WASPS could consider themselves unlucky to finish an otherwise encouraging campaign with defeat to the league champions.
They recovered well from a nightmare first seven minutes during which time ex-Wasp Nick Sullivan took advantage of some dilatory defending to twice beat the returning Adam Woodward in goal and give Down a 2-0 lead.
Wasps soon settled although but despite lots of possession they didn’t work goalkeeper Shayne Goldsmith a great deal.
Joel Hughes was a constant threat with his skills and nearly finished a great move in the 39th minute involving Kieran Wilson and the returning John Paul Collier but side-footed over from 15 yards.
Collier also went close from 20 yards before Wasps got one back just before the break when Hughes dribbled to the by-line and crossed to Peter Cooper who flicked it deftly into the bottom left-hand corner and made it 2-1.
The second half was dominated by the visitors but again the lack of an end product to their neat approach work was often missing.
Cooper twice went close and Rikki Cable’s curling effort was only inches off target as Grinstead probed a resolute defence in search of an equaliser.
Cooper thought he had scored it with three minutes left only to be denied by the offside flag.
To rub salt into the wounds, Crawley Down got their third goal in injury time after Woodward failed to control Wilson’s back pass on the rock-hard, undulating pitch and Sam Cane nipped in to score into an empty net.
Three second-half goals ensured Grinstead ended their home campaign with a hard-earned victory over local rivals Redhill which avenged the defeat they suffered at Kilnbrow in February.
The final scoreline looked unlikely after the first 20 minutes as Redhill dominated the early stages although they couldn’t convert possession into chances.
Lee Radford had the first effort of the match when he volleyed just over from the penalty spot and five minutes later a long ball over the top caught out the Grinstead defence but top scorer Marcus Elliott's first touch was disappointing and the chance was wasted.
Grinstead at this stage were being overrun in midfield with former ex-Wasp Dave Gellatly prominent for the visitors but Mark Pelling and Peter Featherstone held firm and indeed it was Featherstone who had the best chance of the half when he latched onto a loose ball following a corner but he was denied at close range by Chris May.
Manager Tony Beckingham made a double change at half time bringing on Miles Neville and Ricky Spain and suddenly Grinstead were transformed and it took just six minutes of the second half for them to take the lead.
Joel Hughes, who had a terrific second period, beat his marker on the left, got to the by line and pulled the ball back to Jez Tobin who rifled home from close range.
Hughes began to run Redhill ragged and he was the provider again on 69 minutes when he again got to the by-line and passed to Rikki Cable, making a welcome return from suspension, and he fired past May into the far corner.
By this stage Redhill were well beaten but Grinstead had to wait until injury team to add to their lead. This time it was Peter Cooper who provided Cable with the chance and again he made no mistake in firing past the exposed May for his second of the match.
East Grinstead Town: Harwood, Conteh (sub: Neville 46), Wilson, Sinclair, Pelling, Featherstone, Hughes, Tobin (Tester 85), Cooper, McKenna (Spain 46), Cable. Sub not used: Lardent
RYE became only the second team this season to complete a league double over Wasps after an entertaining game which could quite easily have produced lots more goals.
A strong Rye side going for runners-up spot led 2-0 at the break thanks to a 24th-minute free kick from Duncan McArthur, which Danny Harwood mis-judged the flight of and allowed to sneak inside the post, and a well-placed header by the experienced Scott Ramsay on the stroke of half-time.
It was by no means one-way traffic though with Jez Tobin, Ashley Alexander and Joel Hughes all going close for the home side whose attacking 4-3-3 formation meant the game got stretched very quickly.
Grinstead got back into the game ten minutes into the second half. Dane Luchford’s cross was met by Peter Cooper whose header was hacked off the line by a defender. Fortunately it fell nicely for Mike McKenna to score from close range.
Unfortunately, Rye needed just two minutes to restore their lead when Liam Upton got space down their left to cross to the unmarked Danny Ellis who headed home at the far post.
But Wasps continued to take the fight to their opponents with Hughes’ direct running, speed and skill causing them all sorts of problems.
Rye keeper Josh Pelling made a superb reflex save from Hughes’ close-range drive midway through the second half before plunging at the same player’s feet after a mazy dribble had taken Hughes into the six-yard box.
The Rye goal led a charmed life at times but they hung on although Ellis was fortunate not to be shown a red rather than a yellow card for an off the ball foul on Luchford.
Alexander did make it 3-2 in the dying seconds after an unselfish pull-back by Cooper but it was too late to prevent Rye from clinging on to victory.
With Crawley Down promoted to the Ryman League, this season’s derbies will be the last for a while but the mutual respect between the teams was typified by Wasps’ chairman Richard Tramontin handing Anvils’ manager Darren Guirey a bottle of champagne to congratulate him on Down’s success.
After dragging the many times retired Reece Head out in the black and yellow stripes yet again, Wasps’ boss Tony Beckingham was not disappointed with a draw.
“When I think of the side we had out I would have taken a draw all day long before hand,” he admitted. “We have to trot the old man again out of retirement. It is my fault really. About nine o’clock last night nine players had pulled out and I had to put in the SOS call to Reece. Fortunately for me he agreed to do it and he did well, but I think 70 minutes in this heat was enough for him. We were missing players and Crawley Down were missing players and given the chances for both sides I think a draw was probably a fair result.”
George Fenwick had a great game on his debut and Beckingham admits he is someone he would like to see more of next season. “I signed Fenners a while ago so he helped us out on a one off basis but he is one I am looking at for next season,” he said. “Unfortunately the amount of players we have used this season isn’t through choice. I’ve never known an injury list like it and then we have the players suspended from the Arundel incident; we are on our knees player wise.”
Down opened the scoring after ten minutes. A cross from the right caused problems and ex-Wasp Nick Sullivan got a flick on to send the ball goal-wards before Cane, who certainly looked to everyone except the official to be in an offside position, got the last touch. It was Grinstead that dominated after the goal with Peter Cooper forcing Shane Goldsmith into a save. Minutes later Peter Featherstone sent a shot cruising over the bar.
Grinstead equalised when a rare mistake by the Anvils’ centre-backs was capitalised on by Tobin, who struck his shot confidently past Goldsmith. After the break both teams pushed for the winner and Fenwick had a great chance after finding a way past Ash Jones and the Anvils needed a last ditch tackle by Wes Millis to keep the score level.
Marc Pelling saw a header ping off the crossbar and then at the other end a good cross by Dan Sullivan looked promising but neither Cane nor George Hillier could connect to it.
East Grinstead Town: Harwood, Cooney, Head (Neville), Sinclair, Pelling, Featherstone, Wilson, Tobin, Cooper (Major), Fenwick, Belli (Baker). Unused subs: Lardent, McKenna.
WASPS’ Easter triple-header against sides in the top six started with a first home league defeat that was harsh on Tony Beckingham’s side.
Grinstead controlled possession for long periods but failed to take any of the opportunities they carved out and were punished by two clinical finishes from Pagham marksman Scott Murfin.
The hosts were understrength with several players, including the suspended John-Paul Collier and Rikki Cable, absent but they started brightly and Peter Cooper nearly scored in the sixth minute when he glanced Mike McKenna’s cross the wrong side of the post.
But Pagham started to threaten and were ahead on 18 minutes when Murfin finished off good work down the right by Alex Kew.
Murfin scored a superb second 14 minutes later, controlling Greg Robinson’s long ball with a superb first touch before beating keeper Danny Harwood with a lovely chip.
Wasps should have got one back seven minutes before the break but Peter Cooper’s header from Ricky Spain’s corner hit the bar.
McKenna headed a glorious chance 11 minutes after the break wide from a couple of yards and Robinson blocked sub Sam Fildes’ goalbound shot a yard in front of goal as the home side began to dominate in midfield, but they failed to get enough quality balls into the box.
Grinstead continued to cause Pagham problems but the visitors defended doggedly to complete a league double over their hosts.
PETER COOPER continued his impressive goalscoring form with his fifth goal in as many games as Wasps rescued a deserved point with an injury-time goal at Crabtree Park.
The two goals book-ended a contest which Wasps dominated for long spells, particularly in the second half.
The visitors forced 17 corners in total including five in a row at one stage but when the equaliser did come Cooper could hardly have claimed to have got a firm connection on his shot. A miss-hit or not, it went over the line after the home defence had blocked efforts from Rikki Cable and Peter Featherstone as Wasps piled on the pressure in the closing stages.
Moments earlier a fiercely struck drive from Rikki Cable had poleaxed defender Kieron Urquhart who was hit on the side of the face and ended up losing a tooth such was the power of the shot.
Wick defended very doggedly to protect the lead George Gaskin gave them inside the first minute when the former Worthing striker produced a poacher’s finish from close range after some untypically ragged defending by Grinstead.
The hosts dominated the early stages but by half-time Wasps had started to get on top without creating too many clear-cut openings.
The second half was a different story as Cooper fired wide from a good position, Scott Johnston and Marc Pelling both forced good saves with headers and Wick were restricted to the occasional breakaway.
It looked as if Wasps were going to go unrewarded but Cooper had other ideas. Boss Tony Beckingham said: “The goal itself was a bit scrappy but no more than we deserved against a decent Wick side.”
Wasps returned to winning ways after a couple of patchy performances as they completed the double over already relegated United.
Eastbourne had provided sterner opposition last month, when Wasps eventually won 4-1, than they did on a rock-hard Oval pitch and the outcome was never in doubt once the visitors had gone in front.
The opening goal came after 19 minutes when John Sinclair freed Mike McKenna who delivered a measured cross which was headed powerfully into the bottom corner by Joel Hughes.
Two minutes later Hughes was pushed in the penalty area and the offence spotted by the referee, allowing Peter Cooper to double Grinstead's lead from the spot.
Ashley Alexander, Hughes and Cooper could all have added to Wasps' lead before the end of a one-sided first half and the visitors continued to dominate after the break.
Grinstead's third arrived on 62 minutes when Jez Tobin capped an industrious midfield display with a header which had just about crossed the line before Cooper made sure.
And Wasps rounded off an impressive display nine minutes from time when Hughes met McKenna's corner with a volley which produced a good save by the home keeper but when the ball ran loose defender Marc Pelling drove it powerfully into the roof of the net to score a rare goal.
East Grinstead Town: Harwood, Wilson, Neville (Conteh), Sinclair (Sinden), Pelling, Featherstone, McKenna, Tobin (Head), Cooper, Hughes, Alexander Unused sub Seruwagi
WASPS’ hopes of a top-three finish in the County League for the first time since 1973 suffered a setback with this undeserved defeat.
Tony Beckingham’s men tried to play constructive football but a rock-hard, uneven pitch proved a great leveller and a hardworking home side made Grinstead pay for missing earlier chances with the only goal midway through the second half.
Beckingham handed Marlon Clark-Ward his first first-team start while Jez Tobin made his second start of the season in midfield and he twice went close to breaking the deadlock in a first half dominated by the visitors.
On 17 minutes Grinstead showed their quality with a great move instigated by Kieran Wilson’s surge down the left. He found Rikki Cable who swapped passes with John Paul-Collier before crossing to Tobin whose shot just cleared Gavin Bourne’s crossbar.
Bourne pulled off an outstanding save at full stretch from Tobin’s drive ten minutes before the break, after more good work by Cable, and from the resultant corner Peter Cooper headed over the angle of post and bar.
