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Archived News 2006 / 2007 Season
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Rydon Group - Main Sponsors of East Grinstead Town F.C.
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| :: Saturday 26th May 2007 :: |
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End of season awards
SKIPPER Drew Cooney won two of the main awards at East Grinstead Town's annual presentation night which was held at East Grinstead Sports Club on Friday 25th May.
The defender was boss Steve Norris's choice as his player of the season and also won the Footballer of the Year trophy, which is decided by the first-team squad.
Sportsman of the Year was goalkeeper Lee Whibley while Ben Burns retained his trophy for being leading goalscorer.
Players' player in the reserves was defender Miles Neville while manager Phil Major's award went to Lee Granger. Top scorer trophy was won by Matt Garrett.
Drew's brother Blair was players' player in the under-18 youth team while Miles Neville picked up his second award from manager Phil Major.
Third Team players' player went to Tom Pollard, leading goalscorer was Dave Lehman with manager's player going to Sean Leggett.
The club person trophy went to groundsman Ray Galloway who has been involved behind the scenes at the club for nearly 20 years.
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| :: Saturday 5th May 2007 :: |
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East Grinstead Town 4 Southwick 1
WASPS saved one of their best performances of the season until their final game as they won only their third match since January to secure a final position of 11th in County League division two.
Three goals were reward for an excellent second-half display with top scorer Ben Burns scoring the best goal at East Court all season to round things off.
Drew Cooney's pass found Burns 25 yards out on the left and he turned to hit a dipping volley which flew past goalkeeper Keith Cheal into the roof of the net. It was Grinstead's top scorer's 17th of the season.
Boss Steve Norris said: "It was no different from a lot of our performances in the second half of the season with one exception - we managed to finish things off in front of goal.
"Getting the second goal just after half-time gave us the confidence to go on and win the game and it was a nice finish to the season for the supporters."....... [Full Match report]
Pagham, St Francis and Westfield finished in the top three although Westfield will not be promoted because their ground does not meet requirements for Division One. Saltdean and Broadbridge Heath were relegated.
Norris and his management team will be meeting this week to finalise their plans for next season.
He said: "I will be contacting several players over the coming weeks and I am confident I can strengthen the squad for next season to improve the first team and our overall strength in depth."
The reserves are to remain in the Suburban League and Norris is currently finalising pre-season friendlies, the highlight of which is a home game against Ryman League Horsham on August 4 - a week before the new County League campaign starts again.
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| :: Tuesday 1st May 2007 :: |
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Under 16s win Tandridge Title
East Grinstead Towns U16's, sponsored by Megabites, beat a competitive Selsdon Rangers side 3 - 1 on Sunday. The team then spent an anxious hour whilst they awaited the late result from their main challengers. By losing 1 - 0 to Whyteleafe, Coney Hall were toppled from top spot and Wasps could celebrate winning the Tandridge league division B title. Congratulations to Bobby Smith, Phil Major and all the boys.
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| :: Sunday 29th April 2007 :: |
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East Grinstead Town 1, Crawley Down 2
STEVE Norris questioned his side's desire after Saturday's local derby ended in a disappointing defeat.
Down avenged their home defeat to Wasps earlier in the season and secured their place in the second division for another year with their win.
But Norris expected more from his team, who have lost three of their four local derbies this season.
He said: "Crawley Down had more to play for but that is no excuse - they were more up for the game than us and that is very disappointing.
"I wasn't happy with our commitment and desire and I have told the players. We didn't pass the ball well and we gave it away too often as well.
"Having said that, when we equalised I thought we would go on and win the game."
Wasps, who have only scored five goals in their last ten games, paid dearly for another frustrating performance in front of goal.
Dave Gellatly hit a first-half penalty past the post and Wasps twice struck the woodwork before Ben Burns got them back into the game with a 67th-minute equaliser only for Tom Saunders to grab the winner........ [Full Match report]
Wasps finish their season at home to Southwick on Saturday (3pm) when a victory will secure a finishing position in the top half of the table.
But after such a disappointing second half of the campaign, Norris probably can't wait for the season to end so he can start improving the squad in anticipation of a promotion push next year.
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| :: Thursday 26th April 2007 :: |
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Three matches in four days too much for the Under 18s.
Despite not having a fixture last week, the Southern Youth League arranged thrre matches for Wasps Under 18s in this final week of their season. It still means that the last four scheduled matches will not be played.
Their visit to league leaders Wothing ended in a 5 - 0 defeat on Monday; last night they entertained Horsham who won 4 - 1 and tonight's home match against South Park ended 3 - 2 to the visitors. Wasps domintaed the early play but found themselves 2 - 0 down early on in the game. They pulled it back to 2 - 2, but the visitors cleinced victory in the closing stages.
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| :: Sunday 22nd April 2007 :: |
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St Francis Rangers 2 - 0 East Grinstead Town
WASPS were back to their frustrating ways on Saturday when they lost to two first-half goals against the County League division two promotion chasers despite carving out plenty of chances.
After picking up four points in their previous two games, boss Steve Norris was looking to his side to continue their improved form.
But it wasn't to be although Norris wasn't entirely unhappy with their performance. He said: "We played okay and if we had scored a goal when we were on top in the first half I think we would have got something out of the game."......... [Full Match report]
WASPS play local rivals Crawley Down at East Court on Saturday (3pm) when they will be hoping to do the double, having won at the Haven Field in August.
Boss Steve Norris said: "Crawley Down have been on a great run and it will be up to me to make sure the players are up for the challenge of a local derby."
Marc Pelling, who has impressed in defence in recent weeks, should be available again after missing the defeat to St Francis.
Grinstead reserves lost 5-1 to Tonbridge Angels at East Court in their final Suburban League game of the season on Saturday.
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| :: Tuesday 17th April 2007 :: |
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East Grinstead Town 2 - 1 Westfield
Goals from Dave Gellatly and Matt Thorpe in the first 11 minutes tonight put Wasps back in winning ways with victory over Westfield who remain second in the league.......... [Full Match report]
The 117 spectators included 'temporary' Wasps supporters as a number of Pagham fans came along looking for a Grinstead victory, as this has now crowned Pagham Division Two Champions with 4 matches still to play. Congratulations to Pagham and good luck to Westfield in their bid for runners-up spot.
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| :: Monday 16th April 2007 :: |
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Rydon record breaking support for Wasps continues.....
EAST Grinstead Town have agreed a new sponsorship deal with the Rydon Group which will continue their association with the company into a 17th season.
The company's distinctive logo will be on the new first-team shirts next season when Wasps will be hoping to regain their place in County League division one under boss Steve Norris.
Grinstead chairman Richard Tramontin (on right of picture) said: "We are delighted that Rydon will again be sponsoring us again next season.
"The Rydon Group is synonymous with the club around the County League and we believe their sponsorship agreement is the longest-running for any club in Sussex and probably the rest of non-league football as well. They have been outstanding supporters of football in East Grinstead.
"Their backing will help the club grow even further, from our under-8s right through to our senior sides and also in the improvement plans we have for our facilities at East Court."
Bob Bond, group chief executive of the Rydon Group (on left of picture), said: "I am very pleased to continue Rydon's sponsorship of East Grinstead Town Football Club for another year.
"We realise how much clubs like the Wasps depend on support from their local community and we have been happy to play our part in helping the club to provide an excellent environment for many young people from East Grinstead and the surrounding area to practice their sport."
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| :: Saturday 14th April 2007 :: |
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GELLATLY HELPS WASPS STOP THE ROT
Sidlesham 2, East Grinstead Town 2
WASPS stopped the rot after six successive defeats and ended their goal drought with a fully deserved point on Saturday. Boss Steve Norris admitted he feared the worst when Sidlesham took the lead after just 15 seconds. But Dave Gellatly ended a goalless run which had stretched for 9 hours and 18 minutes when he quickly equalised. Gellatly, pushed up front from midfield to try and end the goal drought, got his second on the stroke of half-time and although Ryan Seacombe equalised for Sidlesham, a point was no more than the visitors deserved.
