Division Two Champions 2007/08
| :: Friday 9th May 2008 :: |
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Wasps celebrate
 MIDFIELDER Mannie Neville picked up the main award as East Grinstead Town celebrated one of the most successful seasons in their history.
Neville, who scored 17 goals in Wasps' title-winning campaign in County League division two, was named Footballer of the Year at the club's presentation dinner last week.
The award from boss Steve Norris went to reliable defender Danny Wackett while top scorer Tom Saunders, who finished with 22 goals as Grinstead won the league by a massive 18 points, was also honoured.
The reserves' players player went to young defender Blair Cooney, who is the brother of first-team captain Drew, while Phil Major's manager's award went to goalkeeper Scott Owens, who got a taste of first-team action when Lee Whibley was injured towards the end of the season.
Grant Rigler was top scorer in the Suburban League campaign with 13 goals and he was also honoured.
Major won the Club Person of the Year accolade in recognition of his tremendous service to the club over several years as manager of the reserves and youth teams while special awards were made to Norris and chairman Richard Tramontin.
Tramontin said: "It was a fantastic way to finish off a memorable season. We will all have a break now, but work on renovating the pitch and sprucing up the ground is already underway and Steve is already busy organising pre-season friendlies and training in anticipation of our return to Division One."
Awards - First XI, Manager's player: Danny Wackett; Footballer of the Year: Mannie Neville; Top Goalscorer: Tom Saunders; Sportsman: Raj Seuwagi.
Reserves, Manager's award: Scott Owens; Player of the Year: Blair Cooney; Top Goalscorer: Grant Rigler.
Third team: Players' player: Colin Day; Manager's player: Zac Curtis; Top scorer: Alex Thompson.
Fourth team: Players' player: Will Irvin; Manager's player: Curt Bean; Top scorer: J. McLean.
Under-18s: Players' player and top scorer: Alex Thompson; Manager's player: Michael Belli.
Club person: Phil Major.
For photos of the event go to www.firstfocusphoto.com
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| :: Tuesday 6th May 2008 :: |
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Players praised by boss
MANAGER Steve Norris saluted his 'magnificent' players after Grinstead finished one of the best seasons in their 118-year history in style.
Saturday's win over spirited Sidlesham ensured Wasps remained unbeaten at East Court in their league campaign and victory meant they clinched the second division title by a massive 18 points.
After the final whistle, the home supporters stayed on to see the trophy presented to skipper Drew Cooney and league winner medals to the players, Steve Norris and his staff. There was also a presentation by East Grinstead Mayor Ian Dixon before the match as official recognition by the town of the club's success.
Norris said: "It was a great way to end the season. The players have been magnificent this year and to win the league by such a margin shows how consistent we have been.
"We set out to win the league and not lose in front of our own supporters so to do both is a great achievement."
Mid-table Sidlesham played their part in an entertaining game but if Grinstead had been sharper in front of goal they might have got into double figures.........[Full Match report]
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| :: Saturday 3rd May 2008 :: |
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East Grinstead Town 5, Sidlesham 3
On the last day of the season this afternoon, Wasps maintained their unbeaten home record and won the division two title by a clear 18 points. [Match report to follow]
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| :: Wednesday 30th April 2008 :: |
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East Grinstead Town 3, Westfield 1
Tom Saunders opened the scoring tonight with Wasps' 100th league goal in all competitions this season. Westfield deservedly equalised through Duncan Jones but a first senior goal from Alex Thompson and another from Dan Sullivan right at the death sealed the victory.........[Full Match report]
The game was in some doubt at lunch time but a combination of the rain easing off and 2 1/2 hours of forking the pitch ensured it went ahead with no problem. Wasps finish the season off on Saturday against Sidlesham at home (ko 3pm). The Division Two Championship Trophy and league winner medals will be presented after the match by members of the Sussex County League management committee.
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| :: Tuesday 29th April 2008 :: |
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Reserves match off
The East Court pitch was perfectly playable at 5:15pm but so much rain fell between then and 6:45 that the referre had no choice but to postpone tonight's Suburban League fixture againt Haywards Heath due to a waterlogged pitch.
Save The Hillians....
Burgess Hill Town football club's future is in serious doubt, after Mid Sussex District Council served an eviction notice on the 125 year old club. "The Hillians" have until 13th October to leave Leylands Park. To sign the petition against the shutting down of Leyland's Park follow this link.
£900 raised for the Stroke Association
East Grinstead Town FC were pleased to host the Dave Smith Memorial Cup Match at East Court on Sunday. The event was organised by Dave's family and featured a match between an East Grinstead XI and a South Godstone XI. A total of £900 was raised for the Stroke Association.
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| :: Monday 28th April 2008 :: |
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Gary Stevens has to pull out
Unfortunately and with great regret, Gary Stevens informed the club today that he will be unable to attend the end of season presentation on 9th May. In a personal note to chairman Richard Tramontin the ex Tottenham and England International said "I'm sorry to give you this news so late in the day and wish to confirm that I am keen to support your club at a future event." Stevens had been due to present awards and the Division Two Champions Trophy.
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| :: Saturday 26th April 2008 :: |
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WASPS FINISHING WITH A FLOURISH
Rustington 0, East Grinstead Town 3
WASPS are ending their championship-winning season with a flourish after an impressive win over the side who have been on their tails for much of the season.........[Full Match report]
Two goals from Ben Burns and a second-half strike by Michael Belli enabled Steve Norris's men to complete the double over Rustington on Saturday and their victory also meant that Lingfield secured runners-up spot in County League division two with Rustington finishing third.
Wasps complete their league campaign with two home games with Westfield the visitors on Wednesday (7.45pm) before Sidlesham arrive on Saturday (3pm). The league trophy will be presented after that match and manager Steve Norris hopes a big crowd will be there to enjoy the celebrations.
Norris said: "It should be a great day to end what has been a fantastic season for the club. We could have gone two ways when we won the league so I'm delighted the players have maintained the standards they have set all season in recent matches. We're a lot more relaxed now and playing the football I know we're capable of. Once we had matched Rustington's 3-5-2 formation after 15 minutes on Saturday we dominated a very good Rustington side and made them look fairly ordinary. It was a very good performance."
Danny Wackett will return to the squad for the remaining games but midfielder Mannie Neville (hamstring) will not be fit for Westfield's visit, although Norris hopes he might be okay for the season-finale.
Golf Day
A Golf Day at Edenbridge is being organised for Friday 9th May before the evening's presentation dinner and dance which is being held at the Felbridge Hotel & Spa. For more details on the golf day and to book a place please contact Phil Major on 07748 622948 or email phil.major@egtfc.co.uk
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| :: Thursday 24th April 2008 :: |
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Congratulations to Horsham Youth who won the CP Mason Under 14s Cup tonight at East Court with a 4 - 1 win over Lindfield Juniors.
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| :: Wednesday 23rd April 2008 :: |
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Steyning 1, East Grinstead Town 1
Wasps fell behind to 10 man Steyning on 34 minutes, 5 minutes after skipper Drew Cooney had his penalty kick saved by keeper Dave Angell, following Steyning's Tom Pickford being shown a straight red for bringing down Tom Saunders. Liam Bull got Grinstead's second half equaliser but the league winners just couldn't make their numerous attempts count.........[Full Match report]
Wasps' Under 18s finished their season off with a 4 - 2 away win over Lingfield and move up into third place in the Southern Youth League.
The Girls' Tournament that was due to be held at our East Court ground this afternoon was called off by the local schools due to illness and the wet weather.
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| :: Sunday 20th April 2008 :: |
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STANDARDS STILL HIGH FROM THE CHAMPIONS
WASPS are refusing to let their standards slip, despite already clinching the title.
