing has been postponed because the East Court pitch is waterlogged. A new date for the fixture has yet to be advised.
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| :: Sunday 27th February 2005 :: |
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FOUR MINUTES OF MISERY MEAN A HOME DEFEAT
WASPS remain in County League relegation trouble after a nightmare four minute spell early in the second half condemned them to defeat against Arundel at East Court on Saturday. The visitors scored all their goals in that period as the defensive discipline which had characterised our performance until then disappeared. Injury-hit Grinstead, who were without five first team regulars, had been the better side up until the 48th minute and should have gone in front by half-time............ [More]
AT LEAST OTHER RESULTS GO OUR WAY
We slipped back into the bottom two after Saturday’s home defeat but at least other results went our way with Sidley and Sidlesham both losing and Hailsham and Pagham sharing eight goals. Those home meetings with Sidley, Hailsham and Pagham later in the season are shaping up to be pivotal to our hopes to avoiding the drop. First we embark on a run of four successive away fixtures. On Saturday we visit an East Preston side we defeated 2-1 only a week ago (3pm) and Tuesday week go to Redhill (8 March ko 8pm) looking to avenge last month’s 2-1 home defeat. Lee Hanson, Paul Davies and Kevin Wright remain long-term injury victims but Bob Smith will have Adam Dart available after suspension, providing he has recovered from the toe injury he suffered against East Preston eight days ago. Ben Brockbank starts a seven-day ban on March 7 and Dave Gellatly will be suspended for three weeks from March 14.
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| :: Saturday 26th February 2005 :: |
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 Wasps drop to second from bottom
Having come closest to scoring in the first half this afternoon with Kris Trevor's strike hitting the upright and rolling along the line, a crazy four minute spell early in the second half saw Arundel score three times, one from the penalty spot. Wasps never recovered from the shock. Final score: East Grinstead Town 0, Arundel 3.
Reserves were unlucky not to get something out of their match at Eastbourne Borough, going down 1 - 0.
Third XI complete a miserable day for Wasps losing 3 - 2 to East Grinstead United II.
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| :: Wednesday 23rd February 2005 :: |
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The County League have postponed the Reserves home fixture against Burgess Hill Town which was scheduled to be played next Tuesday 1st March at East Court. A new date has not yet been set.
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| :: Tuesday 22nd February 2005 :: |
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HASSOCKS GAME CALLED OFF
Tonight’s league match at the Beacon against Hassocks is off because of a frozen pitch. No date for the re-arranged fixture has been confirmed by the County League. Manager Bob Smith loves his football, but he wasn’t too disappointed when he heard the news. Several players are still struggling with injuries and would have missed the game, including Lee Hanson, Paul Davies, Kris Trevor and, of course, Kevin Wright who is still in hospital after breaking his leg against East Preston on Saturday. In addition, Adam Dart is suspended until next Monday and Michael Turville would have been unavailable tonight as he is celebrating his 18th birthday. Bob hopes Kris Trevor and Steve Moore should return to the squad for Saturday’s home game against Arundel, but with heavy snow forecast for later in the week there is every chance that this game could also fall victim to the big freeze. There was snow on the East Court pitch today. We’ll keep you posted.
KEVIN WRIGHT UPDATE
Bob Smith visited Kevin in hospital in Haywards Heath on Monday and reports that he is feeling a lot better. Bob said: “Kevin still hasn’t had his operation but that will happen in the next day or two and he should be back at home by the end of the week. “He has broken his tibula and fibula, but fortunately they are clean breaks and not compound fractures. “I cancelled training tonight (Tuesday) and I’m sure quite a few of the boys will be visiting Kevin in hospital.”
GELLATLY FACES THREE-WEEK BAN
Skipper Dave Gellatly will serve a three-week ban for his two yellow cards in the game at Hailsham last month. The suspension starts on March 14 and means he misses four games, including the home fixtures against Sidley, Pagham and Rye. Dave is still waiting to hear about his suspension for the red card he received at Southwick in November which he failed to over-turn at an appeal earlier this month.