Norris said: "When they scored so early I thought 'here we go again. But the players responded really well and it was obviously a great relief to finally get a goal again. Dave could have had more goals. He had five chances but I'm not complaining. He scored twice and along with Drew Cooney at the back was our best player."......... [Full Match report]
Grinstead's wretched run had Norris concerned that they might get sucked into a relegation battle and although they are not mathamatically safe yet, the manager feels they can still have a strong finish to the season.
"I think we need two more points to be absolutely safe and it would be nice to get them as soon as possible so we can enjoy the rest of the season."
Grinstead would have settled for a point before kick-off and Norris will be hoping they can build on it this week against two of the sides chasing promotion.
They entertain Westfield on Tuesday (7.30) before travelling to St Francis Rangers on Saturday (2pm).
Phil Major's reserves conceded the only goal of the match against Godalming Town with only three minutes to go, while the Third XI ended this season's campaign with a 6 - 0 loss away to Lindfield.
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| :: Friday 13th April 2007 :: |
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Grinstead's Under 18s had several near misses last night against Three Bridges including Zac De Cambre's well taken attempt which rattled the post. Ben Burns eventually won the game for Wasps with a calm finish after coming on from the bench deep into the second half.
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| :: Monday 9th April 2007 :: |
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STEVE UPBEAT DESPITE DEFEAT
Broadbridge Heath 1, East Grinstead Town 0
WASPS' woes continued on Saturday when an 87th-minute goal condemned them to a seventh successive defeat.
It is now ten hours and 15 minutes since Grinstead's last goal but boss Steve Norris is confident the tide will soon turn after a much better performance which lacked just one thing - an end product.
He said: "The only thing I can complain about the performance is that sometimes we try and score the perfect goal and don't get the ball into the box quickly enough.
"I do encourage the lads to play football and sometimes we can over-do it. But there were lots of good signs on Saturday and decent performances. All we need is for the ball to go in off someone's backside and then we'll be off and running again. We haven't played well at times recently but I can have no complaints about Saturday."
With five games to go, three of which are at home, Grinstead can still finish in the top half of the table and Norris says that is their aim.
"We're down to 12th but I don't think that reflects the efforts everyone has put in," he added. "We are on a bad run and that needs to end as soon as possible, but I believe we are only one good result from turning things around and I have every confidence in the players that they will do that."
Grinstead go to Sidlesham on Saturday (3pm) and entertain Westfield the following Tuesday, kick off 7.30pm.
A goal from substitute Zac De Cambre earned all three points for Wasps Reserves on Saturday against Molesey.
Ian Nicholls' Third XI had two games over the Easter Weekend, a goalless draw against Scaynes Hill and a 1 - 0 defeat against Roffey on Easter Monday.
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| :: Wednesday 4th April 2007 :: |
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Two games in three days proved too much for the Under 18s who lost to Lingfield 2 - 0 tonight.
Meanwhile, with a number of teams playing midweek in Division Two, Wasps slipped two places to 12th. They visit Broadbridge Heath on Saturday (ko 3pm). Despite completing his five match ban, Matt Bradford is very unlikely to be fit to play having sustained an ankle injury which also kept him out of the midweek reserve match at Lewes. Another absentee will be Ben Burns who continues to suffer from a stomach muscle strain.
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| :: Tuesday 3rd April 2007 :: |
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Lewes Reserves 3 - 2 East Grinstead Town Reserves
A superb goal from Dave Gellatly and one from Tom Harris just weren't enough for Wasps Reserves agaisnt Lewes at the Dripping Pan tonight.
Wasps started the match well, creating four good chances within the first ten minutes but were punished for failing to score. Lewes broke quickly from defence and went ahead against the run of play. They added to their lead from a free kick, when the linesman flagged for shirt pulling at the edge of the Grinstead box, unseen by the referee who appeared to have a closer and clearer view.
Dave Gellatly scored a spectacular goal with a shot frrom the edge of the box which crashed against the underneath of the crossbar and into the net to put Grinstead back in the game.
Lewes then scored a third but Wasps heads did not go down. Tom Harris pulled one back but Grinstead just couldn't get the equaliser.
Despite Wasps reserves position, it was good to see that the travelling fans far outnumbered the home supporters, although vocally, one of the Lewes fans chanted and sung throughout all the match, standing on his own......
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| :: Monday 2nd April 2007 :: |
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Lewes U18s 2 - 3 East Grinstead Town U18s
Goals from Jez Tobin, Zac De Cambre and Michael Belli earned Wasps Under 18s all three points tonight at the Dripping Pan. The reserves make the same trip to Lewes tomorrow night (ko 7.45pm) while the Under 18s are back in action away to Lingfield on Wednesday.
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| :: Sunday 1st April 2007 :: |
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STEVE Norris admits that confidence is low at the moment after a miserable March for Grinstead ended with a sixth successive defeat on Saturday.
A goal in each half gave Steyning a 2-0 win with Wasps again paying dearly for missing some good chances as their goal drought stretched to 7hrs 45mins.......... [Full Match report]
Steve said: "Performance-wise we played a lot better than Tuesday night at Lingfield but when you don't take the chances you create you are always going to put yourself under pressure.
"When we conceded the first goal heads dropped and you can see the boys thinking 'hear we go again.' I think we are playing better than our results suggest at the moment but we need a goal to get confidence up and the players believing in themselves again.
"The supporters have been very patient and I would ask that they continue to get behind the team, especially the younger players, and I'm sure things will turn around soon."
Top scorer Ben Burns was again missing because of a stomach muscle strain.
Added Steve: "Ben has been told to rest the injury and there is little point bringing him back because he could get injured again and be out for a while."
Wasps will have Matt Bradford available again for next Saturday's trip to Broadbridge Heath (3pm) after he completed his suspension yesterday. Matt is also likely to have a run out for the reserves on Tuesday at Lewes in the Suburban League (7.45pm).
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| :: Saturday 31st March 2007 :: |
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East Grinstead Town 0 - 2 Steyning Town
Wasps' boss Steve Norris will be glad to see the back of March during which his team only managed 1 point from their seven matches.
The reserves lost to Haywards Heath Town by 2 - 0 in the Suburban League, while the Third XI were pegged back to a 2 - 2 draw following a late goal by Maresfield deep within the 12 minutes added time at the end of their match.
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| :: Wednesday 28th March 2007 :: |
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East Grinstead Town U18s 2 - 2 Lingfield U18s
A late headed goal from Marc Pelling earned Wasps Under 18s a share of the points tonight in the local derby against Lingfield. The sides meet again next Wednesday evening at Godstone Road two days after Wasps trip to the Dripping Pan to face Lewes.
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| :: Tuesday 27th March 2007 :: |
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Lingfield 1, East Grinstead Town 0
LINGFIELD completed the double over Wasps at Godstone Road tonight after another frustrating 90 minutes for boss Steve Norris and his side.
Matt Scutter got the decisive goal in the 65th minute when he found space at the far post to convert a right-wing cross.......... [Full Match report]
LET'S hope a return to East Court can signal an upturn in our fortunes. Tonight's defeat meant we dropped down to 10th in the table but we have the opportunity to move back into the top half against Steyning on Saturday, kick off 3pm.
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| :: Saturday 24th March 2007 :: |
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Pagham 3 - 0 East Grinstead Town
Top of the table Pagham took full advantage of their good fortune this afternoon at a windy and cold Nyetimber Lane and beat Wasps by a flattering 3 - 0. A scruffy misdirected shot for the first goal, a defensive error leading to the second and a rebound falling nicely for the third. Jez Tobin hit the bar and came close with another try and sub Zac De Cambre created a good chance. Wasps overall performance was poor, but the Pagham lads worked hard for each other.......... [Full Match report]
Back at East Court, the Reserves were unlucky to lose 3 - 2 to Burgess Hill in the Suburban League.
Ian Nicholls' Third Team earned a good 2 - 1 away win at AFC Ringmer.