Boss Steve Norris was delighted with their performance in a comfortable win at wet and windy Midhurst on Saturday which stretched their unbeaten league run to 12 games.........[Full Match report]
Victories in their four remaining matches would give Grinstead a new division two points record of 86, although they face tough away fixtures this week with a trip to Steyning on Wednesday (7.45pm) followed by a showdown with Rustington on Saturday (2pm) when the home side need a point to secure runners-up spot.
Norris said: "The players have relaxed since winning the championship and it showed on Saturday. We looked like a first division side and I thought we were comfortable winners in difficult conditions."
Norris may experiment with different formations and personnel in the last four games although he insists this will not effect his side's capability of finishing the season on a high.
Dave Gellatly is available again after suspension, Drew Cooney returns to the squad on Saturday while Adam Dart and Ben Burns, both on the bench at Midhurst, could come into contention for starting roles.
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| :: Saturday 19th April 2008 :: |
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Midhurst & Easebourne 0, East Grinstead Town 2
Goals from Mannie Neville and Liam Bull secured all three points at Rotherfield this afternoon as Wasps cantered to victory. [Match report to follow]
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| :: Sunday 13th April 2008 :: |
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Wasps win Stubbins Cup
East Grinstead Town III beat favourites Keymer & Hassocks on penalties in the final of the Stubbins Cup at the Beacon in Hassocks last night. Wasps went behind after 4 minutes but equalised through man-of-the match Matt Garrett a few minutes before the break just as a large contingent from East Court turned up to give their support. Wasps dominated the second half but then gave away a penalty two minutes from the end which Alex Over saved superbly. There were no further goals in extra time and the match was decided on penalties with Wasps winning 4 - 2.
Earlier on in the day, the scheduled First Team match against Westfield had to be postponed due to a waterlogged pitch following an hour of torrential rain and hail. The match has been re-scheduled for Wednesday 30th April (ko 7:45pm).
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| :: Monday 7th April 2008 :: |
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East Grinstead Town 2, Steyning Town 1
THE celebrations continued long into the night at East Court on Saturday as Wasps celebrated the first league title in the club's 118-year history.
Steve Norris's men secured a return to the County League first division as champions after three years out of the top flight with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Steyning.
Grinstead's 22nd victory of the season combined with Lingfield's 1-0 home defeat to Southwick meant the champagne corks were popping on the pitch at the end as the players received the congratulations of their delighted supporters. [Photos courtesy of Meridian Sport] For more photos go to www.firstfocusphoto.com
It was not a vintage display from Wasps against a Steyning team who probably deserved a point but who sportingly applauded the new champions off the pitch at the end. Norris was without three stalwarts of the campaign, goalkeeper Lee Whibley, Adam Dart and Dave Gellatly, and were often guilty of surrendering possession too easily.
But the experienced Tobi Hutchinson came up with two great pieces of skill to win the game.........[Full Match report]
Norris has done what he promised in his first full season in charge and a conceivable target now is to win the remaining five games and finish on 86 points which would be a division two record.
He said: "You have to enjoy moments like Saturday because they don't come along too often so we had a great celebration.
"To win the league with five games to go is a fantastic achievement and reflects the efforts everyone at the club has put in - I'm delighted for everyone involved on the pitch and behind the scenes.
"My coach Gavin Neville needs a special mention for all the hard work he has put in and the commitment of every player has been outstanding. I'm especially pleased for the local lads in the team who have been at the club for a while and experienced some highs and lows."
With promotion achieved, Norris hopes his side can relax and enjoy the remaining games.
And he hinted he may have a look at some of the players on the fringes of the squad as he starts planning for next season's return to the first division.
"We will enjoy what we have achieved but preparations for next season are already underway," he added.
Wasps are at home again on Saturday against Westfield (3pm) and the championship trophy will be presented after the final home game of the season against Sidlesham on May 3.
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| :: Saturday 5th April 2008 :: |
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  CHAMPIONS
Wasps beat Steyning 2 - 1 at East Court this afternoon and celebrated not only promotion back to Division One but also winning the Division Two League title. [More to follow]
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| :: Tuesday 1st April 2008 :: |
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Promotion still on hold
With Peacehaven winning 5 - 1 against Wealden tonight and Rustington losing to Lancing 2 - 1, Wasps still need a single point from their last 6 games to secure promotion, with 4 points guaranteeing them the Division Two league title.
Elsewhere, Wasps reserves drew 1 - 1 away at Chipstead with Chris Arrow in goal after re-signing for the club yesterday and the Under 18s suffered a 3 - 1 defeat at Oakwood.
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| :: Monday 31st March 2008 :: |
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WASPS can clinch promotion in front of their own supporters on Saturday.
The second division leaders need only a point from their game against mid-table Steyning (3pm) to confirm their return to County League division one after three years out of the top flight.
And boss Steve Norris is hoping there will be a good crowd to see if Grinstead can go up.
The attendance for the Easter Monday draw with Lingfield of 264 was the highest in the league this season and Wasps have been one of the best-supported teams in the league this year.
The promotion party had to be delayed after last Saturday's game at third-placed Rustington was postponed because of a waterlogged pitch.
The referee called it off after the scheduled 3pm kick-off when more rain fell on an already saturated surface.
Norris said: "It was disappointing because the players were really keyed up but I think the referee made the right decision.
"Both teams like to play good football and it would have been something of a lottery.
"But we can now look forward to Saturday. We need a point to go up and four to be champions so there is every incentive but Steyning are going to make it very difficult for us - it is always one of the hardest games of the season."
The Rustington game has been re-arranged for April 26 (ko 2pm) with Wasps now ending their season at home to Sidlesham on May 3.
On Saturday, Wasps will be without Dave Gellatly who starts a 2 match suspension. Goalkeeper Lee Whibley is also a doubt suffering from back spasms since the warm up at Rustington. Whibley is the only first-team ever present this season and Norris said it would be a shame if he did not complete an ever present record. Drew Cooney returns after suspension.
Meanwhile, former England, Spurs and Brighton defender Gary Stevens has been confirmed as guest of honour at the club's end of season presentation dinner on Friday, May 9 at the Felbridge Hotel.
Stevens, who has worked in the media since retiring from football, played seven times for his country and had an illustrious club career which included an appearance in Brighton's FA Cup final team against Manchester United in 1983.
Chairman Richard Tramontin said: "We are delighted to be able to welcome Gary to what should be a night of celebration for the club."
For details of the event and ticket availability click here.
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| :: Sunday 30th March 2008 :: |
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Fixture change
Following Saturday's postponement, Wasps will now play Rustington on Saturday 26th April (ko 2pm) and the home match against Sidlesham has been moved to Saturday 3rd May.
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| :: Saturday 29th March 2008 :: |
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Wasps forced to wait
Wasps' potential promotion clincher this afternoon at Rustington was called off by the match referee at 3:15pm for what he considered to be a waterlogged pitch.
Meanwhile back at East Court, the reserves beat Molesey 3 - 1 in the Suburban League.
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| :: Thursday 27th March 2008 :: |
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Vets match off
Tonight's scheduled Vets' match against Plumpton Athletic has been postponed due to a waterlogged pitch.
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| :: Tuesday 25th March 2008 :: |
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NO COMPLAINTS AS WASPS ARE FORCED TO WAIT
WASPS still need a point to secure promotion after Lingfield snatched a deserved late equaliser in Monday's local derby at East Court.........[Full Match report]
The home side were hanging on determinedly to Dave Gellatly's fourth-minute goal when substitute Louis Perkins picked his way through the home defence to fire past Lee Whibley a minute from time.
Although disappointed that his side could not seal their return to division one in front of their own supporters, Grinstead boss Steve Norris had no complaints about the outcome.
He said: "We edged the first half but Lingfield were the better side after that and more than deserved to equalise. In our last two games we have played who I consider to be the best sides in the league so to pick up four points is not too bad. It would have been nice to have gone up on Monday so we could relax and enjoy the last six games and go on and hopefully win the title."