Wasps continued to threaten in the second half but Bourne was never seriously extended. Cable shot over, an inviting cross from Wilson didn’t get the decisive touch in front of goal it deserved and Bourne made a comfortable save from Cable’s tame effort after a well-worked free kick move.
Sidley had defended doggedly and midway through the second half they got the only goal. A long ball found Kevin Barden who rolled Miles Neville, avoided Peter Featherstone’s challenge and then beat Danny Harwood with a miss-hit shot.
It was a scrappy goal entirely in keeping with a low-quality contest.
Wasps continued their climb up the table with a comfortable victory over relegation-threatened St Francis.
The win took them up to fifth in the County League table and with games in hand on the three sides immediately above them, second place is within their grasp.
This time last season Grinstead were bottom of the table having just received a hammering by Three Bridges but 12 months on they are well on course to beat the best finish in their history.
In truth it was by no means Grinstead's best performance as they were made to work hard by a spirited but limited St Francis side who worked hard but rarely threatened to cause Grinstead too many problems. Grinstead themselves produced three moments of quality which was enough to secure the three points.
Rikki Cable looked to continue his recent goalscoring form early on but he was denied by a superb last ditch tackle from Jason Hollick and then then following a trademark mazy run his shot from a tight angle was saved at the near post by Simon Lehkyj.
Grinstead took the lead on 37 minutes, Lee Carey produced a pinpoint through ball to Peter Cooper who calmly slotted past Lehkyj to score for the third consecutive game. Five minutes later Grinstead doubled their lead with a fine finish from Joel Hughes. The ball broke to him on the left edge of the penalty area and he superbly curled the ball inside the far post with Lehkyj well beaten.
The gane was over as a contest just two minutes into the second half. Cable drilled a cross-shot from the left-hand side and Cooper was alert to nip in front of Lehkyj and poke home from close range.
That was really it as far as goal action. St Francis continued to work hard and did have a couple of sniffs on goal as the game petered out but Grinstead had done the job required and even had the luxury of being able to keep Drew Cooney and John Paul Collier on the bench.
WASPS remain on course for their best County League finish since 1975 after a sixth win in seven Division One games closed the gap on the teams above them.
As Three Bridges, Rye and Hassocks – all potential rivals for a top-three finish, dropped points Tony Beckingham’s side steamrollered Chichester at the GAC Stadium with three of the goals scored by new recruits Joel Hughes and Mike McKenna.
Hughes, who played under Beckingham at Lingfield last season, netted twice either side of half-time while McKenna, whose last club was Kent League Holmesdale, came off the bench to round off an impressive performance with the fifth goal.
It should perhaps have been more with Grinstead squandering enough chances to have repeated last month’s ten-goal demolition of Shoreham.
As it was they went ahead in the 14th minute when Hughes did well on the right before crossing to strike partner Peter Cooper whose crisp volley brought him his second goal in as many matches.
Hughes headed the second midway through the first half, finding the bottom corner after midfielders John Paul Collier and Rikki Cable had caught City napping with a short-corner routine, Collier supplying the cross.
Two goals in ten minutes at the start of the second half finished off Chichester, although they had long since been condemned to an eighth successive defeat.
Hughes got the third with a powerful shot which took a slight deflection after he had cut in from the left then Cable pounced for his eighth goal in seven games. Defender Marc Pelling headed a corner into the mix, Cooper teed it up and Cable smashed it into the roof of the net from ten yards.
McKenna got the fifth with a powerful drive across the keeper and into the far corner after more good approach work by Hughes.
East Grinstead Town: Tidy, Anthony, Wilson, Pelling (sub: Woolley 70), Carey (Clark-Ward 45), Collier, Sinclair, Cable, Hughes, Cooper (McKenna 65).
WASPS overcome a poor first 30 minutes to continue their assault on a top-three finish against the County League’s bottom side.
Grinstead were without Luke Denton, Bronek Dabrowa and 30-goal Liam Baitup because of injury while veteran Dave Tidy continued in goal after keeping a clean sheet at Hailsham in midweek but their lacklustre start was still a surprise.
Wasps looked like the team with only two league wins all season rather than their visitors whose bright start got its reward in the 14th minute when Jamie Bucket’s left-wing cross eluded everyone and fell to Siao Blackwood who beat Tidey at the near post with a well-struck half volley.
Nick Chamberlain and Bucket ought to have added to their lead as Wasps struggled to get any rhythm and continually gave the ball away.
But Eastbourne’s offside trap looked creaky and it was breached on 38 minutes when Lloyd Anthony’s pass down the left set Peter Cooper free and he rounded keeper Grant Fitzgerald before rolling the ball into an empty net.
Wasps’ boss Tony Beckingham read the Riot Act at half-time and it had the desired effect as they scored three goals in ten minutes to extend their unbeaten league run to six games.
Rikki Cable, a mercurial presence until then, created the second on 58 minutes when he got past his marker Adam Daubeney with ease and his cross deflected off a defender into the path of Ashley Alexander who side-footed home his first goal for the club from close range.
Eight minutes later defender Marc Pelling met Lee Carey’s corner with an emphatic finish at the far post and two minutes after that it was 4-1 when Cable was also left unmarked to score from close range, this time from a cross by John Paul-Collier.
The game was over as a contest and although Eastbourne kept plugging away they never threatened a comeback. Wasps, without ever playing anywhere near their full potential, could celebrate another important win.
Beckingham said: “We were terrible for much of the first half. I think we thought all we had to do was turn up and Eastbourne, to be fair, looked a decent side. We had to remind the players of a few things at half-time and for 20 minutes or so we looked okay and scored three good goals. It’s another win but against some of the better sides in this league we will be punished if we don’t get our act together from the start.”East Grinstead Town: Tidy, Cooney, Anthony (sub: Wilson 56), Sinclair (Tobin 66), Pelling, Featherstone, Carey, Collier, Cooper, Alexander (Baker 74), Cable.
It was just like old times at Hailsham on Tuesday when Dave Tidy made his re-appearance in goal for the Wasps, six years after he last played for the club. Dave can now cheerfully call himself a super-vet but he has lost none of his enthusiasm or ability between the posts.
He has helped out Merstham this season and played in the Ryman League so was clearly not out of practice and would have enjoyed a clean sheet as he stood in for the unavailable Danny Harwood.
He didn’t have a great deal to do in truth. Dave made one decent save when he pushed a shot round the post and Hailsham hit the upright in their best move of the contest.
But it was a scrappy tussle on an awful pitch hardly conducive to passing football and the surface may have been a factor in our injury pile-up that saw four players go off.
Luke Denton went off after 36 minutes with an injury to the back of his thigh and was replaced by Lloyd Alexander. Drew Cooney didn’t come out for the second half after hurting his neck and was replaced by John Sinclair. Bronek Debrowa went down in agony on 55 minutes when he twisted his knee and had to be stretchered off. Marc Pelling came on in his place. Liam Baitup then injured his knee as he challenged for a ball with the keeper.
It meant we played the final 22 minutes with ten men having already brought on three subs but we defended solidly to extend our unbeaten league run to five games.
Jez Tobin had the best effort for us following a Lee Carey free kick on 88 minutes from the left hand corner when his overhead kick from inside the box was tipped onto the crossbar by Russell Tanner.
WASPS enjoyed their biggest away win of the season as their late-season surge towards a top three finish in the County League continued with a fourth successive Division One win.
Midfielder John Paul Collier helped himself to a hat-trick as Wasps overcame a spirited Selsey side and the problems posed by a bobbly pitch.
Manager Tony Beckingham said: "I thought Selsey were a better side than when we beat them at home in November but they couldn't live with us, especially going forward. We're into the top six and have games in hand on the sides above us. We all want to finish the season as strongly as we can because it can help build momentum for next year as well."
Peter Cooper opened the scoring with a 10th-minute header from Lee Carey's corner and Wasps doubled their lead after 33 minutes when Cooper collected a pass from Liam Baitup and was sent tumbling as he ghosted past his marker for an obvious penalty converted by Collier.
When Selsey did pull one back five minutes later through Graham Bush they needed a slice of luck when Peter Featherstone's clearance cannoned off the back of midfielder Bron Dabrowa into the path of the Selsey striker who gave Danny Harwood no chance.
Wasps dominated the second half with John Sinclair terrific in midfield and after Rikki Cable and Collier had both gone close they added a third on 59 minutes when the home keeper made a terrible job of trying to catch Lloyd Anthony's punt into the box and it sailed over him and into the net for the defender's first Grinstead goal.
Harwood made a good save to deny Bush at the other end as Selsey continued to battle but three goals in the last 14 minutes sealed an impressive Grinstead triumph.
On 76 minutes Carey's through ball found Peter Cooper and when his shot rebounded off the post Cable latched onto the loose ball and rounded a defender before firing home his fifth goal in three games.
Eight minutes later Cable and Cooper combined again to set up Collier who drove his shot into the top corner to make it 5-1.
There was still time for Collier to complete his first Grinstead hat-trick from the penalty spot after Carey was brought down inside the box.
A late Rikki Cable brace gave Grinstead arguably their best victory of the season over second placed Three Bridges.
This was Wasps' third consecutive league victory and with sides around them at the top of the County League all dropping points there is a great chance that Grinstead will finish in the top five or better which would be a great achievement in manager Tony Beckingham's first full season in charge.
Bridges have been on a poor run of late but there is now doubting they a still a quality side at this level but it was Grinstead who started the brighter and Peter Cooper almost opened the scoring but could only head wide when well placed from a Liam Baitup cross.
Bridges grew into the game and they started asking numerous questions of the Grinstead defence and started to create the better opportunities. Tom Lyons, who led the line well for Bridges, released the lively Elliott Romain and his effort was smothered by Danny Harwood before the rebound was eventually poked wide.
Grinstead at this stage were gifting opportunities to Bridges and when Drew Cooney gave the ball away on the edge of he box he was relieved to see Lyons shoot wide of the far post when well placed. Soon after Andy Howard fired over at the far post from close range following a corner.
Bridges should have taken the lead on 37 minutes, Peter Featherstone was dispossessed by Romain who rounded Harwood but somehow from inside the six yard box he could only toe-poke wide and Grinstead were happy to go in at the break on level terms as Lyons again went close on the half-time whistle.
Like the first half Grinstead started the second half brightly and found themselves ahead after 50 minutes. JP Collier, back in the side after suspension, threaded the ball through to Baitup who from an acute angle showed great composure to clip the ball over Bridges keeper Simon Lookwood for his 30th goal of the season.
Bridges looked to respond but Grinstead's defence looked more solid than in the first period and apart from a James Grant effort at the far post struggled to create anything meaningful until a quality goal with 12 minutes remaining put them back on level terms.
Romain did well to keep the ball in play on the right, he found Lee Carney who played a delightful one-two with Lyons before volleying inside the far post leaving Harwood with no chance.
Bridges went hunting for the winner but left themselves exposed at the back and Grinstead exploited this clinically. With five minutes remaining Baitup turned provider when he was released down the right and his pin point cross was met by the head of Cable who easily beat the exposed Lockwood.
Two minutes later Grinstead ensured all three points and they saved their best for last. Cable, who is fast becoming a cult hero with his laid back style, picked the ball up on the edge of the box twisted and turned his way past about three defenders before selling Lockwood a dummy and firing into an empty net. It was a fine goal to cap a good Grinstead performance.