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| :: Thursday 22nd March 2007 :: |
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Vets triumph
Phil Cowlard was really proud of the way his Vets team beat top-of-the-table Pease Pottage Village 3 - 2 tonight at East Court despite a number of his first choice players not being available. Wasps scored all their goals in the first half including a superb finish by Steve Coomber, but they came under a lot of pressure in the second period. Cowlard only had one sub besides himself and injuries forced the player / manager to play for the last 5 minutes.
EGTFC Golf Day - Friday 27th April 2007
The 4th EGTFC Golf Day will take place at Chartham Park on Friday 27th April.
The day includes coffee and bacon baguettes, a round of golf, a two course dinner and prize giving. The cost of the day is £50 and places are limited.
If you would like to go, please can you give Phil Major a £20 deposit in the next couple of weeks.
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| :: Wednesday 21st March 2007 :: |
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Three Bridges U18s 1 - 2 East Grinstead Town U18s
Two goals from Sean Leggett earned Wasps Under 18s victory away at Three Bridges tonight. The teams meet again next Wednesday at East Court.
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| :: Sunday 18th March 2007 :: |
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LEETE SINKS YOUNG WASPS
Lancing 1, East Grinstead Town 0
ENCOURAGING performances by the young players in his side offered the only crumb of comfort to Wasps' boss Steve Norris on Saturday after his side suffered their third defeat in a week and with it any remote chance of forcing their way back into promotion contention.
A second-half goal from ex-Wasp Barry Leete, his third against Grinstead this season, gave Lancing revenge for the 5-1 defeat they suffered at East Court a month ago which was Wasps' last victory.
In the absence of the suspended Dave Gellatly and Matt Bradford and midfielders Matt Thorpe and Adam Dart, Norris promoted Marc Pelling and gave another start to Michael Belli. That meant there were six teenagers in the squad including a 17-year-old, four players aged 18 and 19-year-old Bobby Buckingham, surely the youngest first team Wasps have fielded for years.
But they failed to sparkle on a difficult afternoon for football with a bumpy pitch and blustery wind affecting both sides.
Pelling slotted in well alongside Tom Green in the heart of the back four, Belli had another encouraging game in the centre of midfield and Zac DeCambre impressed when he came on up front for the last 25 minutes.......... [Full Match report]
Norris said: "No excuses - not enough players performed on the day. It was nice to see some more of our young players out there although perhaps it is not ideal to have so many of them in the same side, but they all did well again.
"But it was a poor performance. Lancing have improved since we played them last month and one goal was always going to settle it, but we didn't carry enough of a threat in the final third."
REINFORCEMENTS FOR PAGHAM TEST
At least Norris will have Gellatly and Thorpe available for Saturday's trip to leaders Pagham which will give the squad some much-needed experience.
Bradford is still suspended but Adam Dart, missing for the last two games with hamstring trouble, could be fit to return after treatment this week.
Tuesday next week, Wasps are away to local rivals Lingfield (7.45pm).
IN the Suburban League, Wasps conceded two goals in the last ten minutes and went down 3-0 to Merstham at East Court on Saturday. This Saturday they entertain Burgess Hill (ko 3pm).
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| :: Tuesday 13th March 2007 :: |
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MISSED CHANCES COSTLY AS WASPS GO OUT OF CUP
East Grinstead Town 0, Wealden 3
WASPS are out of the Division Two Cup despite dominating Monday's quarter-final at East Court for long stages.
The difference was in front of goal where the home side wasted their opportunities while Wealden produced some clinical finishing to complete a somewhat flattering but nonetheless deserved victory.
Grinstead boss Steve Norris said: "The performance compared to Saturday at Peacehaven was a big improvement and we certainly didn't deserve to lose by three goals. I didn't think either goalkeeper had that much to do, but in the final third they were more sharper than us."......... [Full Match report]
LEAGUE CUP SEMI AT EAST COURT
Don't forget there is a County League Cup semi-final at East Court on Wednesday.
Crowborough, currently second in Division One, tackle Three Bridges in what should be a cracking encounter in front of a decent crowd. Kick off is 7.15pm. Admission is £5 (£2.50 OAPS/ under-16s) which includes a programme.
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| :: Monday 12th March 2007 :: |
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East Grinstead Town 0 - Wealden 3
Wasps bowed out of the Division Two Cup at the quarter final stage tonight at home against Wealden. Wealden took the lead completely against the run of play in the first half. Grinstead had more of the play but failed to convert possession into goals whereas the vistors went on to add another two in the second half. Match report to follow.
Wasps Under 18s lost their Southern Youth League match against Horsham YMCA this evening conceding an early goal.
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| :: Sunday 11th March 2007 :: |
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STEVE: INCONSISTENCY IS A PROBLEM
WASPS' already slim promotion hopes suffered a potentially terminal setback at Peacehaven on Saturday as their inconsistent form continued.......... [Full Match report]
A week after holding second-placed Midhurst on their own patch, Steve Norris's men must have fancied their chances against another of the sides above them in the table.
Instead, as Norris acknowledged, they suffered a deserved defeat against a side gaining ample revenge for their 2-0 defeat in a stormy tussle at East Court in November when three players were sent off.
Norris said: "The conditions weren't great with the wind and a bumpy pitch but we can't keep using that as an excuse. We didn't move the ball quickly enough and too many players had off days. But it's not a new problem for us - we have been inconsistent all season and it's something we have to eradicate."
With three of the sides above them losing, eighth-placed Wasps just about remain in the promotion race with five points seperating them from third.
But they would probably need to stay unbeaten in their remaining ten games and, having won just two of their last ten in league and cup, that seems unlikely.
Plus points on Saturday were the performances of Tom Green in the heart of the defence and youth-team midfielder Michael Belli who came off the bench to again show that he is one for the future.
LAST CHANCE FOR CUP GLORY
WASPS face Wealden at East Court tomorrow tonight (Monday) in the quarter-final of the Division Two Cup, kick off 7.15pm.
It's probably our last chance of winning any silverware but we will be without Dave Gellatly, who serves the second match of his three-match suspension, and Matt Thorpe.
Wealden, like Grinstead, are struggling for form and have lost their last three games.
The semi-final against Sidlesham will be played Tuesday March 20 at a venue to be decided.
Please come along tmorrow onight and give the lads your support - and don't forget the earlier kick-off time.
BOTH Matt Bradford and Gellatly will miss Saturday's trip to struggling Lancing (3pm) through suspension. Bradford starts a four-match ban and Gellatly completes a three-game suspension. Thorpe will be missing too because of a holiday.
The reserves are at home to Merstham, kick off 3pm.
East Grinstead Town Vets 4 - Lingfield Vets 2
Phil Cowlard's Wasps' vets team played their first match since October and beat local rivals Lingfield who had won all their previous matches. Grinstead's goals were scored by Coomber, Fletcher, Chambers and Major.
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| :: Tuesday 6th March 2007 :: |
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MATCH OFF
Tonight's scheduled Division Two Quarter Final match against Wealden has been called off due to a waterlogged pitch. The tie will be played next Monday, 12 March ko 7.15pm, weather permitting.
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| :: Sunday 4th March 2007 :: |
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TWO FOR TOBIN AS WASPS HOLD HIGH-FLIERS
BOSS Steve Norris was delighted with the response of his players after they picked up a creditable draw at high-flying Midhurst on Saturday thanks to two goals from teenager Jez Tobin.......... [Full Match report]
A point did not do much for either side's league position with Grinstead falling to eighth place and Midhurst losing top spot to Pagham.
But such is the congestion at the top of County League Division Two, Grinstead are only three points behind Westfield, who are still in third place despite a 1-0 home defeat by Storrington.
Having played more games than all of their rivals, Norris knows there will have to be a lot of slip-ups by the top sides if Wasps are to sneak into the top three.
All he was after was a positive response to the home defeat by Storrington the previous week and he got it.
Norris said: "A draw was probably a fair result. The crucial goal was their first which came just after we had gone 2-0 up. If we had held on until half-time I think it might have been difficult for Midhurst. They are a strong side and very direct but defensively we stood up well to them and created a lot of chances, particularly in the first half. I suppose we are still involved in the promotion race but a lot of things would have to go our way for us to get into the top three. But we'll keep going."