"There was a bit of nervousness in our performance and the pitch was quite sticky, which did not help us move the ball around as well as we like, but it is hard to find fault with the players after the season we have had. It's just a case of getting over the finishing line now."
The maths are simple enough. Wasps need one point for promotion and four for the title although their first target will also be achieved as soon as Peacehaven drop a point. And even if they win their last seven matches, Peacehaven still have to overhaul Grinstead's 25 goal better goal difference.
Wasps go to third-placed Rustington on Saturday (3pm) with a full-strength squad. Drew Cooney is available after serving a one-match ban and Ben Burns is fit after a hamstring injury.
Rustington's 1-0 defeat to Littlehampton on Monday improved Wasps' title prospects but Norris knows his side will have their work cut out to repeat their 4-3 win on the opening day of the season.
"It will be another very difficult game but there is no greater incentive for us to go there and get a result," he added.
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| :: Monday 24th March 2008 :: |
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East Grinstead Town 1, Lingfield 1
Dave Gellatly put Wasps ahead after 4 minutes but Louis Perkins snatched an equaliser for the visitors in the 89th minute. [Match report to follow] Grinstead are now virtually promoted but need just 1 point from their remaining 6 matches to be mathematically certain, and 4 points to be crowned champions.
200 Club
Winners of the February 200 Club draw were as follows:
1st prize £76 - No 110 - H Thomas
2nd prize £30 - No 100 - P Wheeler
3rd prize £10 - No 73 - M Brockbank
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| :: Saturday 22nd March 2008 :: |
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East Grinstead Town Reserves 1, Epsom & Ewell Reserves 0
A second half goal from Liam Bull secured all 3 points for Wasps reserves at a bitterly cold East Court this afternoon.
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| :: Thursday 20th March 2008 :: |
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East Grinstead Town Under 18s 2, Three Bridges Under 18s 1
In their last home match of the season, Wasps Under 18s came from behind to beat local rivals Three Bridges.[Match report to follow]
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| :: Saturday 15th March 2008 :: |
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East Grinstead Town 2, Peacehaven & Telscombe 1
Wasps were way below their best this afternoon but battled to the end and were rewarded with 2 goals in the 80th and 82nd minutes to secure all three points. [Match photos]
The visitors opened the scoring on 31 minutes when Richie Watton netted after keeper Lee Whibley could only manage to parry a shot into his path. Despite their lackluste performance, Grinstead could have twice gone ahead in the opening half; the first opportunity was tipped against the post by keeper Owen Fisher and the ball then bounced into his arms; Tobi Hutchinson later looked cetain to score when one on one with the keeper but his attempt to place the ball over the advancing Fisher went over the bar. 15 minutes before the end, the visitors squandered a chance to increase their lead and then on 80 minutes, Wasps were awarded a clear penalty on Tom Saunders which Mannie Neville converted. 2 minutes later substitute Ben Burns scored his 10th of the season before being substituted himself with a hamstring problem.........[Full Match report]
Wasps now need just 2 points from their remaining 7 matches to secure promotion back to division one and 8 points to be certain of becoming Champions for the first time in their long history in senior football. Their next two matches will be tough encounters against teams currently in second and third positions. Lingfield are the vistors to East Court on Easter Monday (kick off 11 am) and Grinstead travel to Rustington the following Saturday 29th March (kick off 3pm).
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| :: Wednesday 12th March 2008 :: |
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Tonight's Under 18s match away to Lingfield has been called off due to a waterlogged pitch.
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| :: Tuesday 11th March 2008 :: |
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Lancing 2, East Grinstead Town 2
Wasps fell behind to a Rob Patridge goal after 10 minutes but goals from Marc Pelling and Michael Belli put the visitors deservedly in front at half time. Grinstead's controlled football should have seen them further ahead. Things went somewhat flat in the second half. Belli hit a thunderbolt from 20 yards with the keeper totally beaten but his shot came off the crossbar. Patridge equalised for Lancing 4 minutes from time. Grinstead responded but Adam Dart's attempt which seemed destined to give Wasps back the lead hit a defender on the back and was then cleared. Two points dropped rather than one gained.
Grinstead are now 9 points clear at the top of County League Division Two.
East Grinstead Town 1, Broadbridge Heath 0
TOM Saunders came off the bench to fire Wasps a step closer to promotion with a dramatic late winner on Saturday.........[Full Match report]
Saunders scored his 18th goal of the season two minutes from time to earn Grinstead a deserved victory which enabled them to go eight points clear at the top of County League division two.
It looked like being a frustrating afternoon for Wasps against a Heath side inspired by the heroics of goalkeeper Matt Baker.
But Michael Belli found some space on the left to cross from the line and Saunders got in front of Baker to head home.
Manager Steve Norris said: "It was no more than we deserved because, in the second half in particular, we were totally on top. I think Lee Whibley only touched the ball twice in the second half.
"Tom is a great player to have in those situations because if something drops in the box he normally gets on the end of it."
Wasps visit Lancing tonight before entertaining Peacehaven, one of only two sides to beat them in the league, at East Court on Saturday (3pm).
"We're looking forward to that one," said Norris. "I've got no complaints about the result when we lost down there but it will be a different game at East Court and one the players are really looking forward to."
Apart from long-term injury victims Simon Funnell and Andy Turner, Norris will have a full-strength squad available with Saunders, who has been the match-winner in two of Grinstead's last three games, likely to be in from the start.
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| :: Sunday 9th March 2008 :: |
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East Grinstead Town 1, Broadbridge Heath 0
Tom Saunders came off the bench and scored a late winner for Wasps at East Court yesterday in a game they dominated throughout. [Match report to follow]
With Lingfield being held to a draw at home by Peacehaven who are next Saturday's visitors to East Court, Grinstead are now 8 points clear of Lingfield with 3 games in hand. Third placed Rustingtom beat Seaford 3 - 0 and remain 10 points behind Wasps who have 2 games in hand.
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| :: Saturday 8th March 2008 :: |
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Vets match off
Tomorrow's scheduled vets match at East Court against Heath Pilgrims has been cancelled as the visitors are unable to raise a side.
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| :: Monday 3rd March 2008 :: |
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SIX POINTS CLEAR, BUT WE WERE TERRIBLE ADMITS STEVE
MANAGER Steve Norris saw his side strengthen their promotion bid - then described Saturday's performance as their worst of the season.
Wasps trailed 2-0 at the break but Adam Dart pulled one back and then Tobi Hutchinson rescued a point with an injury-time equaliser.........[Full Match report]
But that did not mask a tired performance from Grinstead, who were clearly showing the after-effects of last Wednesday's 3-0 League Cup semi-final defeat against Ringmer, particularly in the first half.
With third-placed Rustington losing at home and Lingfield not in action, we are now six points clear in County League division two and still have games in hand on all our rivals.
But Steve has warned he will make changes for Saturday's home game against Broadbridge Heath (3pm) in an effort to freshen things up.
He said: "It was a terrible performance, our worst of the season. I was delighted to get a point because we didn't deserve it. We can make excuses about the wind and the bobbly pitch but a side in our position in the table should not perform like that."
The boss will have a full-strength squad at his disposal on Saturday with Mannie Neville back after a holiday and Tom Saunders, who was suspended on Saturday, available again.
He added: "There will be changes because Saturday's performance was not acceptable. We looked knackered to be honest. There was clearly a reaction to the Ringmer match where we played such good football and put a lot into the game without any reward but there is no excuse for the way we played."
Steve said that there would only be a light training session for the first-team squad on Tuesday but they will be hard at it again on Thursday in preparation for the visit of a Heath side desperate for points as they battle to avoid relegation.
