Leon Mettam does not have any main season targets since being appointed Wisbech Town’s first team boss ahead of his first league game in charge.
In his mind, he just may well have dreamt of playing a major part in the first win of a new era at Fountain Fresh Park, which was exactly the case.
Only goalkeeper Luke Pearson remained at the club since the end of last season – a season that ended in Wisbech getting relegated from the Northern Premier League Division One Midlands.
Mettam, appointed three weeks ago, was also relegated during his time as assistant manager at Frickley Athletic, so the feeling of hurt was common ground amongst both his former and current clubs.
In football terms, he knew what pain meant as a coach, and that’s something he desperately wants to avoid at the Fenmen.
Wisbech Town in action vs AFC Mansfield in their United Counties League Premier Division North opener. Credit: Dan Mason
Mettam arrived at Wisbech with just one player in the first team, and that was not even outfield.
But by Saturday, July 30, the ex-King’s Lynn Town player brought together a squad of 14 in the season opener against AFC Mansfield in the United Counties League Premier Division North.
Already, kudos is in order.
Supporters were in fine fettle ahead of the game, wanting to back a man who is starting to grow popular in the red of Wisbech.
216 supporters attended Wisbech Town’s first United Counties League game of the season vs AFC Mansfield. Credit: Dan Mason
Wisbech captain Everington showing early signs of quality. Tracking back in midfield, shielding the loose ball to stop a Mansfield attack from causing any further danger, tackling is astute. Important role to play as the visitors grow in confidence. 20’ #fenmen
And for him, when he announced himself onto the pitch after 72 minutes, that popularity shot up by infinity.
The team he fielded for 72 minutes, made up of players from within and outside the club, kept the visitors at bay while creating little themselves in a mundane contest.
It’s certainly not the most thrilling of halves on the pitch, but it sure could get feisty off it, especially in the Wisbech dugout. Some poor decisions made by referee Erno Vadja. #fenmen hoping for no repeat after the break. 41’
It was a match that Mettam admitted he would have “taken a 0-0” in his first competitive game at the helm.
But it was Mettam, who decided then was the time to step up and try to change the complexion of the game. He didn’t disappoint.
Wisbech players run to player-boss Leon Mettam who scored the Fenmen’s winner vs AFC Mansfield. Credit: Dan Mason
As well as leading the team from the dugout, he tried to transfer those leadership qualities to the pitch.
Wisbech grew into a developing force, pushing forward more often and causing a nuisance for the Mansfield defenders.
Ironically, one of the clearest chances all game for the hosts came when Mettam was lurking in the final third.
Kieran Hamilton with the low delivery across the six-yard area, and there was the player-manager to stab home in front of a pack of jubilant home supporters.
GOAL! @wisbechtownfc 1-0 @AFCMansfield: Wisbech in command! Cross on the left goes straight across the near post, and player-boss Mettam gets in front of his defender to poke home into the corner. #fenmen supporters behind that goal go wild! 81’
As the goal was scored, there was delirium that if you attended even some of Wisbech’s home matches last season, was largely non-existent.
Wisbech Town struggled to get a hold of control for large parts vs AFC Mansfield. Credit: Dan Mason
Speaking on his performance and winning goal, Mettam said: “It’s been something I’ve been doing for probably 22 years; that’s something that comes natural to me.”
It’s that natural instinct that Wisbech perhaps could have done with at step four, but nonetheless, a key ingredient they’ve been lacking has now arrived.
But from the 72nd minute on July 30, it was in abundance and on 81 minutes, the noise inside the ground cranked up a notch.
The match was not pretty on the eye; it was clear that Wisbech remain a work in progress both on and off the pitch.
FT: @wisbechtownfc 1-0 @AFCMansfield: It’s the player-manager Leon Mettam that comes on and scores a late winner to lift the spirits of the Wisbech faithful. Mansfield threatened in stages, but when Mettam entered the fray, the #fenmen never looked back. Perfect start.
Action from Wisbech Town vs AFC Mansfield. Credit: Dan Mason
But Mettam’s impact in three weeks has provided Wisbech Town with the feeling of something they have not felt for many months.
