Division Two Champions 2007/08
| :: COMING UP AT THE GAC STADIUM :: |
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Wednesday 29th July 7.30pm Firsts v Crystal Palace - pre-season friendly. Admission: Adults £7, Children/ Senior Citizens £3
Saturday 1st August 3pm Firsts v Walton & Hersham - pre-season friendly.
Monday 3rd August 7.30pm Firsts v Crawley Town - pre-season friendly. Admission: Adults £7, Children/ Senior Citizens £3
Saturday 15th August 3pm Firsts v Feltham - FA Cup Extra Prelim Round
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| :: Wednesday 1st July 2009 :: |
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Cup draws announced
WASPS have been drawn at home at the GAC Stadium in the Extra Preliminary Round of the FA Cup against Feltham from the Combined Counties. Feltham finished seventh in CCL Division One, the equivalent level of our Sussex County Division Two. The match is scheduled for Saturday 15th August (ko 3pm). The winners of the tie will face a home tie against the winners of Cove or Bookham from the Combined Counties Premier Division.
In the First Qualifying Round of the FA Carlsberg Vase, Wasps travel to Chessington and Hook United from the Combined Counties Premier League, where they finished 19th last season. The tie is scheduled to take place on Saturday 5th September (ko 3pm) with the winners away to Hartley Wintney in the Second Qualifying Round on Saturday 19th September.
Wasps Under 18s have been drawn away in the First Round Qualifying of the FA Youth Cup and will face the winners of Ramsgate and VCD Athletic. The tie is scheduled to be played in the week commencing 21st September.
New Under 18s manager
Bob Chambers is taking over from Phil Major as Wasps Under 18s manager. Bob has been assistant manager and is looking forward to the new campaign in his new role. Phil Major will now be able to focus on his role as Reserve Team manager.
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| :: Monday 29th June 2009 :: |
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Boss raring to go
EAST GRINSTEAD Town boss Steve Johnson is confident all of last season's squad will report back when Wasps start pre-season training this week.
And Johnson is also confident of landing at least two quality additions to his squad ahead of the start of the County League campaign on August 8.
He said: "We start training on Tuesday and I can't wait - with one or two new players on top of those already here I think we can compete in the first division this season.
"I am speaking to some players and I've heard that others may turn up for pre-season. Things are on the up at the club and I'm confident we will have a good year."
Paul Thomsett will again be assisting Johnson, but a third member of the management team may be added soon.
Grinstead have arranged three high-profile friendlies at the GAC Stadium, starting against Crystal Palace on Wednesday, July 29 (7.30pm).
On Saturday August 1 Walton and Hersham are the visitors (3pm) and two days later Wasps entertain Conference outfit Crawley Town (7.30pm).
Johnson said: "They are three quality games to test the squad. We may slot in one more away from home but it is only five weeks before we kick off again and that time will soon come round.
"We will get the boys as fit as possible although, as is always the case with part-time players, the boys will also have to work on their fitness in their own time."
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| :: Thursday 25th June 2009 :: |
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Horsham friendly cancelled
The pre-season friendly against John Maggs' Horsham has been cancelled and they will now play Ryman League side Walton & Hersham who are our vistors on Saturday 1st August.
Either side of that match, Wasps will host Crystal Palace from the Championship on Wednesday 29th July and Crawley Town from the Conference on Monday 3rd August.
Pre-season training
A reminder that pre-season training for the senior sides starts on Tuesday 30th June at 7pm at East Court playing fields.
The junior teams are also preparing for the new season and Wasps 2009/10 Under 13 Colts are looking for players of above average ability to play in the Tandridge League on Sundays. Trial sessions are taking place on Thursday evenings starting at 6.15pm. For more details contact Bob Wallis (UEFA B Qualified Coach) on 01342 324583 OR 07891 477298.
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| :: Tuesday 23rd June 2009 :: |
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200 Club Winners
May 2009:
1st prize £74 - P Cadman
2nd prize £30 - M Lyons
3rd prize £10 - J Greig
June 2009:
1st prize £70 - A Evans
2nd prize £28 - H Cowlard
3rd prize £10 - M Webb
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| :: Sunday 21st June 2009 :: |
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Wasps to kick off new season with two principal sponsors and Crystal Palace friendly
 EAST Grinstead Town will have two principal sponsors for the first time in their history in a deal described by chairman Richard Tramontin as the most exciting in the club's 119-year history.
The Rydon Group have agreed to be the club's shirt sponsors for a 19th successive year but Wasps have also tied up a three-year agreement with GAC Logistics which will see East Court re-named as The GAC Stadium from next season.
And as part of the deal, Wasps will entertain Championship club Crystal Palace, who are also sponsored by GAC Logistics, in the first match at The GAC Stadium on Wednesday July 29, kick off 7.30pm.
Construction group Rydon, who are based in Forest Row, began what is believed to be the longest-running sponsorship agreement in non-league football in 1990. They will again have their name emblazoned on the amber and black shirts when Wasps kick off their County League division one campaign on 8th August.
Tramontin said: "We are extremely grateful for Rydon's continued sponsorship. Without their support the club would not have been able to flourish and grow in the way we have.
"We have not come across any senior non-league club in the country who have enjoyed such long-running sponsorship and this reflects the great relationship we have always had with Rydon."
Rydon Chief Executive Bob Bond said: "We are again very pleased to be able to announce that Rydon will continue as principal sponsors of East Grinstead Town Football Club next season.
"At a time when we are all feeling the pressures created by the recession and the economic slowdown, we realise how important it is for long-standing community-based organisations like the club to continue to receive support from local businesses.
"We know that it has been a tough first season for the Wasps in Division One but are delighted that they have retained their deserved place in this group and look forward to seeing them improving further next year."
Rydon will become principal sponsors with GAC , the world's leading providers of shipping, logistics and marine-related services who employ around 9,000 people in more than 300 offices worldwide. GAC are also main club sponsors to Championship side Crystal Palace.
The GAC logo will be adorning the pitch perimeter, main stand, dugouts and programme while the change of name to the GAC Stadium comes 42 years after the club first moved to East Court.
Tramontin added: "With the full agreement of Rydon, we have managed to secure an excellent three-year agreement with the GAC Group which we hope will benefit both parties.
"GAC are well known for their sponsorship of Palace, a club with many followers in the town, and we are absolutely delighted they have chosen to get involved in non-league football through East Grinstead and the GAC Stadium."
GAC Group Vice President, William Hill said "We are very pleased to have been able conclude this agreement with East Grinstead Town. We now have brand exposure at both professional and non league levels." GAC is committed to sports sponsorships, in particular Football, Golf and Motor Racing.
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Pre-season training
Pre-season training for Wasps' senior sides starts in earnest on Tuesday 30th June. This will involve the First Team, Reserves, Under 18's and Third Team. Players are asked to meet at the club house at 6.45 or at East Court playing fields at 7pm. Boss Steve Johnson can't wait to get back together with his management and players and is excited at the prospect of the quality friendlies against Crystal Palace, Crawley Town, Horsham and Walton & Hersham at the newly re-named GAC Stadium.