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| :: Sunday 20th February 2005 :: |
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INJURY TO KEVIN OVERSHADOWS VITAL LEAGUE WIN
East Grinstead Town 2, East Preston 1........... [More]
WASPS secured a vital victory in their battle against the drop on Saturday, but a first County League win since December 11 was completely overshadowed after long-serving defender Kevin Wright broke his leg. Wright, who was making his 234th first-team appearance, fractured both the tibia and fibia in his left leg as he challenged for a loose ball with East Preston’s Josh Biggs 17 minutes into the second half. It took 85 minutes for an ambulance to arrive and paramedics to treat the stricken player on the East Court pitch before he was taken to the Princess Royal Hospital, Haywards Heath for surgery. The game finally finished at 6.15pm but three precious points offered little solace to boss Bob Smith and his players.
Smith said: “I just wish we could have turned the clock back and Kevin to be okay, whether we won the match or not. “Typical of Kevin, as he was being stretchered off he told me and the other players that they had to make sure they won the game. He was one of the first players I signed when I became manager in 1998 and he is a real club man.
“Everyone at the club is very upset by what has happened and as a club we will do all we can to help him. “My main hope is that Kevin makes a full recovery and is able to play again. He loves his football and he loves the club and it would be a big shame if we didn’t see him in a Grinstead shirt again.”
Wright’s misfortune wasn’t Grinstead’s only injury problem. Already without Paul Davies, Lee Hanson, Steve Moore and Ben Brockbank, they lost midfielder Adam Dart with a suspected broken toe midway through the first half and top scorer Kris Trevor, who played despite not having fully recovered from a bout of flu but then limped off with a groin strain when the match finally resumed. Dart was already due to serve a seven-day suspension this week so Smith is hoping defender Davies will be fit to return for Tuesday night's trip to Hassocks (ko 7.45pm). But Smith will need to check his walking wounded before naming his squad for the Hassocks game and this Saturday’s home match against Arundel (3pm). Suspensions to Dave Gellatly and Brockbank are also looming to stretch his squad even further. Striker Chris Arrow, frustrated at his lack of first team opportunities, has left East Court and signed for second division promotion chasers Shoreham.
INCENTIVE TO STAY IN THE TOP FLIGHT
Saturday’s victory lifted us above Pagham into 18th place in the first division table and the misfortune suffered by Kevin Wright will surely provide incentive enough for the squad to retain their place in the first division. Manager Bob Smith said: “It was a great three points and when Kevin heard that we’d won I’m sure he would have been delighted. We owe it to him if nothing else to make sure we stay in this league. “But they were earned at a considerable cost. Hopefully we can get one or two players back and I will be redoubling my efforts to add to the squad before the transfer deadline at the end of March.” Pagham had two players sent off as they crashed 6-0 at home to Worthing United while Sidley scored three goals in the last ten minutes to seal a 5-0 home win over seemingly doomed Sidlesham. Our home games against Pagham, Sidley and the other strugglers Hailsham look like being crucial in our battle to stay in the first division.
LADIES MISS OUT ON THE TITLE
East Grinstead Town Ladies will have to settle for runners-up spot in the Sussex League second division after defeat in their final league game of the season this afternoon. A win over a Bognor team who started the day in second place would have clinched the title and things looked good for Grinstead when Natalie Burke followed up to score after a shot from Tanya Warner had been blocked by the Bognor defence. Wasps deserved their 1-0 half-time lead, but Bognor came out with all guns blazing and within 15 minutes of the re-start they scored twice. After that we rarely looked like pegging back our 2-1 deficit. Manager Jim Muir used all three subs, but to no avail. The three girls who came on only arrived at Nyewood Lane at half-time after driving to Hastings (yes, Hastings) instead of Bognor! Jim’s words when he heard this news are best not repeated. Despite today’s setback the girls have had a tremendous league season. They are now waiting to see if two teams go up or if league re-organisation means they will start next season in Division One anyway. Watch this space.…and let’s hope some of the team members have sharpened up on their map-reading skills by then!
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| :: Saturday 19th February 2005 :: |
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Wasps win soured by Kevin Wright's broken leg
This afternoon's match was held up for around 85 minutes while Kevin Wright lay stricken on the ground after suffering a broken leg. Kevin was taken to the Princess Royal Hospital in Haywards Heath and everyone at the club and from East Preston wish him well and a speedy recovery.