East Grinstead Town: Harwood, Cooney, Wilson (sub: Denton 74), Sinclair, Pelling (Dabrowa 60), Carey, Collier, Cooper (Sinden 81), Baitup, Cable. Sub not used: Lardent
WASPS improved their hopes of a top-six finish with a hardworking but ultimately deserved success at Oaklands Park.
Wasps gave debuts to new signings Luke Denton and Peter Cooper while Jez Tobin, back at the club after two years with Three Bridges, came on in the second half as Tony Beckingham's men produced some quality at the right times on a bobbly pitch not conducive to good football.
Rikki Cable produced two of them. He put Grinstead in front on 23 minutes when Cooper, playing alongside Liam Baitup in attack, released him down the left and he cut inside a defender, rounded the goalkeeper and sidestepped another another defender before firing into an empty net.
Chi levelled midway through the second half when Adrian Brockway punished some poor defending to score from close range having seen an earlier header hit the bar.
But Wasps were soon back in front on 66 minutes when Lee Carey's quality free-kick into a dangerous area was pounced upon by Liam Baitup who scored his 29th goal of the season from close range.
Cable, whose pace and skill often stretched the home defence, made the points safe after 79 minutes, collecting a pass from Tobin before ghosting past his marker and firing into the far corner.
Beckingham said: "We looked a little rusty after two weeks without a game but we did enough to win. I thought the new guys settled in well and Rikki was superb for us, his two goals were really well taken.
"We visit Three Bridges on Tuesday and then have another long trip on Saturday to Selsey and hopefully we can build on this result and keep climbing the league. We have more than a third of the season left and want to finish as high as possible to give us a really good base for next season."
Grinstead's hopes of any cup success this season were ended as they succumbed to the second cup defeat of the season to local rivals Crawley Down in the quarter-final of the Sussex Senior Cup.
On a difficult bobbly pitch the game wasn't a great spectacle for the spectators but Crawley Down more than deserved to win as they dominated for most of the game and but for some poor finishing and some spirited defending could have triumphed more convincingly.
It is clear to see why Down have a 100% home record in the league as they adapted to the conditions much better than Grinstead, were better in possession and in Aaaron Watson and Nick Sullivan posed a constant attacking threat. Grinstead were not much of an attacking force throughout and didn't seriously test keeper Michael Hunter in the 90 minutes.
Despite that Wasps did battle hard and it took a dubious penalty three minutes from time to beat them. Things might have been different had they been able to call upon suspended John-Paul Collier and cup-tied trio Lee Carey, Luke Denton and Peter Cooper.
The first 30 minutes was a quiet affair with very little goalmouth action but Down slowly started to dominate. They went close on 30 minutes following an almighty goalmouth scramble which ended with Wes Millis shooting just wide.
Sullivan should have done better when he latched onto a left wing cross but from six yards out shot straight at Danny Harwood, and right on the stroke of half time Sullivan who looked a different player than when he had a short spell at Grinstead went even closer when his close-range shot was deflected onto the inside of the post by Harwood before being hacked to safety.
Down started where they left off in the second period and continued to dominate and on 50 minutes referee Ryan Ellis gave his first controversial decision of the game. Sullivan breached the offside trap, Harwood came rushing off his line and appeared to take out Sullivan in the box who was then booked for diving and Grinstead were awarded a free kick.
Down continued to push for the opener but Wasps did defend solidly with Marc Pelling and Peter Featherstone particulaly impressive but the visitors were barely getting out of their own half. Manager Tony Beckingham threw on all three substitutes but they had little impression as Down continued to dominate.
Tom Burton shot straight at Harwood when well placed and then a strong run by Lee Wood ended with him shooting well over with just Harwood to beat.
The pressure finally told in controversial circumstances with three minutes remaining. Watson made a dart into the penalty area but was crowded out by two Grinstead defenders. Referee Ellis saw this as a foul and pointed to the spot for a penalty Sullivan duly despatched to clinch for a deserved victory for Down.
East Grinstead Town: Harwood, Cooney, Anthony (sub: Belli 64), Sinclair, Pelling, Featherstone, Spain (Fildes 85), Dabrowa (Wilson 57), Sinden, Baitup, Cable. Unused sub: Bos
Grinstead arrested their mini-slump with a hard fought victory over a useful Arundel side and boss Tony Beckingham was delighted with their response to successive league defeats.
Lee Carey, signed from Ryman premier Horsham, had an accomplished debut in midfield.
Beckingham said: “The two defeats had knocked confidence a bit so it was good to win again against a very good side. Hopefully we can go on another unbeaten run now and show what a decent team we are.”
Beckingham made four changes to the side that lost to Redhill last week.
Carey joined Bronek Dabrowa in the middle of midfield, Marc Pelling had an impressive game in his first start of a season badly affected by injury and Richard Sinden regained his starting place up front.
These changes had a positive effect as Grinstead were much more combative and played with plenty of spirit and passion against an Arundel side who have been in good form.
Liam Baitup had the first chance after a sweeping Grinstead move ended with him screwing his shot well wide from Sinden’s cross, but in a first half of few opportunities Grinstead took the lead on 24 minutes. A goalmouth scramble following a corner ended with Sinden poking home from close range to notch his 11th of the season.
The lead wasn't to last long and just eight minutes later Arundel were back on level terms. A long punt down the middle wasn't dealt with and the prolific Scott Tipper lobbed over the exposed Danny Harwood.
Grinstead started the second half stongly and regained the lead four minutes in. Sinden had just missed a good opportunity when he volleyed over from Drew Cooney’s cross when Carey picked out Baitup on the right hand side of the box and he drilled his shot expertly past Ben O'Conner into the far corner. Carey had a good debut and deserved the assist. He got through a tremendous amount of work in the middle of the park and will be a major asset on this performance.
Arundel responded positively and Matt Axell was unlucky when his curling free kick hit the inside of the post before being hacked off the line with Harwood well beaten and shortly afterwards Tipper somehow missed from four yards after Lewis Hamilton’s free kick had been spilled by Harwood.
Grinstead were still a threat and captain Cooney, who had a very good game in the right back position, saw his volley cannon off the far post having been set up by Baitup following a quick break. Baitup nearly got his second when his close-range volley was tipped over by O'Connor and Sinden volleyed just wide after another good Cooney cross.
Arundel finished the game with plenty of possession but the Grinstead defence looked solid and Harwood was rarely called upon as the hosts secured a confidence boosting three points.
A second visit to Surrey in four days brought more disappointment for Wasps who were run ragged in the second half by a vibrant Redhill side.
Ex-Grinstead boss Steve Johnson clearly galvanised his team at the interval after they trailed 1-0 but his successor Tony Beckingham must have been mystified with how poorly his side played after the break.
In truth Wasps were slightly fortunate to be ahead at half-time. They had some decent possession in the first period but too often moves broke down because of a poor final ball with new signing Theo Fairweather-Johnson, who partnered Liam Baitup in attack, rarely getting any decent service.
Grinstead did go in front on 19 minutes when a corner was only cleared as far as Danny Beszant 20 yards out and he fired past unsighted keeper Chris May with a crisp swing of his right foot.
Ten minutes later May kept out a close-range effort from Beszant and it looked like Wasps were getting on top but Redhill went close to levelling when Marcus Elliott’s header hit the bar and Danny Harwood pulled off an excellent reflex save to prevent Peter Featherstone from scoring an own goal.
Redhill levelled on 47 minutes when Lee Radford beat Harwood with a low, angled drive after cutting in from the left and they led eight minutes later when Radford’s side-foot finish from John Westcott’s cross gave Harwood no chance.
Wasps squandered a great chance to equalise two minutes later when Rikki Cable slalomed his way past three defenders but side-footed wide of the far post. It proved to be the visitors’ last noteworthy effort of the contest.
Beckingham made three changes to try and shake things up but Redhill made the game safe in the 75th minute when Westcott took advantage with a composed finish after Drew Cooney’s wayward pass across his own goal.
Harwood made a fantastic double stop late on to deny Richard White as the home side finished on top and left Wasps to reflect on back-to-back league defeats for the first time since October.
WASPS slumped to their first defeat since November and had goalkeeper Danny Harwood sent off in a fiery derby at Godstone Road on Saturday.
Tony Beckingham’s side rarely played with the same tempo they have displayed in recent weeks on a poor pitch and in gale-force winds but having established a half-time lead and then seen Lingfield midfielder Daryl Coleman shown a straight red three minutes after the break it was certainly a game they shouldn’t have lost.
Perhaps Grinstead knew it wouldn’t be their day when they conceded an own goal after 81 seconds when a deflected cross hit Peter Featherstone and wrong-footed Harwood as it rolled into the net.
Harwood made a good save from Paul Scott’s close-range shot but Wasps slowly began to impose themselves and were level on 32 minutes when referee Matt Lee awarded a penalty after Michael Ankade’s clumsy challenge on Rikki Cable and John Paul Collier made no mistake from the spot.
Wasps led just a minute before the break when John Sinclair was fouled on the edge of the box and Danny Beszant left keeper Joe White motionless as he bent the free-kick inside the left-hand post.
Coleman got his marching orders for a terrible challenge on Sinclair and Richard Sinden went close to extending Wasps’ lead when he took advantage of a misunderstanding between White and Akande and stabbed the ball goalwards but Sayse Holmis-Lewis cleared it off the line.
Two minutes later Lingfield equalised in fortunate circumstances when Simon Wallace’s cross took deflections off two Wasps’ defenders and Scott equalised from close range.
Grinstead struggled thereafter to find any rhythm to their attacking play. They enjoyed plenty of possession but found it hard to put moves together and any pressure they did create was easily soaked up by the hardworking hosts. Their final ball was often not good enough.
The game changed with six minutes to go. Liam Baitup headed Sinden’s cross goalwards and the ball hit the inside of the post and bounced into White’s arms. The keeper punted the ball upfield, Drew Cooney and Harwood hesitated and Josh Coulson nipped in and was brought down as he tried to round the keeper. Harwood was shown his marching orders and sub keeper Craig Lardent was unable to keep out Coulson’s well-struck penalty.
Lingfield held on comfortably for a crucial win in their relegation battle but for Wasps it was definitely a case of “could do better.”
Wasps came from behind to set up a Sussex Senior Cup quarter-final at local rivals Crawley Down after a dogged display at the Beaconsfield.
Former Grinstead coach Ken McCreadie always has his teams fired up but Wasps, unbeaten in 2011, displayed their resolve and superior fitness in the end.
Hailsham were the better side in the first half but when they did take the lead it followed a rare mistake by Danny Harwood whose throw-out was intercepted and played on to Tristan Jarvis who made no mistake five minutes before the break.
Grinstead played with more tempo in the second half but they didn’t grab what was a deserved equaliser until five minutes from time when Rikki Cable latched on to a great defence-splitting pass from John Paul Collier and his finish gave Hailsham keeper Russell Tanner no chance.
Top scorer Liam Baitup nearly won it in normal time when he dragged his shot wide but ten minutes into extra time Cable turned provider with a great pass to Baitup who scored his 27th goal of the season and sixth in two games!
Grinstead were now in control of the tie and they made sure of their last-eight place when Collier produced a great turn of speed to break clear of the home defence before rounding Tanner to score.
After hitting Shoreham for ten in their previous match this was a different type of game but boss Tony Beckingham was delighted with their performance. He said: “We had to work hard against a decent side but in the end we wore them down and got ourselves another terrific result.”
WASPS enjoyed one of the biggest wins in their history and boss Tony Beckingham admitted: “I didn’t see that coming.”