Pitch looking good
The pitch at East Court had its first cut on Saturday following the extensive end-of-season renovation works. A trio of Steve Hatswell, Alan Woolley and Phil Cowlard used hand mowers to give the grass it's all important first cut. The centre section of the pitch from the edges of the two six yard boxes which had been completely dug up now has a good covering of grass and this will thicken up over the coming weeks ready for the first match against Crystal Palace on July 29th.
Thre are lots of things that need doing at the ground before the start of the season so additional volunteers would be very welcome on any Saturday morning.
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| :: Tuesday 2nd June 2009 :: |
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Marc Pelling and John Sinclair won the two main awards at East Grinstead Town's end-of-season presentation which was held at Chartham Park Golf Club.
Pelling, who played a key role in Wasps' successful fight against relegation, was the choice of boss Steve Johnson as Manager's Player while Sinclair, one of Johnson's recruits when he took over in February and guided Wasps to safety, was voted Players' Player.
Simon Funnell was top goal scorer and the sportsman's award went to Danny Wackett. The Club Person award went to physio Pam Presland.
Other awards -
Reserves: Players' player: Scott Johnston; Manager's award: Neil Taylor; Top goalscorer: Steven Major.
Under-18s: Players' player: Ryan Fletcher; Manager's player: David Major; Top goalscorer: Sam Fildes.
Third team: Players' player: Sean Leggett; Manager's player: Mitchell Hunt; Top goalscorer: Rory Trenholme.
Fourth team: Players' player: Will Irwin; Manager's player: Kerrin Fort; Top goalscorer: Matt Garrett.
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| :: Wednesday 20th May 2009 :: |
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East Grinstead Town v Crawley Town
Wasps will be hosting Crawley Town from the Blue Square Conference at East Court on Monday 3rd August (ko 7.30pm) in a pre-season friendly.
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| :: Tuesday 19th May 2009 :: |
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Work on pitch continues
The ground was still too wet on Monday for the contractors to carry on with the end-of-season pitch renovation. The power harrow was back on the pitch this morning and the fertilising and re-seeding of the entire pitch was completed this afternoon. Ideal conditions thereafter would be rain at night and sun during the day. Fingers crossed.
200 Club Winners April 2009
1st prize £70 - M Playle
2nd prize £30 - S Webb
3rd prize £10 - P Wheeler
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| :: Friday 15th May 2009 :: |
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Rain hampers progress
The heavy rain during Thursday night meant that the contractors were unable to finish the end-of-season renovation works on the pitch today. It was just too wet for the contractors to run the power harrow along the centre of the pitch with longer tines and also too wet to spread fertilser and seed. These final stages are now planned for Monday, weather permitting.
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| :: Thursday 14th May 2009 :: |
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End of season pitch renovation.......
With the season barely over and following on after last weekend's Footie Fun Day, the main renovation work on the pitch at East Court is nearing completion.
After vertidraining, 10 tons of root zone was applied in the goalmouths and centre circle and then 100 tons of sand was spread over the entire pitch. The centre of the pitch from end to end was then power harrowed down to just above the existing drainage sand bands.
  
This will be followed tomorrow by the application of a pre seed fertiliser and overseeding the complete surface.
It is expected that the playing surface will be even better than it has been over recent seasons. This current work is the fifth consecutive year of an initial five-year pitch development plan, which has so far transformed the playing surface receiving praise from visiting teams and FA officials.
Because of the extent of the renovation works and the time needed before the new surface is established and the pitch can be used, we have unfortunately been unable to accommodate a request from Conference side Crawley Town to host a pre-season friendly in early July against their full First Team. However discussions are still taking place to secure a pre-season friendly against a Championship club later in July.
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| :: Monday 11th May 2009 :: |
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Footie Fun Day success
IT was a long day for all those involved, but FFD '09 was another resounding success which once again showed how much importance the club places on one of its core aims - to provide football for the community of East Grinstead.
Around 400 youngsters aged from under-7 to under-10 took part. EGTFC would like to thank all those managers, parents, referees and, of course, the players for making sure the event was a great success.
Ian Watts and his hardworking backroom team deserve our thanks as well. Organising and running an event of this sort is a massive undertaking and wouldn't be possible without the many volunteers who did everything from erect the portable goals, mark the pitches to cooking literally hundreds of burgers and hot dogs!
Here's to FFD '10 and thanks once again for making this year's event such a success.
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| :: Thursday 7th May 2009 :: |
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Croydon Athletic 3, East Grinstead Town 2
Wasps reserves finished their season last night with a narrow defeat against the League runners up at East Court. Although the match was an away fixture, it had to be switched to East Court at short notice.
East Grnstead Town U18s 4, Redhill U18s 0
Wasps Under 18s had a comfortable win against Redhill on Tuesday evening at East Court and moved back into third place. They are now six points behind leaders Oakwood with two games in hand but with a 18 goal inferior goal difference. They face second placed Three Bridges tonight at the Jubilee Field (ko 7.45pm). Wasps are curently 5 points behind Bridges with a game in hand.
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| :: Saturday 2nd May 2009 :: |
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With Horsham YMCA beating Oakwood today, Wasps have definitely finished outside of the relegation places, no matter what action the league take against Chichester.
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| :: Wednesday 29th April 2009 :: |
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League in turmoil
The Sussex County League has been thrown into turmoil after one of its clubs was discovered to have fielded a player who has been suspended for TWO years.
Chichester City's Calum Cutler was given a lifetime ban by the Hampshire FA in April 2007 for failing to play outstanding fines while playing Sunday League football. But Cutler signed for Chi earlier this year and has played in 14 games including ten County League matches.
The problem only came to light when Cutler was sent off in a Charity Cup tie in March. If the club are found guilty of fielding an ineligible player the 19 points Chichester won with Cutler in the side would be deducted from their total and awarded to their opponents.
That could have implications at both ends of the first division with six clubs getting three points including title-chasers Horsham YMCA and Wick and more importantly from Wasps' perspective, Oakwood. They would be on 32 points and would climb out of the bottom three IF they beat YMCA on Saturday, relegating East Grinstead.
Chairman Richard Tramontin believes it is unlikely Wasps would be relegated even if Oakwood overtook them as a result of being awarded another three points. Besides the FA directive that clubs in Division One must meet FA ground grading requirements, which East Grinstead Town do unlike the many others, the league could potentially run with an odd number of teams in Division One next season if only East Preston and Worhing United are relegated, three promoted from Division Two, Crowborough rejoin and YMCA replace them in the Ryman League.
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| :: Tuesday 28th April 2009 :: |
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BOSS: WE CAN CHALLENGE NEXT SEASON
MANAGER Steve Johnson believes Wasps can be a County League force next season after escaping relegation.
We looked like heading straight back to the second division a season after promotion when Steve and assistant Paul Thomsett arrived in February when Grinstead only had 12 points and had been in the bottom three since October.