The match started badly for Grinstead with Matt Axell scoring for East Preston after three minutes. Just three minutes later, James Horner then scored his second in two matches and brought Wasps level. Ben Burns netted what proved to be Grinstead's winner in the 18th minute. Final score: East Grinstead Town 2, East Preston 1........... [More]
A very young Wasps reserve side put on a good display but were unlucky to go down 1 - 0 against East Preston.
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| :: Tuesday 15th February 2005 :: |
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INJURY-HIT WASPS MISS THEIR CHANCE
East Grinstead Town 1, Redhill 2
WASPS missed the chance to climb out of the relegation zone after an 83rd minute goal condemned them to a narrow defeat in Tuesday’s derby at East Court. Bob Smith had to do without four first-team regulars. Top scorer Kris Trevor was ill, Lee Hanson and Paul Davies were both suffering from knee injuries and Kevin Wright pulled out in the pre-match warm-up with a tight hamstring. James Horner came in for his debut on the right-hand side of midfield and there were recalls for Peter Benton, Mark Hillen and Simon Tadman, who partnered Ben Burns up front........... [More]
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| :: Sunday 13th February 2005 :: |
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WHITEHAWK MATCH RE-ARRANGED
Saturday's postponed match against Whitehawk has been re-arranged for Saturday, April 9 (ko 3.00pm). The home game with Ringmer, which was scheduled for that day, will now take place on Tuesday, April 26 (ko 7.30pm).
HORNER TO FACE OLD CLUB ON RETURN TO EAST COURT
BOB Smith strengthened his East Grinstead Town squad this week by bringing James Horner back to East Court. The midfielder has returned to the club after spending the first seven months of the season with County League rivals Redhill and goes straight into the squad for Tuesday night’s crucial Division One battle against his old side at East Court.
Horner made 37 appearances and scored six goals for the club last season and was part of the squad which clinched our first silverware for 52 years when they won the RUR Cup. Now he is being pitched into a relegation battle as we try to preserve their top-flight status.
Smith needs midfield reinforcements after skipper Lee Hanson was ruled out until the end of March because of a knee injury which has got progressively worse in recent weeks. Dave Gellatly and Ben Brockbank both face suspensions in the next few weeks for recent red cards while Adam Dart begins a two-match ban on February 21 for accumulating ten bookings and misses the trip to Hassocks Tuesday week and the home match against Arundel on the 26th.
Smith said: “We’re delighted to get Jimmy Horner back. He’s one of the best finishers from midfield we’ve had at the club in recent years and his ability to get past defenders and put good balls into the box gives us something extra.” The manager admitted news of Hanson’s lengthy lay-off is a blow. “Lee has been very consistent this season and it will be hard work for whoever replaces him because he works so hard for the cause. “But the likes of Mark Hillen, James Holland, Simon Tadman and Peter Benton can all play in midfield and they will be battling to get a place in the side now. “We could also put Drew Cooney or Paul Davies in there so there are options but I am looking at trying to bring in another player.”
Saturday’s home match with Whitehawk was postponed because the East Court pitch was waterlogged and Wasps go into the Redhill game four points adrift of safety, albeit with games in hand on all their rivals. Smith added: “I think the word which sums us up so far this season is underachievement. But there are still 17 games and 51 points so there is plenty of opportunity to put it right.
“The squad had a meeting last week and I spelt out to them that if we didn’t realise it before they must realise now that we have a relegation battle on our hands. “I’m still confident we can climb away from trouble, but we need a big performance from everyone in every game until the end of the season now and that’s what I expect.”
PITCHING IN TO TACKLE WATERLOGGING PROBLEM
Saturday’s home match with Whitehawk was called off at 12.15pm after an inspection by local referee Richard Daniells. It’s the second first team game to fall foul of the wet weather this winter and some supporters may be wondering if the extensive drainage work installed in 2002 is not doing its job after the club lost just one first team match to waterlogging in the previous two seasons. That’s not the case, according to chairman Bruce Talbot, but he says remedial work is being planned for this summer.