Grinstead are enjoying one of their best seasons in recent years and on course for their highest County League division one finish since they came third in 1973.
But one of the criticisms this season has been their failure to turn possession into goals. Not anymore, as Wasps hit ten goals for the first time since they beat Pease Pottage in their promotion season of 2007-08.
Beckingham described a remarkable afternoon at the GAC Stadium, where Wasps were 7-1 up at half-time, as “a bit mad.”
He said: “I didn’t see that one coming especially after about 15 minutes and still 0-0. In all fairness we have been playing some nice football but the one thing we hadn't done enough this season is turn our dominance of games into goals.
“I can look back and point out many games where I felt we were the better side and created good chances but for one reason or another just couldn't get the goals our play deserved.
“I gave the boys some specific individual targets on Saturday but the one thing I emphasised to the team was that we needed to try and be more ruthless in front of goal. Well I certainly got that in bucket loads. The result was a freak as nearly everything we hit found the back of the net.
“But I'm not complaining. Shoreham are obviously on a bit of a bad run at the moment but they are not a bad side and never gave up although their frustration got the better of them at times.
“At half time the only target I gave them was to try and hit double figures, it's very difficult at 7-1 to keep up the level of performance with nothing to play for but it was still a great day for the club.”
Here is how the goals were scored:
18 minutes 1-0: Rikki Cable picked up ball midway inside the Shoreham half and as the defence backed off he hit a low shot past Steve Allfrey and inside the right-hand post.
23 mins 2-0: Cable crossed from the left and Liam Baitup produced a clever flick with the outside of his boot which crept over the line.
33 mins 3-0: JP Collier threaded the ball to Baitup who coolly slotted past the advancing Allfrey.
37 mins 4-0: Baitup ghosted past Andy Alexander and shot past Alfrey from the edge of the box to complete a 14-minute hat-trick.
40 min 4-1: Owen Callaghan latched onto a good through ball and clipped his shot over Danny Harwood to pull one back.
43 mins 5-1: Collier was unchallenged on the edge of box to hit a shot that went under the body of Allfrey.
44 mins 6-1: Cable was given time and space to run through Shorehams's defence and he rounded Allfrey and slotted home from a tight angle.
45 mins 7-1: Baitup was unmarked on right-hand side of penalty box and scored with a low drive across Allfrey into the far corner.
54 mins 8-1: Cable’s corner from the left found Baitup unmarked on edge of six yard box and he headed past Allfrey for his fifth goal and 26th of the season.
59 mins 9-1: Danny Beszant curled his shot from edge of box past the despairing dive of Allfrey.
81 mins 9-2: Substitute Ricky Spain clipped Dominic Shepherd inside the penalty area and Callaghan dispatched the resultant spot-kick.
85 mins 10-2: The rout was completed when Kay Conteh from the right squared to Richard Sinden who controlled the ball and shot past Allfrey from ten yards.
East Grinstead Town: Harwood (sub: Lardent 74 mins), Wilson (Conteh 54), Alexander, Sinclair (Spain 56), Johnston, Featherstone, Beszant, Collier, Sinden, Baitup, Cable.
Sub not used: Dabrowa.
IT is a measure of the improvement they have made this season that Wasps left the Caburn Field disappointed to only have secured a point.
In their first Saturday game for more than two months, they ought to have built on Richard Sinden’s ninth goal of the season midway through the first half.
John Paul Collier conceded the penalty from which Ringmer equalised and the midfielder was then sent off 12 minutes from time for a bad challenge which earned him a straight red and a three-match ban.
It was only their third game since November 20 and manager Tony Beckingham admitted that the lack of competitive action due to the weather in recent weeks is affecting performances.
He said: “The enforced breaks are hurting us as we just can't seem to get any momentum going with all this stop starting. We're still playing good football and are putting teams on the back foot but are simply not being ruthless enough in front of goal. We should have been out of sight at half-time in my opinion. To be fair to Ringmer they worked unbelievably hard for 90 minutes and in the end a draw was a fair result. In the end it was a point gained in a hard-fought contest. All we want to do now is get a run of games – and results – going.”
Beckingham named the same team for the third successive game and had midfielder Ricky Spain, a new signing who played for Lingfield last season, on the bench.
Top scorer Liam Baitup should have rewarded their positive opening to the game on 15 minutes when Rikki Cable’s cross was half-cleared to him but he struck a powerful drive straight at goalkeeper Jake Buss.
Despite the sticky pitch which cut up badly Wasps tried to knock the ball around and it was no surprise when they took a 24th-minute lead. Cable beat his man on the left and his low cross was tucked home from close range by Sinden with the home defence nowhere.
Danny Harwood preserved the lead with a fine one-handed save to deny Marc Whiteman but either side of the break Baitup was clattered by a combination of Buss and a defender but no penalty was given and four minutes into the second half the home keeper produced another one-handed save after Baitup had latched onto Kieran Wilson’s defence splitting pass.
Ringmer equalised on 53 minutes when Collier brought down an opponent in an unthreatening position on the left-hand side of the box and Whiteman converted from the penalty spot.
His subsequent red card left Wasps with some defending to do in the closing stages but they still created opportunities and defender Peter Featherstone rumbled forward to force Buss to make another smart save.
WASPS enjoyed home comforts for the first time in over seven weeks and celebrated their return to the GAC Stadium with a comfortable replay win over City in the Sussex Senior Cup second round.
Beckingham has not been afraid to try players this season with 47 wearing a first-team shirt but he had settled on personnel and system before the enforced winter shutdown robbed his side of any action for six weeks.
Not surprisingly then Grinstead named the same starting XI which had beaten Hassocks 3-0 in their last outing and they were soon on the offensive.
Top scorer Liam Baitup had two chances in the first 12 minutes but Rikki Cable had an even better opportunity when he dribbled his way into the box but incredibly fired wide from six yards with only keeper Ben Hitchman to beat.
Wasps sensed City’s high defensive line was vulnerable and were having some success with long balls over the top into wide areas, but they began to run out of ideas as the first half drew to a close and Chichester started to threaten, most notably when Danny Harwood got down superbly to keep out Michael Turvey’s shot.
Grinstead adopted a more patient approach in the second half, retained possession better and finally made the breakthrough in the 54th minute when Cable took John-Paul Collier’s pass in his stride as he broke into the box before steering a low shot past Hitchman.
Four minutes later Richard Sinden flashed a low ball across the face of goal but no one was able to apply a decisive touch.
On 72 minutes, though, Grinstead did get a second. Collier’s shot was blocked but Baitup was first to the loose ball and guided his shot into the far corner for his 21st goal of the season.
Harwood made a great save from Adrian Brockway’s free-kick as City sought a consolation but Wasps finished strongly.
Kieran Wilson and Danny Beszant both struck the bar either side of an excellent third goal on 82 minutes when Beszant played a great one-two with substitute Mithun Nayee before beating Hitchman with a powerful shot.
Chichester’s night went from bad to worse five minutes from time when substitute Rowan Wallis hauled down Kay Conteh as the last defender and was shown a straight red card.
With a settled side winning games, Beckingham is unlikely to make changes for Saturday’s league game at improving Sidley United (3pm). Their reward for Tuesday’s win is a trip to Hailsham in the third round of the Senior Cup next Tuesday (18th), kick off 7.45pm.
WASPS shook off the cobwebs after weeks of inactivity with a convincing win which puts them within touching distance of the top five in County League Division One.
It was their first game for three weeks and only their fourth match since October 30 and they were up against a Hassocks side who had knocked Ryman League Whitehawk out of the Sussex Senior Cup in their last outing.
They were also playing at a ground where they had never previously won but the fact that Hassocks' keeper Jack Simpson was voted man of the match indiciated just how well Tony Beckingham's side played.
The hosts had a great opportunity to take the lead on 16 minutes when Dan Smith released Spencer Slaughter on the edge of the box but with just Danny Harwood to beat he shot straight at the keeper from close range.
Grinstead could have been excused some rustiness early on after a prolonged lay-off and they slowly got into the game.
Rikki Cable began causing Hassocks' right-back Robert South all sorts of headaches and from his cross top scorer Liam Baitup saw his header clawed away by Simpson.
Danny Harwood denied Phil Gault at the other end and both defences remained busy but the contest swung Wasps' way after they took a 24th-minute lead.
Another good run by Cable ended with his shot being palmed way by Simpson but only to Richard Sinden and he expertly fired past the goalkeeper into the far corner.
Grinstead then took control. Cable was denied again by Simpson, John Paul Collier’s 30 yard drive was saved at the second attempt and then the overworked Simpson denied Sinden a second, tipping his effort round the far post.
Harwood made another good save after a rare mistake by Peter Featherstone and it was to prove even more important when Wasps were gifted a second goal three minutes after half-time.
A long ball from Kieran Wilson wasn’t dealt with by the Hassocks back line and Baitup coolly slotted past the advancing keeper.
Grinstead should have made it three when another mazy run by Cable ended with a disappointing effort wide of the near post and moments later Baitup saw his near post header hit the underside of the bar from Collier's corner.
Hassocks made a couple of substitutions as they sought a response but Wasps have been defending much better in the games that have been played in recent weeks and they held firm before the contest was finally made safe with ten minutes to go when substitutes Kay Conteh and Mithun Nayee combined to release Collier who showed good composure to beat Simpson.
A fine all round performance against a good side should give Grinstead confidence as they head into Saturday's league match at in-form Wick (3pm).
East Grinstead Town: Harwood, Wilson, Anthony, Sinclair, Cooney, Featherstone, Beszant (sub: Woolley 80), Collier, Sinden (Nayee 74), Baitup (Conteh 77), Cable. Sub not used: Lardent.
Wasps shook off the rustiness after more than three weeks of inactivity to earn a second crack at Division One rivals Chichester in the Sussex Senior Cup.
Liam Baitup scored his 19th goal of the season to give Wasps an early lead and they had enough opportunities thereafter to put the tie to bed.
But in a hectic finale they lost debutant goalkeeper Seb Bos to a red card after he had earlier saved a penalty and gritted it out through extra time to secure a replay at the GAC Stadium on Tuesday, kick off 7.15pm.
Baitup pounced in typical style after a good Grinstead build-up. Kay Conteh latched on to John Sinclair’s long ball and got past his marker before firing in a low cross that keeper Ben Hitchman failed to hold and Baitup pounced from close range.
Wasps dominated for long spells thereafter with midfielder Karl Henry, who has signed from Ryman League club Leyton, impressing on his debut.
Chances came and went, particularly in the second half. Hitchman denied Baitup and Richard Sinden failed to hit the target when through on goal. Baitup lobbed another effort over the top and Grinstead’s third debutant – former Crawley striker Mithun Nayee – was denied by Hitchman moments after Rikki Cable had side-footed wide from Nayee’s cross.
Wasps were made to pay for their profligacy in the 88th minute when Bos brought down Joe Briggs in the box and the referee awarded a penalty. Bos saved Adrian Brockway’s effort, but Briggs swept in the rebound and as Chichester celebrated the visitors’ keeper was given his marching orders after the referee believed he saw him spit.
Kay Conteh went in goal and with Drew Cooney struggling because of injury and forced to play up front Wasps had some defending to do.
But they coped comfortably with what Chichester had to offer and will be confident of finishing the tie off next Tuesday.
A cracking local derby ended in disappointment for Grinstead as Crawley Down progressed into the quarter-finals of the John O'Hara County League Cup.