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| :: Saturday 1st March 2008 :: |
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Sidlesham 2, East Grinstead Town2
A performance best forgotten on a windy day on a bobbly pitch. Wasps found themselves 2 goals down at half time and hadn't been able to string any passes together, had difficulty controlling the ball and didn't compete for second balls. What a marked contrast to the superb all-round footballing display on Wednesday night. Adam Dart put Grinstead back in the game 12 minutes into the second half and Tobi Hutchinson grabbed the equaliser at the end of normal time. [Match report to follow].
Next Wednesday's match against Steyning has been postponed - this will now be played on Wednesday 23rd April.
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| :: Friday 29th February 2008 :: |
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John O'Hara Cup Semi Final - East Grinstead Town 0, Ringmer 3
 WASPS missed the chance of a first-ever appearance in the County League Cup final despite producing one of their best performances of the season in Wednesday's semi at Three Bridges. [Match photos courtesy of Meridian Sport]
The only thing missing against first division Ringmer were goals as Grinstead squandered a host of chances while their opponents demonstrated the required ruthlessness in front of goal.........[Full Match report]
Praise from his opposite number Steve Johnson will have been little consolation to manager Steve Norris afterwards, but he will have taken some pleasure from the way Grinstead took the game to their opponents and kept them on the back foot for long spells.
Norris will be looking for more of the same when the promotion campaign resumes at Sidlesham on Saturday (3pm) when the side is likely to be unchanged with Mannie Neville still on holiday.
Rydon man of the match: Michael Belli
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| :: Sunday 24th February 2008 :: |
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ANOTHER CLEAN SHEET AND ANOTHER THREE POINTS
WASPS maintained their five-point lead at the top of the table after grinding out their 19th league win of the season on Saturday with a 1-0 success at Storrington.........[Full Match report]
Top scorer Tom Saunders ended his six-match goal drought with his 16th of the season midway through the second half to keep Grinstead on course for a return to County League division one.
It was a performance typical of the side in recent weeks. We have now gone 354 minutes without conceding a goal and Lee Whibley was seldom extended by hard-working Storrington in a contest the visitors should have perhaps won more comfortably.
Boss Steve Norris said: "I'm really pleased with another three points - and another clean sheet. Earlier in the season it was a case of 'you score three and we'll score five' but at this stage of the season, when the pitches aren't great and the result is key, I'll be happy if we keep winning 1-0.
"I was pleased for Tom. He was going through the sort of spell every striker has during the season but the goal should do him a lot of confidence. We are not scoring the goals we were earlier in the season but if we continue to keep clean sheets I know we have enough quality to create openings."
Steve refuses to talk about promotion until it has been achieved, but it would a brave man who would bet against Wasps going up now with a 13-point gap between them and fourth-placed Crawley Down, although no one will be celebrating until it's mathematically certain.
Grinstead are on the road again on Saturday with the long trip to Sidlesham (3pm). Midfielder Michael Belli returns to the squad but Mannie Neville is still away and he will also be absent Wednesday week (March 5) when Grinstead go to Steyning (7.30pm), also in the league.
Before that, of course, Grinstead have an eagerly-awaited League Cup semi-final against Ringmer at Three Bridges FC this Wednesday (7.45pm).
It is only Ringmer's second match since the shock death of their player Herve King during last week's match against Three Bridges.
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| :: Monday 18th February 2008 :: |
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STEVE Norris praised his players for a job well done at Pease Pottage on Saturday, where our 2-0 win and Lingfield's 1-1 draw against Mile Oak enabled Grinstead to open up a five-point lead at the top of division two.
The boss said: "It was a difficult pitch for the players to express themselves and Pease Pottage are a much-improved team. If they had had the side they've got now all season they would be mid-table.
"But we were patient and once we got the breakthrough I always felt we would go on and win the game. In the second half Lee Whibley did not have a save to make and so we kept another clean sheet which was another plus."
Grinstead face another of the strugglers this Saturday when they visit Storrington (3pm) and changes to the team are inevitable with Mannie Neville and Michael Belli both unavailable.
Neville is away for two weeks and among the games he misses is the League Cup semi-final against Ringmer next Wednesday at Three Bridges FC.
But Drew Cooney is available after missing Saturday's game and will return to the squad at Storrington.
Steve chose a new strikeforce of Liam Bull and Ben Burns on Saturday which meant top scorer Tom Saunders was left on the bench along with Nick Sullivan, whose work commitments means he will not be available for the Storrington game.
"Last season if Ben was injured we were struggling up front but we now have five or six options including Grant Rigler, who is playing well for the reserves at the moment. It's a nice situation to be in because competition for places all over the squad is so important."
With a ten-point gap between Wasps and fourth-placed Crawley Down, promotion is getting closer but the management are taking nothing for granted.
Steve said: "The thoughts are the same as always. We are top and there to be shot at and every side raises their game against us. It will be no different at Storrington where we are expecting another hard afternoon. We are getting closer to our aim of promotion but all we are doing is taking one game at a time, trying to win it and then moving on to the next match."
Wasps hope to complete the County League registration of goalkeeper Rob Gordon tomorrow, when he will play for the reserves at Horsham YMCA.
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| :: Saturday 16th February 2008 :: |
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Pease Pottage Village 0, East Grinstead Town 2
WASPS were seldom at their best against the league's bottom club this afternon, but two second-half goals kept them on course for promotion.
Steve Norris's men now have a five-point lead at the top of County League division two after goals from Dan Sullivan and Mannie Neville saw off a spirited Pottage side.
Both sides struggled for fluency on a bumpy pitch while a pedantic whistle-happy referee, who booked six players even though it was not a dirty game, did not help improve the overall spectacle.
But Wasps won't be complaining after chalking up their 18th win of the season. Their best performers came in defence where Michael Belli, who made some surging forward runs, and Danny Wackett, returning with Drew Cooney unavailable, stood out.........[Full Match report]
Elsewhere, Wasps reserves came up against a strong Corinthian Casuals side and conceeded early goals. Final score 0 - 4.
A very young Third XI which included veteran Bobby Wallis, put on a great display and beat Maresfield Village 3 - 2.........[Full Match report]
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| :: Wednesday 13th February 2008 :: |
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Horley Town U18s 1, East Grinstead Town U18s 1
Wasps Under 18s were held to a draw in the Southern Youth League tonight following a run of four straight league wins. Grinstead's scorer was Dave Knight.
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| :: Tuesday 12th February 2008 :: |
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Merstham Reserves 1, East Grinstead Town Reserves 4
Goals from Elvis Lynn, Ben Burns, Zac De Cambre and Grant Rigler earned Wasps reserves a good victory tonight against Merstham in the Suburban Challenge Shield. They meet again at East Court on Saturday week in the same competition.
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| :: Monday 11th February 2008 :: |
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Southwick 0, East Grinstead Town 0
BOSS Steve Norris is hoping to strengthen his squad this week for the title run-in.
Grinstead remain three points clear at the top of County League division two after a hard-fought draw at in-form Southwick on Saturday where the league's top scorers drew their first blank of the campaign.........[Full Match report]
The gap between Grinstead and fourth-placed Crawley Down is now ten points with Norris's men on course to fill one of the three promotion positions as they have games in hand on all their rivals.
But Wasps want the title - and Norris hopes more competition for places in the squad will keep everyone on their toes.
He hopes to make goalkeeper Rob Gordon's move from third division Little Common permanent this week. Gordon is due to play his second Suburban League game tomrrow night (Tuesday) and Norris is confident he will sign County League forms.
A seven-day approach for Ifield Edwards midfielder Clive Piller - whom Norris watched play for the division three representative side last month - has also been made and another midfielder, Mark Hillen, may return to the club from Lingfield.
Norris said: "When you are going well it is a good time to try and add to the squad. But we are also looking long-term towards next season when hopefully we will be back in division one. If we are, we will need a big squad to cope with the extra demands."
Wasps go to Pease Pottage on Saturday (3pm) when the only change is likely to see the return of defender Danny Wackett in place of Drew Cooney, who is unavailable.