In fact, without Mettam’s courage to step forward, Wisbech might not have even been able to compete at all.
“I said to the chairman when I came in that I probably won’t have a squad that I want till Christmastime,” said Mettam.
“I know we need to be better, the boys know we need to be better but if they’re willing to show me they can get better, then things won’t need to be changed as drastically as we first thought.”
Leon Mettam came on as a substitute to strike the winner for Wisbech Town vs AFC Mansfield. Credit: Dan Mason
This depicts that work is most likely still to done if this season’s first team is going to reach its peak.
He says there is no magic wand if Wisbech are to return to the heights of step four, as he looks to take a stress-free approach to management at the Fenmen.
But with Mettam in command, there is early euphoria, hope and a determination to improve on past wrongdoings that has given Wisbech a step to build on, and a goal that they are now starting to work towards.
Wisbech Town: Luke Pearson; Owen Howard, Kieran Hamilton, Kris Masiarz, Chris Ward, Archie Wallace, Patrik Kacirek, Kegan Everington (C), Kyle Onyon (sub Leon Mettam, 72’), Cenk Acer, Mo Janneh.
Unused subs: Joe Harris, Rob Breide.
Cautions: Wisbech Town – Howard (dissent), Mettam (foul).
A sad day for local journalism in the Cambridgeshire Fens will be coming soon.
And sadly, it might not be the last.
The Cambs Times, a staple of society in the Fenland town of March and surrounding towns and villages, will cease print publication in August.
It is one of a handful of other local newspaper titles in the east that will no longer print as decided by Newsquest.
The reasons made by Newsquest, the company taking over the Cambs Times’ publisher Archant, for its decision to stop printing the newspaper are understandable and reflect what local journalism is heading towards in future in order for it to survive.
When a decision to close the newspaper was made, it came during the month where the Cambs Times turned 150-years-old.
A lot has changed since 1872 – reporters, offices, how the news is brought to you.
But wanting to inform, educate and entertain the community that newspaper serves has been integral throughout its existence.
I’ve grown up knowing the Cambs Times was one of my local newspapers, which comes out on Fridays.
“The impact of local journalism in print was perhaps far greater than today”
When my grandfather, Bill Bradshaw, sought a career in journalism it was the Cambs Times and the Wisbech Standard that helped make his name as a journalist.
In the lead-up to becoming editor and as editor, he knew what local news meant to readers, why it was important to report that news and served the Fens the best he could.
There was no website to publish onto in those days, so the impact of local journalism in print was perhaps far greater than today.
And by doing so, my grandfather ensured the newspapers he served such as the Cambs Times became well-respected and a ‘go-to’ for local news in the Fens.
Whether that was a man in court, photographs from a village fete or an FA Cup tie, the Cambs Times had it covered.
The importance of having a local newspaper grew paramount with readers, and nowadays especially for those who don’t read online.
For many, the Cambs Times acted as a backbone to developing their journalistic/media careers, a ‘good grounding’ if you like.
“One feeling that is hard to beat is seeing your name and work in print”
It was the place where I was given the chance to learn what a journalist is, what the industry is about, the medium of print and how important it is to tell readers the stories that matter.
Even if some of the news you see in print and online is developed from social media, such as a crash reported by police, a series of blazes from the fire service or a resident’s claim that turned out to be true – that’s news.
In fact, if it wasn’t newsworthy, there would be no point in reporting it.
Another key learning curve the Cambs Times has provided is the art of speaking to people from different walks of life.
From the retiring shop owner to an investigation on councillors misbehaving, these are just some examples of how getting involved in what’s happening in the local community has made the Cambs Times a ‘go-to’.
It is these opportunities that working for a local newspaper can bring you which other places may not, and can build skills you may never thought you would have.
A sad day, particularly for the @cambstimes which in fact turned 150-years-old this month. But it is not completely 'the end', which for many that know, grown up with or have read the newspaper, may be pleased to hear. https://t.co/MKYrb4v7yW
One feeling that is hard to beat, whether as a regular reporter or a contributor, is seeing your name and work in print.