With Crawley Down unbeaten in the league this season it was a always going to be a tough ask for Grinstead but they more than matched their opponents for long periods of the game and with a bit more luck could have easily been victorious, but they were denied by the excellence of Shayne Goldsmith in the Crawley Down goal and the woodwork.
Manager Tony Beckingham said: "I can't have any complaints about our performance. Crawley Down are top of the league for a reason and they were hard to break down. They got the break in front of goal but they won't have many harder games this season and I think our performance showed we are heading in the right direction."
What made the game intriguing was the contrast in styles with Grinstead’s passing game a contrast to Down’s direct style and in Aaron Watson the visitors have a player who will give any defence at this level problems.
Both sides went for victory from the very first minute but it was Grinstead who looked the more dangerous. Rikki Cable was giving full back Joe Ranson a torrid time and having turned inside his marker he shot just over from the edge of the box. Good work from Liam Baitup allowed him to set up Richard Sinden but he was denied by a terrific block form defender Ben Swetman.
Down had their first chance on 21 minutes when Tom Lyons headed a long ball into the path of Roy Pook but his first time shot was just wide of the near post. Minutes later John Paul Collier and Danny Beszent combined but Beszent's shot from close range flew just wide of the post.
Grinstead suffered a blow when Sinden had to replaced on 33 minutes after a robust challenge left the striker with a cut head. Grinstead took some time to settle after this and Down finished the half slightly stronger. Pook laid the ball into the path of Wes Millis who shot just wide from the edge of the box and then the impressive Watson was denied by a smart save from Danny Harwood, who had a good game in the Grinstead goal.
The second half was just as entertaining; Lyons had the first opportunity when he found himself free in the box but dragged his shot just wide of the far post before Grinstead went close to taking the lead. Another sweeping passing move down the left ended with Cable crossing to Beszant at the edge of the box, his first time shot with the outside of his foot looked destined for the top corner but rattled against the crossbar before being hacked to safety. Collier when then denied by the brilliance of Goldsmith who somehow denied him from point blank range after good work by the Wasps' midfielder.
Following these scares Down started to get on top and forced Grinstead into defending numerous set pieces. In the main they coped well with Drew Cooney and Bronwek Dabrowa, on his full debut, dealing with everything thrown at them but eventually the pressure told. A ball clipped into the box found Watson ghosting in behind the Grinstead defence and he calmly slotted past Harwood with 20 minutes remaining.
Grinstead looked for the equaliser but credit to Crawley Down’s defence which stood firm and it was the visitors who went closest to scoring again when substitute Nick Sullivan watched his effort hit the woodwork from a tight angle.
East Grinstead Town: Harwood, Wilson, Anthony, Sinclair, Cooney, Dabrowa (sub: Woolley 71), Beszant (Conteh 77), Collier, Sinden (Alexander 33), Baitup, Cable, Sub not used Lardent
WASPS made it three successive wins with an unchanged team thanks to two quality goals against lowly Selsey.
John Paul Collier scored his first for 11 games and Rikki Cable his first for the club to lift Grinstead up to sixth in County League Division One.
At times Wasps looked as if they wanted to give Selsey a route back into the game with some careless defending, but they were only denied more goals by keeper Sam Joyce, who was definitely Selsey’s man of the match.
Wasps started strongly and were nearly ahead after five minutes when Liam Baitup’s shot beat the keeper but not Max Thomas who got back to clear it off the line.
Joyce kept out a 25-yarder from Baitup but Wasps got the goal their early pressure merited in the 11th minute. Cable created it with a great run down the left into the box and unselfish pass to Collier who side-footed into the roof of the net.
Collier hit the bar with an outrageous effort from inside the centre circle moments later and at that stage it looked like being a comfortable afternoon for Grinstead.
But lapses in concentration at the back nearly let Selsey in. Danny Harwood had already made one smart low save to deny Calum Britton when John Sinclair gave the ball away and Graham Bush broke into space but hit the side netting with his shot.
At least Reece Head, persuaded out of retirement because of Wasps’ lack of central defensive options, was keeping calm but the same could not be said of his team-mates and when Harwood completely missed his clearance in the six-yard box he was grateful that no opponent was on hand to punish Grinstead.
The home side still looked dangerous though and Joyce made another great save from Baitup as Wasps’ 17-goal top scorer continued to endure a frustrating afternoon.
Wasps began the second half strongly and doubled their lead with another well-worked goal on 50 minutes. Collier made a driving run into the box and picked out the unmarked Cable on the edge of the six yard box and the midfielder’s first-time volley flew past the helpless Joyce.
That seemed to knock the stuffing out of Selsey and the home side ought to have added to their lead.
Joyce made a great point-blank range save to deny Richard Sinden after good work by Danny Beszant and Baitup who was then inches away from applying the final touch to Sinden’s powerful cross-shot.
Ashley Alexander and Bron Dabrowa became the 44th and 45th players Grinstead have used this season when they came on and Alexander was only denied a debut goal by Joyce’s reflexes while Baitup headed over from close range as Grinstead finished the game strongly.
Wasps secured their first league double of the season with a hard-fought victory.
Grinstead sped into a two-goal lead after only ten minutes and at that stage it looked like a comfortable afternoon was on the cards but another goal conceded from a set piece allowed Crows back into the game and when Wasps were reduced to ten men with half an hour remaining they had to remain resolute to secure three points.
Some of Grinstead’s football in the first 20 minutes was a joy to watch and not many teams in the division would have been able to live with them. Their quick incisive attacking play was too much for Crowborough’s defence.
A sweeping fifth-minute move down the right involving Danny Beszant and John-Paul Collier ended with Collier’s cross being side footed home by Beszant for his third goal in as many games.
Wasps had more joy down the right when they doubled their lead four minutes later. A crunching tackle by Reece Head allowed Kay Conteh to rampage down the right, beat his marker and produce a perfect cross for Richard Sinden who applied a skilful finish to a good move to also register a goal for the third successive match.
Grinstead had further opportunities to extend their lead, Liam Baitup going closest after running clear of the defence before he was denied by a last-gasp challenge from Chris Ransome.
But as has often happened this season Grinstead’s good work was undone by a failure to defend set-pieces. A corner from the right was met by the unmarked Dave Adams and he glanced his header inside the far post.
Suddenly Grinstead’s football wasn’t of the same quality as Crowborough started to exert some pressure with Adams and Wayne Clarke giving the visitors’ defence some worrying moments although it was Grinstead who went closest to extending their lead when John Sinclair was denied by keeper Ben Head from close range after a corner hadn’t been cleared.
Crowborough came out with real intent at the start of the second half and took the game to Grinstead. Danny Harwood had to be alert to parry Mike Culverhouses’s effort from the edge of the box but despite the pressure the Grinstead back line looked solid.
Just when Wasps were starting to weather the storm they were reduced to ten men. Peter Featherstone misjudged a long punt upfield which allowed Clarke to get goal side of him. Featherstone dragged Clarke back on the edge of the box and the referee had no alternative but to show him the red card.
This gave Crowborough a further lift but Grinstead were superbly marshalled by skipper Head, who had his best game for the club, and despite their advantage Crowborough rarely threatened Harwood as Wasps comfortably held out for an important three points.
Our third meeting in October ended with a second cup win for Wasps, although the reward – a second round trip to Chichester on November 30 – will hardly set the pulses racing.
Wasps dominated throughout but it took until the second half before we made our advantage count with goals from Richard Sinden (48), Liam Baitup (52) – his 16th of the season – and Danny Beszant.
Manager Tony Beckingham gave a debut at left-back to Kay Conteh while striker Sam Fildes came on and impressed after earning a first-team call-up following some good performances in the reserves.
East Grinstead Town: Harwood, Conteh, Wilson, Head, Featherstone, Collier, Beszant, Sinclair, Sinden, Baitup, Cable. Used subs: Fildes, Moffatt, Woolley.
An afternoon which started so well ended in our heaviest league defeat of the season so far and goalkeeper Adam Woodward facing a lengthy lay-off after coming off worse in a bad challenge by a Rye opponent which left him with two broken bones in his foot and everyone of a Grinstead persuasion perplexed as to why the miscreant was not even booked.
In a game played at Tunbridge Wells FC while Rye’s clubhouse is rebuilt after arson, Wasps made a great start with striker Rikki Cable, brother of Ross – who had a spell with us at the start of the season – prominent up front.
His cross gave Andy Sinden a tap-in for our opener on five minutes and Danny Beszent then scored a sublime second – his first for the club – with a measured finish after good work by Liam Baitup seven minutes later.
But Rye roused themselves before half-time when Scott Ramsey made it 2-1 with a superb overhead kick (38 mins). Woodward hadto be replaced by goalkeeping coach Tony Prime at half time. Rye drew level three minutes after the break through Jack Dixon. They were starting to play like a side with aspirations of a top-three finish and scored three further goals through Matt McLean (64,90) and Sam Cole to complete a flattering 5-2 win over a Grinstead side who badly lost their way after losing their keeper.
East Grinstead Town: Woodward, Wilson, Anthony, Sinclair, Cooney, Featherstone, Beszant, Collier, Sinden, Baitup, Cable. Used subs: Prime (gk), Conteh, Whorms. Unused sub: Head.
AN early goal from Scott Tipper condemned Wasps to a second-round exit from the RUR Cup and a third defeat in their last five games.
It was a frustrating night for boss Tony Beckingham. Grinstead had long spells of possession but found it hard to break down a solid Arundel defence as they failed to score at home for only the third time this season.
Wasps’ lack of height at the back has meant they have struggled all season to defend set pieces and it was their downfall again after just ten minutes.
John Paul Collier needlessly conceded a free-kick wide on the right and when the ball was floated to the edge of the six-yard box Dave Walker headed it unchallenged across the face of goal and Scott Tipper, who was also unmarked, volleyed past Adam Woodward.
Wasps should have levelled four minutes later when Danny Beszant’s angled ball picked out debutant Dane Luchford at the far post but he couldn’t find the target with a free header.
Richard Sinden produced a wayward finish when John Sinclair’s pass put him clear as Wasps began to build some momentum but they were grateful to Adam Woodward for two saves to deny Rob Wimble before half-time as Arundel continued to threaten.
Sinden disappointingly glanced a header wide from Lloyd Anthony’s cross but made Ben O’Connor work in the 56th minute when he saved well from the striker’s well-struck 25 yard drive.
That came during the middle of Wasps’ best spell. Luchford volleyed into the side netting after a great break down the left, top scorer Liam Baitup fired over after a great passing move and Collier side-footed wide after finding a yard of space in the box.
Arundel were still a threat though, and Wimble was inches away from a second goal for his side midway through the half when his angled drive beat Woodward but struck the post.
Wasps huffed and puffed in the closing stages and forced several corners but Arundel held firm.
Grinstead arrested a mini slump with a narrow victory over Ringmer in the John O’Hara League cup and revenge for our recent league defeat.
With the departures of Luke Piscina and Chris Dicker, Tony wasted no time in finding repalcements in Danny Beszant, who showed some nice touches in midfield and left back Lloyd Anthony who made a promising dbeut. Striker Ramon Whorms, formerly with Woking, came on as a late replacement to make his debut.
On the back of two consecutive defeats Wasps were clearly lacking confidence and this was evident in their first-half performance.
Both sides struggled to make any impression and although there was some good passing football neither goalkeeper was ever threatened as the game was mainly played in the midfield areas as the sides probed for openings. Ringmer provided a couple of minor threats when Marc Whiteman crossed from the left for Mark Price but Anthony was on hand to avert the danger and then Price nearly connected with an in-swinging free-kick at the far post.