There may be a place on the bench for former Crawley Down and Burgess Hill striker Nick Sullivan, who scored twice for the reserves on Saturday in their 3-2 win over Horsham YMCA.
Norris said: "Nick has signed County League forms but his appearances are limited by work commitments. But he is a quality striker and a definite addition to the squad when he is available."
Norris admitted Saturday's stalemate against a side unbeaten in six games was a fair result. "Southwick set themselves up to keep a clean sheet and they worked extremely hard," he said.
"Even when we switched to 4-3-3 to try and give us something extra up front we lacked that cutting edge. But once again it shows there are no easy games in this division and I expect Southwick to take points off some of our rivals during the rest of the season."
Geoff Harris..
 ONE of the unsung heroes at East Court celebrated his 80th birthday last week.
And Wasps' stalwart Geoff Harris is hoping for more celebrations at the end of the season by seeing the club he has supported for nearly 60 years win promotion.
Friends and players joined Geoff for a party after the recent win over Crawley Down - recognition for the tremendous work behind the scenes he has done for the club.
Geoff said: "I first watched the club when they played up at West Street and shared the ground with the cricket club.
"When the club moved to East Court in 1967 I saw the first game here and have been coming down ever since. I can't have missed many matches in that time."
As well as supporting from the stand, Geoff helps behind the scenes and spends three or four mornings a week at the club.
"I have done pretty much everything," he said. "I help with the pitch, clean out the changing rooms and I have lost count of the times I have painted and decorated the clubhouse.
"But I do enjoy it. I have made many friends over the years and we love to have bit of chatter on Saturdays before games.
"I really hope the boys get promoted this season. Steve (Norris) has put together a good side. I have seen some great players down the years but there have been dark days when we have struggled as well. But I definitely think the club is moving in the right direction now."
Grinstead chairman Richard Tramontin said: "Geoff embodies what football at this level is all about - the humble volunteer without whom the club would not exist. He is still as active at 80 as he was 20 years ago and everyone at the club appreciates the hard work he has put in over the years."
The club are nominating Geoff to the County League for a long service award as well.
Girls' football award..
 EAST Grinstead Town Football Club's work in the community has been recognised by the town council.
They were awarded a grant for £350 towards the cost of developing their programme to increase participation in girls' football in the town.
The presentation to chairman Richard Tramontin was made by Christime Mainstone, chairman of leisure and tourism, at a recent home game against Midhurst.
Mrs Mainstone said: "The Town Council commends East Grinstead Town Football Club on the fantastic work it is doing at grassroots level in encouraging more girls and young women to participate in football. We hope the grant will further contribute towards their development programme."
Cllr Rob Musk, who is vice Chairman of Leisure and Tourism, and Cllr Bob Mainstone were also in attendance.
Mr Tramontin said that the money would be passed on to Bobby Wallis, who runs the East Grinstead Football Academy which is affiliated to the football club.
He said: "The cost of our schools coaching programme alone is £7,200 and this grant will help towards that.
"The Academy encourages girls to participate in football and at the moment is providing free coaches in nine local primary schools, work which the club is keen to promote and encourage."
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| :: Saturday 9th February 2008 :: |
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Wasps were held to a goalless draw at Southwick this afternoon. [Match report to follow].
At East Court, Phil Major's reserves came from behind to beat Horsham YMCA 3 - 2 in the Suburban Challenge Shield with two goals from Nick Sullivan and one from Sean Leggett.
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| :: Monday 4th February 2008 :: |
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Boss praises performance
BOSS Steve Norris saluted his players after they completed the double over their local rivals and declared: "I'm proud of every one of them."
Wasps would have won by a bigger margin had it not been for the heroics of Down goalkeeper Shayne Goldsmith but their first win in three games - and 17th out of 20 in division two - kept them on course for promotion as they opened up a four-point lead at the top.........[Full Match report]
Norris said: "I think the players remembered how disappointed they felt after we lost our last derby game against Lingfield and were determined there would be no repeat.
"I was so proud of them. We played high-tempo football and I don't think many sides could have lived with us on Saturday. It was our best performance of the year without a doubt." [Match photos courtesy of Meridian Sport]
Now Norris is challenging his men to start another unbeaten run although they will have their work cut out on Saturday when they visit the league's form team Southwick (3pm).
Norris added: "It will be a tough game against a side who have started to pick up results. Every game in this division is difficult but we can maintain the standards we showed against Crawley Down we have a good chance."
Dan Sullivan is still away but Danny Wackett is available. However it is hard to see Norris changing last Saturday's team. Ben Rainbow made his first start since September at right back and performed well while in front of him 18-year-old Michael Belli had another outstanding game which he capped with two goals.
Wasps have now broken the 50-point barrier and a few more performance like Saturdays will soon ensure that their dream of a return to the County League's top flight becomes a reality.
Wasps Under 18s are back in action on Wednesday night when they travel to Sutton United in the 2nd round of the Southern Youth League Cup (7.30pm). Having won each of their last 5 matches, Grinstead will be fired up for the challenge and the lads will certainly appreciate travelling support. For directions, follow this link
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| :: Saturday 2nd February 2008 :: |
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East Grinstead Town 4 - 1 Crawley Down
A goal within the first minute by Liam Bull, then the visitors equalise through Adam New 3 minutes later, Michael Belli restores lead a minute later, missed chances and then Tobi Hutchinson puts Wasps 3 - 1 up on 16 minutes - breathtaking local derby. The next goal didn't come until the 53rd minute, a second from Michael Belli making it 4 - 1 and three deserved points to the league leaders. [Match photos courtesy of Meridian Sport] [Full match report to follow]
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| :: Friday 1st February 2008 :: |
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Under 18 Goal of the Season
Similar to the Reserves, a Goal of the Season competition is being run for the Under 18's. In first place so far is a stunning strike earlier this week by Alex Thompson from fully 30 yards. Olly Lochhead's goal in the same game just missed out on a top three position. The leading three to date are :
1st Alex Thompson Away to Merstham 28th January 2008
2nd Michael Belli Away to Dorking 12th September 2007
3rd Dave Knight Home to Oakwood 30th August 2007
Reserve Team Goal of the Season
No change in the Reserve Team Goal of the Season competition. A recent possible contender was Scott "Twiggy" Johnston's Bergkamp like finish against Eastleigh. However, it did not manage to break into the top three. Listed below are the top three so far this season :
1st Elvis Lynn Away to Haywards Heath 4th September 2007
2nd Grant Rigler Home to Colliers Wood 25th August 2007
3rd Michael Belli Home to Godalming Town 13th October 2007
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| :: Thursday 31st January 2008 :: |
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MATCH OFF
Tonight's vets match against Heath Pilgrims was called off at 2pm due to a waterlogged pitch.
200 Club
Winners of the December and January 200 Club draws were as follows:
January
1st prize £76 - No 39 - D Tidy
2nd prize £30 - No 62 - D Owen
3rd prize £10 - No 71 - L Hawkins
December:
1st prize £76 - No 18 - J Greig
2nd prize £30 - No 58 - D Mann
3rd prize £10 - No 10 - G Harris
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| :: Monday 28th January 2008 :: |
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Wasps Under 18s won 3 - 0 away at Merstham tonight.........[Full Match report]
NEVILLE DOUBLE HELPS KEEP WASPS TOP
 WASPS dropped their first league points of the season at East Court on Saturday, but boss Steve Norris was not unhappy with his side's performance. [Match photos courtesy of Meridian Sport]
We needed two equalisers from Mannie Neville to secure the point which maintained our two-point lead at the top of County League division two.
Midhurst goalkeeper Stuart Burt was in outstanding form after Wasps had to re-shuffle their side when Liam Bull went off after 29 minutes with a badly gashed leg after a collision with Burt.........[Full Match report]
Steve said: "We didn't play too well for the first 30 minutes but after that I thought we passed the ball well and created chances.