He explained: “Richard Tramontin (vice-chairman) and I met with a representative of the company who did such a good job on Three Bridges’ pitch last summer earlier in the week. “About 4-5 inches below the surface of the pitch has become very compacted and subsequently the water is not running away to the drains as well as it should. “We can rectify this by opening up the top surface in the summer and putting a lot more sand into the sub-structure, which aids drainage, before re-seeding. “When we did the drainage work three years ago the contractors used 100 tonnes of sand, but Bridges had 650 tonnes put on theirs last summer. We are also exploring the options to help improve irrigation during the close season because we are aware of the need to have a better covering of grass all over the pitch.
“When you think about it, there can’t be many more worse places to put a football pitch than at the bottom of a steep slope on a bed of clay next to a pond, but we’re stuck with it and have to make the best of it. “Believe me, the club wants to provide the best possible playing surface. People who have been involved for a long time know that it has improved and hopefully we can take action this summer to make it even better.”
The chairman also explained the late postponement of Saturday’s game. He added: “At 9am there was surface water all over the pitch but it was windy and sunny and we were expecting the surface to dry out. “It definitely improved, but not quickly enough. We left it as late as possible, but when the inspection was carried out there were still bad areas, particularly on the stand side to the right of the dugouts, and the water simply wasn’t getting away. “We could have waited until the match referee arrived, but if he had postponed the game then not only would it have cost the club money in officials fees and wasted food and programmes, but it would have inconvenienced both Whitehawk and our own supporters a lot more.”
With a dry forecast for the next few days, the club are confident Tuesday’s match against Redhill will go ahead. Talbot added: “The pitch is flat and providing there is no heavy rain I can’t envisage any problems.”
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| :: Saturday 12th February 2005 :: |
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Today's match against Whitehawk has been postponed following a pitch inspection by referee.
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| :: Sunday 6th February 2005 :: |
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Wasps pay dearly for early lapses
 WASPS’ winless run is now seven games after a heavy 5-2 defeat at last season’s County League champions Chichester on Saturday.......... [More]
This defeat meant Bob Smith’s side remained second from bottom in the first division table. Smith is convinced his side can escape the drop and, of the other strugglers, only Sidley managed to pick up a point on Saturday. But they need to take advantage of a run of three successive home games although Saturday’s encounter with Whitehawk at East Court (ko 3pm) will not be easy. Wasps then entertain a Redhill side sliding down the table after five successive league defeats next Tuesday (ko 7.30pm).
Smith said: “They are two crucial games. We just need a result to give us a lift and I still have every confidence in the players. We played so well in the semi-final and were very unlucky and if we can maintain that level of performance we won’t have any problems climbing the table. Defensively we have to be a lot tighter and that is an area we must improve. If we keep clean sheets we will win games because we have the ability at the other end.”
Smith will have to do without Gellatly shortly after the three-week ban he received for a red card against Southwick in November was upheld after an appeal last week. Adam Dart will miss the games against Hassocks and Arundel later this month while he serves a seven-day suspension for accumulating ten bookings. Smith is hoping to strengthen the squad and has made a seven-day approach for a player currently with a first division club, although he refused to name his target.
WASPS Ladies Team completed a miserable weekend for the club when they went down 3 - 0 away to Hailsham Town in the first meatch of the Sussex County FA Supplementary Competition A Division this afternoon. Meanwhile in the main league competetition, second place Bognor Regis Town increased the pressure on Wasps with a 6 - 0 defeat of Maresfield Village. Bognor are now one point behind leader's Grinstead with a game in hand. The two meet in Wasps' final match on Sunday 20th February which they will need to win to secure the Division Two Championship.
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| :: Saturday 5th February 2005 :: |
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Bad day all round for Wasps....
Grinstead were simply not at the races at the start of this afternoon's Division One match at Chichester and found themselves 3 - 0 down within 15 minutes. The Chi goalkeeper was then shown a rather harsh red card for handball outside the area when he was retrieving a ball sportingly played back by a Wasps player after Chi had put the ball out following a Kris Trevor injury. From the resultant free kick by Adam Dart, the ball was cleared off the line but only as far as Paul Davies who headed the ball home. Ben Burns got a second Grinstead goal in the second half and this was shortly followed by a great effort from Dave Gellatly which struck the inside of the upright but bounced out. 10 man Chichester then broke away twice and scored. Final score : Chichester City Utd 5, East Grinstead Town 2.
The Reserves lost by 2 - 1 at home to Eastbourne Town and the Third XI went down 7 - 1 away to Hurstpierpoint.