But 21 points in their remaining fixtures was enough to keep us up with Saturday's 2-0 victory at Whitehawk securing our top-flight status and relegating Oakwood, East Preston and Worthing United.
Simon Funnell capitalised on a mistake by the Whitehawk goalkeeper to score his 12th goal of the season from 30 yards after 17 minutes.
It always looked like being enough against a disappointing Whitehawk team but Wasps made sure in the last minute when Jack Johnson's cross teed up fellow midfielder Andy Ducille who scored his fourth goal in three games.
The celebrations continued long into Saturday but this week Steve has been setting out his vision for next season, having always been convinced that Grinstead would beat the drop.
He said: "I was brought in to keep us up and I always felt confident we would do it and it's great to have done it through our own result on Saturday rather than relying on other teams dropping points.
"I certainly don't want a relegation battle next season and I don't think we will be in one. We may lose one or two players which happens every summer but the bulk of the squad will be here again and if we can bring in one or two new faces I definitely feel we can challenge at the right end of the table.
"I really can see us doing well. The team spirit and camaraderie is great and it's not as if we had to bring in loads of players. We brought in Luke Piscina, Andy DuCille, John Sinclair and, for the last two games, Jack Johnson but the bulk of the squad was already here."
A priority next season is improving Wasps' dismal home form. They only won two league games at East Court after going through the campaign unbeaten the previous year and in the end it was their excellent away form - they only lost once on the road under Johnson - which made the difference.
Steve admits his own reputation has been restored after he was sacked by Crowborough in February.
He added: "My own stock needed to improve after what happened there and at Ringmer. I wanted to make a success of it for personal reasons and because East Grinstead is a good, well-run club with some great people involved."
Steve has already started work on Grinstead's pre-season schedule and the squad are likely to be back at the end of June for training.
In the meantime, though, he is looking forward to re-charging his batteries ahead of the club's presentation night on May 29.
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| :: Saturday 25th April 2009 :: |
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Whitehawk 0, East Grinstead Town 2
Wasps secured their place in the top flight of County football for next season by winning at Whitehawk, with goals from Si Funnell and Andy DuCille, and East Preston losing to Horsham YMCA. That means that East Preston, Oakwood and Worthing United are relegated.
Congratulations to Steve Johnson, Paul Thomsett and all the squad. Chairman Richard Tramontin was delighted and relieved. He said: "The committee appointed Steve at the end of January with the task to keep us up when many had already written us off. I am delighted with what Steve and Thommo have achieved. Steve, the committee and I had to endure a lot of criticism after the appointment but we remained determined and it has paid dividends. Team spirit has been superb and I know that Steve is very grateful for the support he has had from everyone at the club. He has been quick to single out Phil Major and the reserve and youth team squads."
Bob Smith's Third Team finished out of the relegation places of Division Three of the Mid Sussex League on Thursday after a draw with AFC Grinstead while Ron Holah's Fourth Team won the Division 9 title today and completed a league and cup double.
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| :: Thursday 23rd April 2009 :: |
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East Grinstead Town 0, Libya 1
Tonight's friendly finished with a win for the visiting Libyan team with a late goal.
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| :: Wednesday 22nd April 2009 :: |
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International football comes to East Court
East Grinstead Town are hosting an international team at East Court tomorrow night.
Wasps will play the Libyan National Under 21 Olympic side in a prestige friendly kicking-off at 7.30pm.
The Libyan national team are currently holding a training camp in England and will also be playing a friendly against Bristol City next Tuesday.
Grinstead boss Steve Johnson said: "They asked me if we would play them on Thursday. It is great that they have picked us out.
"A lot of people know me from my Latvian days (working with the national team) and they have obviously kept my number.
"It will be a great evening and hopefully we will get a few people along."
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| :: Tuesday 21st April 2009 :: |
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Ringmer 6, East Grinstead Town 3
Wasps fought bravely after going 2 - 0 down within the first 15 minutes and having Mannie Neville sent off for handball which resulted in a penalty and Ringmer's second goal........[Full Match report]
With East Preston losing to a late goal by Shoreham, they remain one point below Grinstead with a game in hand against title chasing Horsham YMCA. Both teams' final games are against Whitehawk - Wasps away this Saturday and East Preston are at home on Thursday 30th April. Oakwood didn't play tonight and are 4 points behind Wasps with a game in hand. They play Hailsham on Saturday and then Horsham YMCA the following Saturday. Worthing United are already relegated.
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| :: Monday 20th April 2009 :: |
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Selsey 0, East Grinstead Town 2
WASPS kept their first division survival hopes alive on Saturday with an excellent win over a Selsey side beaten just twice at home in the league this season.
With our relegation rivals Oakwood and East Preston also winning, it made this well-deserved fifth away win of the campaign even more important.
Manager Steve Johnson shuffled his pack, bringing back Steve Causon and switching Mannie Neville to central defender with John Sinclair pushed into midfield. Neil Taylor made a solid debut at leftback with Ray Collier returning in goal.
The match was won by two headed goals, one in the first half by Andy Ducille from a good cross by David Major and a rare headed goal by Ben Burns at the start of the second half following good work by Luke Piscina........[Full Match report]
Johnson said: "It was a great performance all over the pitch. We worked hard to close them down and when we broke we looked a threat. We need to do that in our last two games and hope that it is enough to keep us up."
Grinstead travel to Ringmer on Tuesday (ko 7.30pm) and are at Whitehawk for the final match of the season on Saturday (ko 3pm). Before that, we have the honour of playing a friendly at East Court against the Libyan National Under 21 Olympic Team (ko 7.30pm).
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| :: Friday 17th April 2009 :: |
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End of season presentation
The senior section end of season presentation will take place at Chartham Park Golf Club on Friday 29th May, 7.30pm for 8pm start. Dress code is 'smart casual'. This covers the First Team, Reserves, Under 18s, Third and Fourth Teams. Places are limited so book your tickets early. Tickets are £20 per head and include a 3 course meal. To reserve your place, please pay your team manager or Richard Tramontin and Brian McCorquodale.
A Golf Day is being organised for the same day by Phil Major but at another venue close by. Details will be available soon and anybody interested in taking part should contact Phil Major directly.
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| :: Thursday 16th April 2009 :: |
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200 Club Winners March 2009
1st prize £70 - M Gamon
2nd prize £30 - D Mann
3rd prize £10 - C White
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| :: Wednesday 15th April 2009 :: |
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Raynes Park Vale Reserves1, East Grinstead Town Reserves 3
A Steven Major hatrick secured 3 points for Wasps reserves tonight in the Suburban League.
EAST Grinstead Town's fight for County League survival could go to the last game of the season.
But boss Steve Johnson is confident Wasps will still be playing first division football next year.
It looked like being a pointless Easter for his side when they trailed 2-0 at Lingfield in Monday's derby with 14 minutes to go after losing 2-1 to a controversial goal in the eighth minute of stoppage time against Hassocks on Saturday.