"But Midhurst played well themselves and overall a draw was a fair result. We can improve and I'm sure we will. Every side we play are raising their game against us and that will be the case for the remainder of the season so we need to do the same."
Wasps face fourth-placed Crawley Down at East Court on Saturday (3pm) looking to do the double over their local rivals after winning 2-1 at The Haven in September.
Danny Wackett and Dan Sullivan aren't available for the local derby. On the injury front, Ben Rainbow has had a few Reserve matches under his belt and been on the bench for the front side since his injury and striker Ben Burns is set to begin his comeback in the reserves tomorrow night after six weeks out.
The boss added: "Crawley Down will give us our hardest game of the season, you can be certain of that. They are having a terrific season and we will need to be at our best to get anything out of the game.
"But it is a game we are looking forward too. There should be a good crowd and atmosphere."
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| :: Saturday 26th January 2008 :: |
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East Grinstead Town 2, Midhurst & Easebourne 2
Wasps came from behind twice this afternoon to earn a draw against a good hard-working Midhurst outfit. Grinstead's second half performance should have ensured all three points but for the post, bar and some good goalkeeping. [Match Report to follow][Match photos courtesy of Meridian Sport]
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| :: Wednesday 23rd January 2008 :: |
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East Grinstead Town U18s 4, Lingfield U18s o
Wasps Under 18's ran out comfortable winners in this Southern Youth League local derby at East Court tonight.........[Full Match report]
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| :: Monday 21st January 2008 :: |
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STEVE: NO COMPLAINTS AFTER SETBACK
WASPS saw their lead at the top of County League division two trimmed to just two points after they suffered only their second defeat of the season at Piddinghoe Avenue on Saturday.........[Full Match report]
Boss Steve Norris had no complaints after seeing the half-time lead given to them by debutant Liam Bull wiped out by three goals in the last 15 minutes.
In their fifth successive away match, Wasps were below-par and Peacehaven, who had the strong wind and slope in their favour in the second half, were deserved winners.
Norris said: "You are got going to go through the season without playing badly at some stage. We have set high standards and our record shows we have done well in meeting them but we were below par on Saturday.
"It was disappointing but we have had five tough away games in a row and to win three of them, at some difficult places, is still a decent achievement."
Norris admitted he and coach Gavin Neville may opt to change Wasps' regular 4-4-2 formation in future away games. They reverted to 3-5-2 in the previous away game at Seaford after going 2-0 down and stormed back to win 5-3.
Norris added: "It is something to look at but for now we are looking forward to playing at East Court again on Saturday."
Grinstead entertain Midhurst this weekend (3pm) with only Ben Burns, who is a week away from a return, and Andy Turner, out since September with a knee injury, missing. Both Drew Cooney and Adam Dart returned at Peacehaven as second-half substitutes after missing the previous three games.
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| :: Saturday 19th January 2008 :: |
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Peacehaven 3 - 1 East Grinstead Town
Boss Steve Norris was bitterly disappointed with his team's display this afternoon - despite new signing Liam Bull putting Wasps ahead after 8 minutes they suffered only their second defeat this campaign against a gutsy Peacehaven side. Grinstead were flat and always second to the ball while giving away possession far too cheaply.........[Full Match report]
The reserves did the opposite and came from 1 down to win 3 - 1 against Horsham YMCA in the Suburban League.........[Full Match report]
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| :: Friday 18th January 2008 :: |
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Tomorrow's matches in doubt
It is too early to say whether Wasps' Division Two match tomorrow at Peacehaven or the reserves' home fixture against Horsham YMCA at East Court will be able to be played. Pitch inspections will take place in the morning. Latest news will be available by ringng the clubhouse or on here at around mid-day tomorrow.
The Fourth XI's match against Cowden Mavericks has already been called off as have all EGTFC youth teams' home matches over this coming weekend.
The Reserves' Shield match away to Mertham on Tuesday 22nd January has been postponed as the home club have already postponed tomorrow's FA Vase tie and want to ensure the tie will get as much chance as possible of being played the following Saturday.
With the enormous amount of rain that fell on Tuesday, everyone was more than surprised how good the East Court pitch was on Wednesday morning - there was no standing water and rather than the expected slushy soft surface, it was remarkably firm . The Sussex County Inter League Cup match between the Mid Sussex Football League and the Sussex County Football League (Div 3) went ahead and at kick off time, the surface was perfect. The County League side took an early lead through Chas Lister and went in at half time 4 - 1 up. The Mid Sussex League never gave up despite going further behind 4 minutes after the restart but the final score was Mid Sussex League 3 - 5 Sussex County League. Scorers: Mid Sussex - Crowhurst (Willingdon), Booth (Uckfield), Peacock (Lindfield); Sussex County - Lister (Little Common) 2, Jones (Dorking), Lee Smith (Dorking) 2.
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| :: Sunday 13th January 2008 :: |
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Seaford Town 3, East Grinstead Town 5
STEVE FULL OF PRAISE FOR BATTLING WASPS
BOSS Steve Norris was full of praise for his side after they produced a storming second-half fightback to pick up three more valuable points.
Wasps were staring at a second County League defeat in three games when they trailed 2-0 after an hour on a ground where they have traditionally struggled.
But Steve and coach Gavin Neville made a tactical change by pushing rightback Michael Belli into a five-man midfield and suddenly Grinstead were transformed.
They turned the game on its head with four goals in 12 minutes and although Seaford got a third with three minutes left, Mannie Neville completed his hat-trick with a last-minute penalty.........[Full Match report] It means Wasps have now won 16 out of 17 in the league this season.
Victory enabled them to open up a five point lead at the top of division two ahead of another tough away game this Saturday when they visit promotion dark horses Peacehaven (3pm).
The boss said: "For an hour Seaford stopped us playing and were deservedly in front. But pushing Michael in behind the strikers gave us more impetus and more energy and once we'd got a goal back we were transformed.
"In the last two away games the players have shown character as well as their other qualities. It is nice to be able to play good football but during a season you have to go to places like Seaford, which is never easy, in difficult conditions and battle for a result which is what we did."
Grinstead hope to have Ben Burns and Drew Cooney back after injury at Peacehaven this Saturday while Adam Dart is available after completing a three-match ban.
Norris has completed the signing of striker Liam Bull from Wealden. The 23-year-old would have been involved at Seaford but for a slight hamstring injury but he comes into contention this week.
Norris said: "We are delighted to have Liam on board. It gives us another option up front and I think he is player who will improve at East Grinstead. He has a lot to offer both this season and in the long-term."
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| :: Friday 11th January 2008 :: |
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Liam Bull signs
Steve Norris has completed the signing of striker Liam Bull from Wealden.
Matches off
Tomorrow's Third Team match at Imberhorne against East Court has been called off due to a waterlogged pitch as have all Wasps youth teams' home matches at East Court, Mount Noddy and King George's.
Our East Court ground was waterlogged as of midday today, but there will be a pitch inspection in the morning ahead of the reserves scheduled fixture against Merstham.
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| :: Thursday 10th January 2008 :: |
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Tonight's vet's match against Plumpton Athletic has been postponed due to a waterlogged pitch.
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| :: Tuesday 8th January 2008 :: |
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MATCHES OFF
Tonight's reserve match against Horsham YMCA has been called off due to a waterlogged pitch.
The John O'Hara Quarter Final between Hassocks and Ringmer was also called off so Wasps will have to wait a little longer to find out who they face in the semi-final next month.
STEVE HOPING TO STRENGTHEN SQUAD
STEVE Norris is hoping to add two new faces to his promotion-chasing squad after watching Wasps get back on track at Westfield on Saturday.
Grinstead returned to winning ways after dropping their first points of the season against Lingfield on Boxing Day with a convincing win at a venue which has never been a happy hunting ground for Grinstead.........[Full Match report]
Wasps' 15th league win out of 16 stretched their lead at the top of County League division two to four points and they have six games in hand on second-placed Lingfield.