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| :: Thursday 3rd February 2005 :: |
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Wasps Under 18s secured win over South Park with a cracking second half goal. Final score:-
East Grinstead Town U18s 2, South Park 1
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| :: Wednesday 2nd February 2005 :: |
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Ten men relinquish RUR Cup
WASPS lost their grip on the RUR Cup despite a courageous performance in tonight's semi-final against Ringmer at The Beacon, home of Hassocks FC. We had to play with ten men for 53 minutes after Ben Brockbank, who had been booked in the first half for dissent, got a second yellow card in the 67th minute for a foul. The ten men eventually succumbed to a goal in the ninth minute of extra time when Dave Tidy was finally beaten by Matt Beeston's low shot from the edge of the box......... [More]
Tim McCoy
IT is with great sadness that we have learned of the death of Tim McCoy at the age of 84. Tim, a former Brighton and Northampton defender, became the club's first ever player-manager in 1958 in our days at West Street. Before then the club's committee had picked the teams from week to week. Our condolences are extended to the McCoy family.
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| :: Monday 31st January 2005 :: |
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FEBRUARY is shaping up to be a crucial month in Town’s bid to climb up the County League table. They travel to Chichester on Saturday (3pm) before facing four successive home matches against Whitehawk, Redhill, East Preston and Arundel. And boss Bob Smith is confident that by the end of the month his team will have climbed clear of relegation trouble. Smith said: “It’s a crucial month and we have to make the most of our home games. Our form at East Court has been quite good this season and maintaining it is important for the rest of the season.”
 Wasps remain next-to-bottom after losing 3-0 to Three Bridges at East Court last Tuesday, their first league defeat at home since September......... [More]
But with just six points between them and tenth-placed Hassocks, the situation at the bottom remains as tight as it has for most of the season. Grinstead had no game on Saturday, but they were boosted by news of a 1-0 defeat for Pagham. Wasps remain two points behind both Pagham and Sidley, but they do have three games in hand on both of their rivals.
On Wednesday Wasps face Ringmer at Hassocks FC (7.45pm) in the semi-final of the RUR Cup and a victory would give their confidence a massive boost. Then it’s a trip to champions Chichester, one of several sides still flirting with the bottom of the table but who eased their worries with a 2-1 win over Rye on Saturday.
Smith added: “We focus on one game at a time which means Ringmer first and then Chichester. But we beat Chichester at our place in December and deservedly so. They are obviously not as strong as last season, but they don’t lose many games at home so it will be difficult.” Smith had no complaints about the outcome of last week’s game against Bridges. “I knew it would be very tough. After Horsham YMCA they are the form team at the moment and we didn’t do enough in the final third which was disappointing. We are short of confidence at the moment, but a win could turn that around as we saw when we had a bad run earlier in the season. I’ve always maintained that this group of players is good enough to be much higher in the table and I still thank that is the case, but now is the time for them to prove it themselves. The longer you stay in the bottom three the harder it becomes and games in hand mean nothing if you don’t win them.”
Smith has no new injury worries although Simon Tadman is cup-tied for the Ringmer game. Tadman, Mark Hillen and Chris Arrow were hoping to get 90 minutes under their belt for the reserves on Saturday, but the game against Burgess Hill was postponed because of a waterlogged pitch. Meanwhile Gellatly appeals against the red card he received against Southwick in November this Friday. The midfielder already faces a seven-day suspension for picking up two yellow cards in last week’s 1-1 draw at Hailsham.
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| :: Sunday 30th January 2005 :: |
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Ladies team have title in own hands
Wasps Ladies did not have a match this afternoon, but their chances for clinching the Division Two League title got a boost with Bognor Regis Town Ladies only managing a 1 - 1 draw against Hastings. This now means that if Wasps can beat Bognor away in their last league match of the season, they would win the league. The date for Wasps' last fixture has still to be set by the league.
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| :: Saturday 29th January 2005 :: |
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This afternoon's Reserve Team match against Burgess Hill has been called off due to a waterlogged pitch.
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| :: Friday 28th January 2005 :: |
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Tsunami Earthquake appeal....
Proceeds from gate receipts and programme sales from Tuesday night's match against Three Bridges totalling £206 were donated by the Club to the Tsunami appeal for the survivors of the devastating earthquake in south-east Asia on Boxing Day.