Grinstead started the second half brighter and they were rewarded on 53 minutes although the goal was a gift. A harmless defensive throw in by Adam Hunt was not controlled by Jason Sowter on the edge of his own penalty area, Richard Sinden was alert to nick the ball from Sowter and was free on goal. Sowter tried to redeem his error but only managed to haul Sinden down in the box. A penalty was awarded and Sowter received his marching orders. Liam Baitup’s spot-kick was saved low down by Tom Rand but Sinden was quickets to react and converted the rebound.
This gave Grinstead impetus and suddenly they started to play with some fluency and four minutes later it was 2-0. A swift move down the right ended in Keiran Wilson producing a pin-point cross for Baitup who volleyed in from close range.
Grinstead were on top but Ringmer were thrown a lifeline. A corner from the left was controlled with the out-streched arm of Ryan MacMillan which enabled him to volley past Adam Woodward. The only people in the ground who didn’t see it were the referee and his assistant and the goal stood.
This gave Ringmer some confidence and they started to exert some pressure but Grinstead saw out the game and Baitup nearly got a late goal from Tom Moffatt’s cross.
Peacehaven avenged their opening day defeat to Wasps thanks to a goal in each half at Piddinghoe Avenue.
Tony Beckingham said: “We have let in nine goals in three games which shows you where our problems lie at the moment. There wasn’t a lot between the teams to be honest and we played well enough to deserve something from the game.”
Wasps have a poor record at Peacehaven with just one win in 15 attempts and Beckingham opted for a cautious 4-5-1 formation early on.
But the hosts took control with a goal after 16 minutes. Aaron Gunn won the ball on the edge of the area and found Craig Hall whose low cross left Ashley Rees with a tap in.
But Grinstead came into the game before half-time and 15-goal top scorer Liam Baitup had two chances to equalise. He glanced Chris Dicker’s cross wide with his head and was unable to get a snap shot on target when well placed.
Peacehaven’s substitutes combined to make the game safe 20 minutes from time when Clive Snell’s pass allowed Ryan Bradley to turn past Peter Featherstone and fire home.
The home side made it unnecessarily uncomfortable for themselves when Scott Marshall was sent off for two yellow cards but they held on for victory as Wasps drew a blank in the league for only the third time this season.
An incident packed game was finally decided in the last minute as Grinstead succumbed to a disappointing league defeat against struggling Ringmer at the GAC Stadium.
Wasps have conceded seven goals in their last two goal and it is no surprise that this has coincided with the suspension of Peter Featherstone who has been a commanding presence in the defence and they will be pleased to see him return to the fold on Saturday when Tony Beckingham's side visit Peacehaven.
Grinstead could have been two up inside the first five minutes. Top scorer Liam Baitup rounded keeper Gary Trott but from a tight angle saw his effort cleared off the line by Ryan MacMillan and moments later he saw his long range volley tipped over at full stretch from Trott.
The hosts were made to pay for those misses when on 15 minutes they went behind. Once again they failed to deal with a free kick and MacMillan had acres of time and space to pick his spot past the exposed Adam Woodward in goal.
Wasps searched for an equaliser and were rewarded on the half hour mark when Baitup picked up a poor clearance from Trott and released Richard Sinden to slot home.
The second half was end to end with both sides looking dangerous on the attack. Ringmer took the lead again on 55 somewhat fortuitously when Darren Lok's shot from the edge of the box took at least two deflections before nestling in the bottom corner.
Grinstead introduced striker Billy Shinners and his height and pace made an immediate impact. He linked up well with fellow substitute Luke Piscina before firing a shot across goal which was deflected into his own net by a Ringmer defender.
Grinstead were only level for seven minutes when Kieran Patel let fly from 20 yards and Woodward would have been disappointed to see the shot squirm under his body to gift the visitors the lead.
Clearly Woodward was frustrated by this and it wasn’t long before he was receiving his marching orders after directing some foul language in the referee's direction and because Grinstead had made all three substitutions captain Reece Head took over in goal.
Despite being down to 10 men Grinstead still looked lively going forward and they created he goal of the game which involved Piscina and Shinners who crossed to Simon Wallace at the far post and he finished smartly with just eight minutes remaining.
Grinstead then looked for the winner but when Chris Dicker was disposed as he surged forward, Ringmer broke sharply across the pitch and Aaron Phillips slotted past Head with 91 minutes on the clock.
Grinstead squandered a thee-goal lead with 12 minutes remaining to miss out on a fifth successive County League victory.
Manager Tony Buckingham had to make five changes to the side that beat Wick last week and Grinstead struggled to get into their stride in the first period but found themselves ahead midway through the half. Elstrom Die, who had his best game since joining the club, beat two men on the left before producing a pin-point cross for Richard Sinden to tap home from close range.
Die caused Hailsham’s defence problems throughout and, following a one-two with Sinden, shot narrowly wide from a tight angle. As the first half wore on Hailsham created a couple of their own chances. Ibrahim had to be alert to palm away a free-kick from veteran Nick Barden and produced a superb flying stop to deny Sam Shaffer.
For the first 25 minutes of the second half Grinstead found their rhythm, totally dominated and carved out numerous chances. Dave Gellatly released Die down the left and his shot went just wide of the far post. On the other flank Luke Piscina started to look back to his best and he found Liam Baitup who was thwarted by a smart save by Russell Tanner at his near post. Baitup wasn’t to be denied though. Seconds later Piscina’s flighted ball found Drew Cooney, he squared to Baitup who picked his spot from 12 yards.
Baitup was again denied by Tanner soon after but on 70 minutes he got his second of the game and 15th of the season when Die robbed Dean Stevens on the goal-line and picked out Baitup who expertly side-footed past Tanner.
That looked game over but Hailsham had other ideas. On 78 minutes they were awarded a free-kick just outside the box which bounced awkwardly in front of Ibrahim and Liam Bailey was first on hand to knock home the rebound. With two minutes to go Hailsham grabbed another goal when Die was dispossessed on the right and the cross flicked off Scott Johnston’s head and over the stranded Ibrahim. Then on 90 minutes a dubiously-awarded corner found its way in after numerous deflections and ricochets. How did that happen?
WASPS moved up to fifth in the County League division one table although they made hard work of a fourth successive win against struggling Wick at the GAC Stadium.
Grinstead struggled to find any fluency throughout the game and although they deserved victory the result was always in doubt with such a slender lead.
They were thankful again to leading scorer Liam Baitup. He scored his 13th goal of the season with a bullet header midway through the first half following a wonderful cross from the right from Dave Gellatly.
The goal came out of the blue as the hosts had struggled to make any impression on the visitors’ goal and indeed it was Wick who had come closest through Dave Towers who hit a stinging volley straight at goalkeeper Adam Woodward.
Even after going in front there was no marked improvement in their performance as they still struggled to string any sort of passing together and only had a Richard Sinden effort that flew over from the edge of the box for their efforts as both sides struggled to find any cohesion.
Wasps did pick up slightly in the second half and although Wick had a good deal of possession they never really threatened Woodward and it was Grinstead who did create the bulk of the chances.
Wick were thankful twice to full back Kieran Urquhart who in the space of three minutes produce two goal line clearances, first from a Sinden flicked header and then from a powerful Lucas Mann header following a Chris Dicker cross. Sandwiched between this Baitup saw his curling effort tipped away by Greg Forster as Grinstead finally gained some momentum and enjoyed their best spell of the match.
Wick rarely looked a threat and Baitup and Sinden went closed in the last ten minutes to extend Grinstead’s lead.
Manager Tony Beckingham said: “It was one or our worst performances of the season. We seemed a bit jaded and lacked fluency but that’s three points at the end of the day and that is all that mattered.
“We have got some momentum now in the league which we want to keep going if we are to be a force this season.”
East Grinstead Town: Woodward, Mann (sub: Die 70), Wilson (Dicker 53), Sinclair, Cooney, Featherstone, Piscina (Moffatt 75), Collier, Sinden, Baitup, Gellatly. Subs not used: Wallace, Lardent
After going out of both FA competitions, Grinstead made a winning return to league action with a good victory as Liam Baitup’s hat-trick inspired them to their first win over Lingfield for ten years.
It was Lingfield boss David Dean’s first game in charge after replacing Jim Bajeux, who resigned after last Saturday’s 2-2 draw against Peacehaven, and there were only three survivors from that team in their line-up.
Wasps also had to make changes and switched to a 3-5-2 formation in the absence of Kieran Wilson and Chris Dicker but they still made a strong start and had established a three-goal lead within 25 minutes.
They took the lead after only two minutes. Luke Piscina curled his corner to the back post and Lucas Mann, making his first start of the season, looped his header in off the far post. Moments later it could have been two when Baitup went close with a header from another corner but on 16 minutes Grinstead did double their lead.
Piscina was the provider again with a lovely threaded pass through to Baitup and he confidently drove his effort past Tom Symons in the visitors’ goal.
Grinstead went further ahead on 25 minutes. Elstrom Die took on full back Tom Gilbert and having beaten his man was hauled down by the defender. Referee Matthew Lee had no hesitation in pointing to the spot and Baitup duly dispatched the resultant penalty.
To be fair to Lingfield it certainly hadn’t been one-way traffic and they caused the Grinstead defence some concerns and on 42 minutes they reduced the deficit. A long free-kick caused problems in the home penalty area and Danny Oakins was on hand to nod home past Adam Woodward.
Wasps started the second half slowly as Lingfield began to exert more pressure and substitute Dan Elger should have made more of being put clear of the defence before he was eventually closed down by John Sinclair. Grinstead were struggling to create opportunities and Lingfield were right back in the game on 75 minutes. Keeper Woodward was at fault, failing to hold onto a relatively harmless shot and Billy Rutherford was on hand to tap home the rebound.
This stirred Grinstead into life and suddenly they started to become an attacking force again with substitute Dave Gellatly driving them on from midfield.
Baitup should have scored when Gellatly set him up unmarked on the penalty spot but he could only fire wide with Richard Sinden well placed. It was at this point that Sinden suddenly come to life. Having had a quiet game he was involved in all three goals scored in the last eight minutes. He produced a pin-point ball to Baitup who rounded Symons to complete his hat-trick then burst onto a Gellatly pass to calmly slot past Symons before a great run down the left finished with a cross to John Paul Collier who fired home at the back post to complete what was in the end a comfortable victory.
East Grinstead Town: Woodward, Mann (sub: Johnston 82), Belli (McDiarmud 77), Sinclair, Cooney, Featherstone, Piscina (Gellatly 68), Collier, Sinden, Baitup, Die. Unused sub: Lardent
Grinstead’s interest in the Vase ended at the first hurdle in an incident packed game at East Court on Saturday.
Newport were the best side to visit the GAC Staduim this season but Wasps more than matched their Wessex League opponents for long spells but a hat-trick from striker Charlie Smeeton eventually proved decisive.
Newport showed attacking intent from the first whistle with Ian Seabrook denied by a flying save from Adam Woodward and Tom Dumford fired just over when well placed, but Grinstead soon got into the game and starting creating their own chances in this entertaining battle. John-Paul Collier released Liam Baitup who was just wide of the target and then Chris Dicker tested Newport keeper Gary Streeter with a curling free kick that was well handled by his near post. Grinstead went closest though when Baitup hit a low cross that just eluded new signing Richard Sinden at the far post.