That feeling of seeing what you have produced told to different people across the community that newspaper serves, whether that’s front page or near the back, is something to be proud of.
Some of those people that were the focus of those articles that made it to print may have been pleased to see their name had ‘made it’, while others perhaps not so much. That’s the nature of the journalistic beast.
As well as news, the back pages were the places I took pride in, whether that was a match report or a player interview. The happiness of seeing sports stories grace this section never grew old, even if the amount of sport had diminished.
That’s the beauty of local journalism.
“The end is not completely nigh”
In recent years, times have changed when it comes to local journalism, where print has suffered the most.
For example, the number of sport pages in the Cambs Times has reduced significantly compared to what it was, such as in my grandfather’s day.
This change has attracted criticism from readers who may remember the Cambs Times from years ago, but readers should not feel like their concerns have not been taken on board.
As a local sports fan, this was hard to take, but a decision that may well have helped the newspaper sustain its future for longer than it might have done.
The end is not completely nigh, though, as the Cambs Times website will still be functioning, so local stories can still be told but just not in the traditional format.
This long-standing title will continue to serve its local community and other parts of the county, too, in the hope that in the digital age, it will become a sustainable ship to sail.
Sustainable not just from a corporate viewpoint, but for those who produce the content that you see online and in print, trying to do those before us proud.
One day, I and perhaps many others hope that the Cambs Times will return in print in the not too distant future.
But as long as the Cambs Times and Wisbech Standard, plus the Ely Standard and other local titles are still serving the readers it has longed to serve for decades past, local journalism in the Fens can remain intact.
It’s back to business for some of our local cricket clubs, with many kicking off their campaigns over the early May bank holiday weekend.
Wisbech Town already began their charge towards promotion from Whiting & Partners Division One of the Cambs & Hunts Premier League and were looking for back-to-back triumphs.
And they did just that when they comfortably beat Stamford Town, the same opponent as on April 23, at Harecroft Road seven days later.
Wisbech, who won by 100 runs at Stamford in the reverse fixture, decided to defend their score by electing to bat first.
And once again, that decision worked just fine. Having slumped to 25-2, the partnership of Sam Albutt and Jamie Seabrook proved vital to lift the home side’s fortunes.
The pair propelled James Williams’ men from 92-3 to 200-4, with a combined 179 runs scored between them.
Seabrook also continued his fine early season form with the bat, adding 97 to a previous 117 he notched at Stamford across the two games.
And despite the best efforts of visiting batsman Zak Chappell’s 86, Wisbech successfully defended their 328-8 total.
The experienced Gary Freear alongside Chris Clark claimed three wickets apiece as Stamford could only muster 236-9 after 50 overs.
Wisbech 2nds fell just short in their first Whiting & Partners Division Three contest at Cambourne.
The hosts, who chose to bat, weathered the Brodie Ellis storm who took 3-66 as Cambourne posted a total of 246-6 after 45 overs.
After a strong response in bat, Jason Esser’s 74 off 112 balls failed to close the gap in time as Wisbech managed 220-8.
As for March Town, they were left to rue a loss of five wickets for 34 runs at home to Foxton Granta on Saturday.
Adam Conyard in action for March Town. Credit: Dan Mason
Overseas all-rounder Aron Visser came in at number three for the hosts, scoring 45 on his Crows debut as he and Brandon Phillips’ half-century steered March to 181-3.
But after surpassing the 200-run mark, wickets came in quick succession as the visitors restricted the home side from 205-6 to 239 all out at The Avenue.
In reply, a shaky start saw Foxton reduced to 22-2, Ross Clarke and Shae Pooley starring with both claiming two wickets each.
Udana Ranathunga in bat for March Town vs Foxton Granta. Credit: Dan Mason
But joy with the ball was short-lived as Foxton recovered to reach the required total with five overs and four wickets to spare.
March 2nds were on the receiving end of defeat thanks to losing by 175 runs at Horseheath.
A 275 all out target proved too strong for the visitors, who were dismissed in under 22 overs in their first game of the CCA Senior League Division season.