The Division Two Cup is more of a realistic target and Wasps have home advantage in the quarter-finals when they entertain Wealden on Tuesday, kick off 7.15pm.
Steve will have a full squad available but he will have to make two changes at least for Saturday's trip to Peacehaven.
Dave Gellatly starts a three-match ban and Matt Thorpe is on holiday.
Matt Bradford has been suspended for four games after his red card against Storrington last week. His ban starts with the trip to Lancing on March 17.
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| :: Saturday 3rd March 2007 :: |
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Matches called off due to waterlogged pitches:
Today:
East Grinstead Town Reserves v Godalming Town
East Grinstead Third XI v Maresfield Village II
Tomorrow:
East Grinstead Town Vets v Pease Pottage Village
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| :: Wednesday 28th February 2007 :: |
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Tonight's Under 18s match against Three Bridges has been called off due to a waterlogged pitch.
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| :: Tuesday 27th February 2007 :: |
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Tonight's scheduled matches both postponed
Wasps' Division Two Quarter Final match tonight at Wealden has been called off and now switches to a home tie which has been scgheduled for next Tuesday 6th March (ko 7.15pm). Other fixtures have also had to be rescheduled - see First Team Match Fixtures for the latest details.
The reserves' Suburban League match away to Lewes was also called off this afternoon.
Training will therefore take place at East Grinstead Sports Club as normal.
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| :: Monday 26th February 2007 :: |
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FOOTIE FUN DAY 2007
The date for this year's Footie Fun Day at our East Court ground was confirmed tonight as 12th May.
This year's soccer festival will again be open to teams between the ages of 7 and 10. More details to follow.
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| :: Sunday 25th February 2007 :: |
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BOSS: PLANNING STARTS FOR NEXT SEASON
STEVE Norris admits he is already planning for next season after a shock home defeat left Wasps with only a slim chance of promotion.
Although Grinstead are only four points off the top three, they have played three games more than Midhurst, Westfield and Pagham while fourth-placed Wealden also have two matches in hand on Wasps. It increasingly looks as if the battle for the three promotion places will be fought out by that quartet of clubs.
Against a side beaten in their six previous matches, Grinstead were expected to win on Saturday and perhaps that's where the problem lay.
And to make matters worse, defender Matt Bradford was sent off in the second half for throwing the ball at an opponent - the second red card to a Grinstead player in successive matches.......... [Full Match report].
There was none of the urgency which had earned Wasps their biggest home win of the season against Lancing the previous week and it was only when they went 2-0 down that they started to play with any conviction.
Norris said: "It was very disappointing, especially after such a good performance the week before with exactly the same side. We were lethargic and there was a lack of pace about the way we moved the ball around."
As to the promotion race, Norris admitted his side would need the sides above them to suffer dramatic losses of form if they were to sneak into the top three.
"I can't see that happening," he said. "Midhurst and Westfield have been very consistent and Wealden are also in a good position. I said when I was appointed that a top-six finish would give us something to build on for next season and I still maintain that. The time to start planning for next season, to look at players whom we can bring in during the summer to improve things, has begun."
Wasps visit Wealden on Tuesday in the quarter-finals of the Division Two Cup (7.30pm) and on Saturday they face a tough test at leaders Midhurst (3pm), who suffered their last defeat at East Court in September when Grinstead won 5-4.
The reserves held high-flying Tooting & Mitcham to a goalless first half in Saturday's Suburban League game but eventually lost 6-0.
They visit Lewes on Tuesday (19.45) and this Saturday entertain Godalming Town, kick off 3pm.
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| :: Saturday 24th February 2007 :: |
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GAME ON
Despite the wet weather, today's match at East Court against Storrington is still on, barring a deluge before kick off.
The reserves travel to Tooting and Mitcham while the third team's match at home against West Hoathly has been postponed due to a waterlogged pitch.
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| :: Wednesday 21st February 2007 :: |
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Wasps Under 18s lost 3 - 0 at home tonight to a strong Lewes side.
After a very brief spell at the club, Steve Sallis is leaving to join Haywards Heath Town as joint manager. Steve has sent a note of thanks to Chairman Richard Tramontin in which he says "thank you for my brief stay at East Court. I was welcomed to the club with open arms by Steve, Mick and the squad. They are a great set of lads who I enjoyed the company of greatly."
He wanted to pass on special thanks to Mick Buckingham "for making non-league football enjoyable again for me, with his innovative training sessions. A top coach and even better bloke!"
We all wish Steve every succees.
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| :: Sunday 18th February 2007 :: |
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Boss disappointed after Gellatly red mars 5-1 win
STEVE Norris's delight at seeing his side enjoy their best league win of the season was tarnished by the second-half dismissal of Dave Gellatly at East Court on Saturday.
Gellatly, the key figure in Wasps' midfield, faces a three-match ban after a second-half punch-up with Lancing's Pat Sargent which saw both players shown a straight red by referee Paul Hammond.
All this after Wasps had ripped their struggling visitors apart with five goals in the first 29 minutes - including two crackers from Gellatly.......... [Full Match report].
Gellatly will miss next month's trips to Peacehaven, Broadbridge Heath and Lancing. He missed four games earlier in the season after he was sent off playing Sunday football.
Steve said: "I didn't see the incident but from what everyone tells me the referee didn't have much choice. Dave is an aggressive player and he probably wouldn't be as effective if you took that part of his game out of him. But he is obviously not much good to us sitting in the stands when he should be playing so it's very disappointing."
Gellatly's indiscretion was the only black mark on a day when Wasps reproduced the sort of form that saw them go nine matches undefeated after Norris's appointment in October.
Gellatly's central midfield partner Matt Thorpe was man of the match for an outstanding display and the decision to move Adam Dart into midfield, with Kevin Wright dropping to left back, reaped dividends with Dart among the goalscorers.
Norris added: "It's the best we have played since before Christmas and we have set ourselves a standard that I will be looking for the players to maintain over the next few weeks.
"Thorpe was outstanding. If we can keep him fit he can be a key player for us while I was also pleased for Ben Burns who got a goal which should give him lots of confidence to go on another scoring run."
With all the sides above them winning, Wasps stayed sixth in the Division Two table. The key month for them is March when they face the current top four.
WASPS are at home again on Saturday when they entertain Storrington, kick off 3pm with the reserves travelling to Tooting & Mitcham in the Suburban League (3pm).
Next Tuesday Grinstead visit Wealden in the quarter-finals of the Division Two Cup, kick off 7.45pm.
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| :: Saturday 17th February 2007 :: |
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East Grinstead Town 5, Lancing 1
OUR biggest league win of the season was marred by a red card for Dave Gellatly, who was sent off for fighting in the second half along with a Lancing opponent.
It was Dave's second red card of the season and means he misses three matches - against Midhurst (Mar 3), Westfield (6th) and Peacehaven (10th), all sides above us in the table.
The positives for Steve Norris was our first-half performance with the game won by the 29th minute when we led 5-0.
Goals came from Ben Burns, Adam Dart, Phil Thompson and Gellalty (2). Barry Leete, an ex-Wasp of course, got Lancing's consolation in the second half. Match report to follow............
The reserves were not in action but the thirds had an excellent 2-1 win at Maresfield Village II in Division Three of the Mid Sussex League which makes it seven points from their last three games. Goals came from Matt Garrett and Sean Leggett.
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| :: Monday 12th February 2007 :: |
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Tonight's Under 18 Southern Youth League match away at Horsham has been called off.
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| :: Saturday 10th February 2007 :: |
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Matches off
Wasps Division Two Cup tie away to Wealden, the reserves Suburban League match at home against Merstham and the Third XI match against East Court have all been postponed.
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| :: Wednesday 7th February 2007 :: |
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STEVE Norris gave several first-team players a run-out last night when the reserves lost 4-2 to Lewes at a cold East Court.
Drew Cooney, Dave Gellatly, Richard Foyle, Andy Turner, Phil Thompson, Matt Thorpe and Ben Burns were among those involved during the 90 minutes.