But the boss is keen to improve his squad from a position of strength. He has made seven-day approaches for Wealden striker Liam Bull and goalkeeper Rob Gordon, who started the season with Crowborough before joining division three outfit Little Common.
Steve said: "Liam is training with us later this week and hopefully I can persuade him to join us and Rob, who lives locally, is looking to get back into senior football when he finishes a suspension at the end of the month. Both will give us added competition for places."
While two new faces may be coming to East Court, Steve has confirmed that Stuart Hardy's third spell with Grinstead is over and he is now expected to join Lingfield.
Norris said: "I cannot guarantee any player first-team football so Stuart is going to try his luck at Lingfield and I wish him all the best."
Grinstead will be without skipper Drew Cooney (back) striker Ben Burns (ankle) and Adam Dart, who completes a three-match suspension, when Wasps go to Seaford Town on Saturday (3pm). Drew and Ben are likely to be sidelined for another fortnight.
But Steve admits he would have been loath to change a winning team even if they had been available.
Three of Saturday's back four were teenagers but they belied their experience in tricky conditions to prevent Westfield from scoring at home for the first time this season.
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| :: Saturday 5th January 2008 :: |
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Westfield 0, East Grinstead Town 3
NORMAL service resumed at the Parish Field today as Wasps bounced back from their first league defeat of the season to open up a four-point lead at the top of County League division two.
Boss Steve Norris was without Adam Dart (suspended) and the injured Drew Cooney and Ben Burns but his side did him proud in difficult conditions to chalk up league win number 15 out of 16 against a home side who finished with nine men.........[Full Match report]
The deadlock was broken by a sensational 25-yard free-kick from Dan Sullivan which flew past Will Toal in the home goal after 24 minutes.
Driving rain and a muddy pitch did not help the flow of the game but Wasps defended superbly against a home side who failed to score at home for the first time this season.
Goalkeeper Lee Whibley was rarely troubled and Tobi Hutchinson got Grinstead's crucial second on 71 minutes when Mannie Neville's pass put him in space and he made no mistake from six yards.
Three minutes later the Westies were down to ten men when David Miller got a straight red for a two-footed lunge on Miles Neville.
Westfield substitute Chris Smith had only been on the pitch five minutes when he got his marching orders for swearing at the referee in the 76th minute.
And Dave Gellatly completed an excellent Wasps' performance when he found the top left-hand corner from 20 yards with 12 minutes remaining.
Rydon man of the match: Danny Wackett - did not put a foot wrong at the back.
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| :: Wednesday 2nd January 2008 :: |
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STEVE: WE WILL BOUNCE BACK
Steve Norris is backing his side to bounce back from their first league defeat of the season.
A frustrating holiday programme saw Grinstead lose their 100 per cent record in their 15th Division Two game when they lost 2-1 at Lingfield on Boxing Day.........[Full Match report]
Their other three games were all postponed, including the New Year's Day trip to Pease Pottage which was called off less than two hours before kick off due to a flu epidemic in the home camp with most of the squad either at the ground or on their way.
Pottage have until next Monday to produce doctor's certificates to confirm the outbreak and failure to do so could mean Grinstead getting the three points.
Lingfield missed the chance to overtake Wasps at the top tonight when they travelled to Crawley Down and lost 3 -1. Grinstead are still a point clear with seven games in hand on Lingfield and four points clear of third-placed Littlehampton, who have also played five games more than ourselves.
Steve said: "We just weren't at the races on Boxing Day and Lingfield deserved their win, although we might have rescued a point late on. The disappointing thing is that the next two games - at Steyning on Saturday and then Pease Pottage on Tuesday - were both called off.
"We are at that stage of the season when postponements mean you are not always playing every week which is frustrating. Losing the 100 per cent record is disappointing but we would have settled for winning our first 14 games.
"When we do play again - and hopefully it will be on Saturday - I expect a positive reaction from the players."
Mannie Neville, Danny Wackett and Stuart Hardy all came off through injury at Lingfield while Ben Burns was also absent but the quartet should be available for the match at Westfield on Saturday (ko 1.45pm).
GRINSTEAD reserves return to Suburban League action on Saturday when they entertain Eastleigh in the League Cup (3pm). They have a Challenge Shield match against Horsham YMCA next Tuesday, also at East Court, kick off 7.30pm.
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| :: Tuesday 1st January 2008 :: |
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Match postponed
This afternoon's scheduled match away at Pease Pottage has had a very late postponement due to an outbreak of flu amongst the Pease Pottage players.
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| :: Monday 31st December 2007 :: |
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HAPPY NEW YEAR
We would like to wish you a Happy New Year on behalf of everyone at East Grinstead Town FC.
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| :: Saturday 29th December 2007 :: |
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First Team Match off
This afternoon's scheduled match away to Steyning has been postponed due to a waterlogged pitch.
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| :: Thursday 27th December 2007 :: |
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Boxing Day Blues
Lingfield 2 - 1 East Grinstead Town
Wasps were simply not at the races at Lingfield on Boxing Day and lost their 100% record. Although Grinstead can rue their two attempts late in the second half that hit the bar and the crossbar, there could be little copmplaint with the final outcome. A bad day best forgotten and focus placed on the next two matches against Steyning on Saturday and Pease Pottage on New Year's Day.
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| :: Monday 24th December 2007 :: |
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Merry Christmas
On behalf of everyone at East Grinstead Town, A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS to you.
Don't forget that the lads will be in action at 11am on Boxing Day away to Lingfield. We look forward to seeing you there.
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| :: Thursday 20th December 2007 :: |
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Lancing v East Grinstead Town - POSTPONED
Tonight's scheduled match at Shoreham against Lancing was called off at 16:40 due to a frozen pitch.
200 Club
Winners of the October and November 200 Club draws were as follows:
November:
1st prize £80 - No 56 - S Hatswell
2nd prize £30 - No 100 - P Wheeler
3rd prize £10 - No 26 - C White
October:
1st prize £80 - No 63 - M Playle
2nd prize £30 - No 9 - R Woolley
3rd prize £10 - No 110 - H Thomas
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| :: Monday 17th December 2007 :: |
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YOUNGSTERS IMPRESS IN SUPERB PERFORMANCE
Littlehampton Town 2 East Grinstead Town 6
WASPS produced another superb performance at the Sportsfield on Saturday where they demolished their third-placed hosts to stretch their lead at the top of County League division two.
Littlehampton boss Trevor Waller virtually conceded the title afterwards but although Steve Norris's side have yet to drop a league point this season after 14 games the Grinstead manager is not getting carried away.
But what pleased the boss was the quality of Grinstead's football. Their passing moves cut Littlehampton to shreds at times and the crucial second goal - a blistering volley by Tobi Hutchinson - was a contender for goal of the season.
Steve had to reshuffle his defence because of injuries and illness which robbed him of three first choices - Adam Dart, Stuart Hardy and skipper Drew Cooney.
But Michael Belli slotted in comfortably at rightback while Miles Neville, brother of Mannie, had an excellent first-team debut on the left-hand side. With Marc Pelling in the centre of defence, Wasps had three players aged 19 or under in their back four.
Norris said: "When the side is full of confidence it is a lot easier to bring in young players but these lads are good enough in their own right and it bodes well for the future of the club.
"I was really pleased with our commitment. We knew it was a big game and our attitude was first class - we scored some great goals.".........[Full Match report]
Steve hopes to have everyone except the suspended Adam Dart, who starts a three-match ban, available for the Boxing Day derby at second-placed Lingfield (11am). Before then, Wasps face Lancing on Thursday at Shoreham FC, ko 7.30pm.
It's the first of four games in 12 days over the Christmas period, all of them away from home. There has been a change in opponents for the fixture on Saturday 29th December - Wasps now play Steyning.
Norris said: "We have four tough games but hopefully we will have virtually a full-strength squad to choose from which will be important because the matches come thick and fast."