But Ben Burns poached his fourth goal of the campaign from close range after good work by Dave Gellatly and five minutes from time defender Marc Pelling popped up in the six yard box to score after Gellatly had flicked on Simon Funnell's left-wing cross........[Full Match report]
Johnson said: "I was pleased with our spirit because we didn't deserve to be 2-0 down, especially after there was a blatant handball for the first goal.
"We have three games to go and I'm happy that they are away from home because our form on the road has helped us climb out of the bottom three in the first place. I think one more win will be enough because the three sides below us are not making much headway but we'll be trying to win all three."
Wasps make the long trip to Selsey (3.00pm) on Saturday before Johnson returns to his former club Ringmer next Tuesday (7.45pm).
Collier, who missed the Lingfield game because of illness and had to be replaced by third-team keeper Alex Over, will return on Saturday but work commitments are expected to keep Funnell out.
Johnson added: "Simon will probably be missing which is a shame because he's been outstanding for us.
"But the team spirit is still good and I definitely believe we are good enough to stay up and so, more importantly, do the players."
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| :: Monday 13th April 2009 :: |
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Lingfeld 2, East Grinstad Town 2
Wasps came from 2 - 0 down to earn a point at this Easter Monday local derby........[Full Match report]
Players wore black armbands and a minute's silence was held before the match in memory of Maurice Tomsett, President of Lingfield FC, who sadly passed away on Saturday evening. Our deepest sympathy goes out to Pam and their family.
Grinstead had the better of the first half and Si Funnell was unlucky not to open the scoring when his lob over the keeper hit the bar.
The second half saw Lingfield take a two goal lead but Wasps never gave up. Following a corner, a shot from Dave Gellatly from the inside the box was chested in by Ben Burns. Another corner saw Marc Pelling head home a well deserved equaliser.
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| :: Saturday 11th April 2009 :: |
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East Grinstead Town 1, Hassocks 2
Two blatant errors by the match officials cost Wasps three points this afternoon at East Court........[Full Match report]
Si Funnell put Grinstead ahead in the first half in a game they never looked like losing. To the astonishment of everyone in the ground including the Hassocks players and officials, referee Darren Eaton decided that Neil Kane who fell to the ground in the box after being unable to control a ball that then went out for a goal kick had been pushed despite neither the player nor his teammates making any appeal. Anthony Hibbert scored from the spot.
Just before the end of the match Neil Kane was again the centre of controversy as he received the ball when at least two yards offside, but the assistant referee did not raise his flag and Kane went ahead to win the match for Hassocks who were honest enough after the match to state that neither the penalty nor the winning goal should have been awarded.
That is two games on the trot where Wasps should have had three points but they have ended up with just one point from the two games due to mistakes by match officials recognised by opposing officials. Those decisions may have a devastating effect on the outcome of the club's Division One status and club Chairman Richard Tramontin has made his thoughts known to the League Chairman.
Grinstead remain one point ahead of East Preston who still have a game in hand. They lost 4 - 0 to Eastbourne Borough and face second placed Wick on Easter Monday.
Wasps travel to Lingfield on Easter Monday determined to beat their local rivals who have faired well in their first ever season in the top flight of County League football.
Fellow strugglers Oakwood drew with Shoreham and are now 4 ponts behind Grinstead while Worthing United lost and are 7 points behind with a game in hand.
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| :: Saturday 4th April 2009 :: |
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East Grinstead Town 1, Arundel 1
A cool finish from Si Funnell earned Wasps a draw this afternoon at East Court after they went behind to a first half goal from Howard Neighbour which everyone including the Arundel officials agreed was 2 yards offside except for the assistant referee. [Matchday photos]Paul Thomsett who took charge in Steve Johnson's absence was happy with a point but at the same time disappointed as he felt that his side had done enough to claim all three........[Full Match report]
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| :: Wednesday 1st April 2009 :: |
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East Grinstead Town IV 2, United Services 0
Congratulations to Wasps Fourth Team who won the Mid Sussex League Division 9/10 Tester Cup beating United Services in the inaugral final at the Hanbury Stadium in Haywards Heath. .......[Full Match report]
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| :: Tuesday 31st March 2009 :: |
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East Grinstead Town 1, Redhill 2
A stirring second-half fightback was not enough for Wasps who remain in relegation trouble after their poor home form continued on Tuesday night........[Full Match report]
Of the sides below them, Oakwood won and Worthing United drew while East Preston lost which means Wasps still have a four-point cushion above the drop zone, although their fellow strugglers all have games in hand.
But Grinstead have not won a home league game now since September 13. a statistic they will be anxious to improve on Saturday when Arundel are the visitors to East Court (ko 3pm).
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| :: Saturday 28th March 2009 :: |
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East Grinstead Town Reserves 4, Cobham Reserves 2
This Afternoon's Suburban League match at East Court was totally dominated by Wasps and the scoreline did not reflect the pressure and control Grinstead had on the game. Wasps were able to field a strong team including Dave Gellatly, who missed last week due to a family wedding, Alex McEwan, who was also away last week and Marc Pelling and David Major, who were back from suspension........[Full Match report]
There was no County League Divison One match for Wasps this afternoon, but two of the three teams below them in the league did play. Oakwood lost to Chichester 7 - 1 and Worthing United had a goalless draw against Whitehawk. The two swapped places with Oakwood now bottom, 7 points behind Wasps with a game in hand. Worthing Utd are on the same points as Oakwood but with 2 games in hand on Grinstead. East Preston remain 4 points behind Wasps with 2 games in hand.
All four teams are in action on Tuesday night:
East Grinstead Town v Redhill (7.30pm)
East Preston v Shoreham
Worthing United v Arundel
St. Francis Rangers v Oakwood
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| :: Tuesday 24th March 2009 :: |
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East Grinstead Town Under 18s 0, Greenwich Borough 1
WASPS' Under 18s went out of the Southern Youth League Cup tonight through an own goal midway through the first half. Grinstead were the better team in the second half but failed to penetrate in the final third.
SUPPORT BRUCE'S MARATHON EFFORTS
Former Wasps' chairman Bruce Talbot is in training for this year's London Marathon on April 26.
Bruce is running for children's charity Rainbow Trust (www.rainbowtrust.org.uk), who provide respite care and support to families of children with serious illnesses.
Bruce said: "I have been in training for the last six months and I am hoping to raise £1,500 for this very worthwhile cause. I know money is tight at the moment but I would appreciate any sponsorship and support I can get from my many friends at the football club. I am pleased to report that I am a far better runner than I ever was a player."
You can donate online at www.justgiving.com/brucetalbot
Thanks very much to those of you who have sponsored me already and I hope your support will inspire me to get round the 26.2 miles and raise funds for the Rainbow Trust.
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| :: Tuesday 24th March 2009 :: |
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East Preston 0, East Grinstead Town 2
BOSS Steve Johnson hailed an "outstanding" performance from his side after Grinstead pulled further away from the County League relegation zone.