Grinstead could feel a little hard done by at the final result, having created more chances than a useful visiting team who were superior in the department which matters most - projecting the bag of wind into the onion bag.
Ben Burns, twice, Matt Thorpe and Dave Gellatly could all have scored but after conceding a softish first goal just before the secretary left to collect his haddock and chips, Wasps then let in two more and found themselves 3-0 down with 15 minutes remaining as they left holes at the back in the search for some reward at the other end.
Substitute Marc Tramontin pulled one back when he burst past a couple of defenders and finished neatly with his left foot, but almost immediately Lewes had made it 4-1.
Another sub, Matt Garrett, got a second well-taken goal with a couple of minutes left.
It was good to see Tom Green back in the heart of the defence again, having recovered from the ankle injury he suffered against Midhurst back in late September - even if the person who has seen him most recently, physio Pam Presland, struggled to recognise him!
And there was a new face in goal, Darren Staples, from Edenbridge, who was having a try-out.
Attention now turns to Saturday's Division Two Cup quarter-final at Wealden, a team Wasps have taken four points off in league tussles this season.
Ben Burns is available again after suspension and Norris could take the opportunity to shake things up after such a lacklustre display last Saturday at Southwick. We shall see.
The weather forecast will need monitoring. Snow is forecast for Thursday, followed by rain and sleet and Wealden's pitch is not the best when it's damp. If the forecasters have got it right, it could be touch and go for Saturday.
At East Court, the reserves entertain Merstham, kick off 3pm, while the third team play East Court looking to build on some better results in recent weeks. That game is at Notre Dame School, Lingfield.
The fixtures for the rest of the season have now been released and can be seen by clicking here.
There are two midweek games scheduled for March and the season is due to finish on Saturday May 5 when we play Southwick for the fourth time this season.
March is shaping up as a key month with away games against three of the teams above us - Pagham, Peacehaven and Midhurst.
Planning approval
Some good news to report on the ground development front. Mid Sussex District Council have today granted planning permission for our 100-seater stand which is being built on the existing stand side on the grass bank at the clubhouse end. More details to follow here on the website and in the programme
Under 18s match off
Tonight's scheduled Under 18s home match against Three Bridges has been called off due to a frozen pitch. At this afternoon's inspection, most of the pitch was fine, but the stand side, which is in the shade, was still frozen and dangerous with no chance of any improvement before kick off, leaving officials no choice but to postpone the match.
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| :: Tuesday 6th February 2007 :: |
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The Reserves lost 2 - 4 to Lewes tonight at East Court. Wasps' goals came from Marc Tramontin and Matt Garrett.
 
For more photographs from tonight's match courtesy of First Focus Event Photography click here.
Wasps slip to sixth
With Wealden beating Lancing tonight, Wasps slipped to sixth in Division Two.
Tonight's scores:
Lingfield 3 - 2 Westfield
Pagham 2 - 1 Storrington
Wealden 2 - 0 Lancing
200 Club Winners
Winners of the January 200 Club draw were:
1st Prize - £80 - no 72 - J Hawkins
2nd Prize - £30 - no 104 - P Major
3rd Prize - £10 - no 75 - J Galloway
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| :: Monday 5th February 2007 :: |
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SOUTHWICK 1, EAST GRINSTEAD TOWN 0
WASPS' inconsistent form is threatening to wreck their promotion push.
Boss Steve Norris had hoped last week's win over Saltdean - their first victory in five games - would be the springboard for a another run similar to the nine-match undefeated sequence which followed his appointment in October.
But Grinstead slumped to a 1-0 defeat at Old Barn Way on Saturday and although they are only three points off the third promotion place in Division Two, they have played more games than most of their promotion rivals........... [Full Match report]
Norris admitted he got his tactics wrong in the first half.
Without top scorer Ben Burns through suspension, he elected to play with James Horner on his own up front ahead of a five-man midfield. Norris switched to a 4-4-2 in the second half when Phil Thompson was pushed forward. And although Grinstead enjoyed plenty of possession they rarely troubled Southwick's veteran goalkeeper Keith Cheal.
Norris said: "I criticise the players when they make mistakes so it's only right that I own up to the system - it wasn't right. We changed it at half-time and we had a few half-chances in the second half but it wasn't enough. Since I took over in October I have been trying to bring in another forward or two and that is still the aim. Not having Ben showed that we are still short in that area."
Southwick were desperate to avenge the 7-2 thrashing they suffered in the Division Two Cup at East Court in November and did not shirk a tackle on a bobbly pitch which seemed to inhibit Wasps, who became increasingly frustrated.
Norris added: "It wasn't a great surface but that is no excuse because it was the same for both sides. They were right up for it after what happened in the last game."
Grinstead take a break from league action next Saturday when they travel to Wealden in the quarter-finals of the Division Two Cup, kick off 3pm. Burns will be available.
But Norris is planning to give several members of his squad a run-out on Tuesday in the Suburban League game against Lewes.
"Quite a few of the lads will get a run out for the reserves. A few need another game and it is a very decent standard so it can only help them."
The Reserves drew 2-2 at home to Horley in the Suburban League with Michael Belli equalising in the last minute. Tom Harris had given Wasps a fifth-minute lead. On Saturday they face Merstham at East Court, kick off 3pm.
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| :: Thursday 1st February 2007 :: |
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Venue change
The Reserves match against Lewes on Tuesday evening 6th February will now be played at home at East Court, kick off 7.30pm.
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| :: Saturday 27th January 2007 :: |
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 SALLIS STRIKE STUNS SALTDEAN
Saltdean United 0, East Grinstead Town 1
MIDFIELDER Steve Sallis celebrated his first start for Wasps with the only goal as Steve Norris's side got their promotion bid back on track.
Town's performance against the side marooned at the bottom of the second division was not one of their best of the season - but in only their fifth game in two months it was perhaps understandable that Grinstead looked a bit rusty........... [Full Match report]
Nevertheless, a first win in five kept them in fifth place, nicely tucked in behind the leaders.
Norris said: "We played okay in spells and if we had scored early on when we had some good chances it would undoubtedly have settled us down.
"We need to get on a run of games now so let's hope the weather is kind to us. We looked a bit rusty today and lacking in match sharpness which was understandable but fitness-wise I was pleased with the way we kept going."
Wasps travel to Old Barn Way next Saturday to face improving Southwick (kick off 3pm) when Buckingham and fellow defender Richard Foyle will both be available after serving one-match suspension.
But top scorer Ben Burns is banned for one game so Turner and Gez Tobin, who was missing today because he had flu, could come back into the squad.
For more photographs from today's match click here.
Other Division Two results today: Broadbridge Heath 2 - 3 Peacehaven & Tels., Midhurst & Easebourne 4 - 1 Southwick, Seaford Town 0 - 2 Steyning Town
GRINSTEAD reserves lost 2-1 at home to Epsom & Ewell in the Suburban League south division in only their second game in two months.
Elvis Lynn levelled with a second-half free kick but the visitors stole an undeserved victory with a goal four minutes from time.
The reserves are away to Tonbridge Angels next Tuesday (ko 7.45pm) and entertain Horley Town next Saturday (3pm).
Third XI enjoyed a 2 - 1 home win against Cuckfield Town.
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| :: Tuesday 23rd January 2007 :: |
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Two Division Two matches were scheduled to be played tonight. Lingfield v Westfield was postponed, and Pagham drew 1 - 1 at home with Sidlesham.
Feb fixtures
The first two fixtures in February for the First Team are:
Saturday 3rd February away to Southwick (ko 3pm)
Saturday 10th February - Quarter Final of the Division Two Cup - away to either Storrington or Wealden, who are playing this coming Saturday.
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| :: Monday 22nd January 2007 :: |
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Football Quiz Night
A Football Quiz night is taking place at the clubhouse on Friday 2nd February starting at 7.30pm.
Teams of four can enter and battle out to see who really knows most about football.
Local football teams are invited to enter into the Quiz night and we already have confirmed teams from Ashurst Wood, Felbridge, Crawley Down and East Court.
So far EGTFC are being represented by a Committee team, a Football Management team (no chance of winning) a couple of teams from the Under 18's and the Under 16's. The more teams the better.