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| :: Saturday 15th December 2007 :: |
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Littlehampton 2, East Grinstead Town 6
Wasps stretched their lead at the top of Division Two after completing the double over fellow promotion contenders Littlehampton with an emphatic 6 - 2 win. Grinstead's scorers were Tom Saunders, two from Tobi Hutchinson the first one a real goal-of-the-season, a Mannie Neville penalty, Dave Gellatly and Dan Sullivan [Match report to follow]. The win ensures Grinstead maintain their 100% league record with 14 wins out of 14.
The reserves went out of the Sussex Intermediate Cup to Arundel on penalties. The match was 2 - 2 after 90 minutes, 3 - 3 after extra time and the visitors clinched their passsge into the next round 4 - 3 on penalties.
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| :: Tuesday 11th December 2007 :: |
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Trials for Wasps Under 14s
Wasps' Under 14s are looking for young talented footballers. If you consider yourself a defender, midfielder, striker, or goal keeper - and would like to join us on Wednesday evenings for our new Coerver Football Coaching sessions - please call Team Manager Simon Parrett on 07740 541445 or Team Coach David Morris-Clarke on 07725 462094. We play in the Horsham League on Saturday mornings, our home pitch is at East Court and if you have the skills, speed and determination to win, please call us today.
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| :: Sunday 9th December 2007 :: |
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Rearranged fixtures
Grinstead will now be playing Littlehampton away next Saturday and the following week's fixture against Lancing will now be played at Shoreham on Thursday 20th December (ko 7:45).
Yesterday's Sussex Intermediate cup match between Grinstead Reserves and Arundel will now be played next Saturday, 15th December (ko 1.30pm)
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| :: Saturday 8th December 2007 :: |
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Reserves match v Arundel off
Following a pitch inspection at 12:15, today's Sussex Intermediate Cup match at East Court has been postponed due to a waterlogged pitch.
Third Team and Fourth Team matches have also been postponed due to waterlogged pitches.
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| :: Thursday 6th December 2007 :: |
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Crawley Down match off
Tomorrow night's scheduled Division Two match against Crawley Down has been postponed.
The East Court pitch at 6pm tonight was just playable but would not hold up to two matches on consecutive days. The Sussex County FA have given priority to Saturday's Intermediate Cup 3rd round match and therefore there has been no alternative but to postpone tomorrow night's match. If the rain that is still forecast does materialise, then Saturday's match may well also be in jeopardy. Updates will be posted here.
Mid Sussex Council have postponed all matches this weekend at East Court, King George's Field and Mount Noddy so none of our junior teams will be in action at home.
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| :: Wednesday 5th December 2007 :: |
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Tonight's scheduled Under 18s match against Lingfield has been called off due to a waterlogged pitch. Their next scheduled match is away to Horley Town on Wednesday 19th December (ko 7:30pm)
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| :: Tuesday 4th December 2007 :: |
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Worthing 2, East Grinstead Town 0
Wasps earned the praise of Worthing boss Alan Pook tonight for their display and the manner in which they played football throughout the match. Steve Norris had to make a number of changes in his line up and Aaron Denver made his first start coming in at right back with Stuart Hardy slotting in at left back to replace the injured Adam Dart. Michael Belli replaced Mannie Neville who came off early on in the match on Saturday with a groin strain.
Grinstead soaked up some early pressure from their Ryman League opponents and successfully kept them at bay until the 26th minute when a cross from the right was met by Terry Dodd who beat Marc Pelling and Lee Whibley to the ball and slotted it home. Grinstead fought back and put the home side under pressure for the last ten minutes of the first half. Stuart Hardy came the closest to grabbing an equaliser when he saw the Worthing keeper Rikki Banks out of position and his long range effort beat Banks but just scraped past the upright.
Worthing's second goal after 76 minutes was bizarre to say the least. Whibley lost control of a ball that had been played across to him and a Worthing attacker pounced on it, appeared to be slightly held back by Whibley as he tried to recover, but the referee played advantage and with an empty net, the attacker hit the post. The referee then awarded a free kick and booked the Grinstead keeper. The resultant free kick was well blocked but the loose ball fell to Jamie Brotherton who found the back of the net.
A good display by Grinstead against a good young Worthing side. The lads can now concentrate on their next league encounter at home on Friday against local rivals Crawley Down.
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| :: Monday 3rd December 2007 :: |
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Four games coming up in the next 5 days
Wasps go into their Sussex Senior Cup tie against Ryman League Worthing tomorrow night (ko 7:30pm) full of confidence after their win on Saturday against Division One Hailsham Town, their 12th straight win..... [Full Match report] Boss Steve Norris is keen that his side put on a good display against Worthing who are two leagues above Wasps. The match is sure to be keenly contested and will be a good test for Grinstead to see how they can perform against a side 38 places above them in the league pyramid. For directions to the ground
click here.
Wasps return to league action on Friday night at East Court in a local derby against Crawley Down (ko 7:30pm).
The Reserves visit Tonbridge Angels in the Suburban League on Tuesday evening(ko 7:45pm). They then host Arundel Reserves in the Sussex Intermediate Cup on Saturday at East Court (ko 3pm)
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| :: Saturday 1st December 2007 :: |
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East Grinstead Town 2, Hailsham 0
A cracking cup quarter file at East Court this afternoon between two very evenly matched sides..... [Full Match report]
Hailsham just edged the first half with the pace of Dan Leach, currently on loan from Eastbourne Borough, causing the Grinstead defence problems with his pace and on 3 occasions he got clear of the defence but his finishing didn't match his approach play. Simon Stevens also saw his well struck shot from the edge of the box hit the underside of the bar.
Grinstead improved in the second half and took the lead midway through the half with a great move down the left ending with top scorer Tom Saunders firing past Tanner in the Hailsham net.
Hailsham pushed forward in search of the equlaiser but were caught out on the break when Adam Dart, who had another cracking game, floated over a perfect cross for Saunders who hit a sweet volley at the far post.
The game ended on a sour note however, when while Grinstead were celebrating a fight broke out on the halfway line which eventually saw Matt Smith of Hailsham and Dart of Grinstead being sent off.
Twelth win on the spin for Grinstead in all competions and on this showing if they do get promoted this season they will more than hold their own in Division One next season
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| :: Thursday 29th November 2007 :: |
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Tonight's Under 18s match away to Oakwood has been postponed due to a waterlogged pitch.
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| :: Tuesday 27th November 2007 :: |
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East Grinstead Town v Worthing
Wasps' 3rd round away tie in the Sussex Senior Cup against Ryman League Worthing has been rescheduled to Tuesday 4th December (ko 7:30pm). Entry: £8 adults; £4 senior citizens; children Under 16 free (if accompanied by a paying adult). For directions to the ground
click here.
This Saturday, Wasps face Division One Hailsham Town in the Quarter Final of the John O'Hara Cup at East Court (ko 3pm). Steve Norris said: "We are really looking forward to the Hailsham game. They are a good first division side and it will be a test for us. But we are full of confidence at the moment and any team coming to East Court must know they are in for a hard game."
The Under 18s are away to Oakwood this Thursday in the Southern Youth League (ko 7:45pm).
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| :: Sunday 25th November 2007 :: |
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13 FAR FROM UNLUCKY
East Grinstead Town 4, Mile Oak 1
THIRTEEN proved anything but unlucky for Wasps on Saturday as they maintained their 100 per cent league record with one of their best displays of the season..... [Full Match report]
A 13th win, and defeats for three of their promotion rivals, has given Grinstead an eight-point cushion at the top of County League division two.
Steve Norris's men were always in control after Tom Saunders' 16th-minute goal and only some wayward finishing prevented them from winning more easily.
Norris said: "We controlled the game in the first half and got our third straight after the break. In a way that didn't help us because we relaxed and sat back al | |