Late goals from Luke Piscina and Simon Funnell earned Wasps a thoroughly deserved win which stretched their unbeaten run to five games and means they have lost just twice in their last nine matches........[Full Match report]
They are now four points clear of the bottom three, all of whom have games in hand, but Johnson says his side are looking up rather than down the first division table.
He said: "They could have gone above us if they'd won but we thoroughly deserved the victory. It was an outstanding performance from everyone concerned considering the importance of the game."
Johnson now wants his side to transfer their good away form to East Court where they play the first of three successive games next Tuesday (March 31) against Redhill, kick off 7.30pm.
Johnson added: "A lot has been made of our home form but at the moment we feel confident taking on anyone. There is a great atmosphere in the camp at the moment and long may it continue."
Midfielder Dave Gellatly, absent on Saturday because of a family wedding, will return to the squad next Tuesday and Johnson will be back in the dugout after serving a three-match touchline ban incurred for an incident when he was at Crowborough.
Johnson has completed the signing of his nephew Jack Johnson and the 19-year-old winger could be involved against Redhill. Johnson has been at Fulham's academy and also had a spell with Woking.
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| :: Saturday 21st March 2009 :: |
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East Preston 0, East Grinstead Town 2
A stunning strike by Luke Piscina and a simple finish by Si Funnell after some cool and unselfish work by sub Grant Rigler gave Wasps all three points this afternoon in this all important relegation battle........[Full Match report]
Meanwhile back at East Court, Michael Belli was sent off as the reserves lost 2 - 1 to top of the table Leatherhead after Wasps had taken an early lead.
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| :: Tuesday 17th March 2009 :: |
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International clearance has now been received for new signing, Jack Johnson. He will be eligible to play for Wasps in this weekend's relegation battle away at East Preston, who together with fellow strugglers Oakwood lost tonight.
200 Club Winners
Winners of the 200 Club draw for February were:
1st prize £70, no 12 R Phillps
2nd prize £32, no 113 B McCorquodale
3rd prize £10, no 30 M Lyons
Winners of the 200 Club draw for January were:
1st prize £70, no 62 D Owen
2nd prize £32, no 1 R Tramontin
3rd prize £10, no 18 J Greig
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| :: Monday 16th March 2009 :: |
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HAPPY WASPS OUT OF BOTTOM THREE
BOSS Steve Johnson says a happy dressing room is helping Wasps in their fight for survival.
Saturday's hard-earned point at Middle Road lifted Grinstead out of the first division relegation zone for the first time since November and extended their unbeaten away record to four games following draws at Hailsham and Three Bridges and last Tuesday's 5-1 win at Oakwood........[Full Match report]
Johnson said: "We have got a hardworking bunch of players whose confidence is improving with every good result we get.
"I'm more like Billy Butlin than Sven-Goran Eriksson before kick-off but we enjoy a laugh together and the new players have bought into the mentality of the club and it all helps team spirit."
Wasps took the lead through Dave Gellatly and although Owen Callaghan levelled before half-time the visitors had chances to snatch all three points.
Johnson added: "A month or so ago it's a game we would have lost. The pitch was awful - hard and bobbly - but we battled away and it was a fair result."
Six of Grinstead's nine remaining games are away so the improvement in their form on the road could not have been better timed.
This Saturday they face a crucial trip to East Preston (3pm), who slipped back into the bottom three on Saturday with a 2-1 home defeat to Hailsham.
Johnson hopes to have Simon Funnell and Steve Causon available to bring some more experience to his line up.
He added: "We are giving the youngsters a chance. Blair Cooney, Chris Smith and David Major all played at Shoreham and did well but we will need our experienced heads at East Preston - that's a massive game for us."
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| :: Thursday 12th March 2009 :: |
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Oakwood 1, East Grinstead Town 5
WASPS' bid to avoid the drop got a huge boost with a rare win at Tinsley Lane in Tuesday's battle of two sides in the relegation zone.
Grinstead have only made two successful trips to Oakwood before but a superb attacking display, allied to a strong defensive performance, improved that statistic - much to the delight of manager Steve Johnson........[Full Match report]
"It was our best performance since I came to the club but we have been threatening it to be honest," said the boss.
"We played great in their final third with good movement and pace and defended well. Just as pleasing was how well we kept possession. There is still a long way to go but we are moving in the right direction."
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| :: Tuesday 10th March 2009 :: |
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Oakwood 1, East Grinstead Town 5
WASPS smashed 5 past fellow strugglers Oakwood at Tinsley Lane tonight. Si Funnell and Ben Burns both scored a brace and Andy DuCille opened his account with a poweful header from a pinpoint free kick by Luke Piscina........[Full Match report]
New signing Jack Johnson didn't feature in tonight's match as International Clearance did not come through in time. It is hoped that this will be with the FA later this week and he will be eligible to play on Saturday at Shoreham (ko 3pm).
Wasps Under 18s also hit 5 tonight as they beat Dorking 5 - 0 at East Court. The win moves them back into second spot in the Southern Youth League, 3 points behind Oakwood with a game in hand.
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| :: Monday 9th March 2009 :: |
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WE CAN SURVIVE ON AWAY FORM SAYS BOSS
STEVE Johnson is happy that East Grinstead Town's survival hopes may depend on their away form.
Wasps are still in the bottom three after twice letting a lead slip in Saturday's 2-2 draw at high-flying Pagham on Saturday........[Full Match report]
But it was the third successive away game where they have picked up a point and maintaining that form and hopefully improving on it is key to Grinstead's hopes of remaining in County League division one with seven of their ten remaining games on the road.
Johnson said: "Playing away from home seems to suit us. Perhaps the opposition don't treat us with enough respect and there is less pressure on us but we are unbeaten in our last three away and should have won two of those.
"We have now got three more away games coming up and none of them will be easy. But we are improving and I'm confident we will get the four or five wins we'll need to stay up.
"More importantly, the players believe that too. The spirit throughout the club is excellent."
Johnson has used family connections to secure a fifth new signing since taking over at East Court last month.
His 21-year-old cousin Jack Johnson, a winger who recently returned from a spell coaching in America, is due to make his debut against Oakwood tomorrow night and will feature in Saturday's game at Shoreham (3pm).
His uncle said: "Jack was at Fulham's academy for 3-4 years and then had a spell at Woking. He's very fit, quick and will give us something extra in midfield."
Johnson is still being hampered by the unavailability of players for various reasons and is grateful for the backing of reserve-team manager Phil Major.
"It has been a nightmare and I have had to ravage the reserves but Phil has been magnificent in making players available," added Johnson.
"I do appreciate it because the sort of co-operation we have doesn't always happen at other clubs."
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| :: Sunday 8th March 2009 :: |
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East Grinstead Town U16s, 1, Worthing Dynamos U16s 1 AET (8 - 7 on penalties)
WASPS Under 16s won the Sussex U16 mAnagr.com Minor Cup at the County FA ground at Lancing this afternoon.
Wasps appeared to be overawed by the occassion during the first 15 minutes during which time a composed Worthing took the lead from a corner.