Just as they were having their best spell it was Newport who took the lead on the stroke of half-time. The ball bounced somewhat fortuitously for the skilful Sam Hart who crossed to Smeeton and he produced a quality finish past Woodward.
Grinstead were soon on level terms just after the break, Peter Featherstone made a break from the back, slotted the ball thorough to Baitup who coolly stroked his shot past Streeter. The hosts should have taken the lead on 59 minutes when Michael Belli was unmarked at the back post but with just Streeter to beat he screwed his shot high and wide.
This proved to be a pivotal moment as three minutes later Newport were back in the lead. A swift one touch move ended with Tom McInnes releasing Smeeton on the edge of the box to apply a first time finish past Woodward for his second of the game.
This knocked Grinstead and they struggled to gain any momentum and were not helped by Newport’s players continually feigning injury when challenged which made the game dis-jointed.
But in injury time a corner from Baitup was met by substitute Lucas Mann with a powerful header into the top corner. Grinstead nearly snatched a late winner but Streeter somehow got his considerable frame to a close range Baitup and produced a marvellous one-handed save.
Grinstead clearly didn’t want the nightmare scenario of a midweek replay on the island and they went all out looking for a winner in extra time. They put Newport on the back foot and both Mann with a header and a Piscina cross-shot that was tipped over went close.
But from nothing Newport once again took the lead. A stinging shot from Marc Augustas was only parried by Woodward and although slightly hampered by injury Smeeton was first to react to poke home the rebound and complete his hat-trick.
Streeter again denied Grinstead when he produced a flying save from a Piscina header with just two minutes left on the clock but there was still time for more drama when McInnes wasted time by feigning another injury and following a mass brawl the referee somehow picked out Drew Cooney as the main culprit and he harshly received a red card.
East Grinstead Town: Woodward, Wilson, Dicker (sub: Gellatly 84), Sinclair, Cooney, Featherstone, Piscina, Collier, Sinden (sub: Mann 73), Baitup, Belli (sub: Die 73). Subs not used: Johnson, Lardent.
WASPS’ boss Tony Beckingham is calling for a more ruthless approach from his side in front of goal after a controversial FA Cup exit to their Ryman League opponents on Saturday.
After Luke Piscina missed a fifth-minute penalty after the home goalkeeper brought down Ross Cable the hosts won it with a tremendous strike from Ian Pulman eight minutes from time when he beat Adam Woodward from 25 yards.
The afternoon was to get worse for Woodward though. He was sent off for handling outside his area and when defender Peter Featherstone said something in the aftermath of the incident he too was red-carded leaving Grinstead to finish the game with nine men.
Even then it looked as if they might get another chance to redeem themselves from the spot but the referee waved Wasps’ appeals for a penalty away with two minutes to go which even the Whitstable bench were expecting to be awarded after Lucas Mann left a defender on the floor who then inexplicably scooped the ball away from him with his left arm - a blatant penalty but not given.
For the most part Wasps acquitted themselves well and Beckingham felt they deserved a replay. “I thought we were extremely unfortunate to not come away with at least a draw,” he said.
“Although we didn't create too many clear cut chances we had the majority of possession and didn't look like we were going to concede. It's unfortunate but the missed penalty proved to be vital, if we had scored then I believe we would have gone on to win comfortably.
“We've all missed penalties so that in itself is no big deal but in the context of the game it was pivotal. The boys can be happy with their performance and if we continue to perform like that then I'll be happy.
“But I'd like us to be a little more ruthless in front of goal and if we can add that dimension then we will be a force in the league.”
Wasps stayed in touch with the early leaders with a confident victory over one of the early season pacesetters at the GAC Stadium on Tuesday night.
The margin of victory should have been greater after Grinstead took a two-goal lead inside ten minutes but they let Crowborough back into the game just before half time to give themselves a few uncomfortable moments.
Manager Tony Beckingham continues to add to his options with the addition of striker Billy Shinners and centre-half Marc Cumberbatch and both made their debuts on Tuesday and add to an already impressive looking squad.
Grinstead went in front after just two minutes through Chris Dicker. From just inside Crowborough's half he floated over a left footed free-kick that eluded everyone including Crows’ goalkeeper Rob Gordon and nestled inside the far post.
Grinstead continued to search for more goals and Shinners found Michael Belli unmarked inside the penalty area but his well-struck was saved by Gordon's leg but they did double their lead on ten minutes. John-Paul Collier, who had an impressive game in the middle of the park, threaded the ball through to Liam Baitup and although his shot was charged down by Gordon, Shinners showed good composure to coolly lob the loose ball into an empty net to mark his debut with his goal.
Although Grinstead were still playing their passing game it was done at much greater pace then previously this season, there was more urgency about their play and Crowborugh were struggling to live with it. Shinners went close again when his shot on the turn went just wide and then Baitup volleyed disappointingly wide after being well set up by Belli.
The first 30 minutes was all Grinstead but Crowborough slowly got a foothold in the game but it was still a surprise when they pulled one back just before half-time. They has just served a warning when Danny Harwood spilled a corner that Kevin Everest somehow headed wide when winger Wayne Clarke thundered a shot against the crossbar and Sam Carrington was on hand to tap home the rebound.
This stunned Grinstead and the start of the second half was fairly even as the hosts struggled to find their early game fluidity. But having withstood an early Crowborugh flurry they slowly started to create more chances.
Top scorer Baitup was denied by a flying save from Gordon after he had cut in from the left and he went even closer when he header a Collier cross onto the crossbar. But on 64 minutes Grinstead extended their lead again with a glorious goal. The talented Collier twisted and turned on the edge of the box and fired a great shot from a tight angle inside the far post giving Gordon no chance.
Grinstead dominated from that moment on and the Crows never threatened to come back again. Wasps continued to create opportunities with Cable, coming on as substitute and fellow replacement Lucas Mann both going close as they looked to embellish an impressive performance with further goals.
WASPS' three match losing streak came to an end with a well deserved three points over struggling St Francis on Saturday.
Although Tony Beckingham's men relied on two injury-time penalties to put an extra gloss on their victory it was no more than they deserved as they created enough good chances to at least have double the margin of victory.
This was Rangers first home game of the season and they started brightly and went close twice early on through James Weston, but he was wasteful when free at the far post and was then denied by a flying save from Danny Harwood who can be pleased with his first appearance of the season, deputising for the injured Adam Woodward in goal.
Grinstead slowly started stamping their authority on the game and had two gilt-edged chances to take the lead through Ross Cable.
On both occasions he beat the offside trap and had just goalkeeper Simon Lehkyj to beat but each time Lehkyj was equal to his close-range efforts. Grinstead continued to get into good positions as the first half progressed but on numerous occasions their final ball deserted them as they searched for the opening goal.
The second half continued in similar vein and it was Cable again involved. His sharp turn on the edge of the box created a goalscoring opportunity but his shot was somehow spooned over by the over-stretched Rangers defence and then shortly afterwards a stinging free-kick from Luke Piscina was parried straight to Cable but he couldn’t control the rebound and the ball went harmlessly into the arms of the relieved Lehkyj.
It was one way traffic at this point but Rangers served a warning to the Grinstead back line, again superbly marshalled by Peter Featherstone, when Francis Dellow stole in unmarked at the back post, but his header was superbly tipped over by Harwood
It was one of those days for Cable and his afternoon got worse when, having been substituted on the hour mark by John-Paul Collier, he slammed a loose ball into the Grinstead dugout in frustration and was harshly shown a red card by the referee.
Having already made the substitution Wasps still had 11 men and substitute Collier made an instant impression when he came on.
The striker, who has been on the books of Millwall and Charlton, caused the Rangers defence all sorts of problems as Grinstead continued to dominate and they were finally rewarded with 18 minutes to go. It came from a Chris Dicker corner as Liam Baitup stole in front of Lehkyj at the near post and casually nodded the ball into the empty net.
Grinstead continued searching for more goals and John Sinclair was unlucky with a flying volley following a superb move involving Collier and Baitup.
It took until the 93rd minutes before Grinstead’s dominance was rewarded further. Both goals from the penalty spot after Baitup and then Lucas Mann, who was making his first appearance of the season, were hauled over in the box. Piscina confidently dispatched the resultant penalties.
East Grinstead Town: Harwood, Featherstone, Wilson, Dicker, Head, Piscina, Cooney (sub: Mann 86), Sinclair, Die (sub: Belli 60), Baitup, Cable (sub: Collier 60)
Boss Tony Beckingham was critical of his side’s second half performance as they slipped to a third successive County League division one defeat at the GAC Stadium.
Spencer Slaughter’s 30 yard curler, which gave keeper Adam Woodward no chance after nine minutes, was worthy of winning any game.
But given their possession Grinstead should have got something out of the game. However, in the second half in particular, they failed to match some neat approach work with efforts on goal.
Slaughter pounced after a poor header by Jazz Gold had been intercepted by Neil Kane to set up Slaughter’s wonder strike but Wasps squandered three great chances to level before half-time.
Liam Baitup side-footed over from close range after Michael Belli’s pass had set him up and in the 34th minute Hassocks’ goalkeeper Jack Simpson made an acrobatic double save to deny Ross Cable and John Sinclair.
Hassocks worked hard throughout to deny Grinstead space and they made a much more positive start to the second half and ought to have wrapped the points up when Kane blazed over from six yards with only Woodward to beat.
A minute later Baitup stabbed a low shot wide after Kieran Wilson’s storming run into the box but it turned out to be Wasps’ best effort of a half when they huffed and puffed yet failed to seriously test Simpson.
Beckingham revealed afterwards that he is looking to bring in a player to increase Wasps’ options up front.
He added: “I can’t tell you how frustrated I was and actually quite angry with the second half performance. The first half was excellent but with no goals to show for it and we conceded again within 10 minutes of the kick off for the third game in a row so we’re chasing it and they have something to fight for, which they did brilliantly.
“As a team I think we need to show more passion and desire to get the result, we seem to be happy to let the game drift somewhat.”
WASPS reached the first qualifying round of the FA Cup for the second successive year and boss Tony Beckingham sees no reason why their cup run cannot continue.
Grinstead go to Ryman League first division Whitstable on Saturday week after Liam Baitup’s hat-trick helped them secure an ultimately comfortable win over a Raynes Park outfit whose long-ball tactics were comfortably dealt with by the visitors.
Beckingham said: “Whitstable will be favourites at home but if we approach that game with the same attitude we showed on Saturday we definitely have a chance.
“Liam will quite rightly take the plaudits for his hat-trick but our defence were very solid. It is to the defenders and goalkeeper's credit that I can't actually remember Adam Woodward having a direct save to make in the second half.
“When you can go forward knowing that it would need to be something special to get past our rearguard it gives your attacking players confidence.”
Wasps fell behind after five minutes when Austin Gachero converted a penalty after Kieran Wilson had handled a cross but Wasps were level on 14 minutes when Ross Cable picked out strike partner Baitup with his cross and Baitup headed home.
Baitup nearly had a second before the break but headed just wide and Jazz Gold wasn’t far away with a long range strike.
Raynes Park were only a sporadic threat but Simon Moore nearly put them ahead on 53 minutes when he headed against the bar. Baitup was a constant menace at the other end though, heading at the keeper and then wide from John Sinclair’s cross.
A replay looked likely but Wasps broke the deadlock seven minutes from time with a well-worked goal. Cable played in Michael Belli on the left and he picked out Baitup who made no mistake from close range.