The cost per team is £15 and there are prizes for the top teams.
If you would like to enter or require further information - please contact Ian Nicholls on 07840 143872
Another postponement
Tonight's scheduled Under 18s match away at Worthing has been called off.
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| :: Sunday 21st January 2007 :: |
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EAST Grinstead Town are desperate to return to action on Saturday after suffering their fifth postponement of the season yesterday. Wasps' home game against Southwick was called off after two pitch inspections because East Court was waterlogged. A possible rescheduling of the match on this coming Tuesday evening has not proven possible.
Grinstead have not won in four games but they are still very much in the promotion mix as their rivals continue to suffer inconsistent results.
Westfield moved into second place in Division Two on Saturday after they won 3-0 at Saltdean, the side Grinstead visit this Saturday (3pm).
That win enabled Westfield to overtake Peacehaven, who dropped to third after losing 3-1 at Mile Oak.
Wasps are fifth - but they are only three points behind Peacehaven and have two games in hand.
One-match suspensions mean both Richard Foyle and Bobby Buckingham will miss the Saltdean game which will end fullback Buckingham's ever present record this season.
But Norris has Dave Gellatly available after suspension and a fully fit squad for virtually the first time since he took over in October.
Of their 16 remaining games, ten are away from home including trips to three of the current top four.
Norris said: "Having a squad free from injury is a great boost. It means we have competition for places and can cover suspensions which are part and parcel of the season.
"What we need now is to start playing again. We were desperate to play on Saturday but it wasn't to be but there's no reason why we can't get another unbeaten run going similar to the one before Christmas when we went nine games undefeated - the squad is certainly capable of that."
Like the first team, Wasps' reserves have been inactive recently but they have two games in three days coming up.
On Saturday they can move off the bottom of the Suburban League south division if they beat Epsom & Ewell, the side immediately above them, at East Court (3pm) and next Tuesday they are away to Tonbridge Angels (7.45pm).
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| :: Saturday 20th January 2007 :: |
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Today's Division Two Results
Broadbridge Heath 1 - 3
East Grinstead T. P - P Southwick
Lingfield P - P Storrington
Midhurst & Easebourne P - P Pagham
Mile Oak 3 - 1 Peacehaven & Tels.
Saltdean United 0 - 3 Westfield
Seaford Town P - P Lancing
Wealden P - P St. Francis Rangers
Thirds lose
The only senior Wasps side to play today were the Third Team and they lost 3 - 0 away to Lindfield II in the Mid Sussex League.
Match off
Following two pitch inspections, one at 9.30 and a later one at 11.15, today's match against Southwick has been called off due to a waterlogged pitch.
Tomorrow's Vet's match has also been called off.
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| :: Friday 19th January 2007 :: |
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Access cleared
The football club access road has now been cleared of the two trees that fell during yeterday's high winds. The remaining parts of the trees will be cleared on Monday.
Meanwhile, visitors using the car park tomorrow are asked to be cautious as we have not yet been able to clear another tree that fell onto the ground perimeter fence into the car park. There is only a slight obstruction and this will be cleared as soon as possible.
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| :: Thursday 18th January 2007 :: |
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Tree blocks access
A large tree has fallen across the club access road during today's high winds. It has damaged a section of the target shooting club's concrete wall along its outdoor shooting range and has completely blocked access to the football club. Mid Sussex District Council have said that it will be cleared tomorrow.
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| :: Wednesday 17th January 2007 :: |
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Under 18s match postponed
Tonight's Southern Youth League match against Three Bridges has been called off due to a waterlogged pitch.
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| :: Tuesday 16th January 2007 :: |
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MATCH OFF
Following a referee's pitch inspection at 5:15 this afternoon, tonight's Suburban League match against Burgess Hill at East Court was called off due to a waterlogged pitch.
Given the weather forecast, the prospects of tomorrow night's Under 18s match against Three Bridges going ahead are bleak. Developments will be reported here.
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| :: Sunday 14th January 2007 :: |
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Fixture changes
The reserves now have a home match this Tuesday 16th January against Burgess Hill Town in the Suburban League (ko 7.30pm).
The First Team's away fixture on Saturday 27th January has been switched again. Instead of Peacehaven, they now travel to Saltdean United (ko 3pm).
INJURY TIME GOAL RESCUES A POINT
WASPS' promotion hopes suffered another setback on Saturday as their winless run in County League division two stretched to four games.
It could have been worse. Steve Norris's men were heading for a third successive defeat but skipper Drew Cooney, back in the side after a three-match suspension, rescued a point with an equaliser in the sixth minute of injury time........... [Full Match report]
The point lifted Wasps up to fifth place ahead of Saturday's home game against improving Southwick (ko 3.00pm).
Norris will have to make one enforced change with Bobby Buckingham and Richard Foyle both serving one-match bans.
But he will have influential midfielder Dave Gellatly back after suspension. It is perhaps no coincidence that Grinstead's worst run since Norris took charge in October has come during Gellatly's absence from the team.
With Matt Thorpe due to return to training this week, Norris should soon have a full-strength squad available again.
Steve added: "Dave coming back this week is a big plus and Phil Thompson and Steve Sallis came on during Saturday's game and did well so that gives us more options. But we have to start getting back to winning ways soon and hopefully it will be against Southwick."
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| :: Saturday 13th January 2007 :: |
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Wasps force draw
WASPS were determined to put two consecutive defeats behind them when they met Mile Oak this afternoon, but in the end had to be content with sharing the points.
Referee Mike Flynn awarded Mile Oak a penalty 9 minutes into the second half although no-one else seems to know what for. Paul Eaton converted the spot kick.
Jez Tobin shunned off defenders, created some space in the box and shot past Ashley Walker to draw level on 75 minutes. 2 minutes later, Mile Oak retook the lead through Clive Jackson .
Ben Burns was denied what looked like a definite penalty when he was brought down inside the box and was subsequently booked for protesting.
Drew Cooney, who was playing his first match since his suspension, scored the equaliser in injury time.
Today's draw sees Wasps move up one place to 5th. Remaining results in Division Two were:
Broadbridge Heath 1 - 1 Lingfield
Midhurst & Easebourne 3 - 1 Saltdean United
Peacehaven & Tels. 0 - 5 Lancing
Steyning Town 0 - 1 Seaford Town
Wealden P - P Pagham
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| :: Tuesday 9th January 2007 :: |
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Fixture updates
Wasps away match on Saturday 27th January will now be against Peacehaven, not Sidlesham.
The Reserves' Suburban League match at Tonbridge Angels whioch was postponed last Saturday has been rearranged for Tuesday 30tyh Januray, ko 7.45pm.
200 CLUB winners
The winners of the latest 200 Club draws were :
December 2006
1st prize £86 no. 34 M Wrintmore;
2nd prize £30 no. 38 Steve Moore;
3rd prize £10 no. 45 Aaron Willsher
November 2006
1st prize £86 no. 98 Doreen Tramontin;
2nd prize £30 no. 57 Roger Dart;
3rd prize £10 no. 43 Damien Cherry
October 2006
1st prize £86 no. 9 R Woolley;
2nd prize £30 no. 62 D Owen;
3rd prize £10 no. 10 Geoff Harris
Don't forget, you've got to be in it to win it and the more people that are in it, the higher the monthly prizes. It only costs £4 per month. Contact Gary Wilsher for details.
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| :: Monday 8th January 2007 :: |
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NORRIS PLEASED TO HAVE SALLIS ON BOARD
BOSS Steve Norris has added to Wasps' squad with a recent new signing.
As reported here on Friday, midfielder Steve Sallis has joined Grinstead from Ryman League Burgess Hill, where has had made six appearances this season.
Previously, the experienced Sallis played for Grays, Barking, Ramsgate, Crawley and Three Bridges after beginning his career as a youngster with Brighton.
Steve said that he is working hard to try to add to our strength in depth as we try to get back into contention for promotion following successive defeats over Christmas in County League division two.
He said: "Steve is a good addition to the squad. He is versatile, wants to do well and I am grateful to Gary Croydon, the Burgess Hill manager, for allowing us to dual register him."