Grinstead then settled and played some good football. James Rhodes scored the equaliser that Wasps fully deserved just before half time.
The scores remained level after extra time and so it came to a penalty shootout. Both sides scored each of their first 7 spot kicks. Worthing's 8th kick hit the bar and Wasps followed on to win the County Cup........[Full Match report]
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| :: Saturday 7th March 2009 :: |
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Pagham 2, East Grinstead Town 2
Wasps led twice and their all round play deserved all three points this afternoon. Luke Piscina was denied a winner near the end when his powerful volley was superbly parried around the post by Pagham keeper Wes Hallett........[Full Match report]
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| :: Tuesday 3rd March 2009 :: |
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East Grinstead Town 3, Whitehawk 5
Wasps gave away sloppy goals but showed great character to come back from 5 - 1 down and Si Funnell had a penalty kick saved on this very wet night at East Court........[Full Match report]
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| :: Monday 2nd March 2009 :: |
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WASPS' improvement under new boss Steve Johnson continued as they ground out a point on their travels for the second successive County League game on Saturday........[Full Match report]
Johnson had to make four changes to the side which held high-flying Three Bridges to a goalless draw last Tuesday against a Hailsham side who had won 4-0 at East Court earlier in the month.
But his players did Johnson proud and a neat 83rd-minute flick from Grant Rigler - his first goal of the season - earned Grinstead a deserved point.
Johnson said: "We are making progress. We have tightened up at the back and still look a threat going forward and the attitude among the players is very positive. We all feel we can get out of relegation trouble."
Only four points seperate the bottom four in County League division one after Oakwood won and Worthing United drew and it looks like three from them, Wasps and East Preston for the drop.
Grinstead go to Oakwood next Tuesday (March 10, 7.45pm) and still have to travel to East Preston.
Johnson gave a debut to the experienced Andy Ducille on Saturday and the former Eastbourne Borough and Crowborough man impressed in midfield.
Johnson added: "Andy does the simple things well. He keeps the ball, can spot a pass and brings energy to the side. He does a lot of things that go un-noticed but he was a big factor in the result."
Grinstead face another tough trip on Saturday when they go to fifth-placed Pagham but Johnson hopes to have a full squad at his disposal with Mannie Neville, Dave Gellatly, Steve Causon and Simon Funnell all back in contention for Tuesday night's (March 3) home game against Whitehawk.
WASPS Under 18s were beaten by a late goal tonight away at South Park and missed the opportunity to regain top spot in the Southern Youth League.
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| :: Sunday 1st March 2009 :: |
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Hailsham Town 1, East Grinstead Town 1
Grant Rigler earned Wasps a point with an 83rd minute equaliser against Hailsham on Saturday after Dan Leach had put the home side ahead with a fortuitous first half goal........[Full Match report]
Grinstead face Whitehawk on Tuesday at East Court (7.30). New signing, Andy DuCille is due to make his home debut and Mannie Neville, Dave Gellatly, Si Funnell and Steve Causon will be available after missing the Hailsham match.
Before that, Wasps' Under 18s travel to South Park on Monday night in the Southern Youth League (ko 7.30pm), where they will look to avenge their sole home defeat in December. A win would put Wasps back on top of the table.
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| :: Friday 27th February 2009 :: |
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GRINSTEAD will have Luke Piscina and new signing Andy DuCille available for tomorrow's trip to Hailsham where Wasps bid to avenge their 4-0 home defeat earlier this month.
Ducille, who has joined from Wealden, will probably slot into central midfield as both Dave Gellatly and Mannie Neville are unavailable.
Top scorer Simon Funnell is working so Piscina will take his place in attack.
Manager Steve Johnson said: "They lost 7-1 to Ringmer in midweek and will be desperate to put that result behind them but our boys have something to build on after Tuesday's result and we're looking forward to the game."
WASPS Under 18s beat Oakwood 4 - 1 at Tinsley Lane last night and are now back in joint top spot with Oakwood and Cobham with a game in hand over both.
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| :: Thursday 26th February 2009 :: |
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Three Bridges 0, East Grinstead Town 0
BOSS Steve Johnson hailed Tuesday's battling point against high-flying Bridges as Grinstead's best performance since he came to the club.
After conceding 19 goals in their five previous games, a clean sheet was much needed and achieved thanks to a solid defensive display marshalled by Danny Wackett and some brave goalkeeping by Ray Collier........[Full Match report]
Johnson said: "The attitude among the boys was first class. They were determined to get something from the game.
"We weren't at our strongest but everyone worked their socks off and we had the chance to nick it at the end. But a point is a good result there and gives us something to build on."
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| :: Tuesday 24th February 2009 :: |
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East Grinstead Town 3, Wick 5
GRINSTEAD seem to have rediscovered a threat up front but now they need to stop leaking goals if they are to get out of relegation trouble.
Steve Johnson's men looked to be on course for a valuable win against a lively Wick side when they overturned a 2-1 deficit to lead 3-2 at East Court on Saturday.
But Wick hit back to score three times in the last 20 minutes and to compound Wasps' misery, Marc Pelling got a straight red card for a professional foul on John Lawson five minutes from time while fellow defender Danny Wackett went off with a badly bruised eye.
Johnson said: "It's not just the guys at the back - the whole team has to take responsibility defensively. We are making little mistakes like not picking up opponents and are getting punished. We scored three decent goals but when you have to do that or even better every time to win games you're in trouble.
"But I'm still positive. It looks like three from four at the bottom to go down so we need to start putting a consistent run together soon. But the team is definitely improving in a lot of areas and I'm still trying to bring in one or two more new faces."
Johnson picked out Scott Johnson, who made only his second first-team start at leftback, and strikers Simon Funnell and Luke Piscina for special praise but Wick, with Sussex strikers Scott Murfin and Phil Turner often causing havoc, have terrorised better sides than Grinstead this season and often had too much class at times for the hosts........[Full Match report]
STEVE Johnson yesterday completed the signing of the experienced Andy DuCille from Wealden.
Andy's former clubs include Eastbourne Borough and Crowborough and the midfielder goes straight into the squad for tonight's tough-looking league game at Three Bridges.
Danny Wackett (eye) is a doubt so the versatile John Sinclair could slot into the defence.
Steve said: "It's another difficult game but I know we drew at home to Bridges earlier in the season so we won't go there with any fear. We still have things to work on but there are a lot of positives to take from the Wick game as well. I'm delighted to have signed Andy DuCille who will do a solid job for us."
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| :: Thursday 19th February 2009 :: |
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Fixtures released
County League fixtures for the rest of the season have been released and can be seen on the Fixtures page.
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| :: Wednesday 18th February 2009 :: |
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Wasps reserves held Eastbourne Borough to a 4 - 4 draw at Priory Lane tonight after going 2 - 0 down after 5 minutes, then leading 3 - 2 before equalising near the end through Grant Rigler.
The Under 18s were also away tonight and beat Guildford City 4 - 1 in the Southern Youth League Cup. They will now face Greenwich Borough at home in the quarter finals.