Wasps Under 18's lost to Horsham 2 - 1 in their match on Wednesday night. Wasps took an early lead but an own goal late in the first half followed by the winner in the second half saw the home side clinch their first victory this season. Wasps have three matches left to play and are currently fifth in the league having won 2, drawn 5 and lost 4. They play South Park next Thursday at East Court (ko 7.30pm).
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| :: Wednesday 26th January 2005 :: |
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No game on Saturday as Wasps rest up for semi
WITH Dave Gellatly on stand-by for Sussex’s match this weekend, Wasps have no league game this Saturday. Instead, the squad will rest any niggling injuries ahead of next Wednesday’s RUR Cup semi-final against Ringmer at Hassocks FC (7.45pm). Wasps collected their first silverware since 1952 when they won the competition last season and the semi holds no fears for boss Bob Smith, even though Ringmer were good value for their league win when the sides met in November. Smith said: “The boys won’t need any motivation. Winning the RUR Cup last season was a career highlight for quite a few of them and we would love to get to another final and retain the trophy. “Ringmer are a strong side and don’t let many goals in, but they like to play football which should suit us and I think it will be a good occasion. Hopefully there will be plenty of our supporters there as well to cheer us on.”
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| :: Tuesday 25th January 2005 :: |
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Early goal puts Wasps on back foot.....
An unstoppable 25 yard volley after four minutes put Three Bridges in front tonight at East Court. Wasps were stunned and took a while to regain composure. An uncharacteristic defensive error from Paul Davies, who otherwise had an excellent game, gifted Bridges a second goal early in the second half and as Wasps brought on a third attacker to try to get something out of the game, Bridges scored a third.
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| :: Monday 24th January 2005 :: |
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First silverware of the season for EGTFC.............
 East Grinstead mayor Cllr.Christine Mainstone presented EGTFC with its first cup of the season last Monday at the East Grinstead & District Lions Club 2004 Swimathon presentation.
The trophy was in recognition of the Football Club having raised the most amount of money of any organisation for The East Grinstead Lions Club annual Charity Swimathon last November.
A combined total of £6600 was raised by all groups with a total of 66Km swum during the evening, which lasted three and a half hours.
.....Lions Club web link
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| :: Sunday 23rd January 2005 :: |
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East Grinstead Town Ladies 2, Hastings United Reserves 0
Louise Stevens' goal late in the second half finally broke the deadlock in Wasps' final home league match of the season. The goal calmed what had been an anxious Grinstead display against a strong Hastings side. Tanya Warner went on to score a second to secure the three points. With Bognor Regis Town beating Hailsham, these fellow title contenders swap league positions. Grinstead remain top five points clear of Bognor who have 3 games in hand. Hailsham move down to third, six points behind Grinstead with one game in hand......... [Table]
Wasps last game is against Bognor Regis Town, but the league have not yet fixed a date for what could be a title decider. Meanwhile provisional dates have been set for Wasps first three matches in the supplementary trophy cup........ [Fixtures]
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| :: Saturday 22nd January 2005 :: |
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10 man Wasps settle for draw....
Kris Trevor's second half goal clinched a point for 10 man Grinstead after Hailsham went one up late in the first half. The first half was littered with stoppages and Hailsham manager Ken McCreadie was warned by the referee, then red carded and the game was held up until he left the field of play and was banished to the confines of the clubhouse. Wasps squandered a few good chances on goal but Hailsham then took the lead with a well hit volley from the edge of the box which left Dave Tidy with no chance. Dave Gellatly who had been boked for a challenge in the first half was given a second yellow card and his marching orders early in the second half for allegedly kicking the ball away when the refereee had blown for a foul by the player after he appeared to do no more than turn a defender and then play the ball. Ten man Grinstead continued to be a match for Hailsham and always looked the more likely to score. A neat interchange of passes on the left was followed by a pass across to Kris Trevor who beat goalkeeper Danny Hunt. Wasps should have won the match just at the end when a goalbound volley from substitute Peter Benton struck Kris Trevor......... [More]
The Reserves lost 1 - 0 at home to Eastbourne Borough, while the Third XI beat top of the table Old Varndeanians 3 - 1 away.
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