The tie was settled when Dave Stevens headed Belli’s cross into his own net but there was still time for Baitup to complete his hat-trick when he swept the ball home from close range after Stevens had failed to clear Elstrom Die’s cross.
East Grinstead Town: Woodward, Featherstone (sub: Woolley 86), Gellatly, Sinclair, Belli (Die 86), Cooney, Gold, Piscina, Cable, Baitup, Wilson. Sub not used: Lardent.
Grinstead suffered their first home defeat of the season in a game that saw two players sent off.
Bridges were the better side early on with their quick incisive passing and movement off the ball as Lee Carney and former Grinstead striker Simon Funnell caused the Grinstead defence problems.
Their good start was rewarded with what proved to be the only goal in the eighth minute. Reece Head was harshly adjudged to have fouled Joel O’Hara, the resultant free kick was taken quickly but clearly with a moving ball although credit to Bridges for a move which resulted in O’Hara finding Carney who rifled his shot into the top corner.
Bridges were well on top at this point but Grinstead held firm to deny Bridges any real sight of goal apart from a James Grant effort that flew just wide of the far post.
Out of the blue Grinstead were given a way back into the game when Bridges were reduced to ten men. A long ball played down the line was being marshalled out of play by Drew Cooney, O’Hara tried to prevent this and a clash of legs resulted in Cooney being fouled. Then, to the astonishment of both teams, referee Mallows waved a red card at the stunned O’Hara and suddenly Bridges were on the back foot.
Grinstead probed for the equaliser but their passing wasn’t at its best and the visitors denied Grinstead any space as they struggled to breach the Bridges defence. Luke Piscina went closest in the first half with a volley from the edge of the box and Jazz Gold finally tested keeper Simon Lockwood when his low shot following a strong run was tipped round the near post.
Grinstead were left to regret not making the extra man tell on 67 minutes they were reduced to ten men, again controversially. Striker Ross Cable contested a header with Bridges defender Liam Ahearne but Mr Mallows did not stop play to award a free kick. However, seconds later, he stopped the game to allow treatment to Aheare and gave Cable a second yellow.
Grinstead continued to press for an equaliser and brought on fresh legs but Bridges dealt with everything thrown at them relatively comfortably and went close to increasing their lead when substitute George Hillier had s shot cleared off the line by Chris Dicker.
East Grinstead Town: Woodward, Featherstone (sub: Belli 77), Dicker, Sinclair (sub: Gellatly 77), Head, Cooney, Gold (sub: Broome 89), Piscina, Cable, Baitup, Wilson. Sub not used: Lardent
BOSS Tony Beckingham had no complaints after his side slipped to their first defeat of the season against a side likely to challenge for honours this season.
Pagham are a much-changed outfit after fighting relegation last season but so are Wasps and it took a stupendous strike to condemn Grinstead after Liam Baitup had scored for the third successive game to put them in front.
Beckingham said: “We weren't quite at the races but still had enough good chances to get something from it.
“It took two good second half goals including a world-class hit from 30 yards to beat us even though we didn't play well. We can and will do better but then again I can't see many teams going to Pagham this season and coming away with an awful lot.”
The visitors, without both Peter Featherstone and Luke Piscina, gave a midfield debut to latest signing John-Paul Collier but he limped off after 20 minutes to be replaced by Elstrom Die.
But by then Wasps’ bright start had been rewarded when Dave Gellatly threaded a great pass into Baitup’s feet and he slid his shot beyond Wes Hallett.
Grinstead were good value for their lead but Pagham fought back and Kieran Wilson cleared Michael Frangou’s header off the line in the 37th minute. The reprieve was short-lived though, James Temple heading the equaliser from the resultant corner.
Wasps had a great chance to regain the lead early in the second half when Die’s pace took him clear from Ross Cable’s pass but his finish lacked composure when he only had Hallett to beat.
It was a defining moment for Pagham went ahead in the 53rd minute when Scott Murfin pounced from close range after Wasps failed to clear their lines.
And the hosts made the game safe four minutes later when full-back Andy Weir strode forward and smashed an unstoppable drive from 30 yards past a helpless Adam Woodward.
With all three subs on Wasps had to play the last ten minutes with ten men after Die was pushed into an advertising board and limped off but by then the home side were well in control.
East Grinstead Town: Woodward, Gold, Dicker (sub: Broom 63), Sinclair, Head, Cooney, Wilson, Gellatly (sub: Belli 82), Cable, Baitup, Collier (sub: Die 20). Unused sub Lardent
Wasps moved to the top of the early first division table after producing their best performance of the season so far at Middle Road on Tuesday.
A side who always provide tough opposition, especially on their own patch, were made to look second best particularly in the first half when Wasps scored three unanswered goals and could have had more.
Boss Tony Beckingham had to make enforced changes in the absence of defenders Peter Featherstone and Gareth Broom with Drew Cooney dropping back alongside Reece Head and debutant Jazz Gold coming in on the right.
Grinstead soon settled and led after eight minutes when Gold picked out Liam Baitup’s run down the left and he rounded the goalkeeper before calmly picking his spot.
Chris Dicker, whose prowess at dead ball situations is becoming a real asset, hit the far post with an inswinging corner but on 26 minutes it was 2-0 when John Sinclair threaded a pass to Ross Cable who produced a great finish to score his second goal of the season.
Dicker set up the third on 35 minutes when Baitup headed home his corner, Dave Gellatly’s clever decoy run having set up space.
Shoreham rallied significantly after the break and finally tested goalkeeper Adam Woodward when he made a great save to keep out Lee Denyer’s left-foot strike, although Sinclair went close at the other end with a shot against the bar.
The Musselmen did pull one back after 73 minutes through sub Charlie Walker but substitute Elstrom Die ended any home hopes of a late rally when he was set up by Baitup to score his first Grinstead goal five minutes from time.
A great performance and a real marker for the rest of the season – let’s hope for more of the same in what will be an even tougher test at Pagham on Saturday (3pm).
STRIKERS Liam Baitup and Luke Piscina were both on target as Wasps cleared the first hurdle in the FA Cup on Saturday.
A comfortable victory over their Hellenic League opponents maintained Grinstead’s 100% start to the season although boss Tony Beckingham insists there is more to come from his new-look team.
He said: “It was a decent performance with a lot of positives but when we are on top of teams, as we were in the first half on Saturday, we need to be a bit more ruthless and put them away. It has been a good start but I know we can and will improve.”
Wasps swarmed over their visitors early on and Holyport keeper Kyle Bradley made excellent saves in the first 17 minutes from Kieran Wilson and Baitup while Piscina fired over from a good position.
But Grinstead struggled to maintain that tempo and Holyport, making their first appearance in the competition, twice breached the offside trap and both James Flint and Lewis Driver dragged shots off target when they only had keeper Adam Woodward to beat.
Wasps broke through just before the break when Chris Dicker delivered another excellent corner and Baitup found a yard of space to head firmly past Bradley.
Holyport were much more of a threat in the second half and Woodward made a good save in the 54th minute when he tipped Steve Deverall’s header onto the bar before keeping out Lee Jerrum’s shot with 15 minutes to go.
But once again Grinstead finished the game strongly and made sure of a trip to Raynes Park Vale in the preliminary round on August 28 with a second goal in the 90th minute when Elstrom Die, whose pace had caused problems throughout, was brought down by Bradley and Piscina scored his second goal of the season from the penalty spot.
WASPS made it back-to-back County League wins but were once again made to work hard for the three points at the GAC Stadium on Tuesday.
At times some of Grinstead’s passing football would not have disgraced a higher level of football and they scored two well-taken first-half goals.
But what should have been a comfortable night became anything but after Drew Cooney was penalised for a foul on the edge of the area in the 62nd minute and Kevin Rose beat Adam Woodward with his free-kick into the bottom left-hand corner.
Sidley pushed forward in search of an unlikely equaliser but Woodward did not have a save to make and in the closing stages Wasps nearly added further goals, notably when sub Elstrom Die set up Ross Cable whose shot was superbly tipped onto the post by Sidley keeper Gavin Bourne.
Grinstead started strongly and Cable nearly finished off an excellent passing move with a goal but found the side netting instead from the left-hand angle of the box.
Kieran Wilson wasn’t far away after another neat build-up and the deadlock was broken after 24 minutes when Cable took possession on the right-hand side of the box and curled a delightful shot beyond Bourne into the far corner.
Sidley threatened sporadically and were happy to concede free-kicks to disrupt Wasps’ passing game but that proved their undoing on the stroke of half-time when Chris Dicker’s free kick was met by a firm header from Gareth Broome who, like Cable, scored his first goal for the club.
Cable was robbed just as he was pulling the trigger by a great interception from Rose as Grinstead looked for a third goal but after the Sidley defender struck at the other end the visitors grew in confidence.
Wasps’ passing game deserted them and they became wasteful in possession although the visitors never seriously threatened an equaliser.
Wasps began their County League campaign in positive fashion with a hard earned victory over last season’s Division One runners-up at the GAC Stadium.
Grinstead fielded no fewer than six debutants after a busy summer of transfer activity by boss Tony Beckingham and at times it showed as they lacked fluidity as an attacking force but defensively were very solid with one of the debutants Peter Featherstone particularly impressive.
It is clear that Grinstead will try and get the ball down and play this season and with the East Court pitch in good condition they will have the opportunity to do this. More is definitely to come from this side and the Grinstead faithful could look forward to a season where they looking at the top end of the table rather than the bottom.
Beckingham said: “We had a lot of new players but there were still six missing and I would have settled for a draw beforehand because they are still a decent side. But we just about deserved our win I felt. The first win of the season is always the hardest to get and I’m delighted to get off the mark.”
Although Peacehaven have lost a majority of last year’s squad they have still managed to gather a team of players with plenty of County League experience so this was a stern test for the new look Grinstead side.
Peacehaven did start brighter and had the first shot on target when midfielder Scott Marshall let fly from 20 yards and his shot bounced awkwardly in front of new goalkeeper Adam Woodward who managed to tip it round the post. Woodward had a good debut and dealt with everything confidently in what was a problem position for Wasps last season when they fielded eight keepers.
Grinstead's first chance came on the quarter hour when Kieran Wilson made a strong run down the left and his cross found the unmarked Liam Baitup ten yards out but he headed just wide.
The best chance of the half fell to the visitors. Forward Ashley Rees found himself clean through with just Woodward to beat but his half-hit shot was saved by the goalkeeper’s legs.
Grinstead then had their best spell of the half when Luke Piscina was denied by a fine save from Josh Heyburn following a good cross from Michael Belli and from the resultant corner Featherstone was denied by a combination of Heyburn and Jamie Cullinane on the line. Peacehaven were still causing some problems however and the lively Rees turned sharply in the box but his shot was deflected into the side netting.
There had been a quiet start to the second half until it suddenly burst into life thanks to Wilson. He made a great run from inside his own half to force Peacehaven into conceding a corner which he took himself and found Piscina unmarked at the near post and his flick header comfortably beat the exposed Heyburn.
The contest struggled to catch fire after that. Peacehaven had most of the possession as they probed for an equaliser but with Grinstead superbly marshalled by Featherstone and captain Reece Head along with the endeavour of John Sinclair and the returning Drew Cooney in midfield they never looked like conceding. The visitors mustered a couple of half chances through substitute Roy Pook and a free kick from Lee Newman but Grinstead comfortably held out for a good three points and a winning start to a top-flight campaign for the first time since 2003.