Sallis was in the squad for last Saturday's game against Steyning, but the match was postponed because of a waterlogged pitch.
The pitch was just about playable at 10am but conditions deteriorated and within an hour there was standing water in many areas. Only four games in the league survived the deluge.
For once, Steve was not too disappointed that a game was called off.
Midfield pair Phil Thompson and Matt Thorpe were definitely out because of injury while Adam Dart, Matt Bradford and Gez Tobin were all carrying knocks.
Norris is hoping to have more options for this Saturday's home game against Mile Oak, kick off 3pm.
He will still be without Dave Gellatly, who completes his suspension, but skipper Drew Cooney, who has missed the last three games while he serves a ban, is available and Norris should have some of his injured players back too.
Steve also confirmed that he is still trying to bring some more fresh faces into the squad.
He said: "Players who would have been struggling to play last Saturday could be available this week, including Drew.
"We had a good run in the league before Christmas - going nine matches unbeaten - and losing the last two is a setback of course. But promotion is still there to be won. We are sixth but only two points off third place and any side in the top half could still go up - it's that tight.
"We will be hard to beat with our strongest side out as we have already shown and hopefully soon we will have everyone available again.
"I can't fault the commitment of the players in training. When we haven't had a game we have trained three times a week and the desire to go on another unbeaten run is there and the spirit in the camp is very good."
Defender Richard Foyle's ever present record will be spoiled when he serves a one-game ban for accumulating five bookings. He is likely to miss the match against Southwick on January 20.
THE reserves got all the way to Tonbridge for their Suburban League fixture, but it was called off by the match referee because of a waterlogged pitch. The ressies have no game this Saturday.
Neither do the thirds, whose match with West Hoathly was also off due to a waterlogged pitch.
The same fate befell the veterans, who were due to be at home to Pease Pottage.
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| :: Saturday 6th January 2007 :: |
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Steyning match off
Unfortunately, this afternoon's scheduled game against Steyning has been called off due to a water logged pitch.
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| :: Friday 5th January 2007 :: |
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Steve Sallis joins Wasps
Steve Norris has signed Steve Sallis from Ryman League Burgess Hill Town.
Sallis is a vastly experienced midfielder who joined Burgess Hill in the Summer.
He has made 3 league and 3 cup appearances for the Ryman League club this season.
Sallis, pictured left, has previously played for Brighton & Hove Albion, Grays Athletic, Barking, Ramsgate, Crawley Town and Three Bridges.
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| :: Tuesday 2nd January 2007 :: |
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Besides tonight's match at Peacehaven being called off, Lingfield against Westfield also fell foul of the weather. Meanwhile Pagham beat Steyning 2 - 0 and with Wealden winning 3 - 0 against Saltdean, Wasps dropped a further place to seventh.[Click here for Latest League table]
Peacehaven match off
Unfortunately, tonight's scheduled match at Peacehaven has been called off due to a floodlight failure.
This is a disappointment for Wasps who wanted to put the two Christmas defeats behind them and were looking forward to getting the New Year off to a good start. Drew Cooney was due to play his first match tonight following his suspension from being sent off together with two Peacehaven players in the fixture at East Court in November.
One of the Peacehaven players posted the following on the Nomad website: "GAMES OFF!!! problems with one of the floodlights. Boo!! Although could be a blessing in disguise with a few players still out and a few still with the flu, me included!!! "
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| :: Monday 1st January 2007 :: |
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UNBEATEN AWAY RECORD GOES WEST
Westfield 5 East Grinstead Town 2
WASPS slipped out of the promotion places for the first time in two months after a nightmare second-half on Saturday.
Steve Norris's men looked like bouncing back from Wednesday's home defeat to Lingfield when they led 2-0 at half-time against their fellow promotion contenders.
But Westfield showed why they are unbeaten at home this season with a powerful performance in the last 25 minutes when they scored all five goals.
And to complete a dismal afternoon for Norris, defender Bobby Buckingham was sent off for deliberate handball on the goal-line. Duncan Jones scored from the spot to make it 2-2 and there was only going to be one winner after that.......... [Full Match report]
Norris said: "For an hour we were the better side but once they scored it was a different game. They are a side who have played together for a while. They know their strengths and were always a threat from set pieces. Once they had scored the penalty it was always going to an uphill battle. They have a fantastic home record but whether they can maintain it away from home remains to be seen."
Grinstead may appeal against Buckingham's red card on the grounds of mistaken identity, but a decision will only be made after they see the referee's report.
Norris will have skipper Drew Cooney available after suspension for Tuesday's trip to another of the promotion chasers, Peacehaven, and on Saturday Grinstead are at home to Southwick, kick off 3pm - the first of three games at East Court in January which they need to win to get their promotion challenge back on track.
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| :: Saturday 30th December 2006 :: |
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Wasps domintaed the first half of this afternoon's match at Westfield and were 2 - 0 up at the break with goals from Jimmy Horner and Ben Burns. The home side piled on the pressure in the second half looking to get back into the match. With the rain pouring down an Alan Johnson header put Westfield back into the match after 65 minutes. Wasps then went down to 10 men nine minutes later when Bobby Buckingham was adjudged to have handled the ball on the goal line. Duncan Jones converted the resultant penalty. Three minutes later the home side went ahead and then added another two late goals to win 5 - 2. Full match report to follow
The defeat meant a drop of two places for Grinstead to fifth place in the league.
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| :: Thursday 28th December 2006 :: |
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East Grinstead Town 0, Lingfield 1
WASPS' promotion hopes suffered a setback on Wednesday with an unfortunate defeat in our local derby against Lingfield.......... [Full Match report]
It was Steve Norris's first league defeat since he took charge in October but of more concern to the boss would have been the lack of chances we created and another addition to the growing injury list with James Horner hobbling off in the first half after colliding with Lingfield goalkeeper Chris Arrow.
On the injury front, Phil Thompson (ankle) warmed-up with the players before kick-off although he is unlikely to figure in either of the New Year fixtures. Matt Thorpe chipped a bone in his shin against Seaford and reckons he will be out for at least a fortnight.
Horner's participation in Saturday's second v third clash at Westfield (1.45pm) must also be in doubt after he went off with his knee heavily iced while Dave Gellatly and Drew Cooney are still banned, although Drew is available for the trip to Peacehaven next Tuesday (7.45pm).
Gellatly, in particular, was sorely missed last night. Wasps need to bounce back quickly although, with the squad depleted, it will be a tough ask in the next two fixtures against fellow promotion contenders.
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| :: Monday 25th December 2006 :: |
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MERRY CHRISTMAS
East Grinstead Town FC would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and we hope you can join us for our match on Wednesday 27th December against Lingfield (ko 7.30pm).
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| :: Saturday 23rd December 2006 :: |
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Christmas Raffle Ticket Winners
The draw for the Christmas Raffle took place this afternoon at the clubhouse.
First prize of a 17" LCD TV went to Gwen T with ticket number 0643
Second prize of an MP3 player went to Gillian Wrintmore with ticket number 1331
Third prize of a Christmas Hamper was won by Juliet Gilmore with ticket number 1340
Fourth prize - Bottle of Scotch Whisky - 1828 Michael Belli
Fifth prize - Bottle of Scotch Whisky -0251 Terry Woodhall
Sixth prize - Bottle of Vodka - 0685 Joshua Lane
Seventh prize - Bottle of Vodka - 0628 Sam Cane
Eighth prize - Bottle of Gin - 0287 Justine
Ninth prize - Bottle of Gin - 0295 Louise
Tenth prize - 2 bottles of wine - 2050 Ian Watts
Eleventh prize - Bottle of wine - 1851 Niki
Twelfth prize - Bottle of wine - 1943 Graham
Congratulations to all the winners.
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| :: Thursday 21st December 2006 :: |
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January County League Fixtures released
Wasps have another three consecutive home league matches in January against Steyning, Mile Oak and Southwick followed by an away fixture at Sidlesham. If no games are postponed, that will leave just 4 home league fixtures after end January and eight away matches.