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| :: Tuesday 17th February 2009 :: |
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Worthing United 2, East Grinstead Town 3
JOHN Sinclair scored a debut winner ten minutes from time on Saturday to revive Wasps' bid to avoid the drop and give boss Steve Johnson his first win since taking over at East Court. [Matchday photos]
Grinstead looked to have thrown away the opportunity of a morale-boosting victory against another of the strugglers when they surrendered a 2-0 lead and had goalkeeper Ray Collier sent off in the 74th minute for deliberate handball outside the penalty area.
But Sinclair produced a superb finish with his right foot after turning a defender on the left-hand side of the box and curling his shot inside the far post. Wasps' first win since November 29 lifted them a place to 18th in the table........[Full Match report]
A delighted Johnson said: "John and our other new signing Luke Piscina made a big difference but it was a really good team performance.
"John has loads of energy which is why he was able to do what he did when others were starting to tire but he still feels he can play better.
"It's a great boost for our confidence and the players got a big lift. We played some nice football and I thought the scoreline flattered them a little bit."
Johnson may have another new face in the line-up to face Wick at East Court on Saturday (3pm) after making a seven-day approach to Wealden for former Eastbourne Borough midfielder Andy DuCille.
But other players could be leaving Grinstead as Johnson sets about re-shaping the squad.
Nick Sullivan, who scored the second goal on Saturday, and brother Dan have had their transfer requests to former club Crawley Down agreed with the club waiving the required seven-day approaches.
The club have received a seven-day approach from Three Bridges for Dave Gellatly who is also wanted by Lingfield and Crowborough have come in for Tom Saunders.
Johnson added: "I need players here who are up for the challenge and want to be part of what we are trying to build here, both in the short-term where our sole aim is staying up and long-term too.
"I'm not going to tread on eggshells anymore. If players want to leave then they should speak to me and we will take it from there but I'm surprised at Nick and Dan, who have both been in the team."
Johnson welcomes back midfielder Steve Causon on Saturday and is desperate to put on a good show for Grinstead supporters who haven't seen their side win at East Court since October 4.
He added: "It will be a tough game against a team who are always decent but I would love us to put on a performance for our own supporters. Those who came on Saturday were impressed with what they saw because we are definitely improving."
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| :: Saturday 14th February 2009 :: |
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Worthing United 2, East Grinstead Town 3
The addition of the two new signings John Sinclair and Luke Piscina inspired a confident all round performance from the Wasps in this vital bottom of the table clash. Grinstead went in at half time with a well deserved 2 - 0 lead with a great header from Marc Pelling and a super strike from Nick Sullivan. Southee then pulled the home side equal with two goals in 6 minutes after the break. Ray Collier, playing in goal for Wasps, was shown a red card for an alleged handball which was all the more ironic as the game should have been stopped as the ball came through for a clear offside. Marc Pelling pulled on the goalkeeper's shirt and rather than being stretched with 10 men, Wasps played some good passing football and John Sinclair rounded his debut off with the winning goal with 10 minutes to go........[Full Match report]
The reserves were back in action in the Suburban League and had a good 4 - 2 win over Molesey........[Full Match report] The Third and Fourth Teams rounded off a good day for all the senior Grinstead teams, with 2 - 1 and 5 - 0 victories respectively.
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| :: Friday 13th February 2009 :: |
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Boss Steve Johnson has made two quality additions to the side ahead of tomorrow's important league game against Worthing United.
John Sinclair, who can play in defence or midfield, and striker Luke Piscina have both signed. The boss said: "John and Luke were with me at Crowborough and our supporters will be as made up as I am because they are both really good players.
"John can play anywhere really and has a fantastic engine on him. He is strong and uses the ball well. Luke is very quick - one of the quickest players I have worked with. Ashford, who are going well in the Ryman League, wanted him but he knows John, who has played with Mannie Neville so there is a connection. I'm sure both lads will fit in well."
Steve also revealed that a seven-day approach had been made for Andy DuCille, whose former clubs include Eastbourne Borough. The striker has been playing with Wealden since leaving Crowborough, whom he helped win the County League title last season.
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| :: Wednesday 11th February 2009 :: |
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NEW boss Steve Johnson is stepping up his efforts to re-shape his East Grinstead Town squad ahead of Saturday's relegation battle against Worthing United.
Johnson is due to complete the signing of utility player John Sinclair from his former club Crowborough on Thursday and there could be three more new faces in the side for the clash between the bottom two at Worthing (3pm).
But two players have left the club this week. Skipper Drew Cooney, who has made over 200 first-team appearances for Grinstead, has joined promotion-chasing Horsham YMCA while Luke Gedling, who made his solitary appearance in the 4-0 defeat at Hailsham in Wasps' last outing, has returned to Burgess Hill, one of his former clubs.
Johnson said: "Good players are hard to get, especially in the position we find ourselves in. There is no point in bringing in ten new faces who are no better than what we already have.
"It has been a busy few days but we are making progress. I'm excited about Sinclair who can play in centre midfield or central defence. He's such an all-action player and already knows a couple of our lads which will help him settle in.
"I'm also hoping to sign another three experienced players before Saturday. I'm spinning a lot of plates in the air at the moment and they might not all land until next week but these are players who will definitely improve the side."
Johnson was philosophical about the departures of Gedling and Cooney. He added: "Luke got the offer to return to the Ryman League which he wanted to do. I know a lot of our supporters will be upset that Drew has gone because he has been at the club for a long time and it is disappointing to lose any player who is so well respected but we have to get on with it.
"If we can bring in the four players we are after and add it to what we already have I'm really confident that our results will improve because they are quality additions.
"We haven't had the best of starts since I came to the club but they respect what I do and stand for and it has given me a bit of a fillip too."
Mannie Neville (hamstring) and Dave Gellatly (tonsillitis) are hoping to be fit for selection against United.
Grinstead's trip to Whitehawk last Saturday was postponed together with the reserves' home match against Colliers Wood United.
The reserves entertain Molesey in the Suburban League on Saturday, kick off 3pm.
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| :: Saturday 7th February 2009 :: |
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MATCHES OFF
Today's away match against Whitehawk has been postponed due to a frozen pitch.
Today's reserve match at home to Colliers Wood Utd, the Third Team away at Uckfield Town and Fourth Team at home to Barcombe have also been postponed as have all our youth team home matches. Tomorrow's vets match away to Franklands Village has also been postponed.
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| :: Friday 6th February 2009 :: |
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Reserves match off
Tomorrow's reserve match against Colliers Wood Utd at East Court has been postponed.
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| :: Tuesday 3rd February 2009 :: |
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Tonight's match postponed
Tonight's scheduled Division One match at East Court against Redhill has been postponed.
U16s in County Cup final
Wasps Under 16s earned their place in the County Cup Final on 8th March after beating a good Hove Riverdale side 1 - 0 in Sunday's semi final in Hove. Kieran Towner scored Wasps' first half goal. The final will probably be staged at Lancing FC.