Udana Ranathunga nearly caught out for March Town. Credit: Dan MasonClaims for LBW against Udana Ranathunga are dismissed. Credit: Dan Mason
Meanwhile, Chatteris prevailed by seven wickets at home to Longstanton Grasshoppers. Chatteris elected to field and, chasing down 168 all out, reached their target with three overs left.
And there was more delight for the club’s 2nds who triumphed by four wickets at Over and Willingham in CCA Junior League Division Two North.
Luke and Harry Matthews both claimed four wickets each as the hosts were all out for 123, which Chatteris reached in 34 overs.
Udana Ranathunga falls to the crease after being caught LBW for March Town. Credit: Dan Mason
As for City of Ely, there was not as much luck at Histon 2nds in CCA Senior League Division One.
An unbeaten 51 from Liam Green helped Ely, who were stranded at 5-1, register 243-9 after 45 overs having been put into bat.
But it was the turn of Histon opener Stuart Cronin, who knocked an unbeaten 119 to earn his team the victory.
Wilburton’s decision to field first backfired in their opening CCA Senior League Division Two clash.
Visitors Wilbrahams were put into bat and after posting 208-9, managed to protect that lead when they bowled their hosts out for 118 at The Piece Ground.
Adam Conyard scored 17 in March Town’s defeat to Foxton Granta. Credit: Dan Mason
In the Rutland League, Wisbech Town were put to the sword thanks to an imperious display from Peterborough Town on May 1.
Wicket-keeper Josh Bowers delivered a top score of 48 for Wisbech to help post 143-7, but the reigning Division One champions were in no mood to slow down.
Chris Milner’s and Alex Mitchell’s combined 122 helped the hosts reach 144-1 with nearly 25 overs to spare.
March Town’s overseas signing Aron Visser in action. Credit: Dan MasonAron Visser narrowly escapes dismissal for March Town. Credit: Dan Mason
March Town suffered successive Division Two defeats following a five-wicket reverse at home to Whittlesey.
After March were skittled for 102, the best efforts of Kian Pooley’s 3-7 in reply were unable to stop the visitors who reached the required target with five wickets in hand.
FIXTURES
Saturday, May 7
CAMBS LEAGUE
Whiting & Partners Division One (12pm start): Cambridge St Giles vs Wisbech Town; Eaton Socon vs March Town.
Whiting & Partners Division Three: Wisbech Town 2nds vs Orton Park (12.30pm).
CCA Senior League Division One (1pm start): March Town 2nds vs Royston; Chatteris vs Cambridge NCI; Abington vs City of Ely.
CCA Senior League Division Two: Fulbourn Institute vs Wilburton (1pm).
CCA Junior League Division Two North (1.30pm start): Wisbech Town 3rds vs Kimbolton 2nds; City of Ely 2nds vs St Ives & Warboys 2nds.
CCA Junior League Division Three North (1.30pm start): March Town 3rds vs Burwell & Exning 2nds (1.30pm at Doddington); Wilburton 2nds vs Longstanton Grasshoppers 2nds.
CCA Junior League Division Five North: St Ives & Warboys 4ths vs Wilburton 3rds (1.30pm).
Sunday, May 8
RUTLAND LEAGUE
Division One: Uppingham Town vs Wisbech Town (12.30pm).
Division Two: March Town vs Werrington (12.30pm).
HUNTS LEAGUE
Division Five: Buckden vs City of Ely.
NATIONAL VILLAGE CUP (Cambs and Norfolk)
Second Round: Overstrand vs Wilburton.
FENLAND TROPHY
Haddenham Development vs Chatteris; St Ives & Warboys Development vs March Town.
With their fate at step four football sealed on Easter Monday following defeat at already-relegated Soham Town Rangers, they were instead aiming to perform the role of party-poopers.
On paper, it was a tough ask to execute this game plan against an Ilkeston Town team that had lost just two away games in the Northern Premier League Division One Midlands all season.
But an unlikely win on the final day, which would have been Wisbech’s sixth league triumph this term and they would deny their well-supported visitors the title.