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| :: Tuesday 19th December 2006 :: |
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THE under-18s won 1-0 at South Park on Monday with defender Miles Neville getting the only goal in the 80th minute when he headed in a corner. Marc Pelling had seen a first-half penalty saved by South Park's goalkeeper.
THE third team have re-arranged a Mid Sussex League division three game at West Hoathly for this Saturday, kick off 2.00pm.
BOSS Steve Norris has failed in his bid to bring St Francis Rangers' striker Phil Gault to East Court. Instead, Gault has decided to join first division Hassocks.
Steve said: "It's disappointing but Hassocks is just down the road for Phil and it's first division football which is obviously not something we can offer at the moment. But the search for players goes on."
The news on Phil Thompson, who went off after 11 minutes on Saturday during the 0-0 draw against Seaford, is that his ankle is still very swollen and it could be a week before the extent of his injury is known. But Steve thinks Phil will be out for between 4-6 weeks.
The players will be training three times this week - Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday - in the build-up to the Lingfield game on December 27.
An interview with Steve will be broadcast on Lee Quinn's sports show on Meridian FM tonight from 8pm.
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| :: Monday 18th December 2006 :: |
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WASPS KNOCKED OFF TOP SPOT
WASPS were knocked off top spot in the league on Saturday but boss Steve Norris was not too disappointed after his side were held to a goalless draw in their first game for three weeks.......... [Full Match report]
It was only in the last 15 minutes when Grinstead began to feel the effects of their enforced lay-off but they had enough chances to have beaten another of the challengers for promotion from County League division two.
As it was, victories for Pagham and Peacehaven pushed Town into third place ahead of the Christmas derby against Lingfield at East Court next Wednesday, kick off 7.30pm which is our next fixture.
That is followed by trips to Westfield and Peacehaven over New Year after which Steve will have a much better idea of his team's promotion prospects.
He said: "Saturday was always going to be a tough game and while we had chances to win the main thing was that we did not drop three points. It is very tight at the top with just a few points separating six sides and there will be lots of twists and turns between now and the end of the season. But I was pleased with our commitment and at times we played some good football. I just wish we had saved some of the seven goals we scored in our last game against Southwick for Saturday."
Grinstead will still be without the suspended Drew Cooney and Dave Gellatly for the Lingfield match but their replacements at Seaford, Kevin Wright and Matt Thorpe, were both in good form as Grinstead stretched their unbeaten league run to nine matches.
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| :: Saturday 16th December 2006 :: |
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Wasps were held to a 0 - 0 draw at Seaford Town this afternoon, and with Pagham and Peacehaven both winning slipped down to third place. One major setback was the 11th minute injury suffered by Phil Thompson just outside of the Seaford box after a crunching challenge by Ben Dartnall, which resulted in Thompson being taken to hospital. X rays showed that there was no break but he has damaged ankle ligaments.......... [Full Match report]
The reserves were held to a 1 - 1 draw at home to Camberley Town and the Third XI also shared the points with East Court drawing 2 - 2.
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| :: Wednesday 13th December 2006 :: |
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Tonight's Under 18s match against Worthing has been postponed.
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| :: Tuesday 12th December 2006 :: |
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For those of you who were listening to Wasps' Chairman Richard Tramontin tonight on the Lee Quinn Sports Show on Meridian FM, he would like to apologise for an error he realised he made when he spoke of Steve Norris's achievements since he took over as manager and put us top of the league - it should of course have been 5 wins and 2 draws in the league since taking control and not 3 wins and 2 draws. That should save some emails and phone calls.....
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| :: Monday 11th December 2006 :: |
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WASPS KEEN TO RETURN TO ACTION
The first team hope to return to action after an enforced two-week break at Seaford on Saturday.
We stayed on top of County League division two despite the postponement of last Saturday's game at Lancing because of a waterlogged pitch.
Pagham and Peacehaven, who could have overtaken them, both suffered defeats with manager Steve Norris watching lowly Broadbridge Heath beat Pagham 2-1 after the squad had trained on Saturday morning.
Steve and his squad are celebrating the award of the County League's team of the month award for November after they won all four games in what was the manager's first full month in charge at East Court.
Steve said: "The award is great recognition, not just for me and the players but the coaching staff and everyone behind the scenes who all work so hard. Hopefully we can win it again at the end of the season which will mean we've won promotion!"
Wasps are without the suspended Drew Cooney and Dave Gellatly for Saturday's tough-looking trip to Seaford Town (ko 1.45pm), a side who are hard to beat on their own pitch.
Norris added: "The boys have trained hard for the past two weeks and it's been disappointing not to play so they will be raring to go on Saturday. Obviously we will miss Dave and Drew because they have been big players for us this season but I'm confident that whoever I chose to come into the side will do a good job."
Tom Green began his comeback after two months out with an ankle injury in the third-team game at Scaynes Hill on Saturday, which ended in a 2-0 defeat.
The reserves play Camberley Town at East Court on Saturday in the Suburban League, kick off 3pm.
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| :: Saturday 9th December 2006 :: |
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Wasps remain top of Division Two tonight with Pagham and Peacehaven both losing. Today's results:
Broadbridge Heath 2 - 1 Pagham
Midhurst & Easebourne 3 - 1 Wealden
Peacehaven & Tels. 1 - 5 Crawley Down
Southwick 2 - 1 Lingfield
Steyning Town 2 - 2 Saltdean United
Storrington 2 - 1 St. Francis Rangers
Westfield 3 - 1 Mile Oak
[Click here for Latest League table]
Following this morning's referee's pitch inspection, the Reserves match against Burgess Hill was called off due to a waterlogged pitch, while the Third XI lost 2 - 0 away to Scaynes Hill.
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| :: Friday 8th December 2006 :: |
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November Team of the Month
East Grinstead Town were named Division Two team of the month for November following 100% record of 4 wins in 4 games.
Weather takes its toll again
Tomorrow afternoon's Division Two match away to Lancing has already been postponed due to a waterlogged pitch.
The Reserves' Suburban League match at home to Burgess Hill is also in great doubt. As with other grounds around the county, East Court was still waterlogged late this afternoon and the pitch will be subject to a referee's inspection tomorrow morning. Meanwhile, the Vets match against Lingfield scheduled for Sunday afternoon has already been called off.
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| :: Wednesday 6th December 2006 :: |
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Tonight's scheduled Under 18s match against Lingfield has been postponed due to a waterlogged pitch.
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| :: Tuesday 5th December 2006 :: |
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TWO key players are going to be missing from some crucial December fixtures because of suspensions.
On Saturday we go to Lancing without skipper Drew Cooney who starts a three-match ban for his red card in the win over Peacehaven last month. He also misses the trip to Seaford on the 16th and the derby against Lingfield on the 27th. If any of these games are postponed the ban carries on until we have played three fixtures.
Dave Gellatly is due to start a 35-day suspension on Monday for a red card in Sunday football, so the strength in depth of the squad will be tested.
The County League are using the system adopted higher up the pyramid whereby players are banned for a number of games, not days, from this season.
But this does not apply to Sunday football as yet, hence Dave's suspension is for a period of days.
Dave could miss up to six matches as his ban is not due to finish until January 14, but there again he would not miss a single game if the next six matches were all postponed!
Dave has scored five goals in six games since returning to the club from Horsham YMCA last month while Drew has arguably been our most consistent player this season, winning the Rydon player of the month award in October and forming a solid central defensive partnership with Matt Bradford.
Manager Steve Norris said: "It will be interesting to see how we cope. We have some more options now and I'm confident the other players will rise to the challenge."
Saturday's visit to Culver Road (3pm) is the first of four away games out of the next five between now and January 2, when Wasps visit Peacehaven, who are now one point behind us following their victory over Saltdean on Saturday.
Grinstead lost a cup tie to Lancing in Steve's first game in charge but since then they have won six out of eight and drawn the other two.
Apart from Drew, the squad should be at full strength and Steve is still looking to bring in some new faces.
Defender Andy Turner has completed his transfer from Oakwood but Steve said: "We would still like to | | |