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| :: Monday 2nd February 2009 :: |
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East Grinstead Town 0, Hailsham Town 4
AN eye-catching debut by his first signing Luke Gedling was the only crumb of comfort for new boss Steve Johnson as Wasps sunk deeper into relegation trouble at East Court on Saturday.
Gedling, whose previous clubs include Aldershot, Lewes, Ringmer and Crowborough, was superb in midfield and Johnson is poised to bring in more new faces as he plots a survival course for a Grinstead side drained of confidence after a run of five defeats in their last six games.
This was a must-win game against another of the struggling teams. Instead, Wasps are now six points from safety after their heaviest home defeat of the season and were fortunate not to suffer a bigger reverse. Hailsham hit the post twice and Danny Leach saw his penalty saved by Lee Whibley........[Full Match report]
Johnson said: "I didn't want to be radical when it came to bringing in new faces but seven goals conceded in two games tells its own story.
"The first thing you have to do against any Hailsham team is match them in the battle but we were so far off the pace - we were treading water.
"I won't accept mediocrity. We had some words at half-time and I think most of the players accepted it. We simply cannot afford to play as badly as that again."
This weekend Wasps now embark on a run of four away games out of the next five starting at in-form Whitehawk on Saturday (3pm).
Johnson added: "We will regroup at training this week and hopefully on Saturday I will have been able to add to the squad. I thought Luke was our best player on Saturday with Drew Cooney not far behind but if we play like that again we won't win a game for the rest of the season."
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| :: Tuesday 27th January 2009 :: |
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East Grinstead Town 2, Eastbourne United Association 3
 NEW boss Steve Johnson remains confident he can steer Wasps out of trouble despite his first game in charge on Saturday ending in a fifth County League defeat in their last six games.
Eastbourne's victory took them to the top of the first division but Johnson, who has appointed the experienced Paul Thomsett as his
assistant, sees plenty of reasons for optimism.
He will try and add to the squad this week but says wholesale changes are not required for Grinstead to climb out of trouble.
Johnson said: "For a side struggling near the bottom the quality of our performance and the players surprised me.
"I thought we deserved to take something from the game. We played a new system which worked well and the boys responded to what we asked of them. You can see that confidence is a bit low but that will soon change after a couple of decent results.
"I have got some irons in the fire as regards new players. I think everyone at the club - committee, supporters and players - would
expect one or two signings to lift everyone but we don't need lots of changes."
Wasps have two home games in four days with Hailsham the opponents on Saturday (3pm) followed by a visit from Redhill next Tuesday (7.30pm).
Ben Burns, who made his first start of the season, limped off with an ankle ligament injury which will keep him out for two weeks while Mannie Neville (hamstring) was also absent.
Burns played just behind the front two in a 3-4-1-2 formation but the biggest surprise was the inclusion of Dave Gellatly in the back three with Marc Pelling moving into midfield.........[Full Match report]
"Dave is not fit enough to play central midfield at the moment - he's only just come back after an eight-game suspension," explained Johnson. "It was difficult for him to adjust for ten minutes but I thought he did really well and Marc was a revelation. He scored a great goal and nearly got another."
200 Club Winners
Winners of the 200 Club draw for December were:
1st prize £75, no 113 B McCorquodale
2nd prize £25, no 66 P Presland
3rd prize £10, no 55 B Wallis
Winners of the 200 Club draw for November were:
1st prize £77, no 80 D Moore
2nd prize £27, no 34 M Wrintmore
3rd prize £10, no 37 T Brockbank
Congratulationms to the winners. Don't forget it only costs £4 per month to be in the 200 Club and the more people in it the higher the prize money. Contact Gary Willsher to join or for details by emailing gary.willsher @egtfc.co.uk
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| :: Saturday 24th January 2009 :: |
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East Grinstead Town 2, Eastbourne United Association 3
Wasps played well enough to deserve at least a draw against table topping United. Against the run of play they found themselves two down after 22 minutes. Si Funnell pulled one back from the penalty spot and Marc Pelling hit the crossbar with the keeper well beaten. With 17 minutes to go, United went 3 - 1 up and within a couple of minutes Wasps responded with a great strike by Pelling. [Match report to follow]
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| :: Thursday 22nd January 2009 :: |
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New boss appoints assistant
Steve Johnson hasn't wasted any time appointing a new assistant manager following Graham Rashbrook's decision not to remain at the club.
Paul Thomsett is one of the most well-known names in Sussex non-league football and was delighted to be approached by Steve.
Thommo will be joining the new boss tonight for their first training session with the senior squad and Phil Major, reserve and under-18s manager.
Paul's former clubs include Lewes and Ringmer and earlier this season he was working as joint manager at Wealden.
Former Wasps' boss Bob Smith tried to bring him to East Court in 2006 and Thommo is delighted to have joined Grinstead to work alongside Steve.
Chairman Richard Tramontin said: "I am delighted that Paul has joined Steve's team. He brings a wealth of experience and it is great to have Thommo on board."
Regarding Graham Rashbrook, he added: " Gavin Neville spoke to Graham after he had taken the decision not to remain as coach and regrettably Rashers decided that he would also leave. On behalf of everyone at the club, I would like to thank Rashers for his dedication and all that he has done in the relatively short time he has been at the club and wish him every success in the future. He will always be welcome at East Court."
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| :: Wednesday 21st January 2009 :: |
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WASPS new boss
East Grinstead Town are delighted to confirm the appointment of Steve Johnson as their new first team manager.
Steve has a wealth of managerial experience in Sussex non-league football at Arundel, Burgess Hill Town, Ringmer and most recently Crowborough Athletic.
Chairman Richard Tramontin said: "This is the first time we have gone outside the club for our manager and we are very excited about appointing Steve.
"Steve is very experienced, has a track record of success and the committee were very impressed with his ideas and his passion when we met him earlier this week.
"We are in a difficult position in the league and Steve is well aware that the club needs to keep its first division status if it is continue the progress we have made on and off the field in recent years.
"We still have half our league fixtures to play and we are confident that Steve can galvanise the current squad and, where necessary, add to it as well to bring about an improvement in results."
Steve Johnson said: "I was very keen to get quickly back into management and have heard a lot of good things about East Grinstead. The facilities are among the best in Sussex now and the club is ambitious, but the priority is to make sure we stay up this season and build from there.
"I love being involved in football. You get used to management and being around players. I even got ready for training last Thursday and then realised I wasn't at Crowborough any more! East Grinstead are a progressive club and the people behind the scenes are very passionate about doing well and I can't wait to get started."
Gavin Neville, who has been in charge since Steve Norris resigned in October, was offered a place on the coaching staff but Gavin decided to step down from his role after last night's game against Horsham YMCA which Grinstead lost 5 - 2.........[Full Match report]
Richard Tramontin added: "I would like to place on record the club's gratitude for what Gavin had done since he came to the club in 2006. He is an excellent coach who took over in difficult circumstances this season and was totally dedicated to the club. I fully respect his decision and he will always be welcome at East Court. We wish him every success for the future."
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