And the Fenmen, who were zapped of pride over the Easter weekend, managed to instil that fighting spirit they have been mostly lacking, with the exception of ‘that’ 5-1 win at Histon earlier this month.
Ahead of the game, Wisbech manager Allan Ross committed his future to the club for next season, a positive note for supporters who have seen rather too many negatives over the last eight months.
That positivity was shining through early on at Fountain Fresh Park, where striker Sam Bennett was denied a run on goal by an important tackle from Kieran Fenton.
More on Fenton to come.
It was a cagey opening 16 minutes which the league leaders mostly controlled, and had Remaye Campbell hit the target from close range, the celebrations may well have started early.
What a miss! Ilkeston break through on the right as Montel Gibson tests Luke Pearson, before Ramaye Campbell blazes horribly over from close range. Visitors should be a goal up. 16’ #fenmen
Campbell, instead, skied into the car park after Wisbech goalkeeper Luke Pearson parried Montel Gibson’s effort into the striker’s path.
Ilkeston were determined to make their efforts pay off and, as top teams get at any level, fortune headed their way courtesy of referee Alistair Wilson.
With two Wisbech players down hurt, the next phase of play saw Ilkeston win a free-kick around 20 yards from goal, which Fenton beautifully whipped into the top corner on 37 minutes.
GOAL! @wisbechtownfc 0-1 @ilkestontown_fc: Fenton steps up to take the resulting free-kick, around 20 or so yards out on the left. He curls pinpoint into the top left corner past a diving Pearson. Ilkeston fans behind that goal go crazy. 37’ #fenmen
The travelling Ilkeston contingent could not care less how the goal was scored or the build-up, but this did set back the hosts who were fortunate to remain one behind thanks to Pearson’s heroics.
As just reward for their solid shape, Wisbech resumed the second half with more vigour having endured plenty of Ilkeston pressure and went close through Jack Keeble’s header moments from the restart.
Avelino Vieira also volleyed a shot over from a tight angle, as the table-toppers were forced to defend.
Avelino Vieira is deep inside the Ilkeston half and is teed up for a volley from a tight angle. High it goes and no trouble for the visitors. 59’ #fenmen
But the hosts were caught napping in midfield and as Daniel Bradley guided his way into the Fenmen penalty area, he was adjudged to have been fouled. Penalty kick.
Wilson was fast becoming a Wisbech supporters’ enemy, and when Campbell struck from 12 yards on 63 minutes, the official was concentrating on off-field antics rather than what was taking place on the pitch.
GOAL! @wisbechtownfc 0-2 @ilkestontown_fc: Campbell steps up and makes no mistake, placing into the bottom corner. Pearson went the right way, but the ball was placed too precisely for the #fenmen ‘keeper. 63’
Nonetheless, Ross continued to rally his players as he and the supporters were rewarded with a first home goal since March 19.
As Finlay Armond found a few yards of space to pick a teammate, he fed the run of Bennett off the shoulder of the last defender, to poke into the bottom corner with 12 minutes of normal time remaining.
The deficit now halved thanks to a tidy finish from a player that has become his team’s main focal point in recent months.
GOAL! @wisbechtownfc 1-2 @ilkestontown_fc: The hosts are back in it! Armond finds space in midfield and picks out the run of Sam Bennett, on the shoulder of the last defender, to take a touch and poke into the bottom corner. 78’ #fenmen
Wisbech could well have earned a point had Ilkeston shot-stopper Saul Deeney not denied Danny Draper from underneath his own crossbar with a stinging drive.
It was an anxious moment for the Robins, who were on the defensive against a resurgent home team aiming to end their last game at step four on a high.
Ilkeston managed to cling onto the victory, the league title and with it, the ecstasy of promotion.
Despite a 30th league defeat of the season, Wisbech should be proud of their dogged and sometimes entertaining performance against a side with just too much quality in all areas.
The taste of relegation may be raw, but as their four-year spell at step four comes to an end, it may well be what needed to happen if the Fenmen are to once again become a ruthless force to be reckoned with.
Wisbech Town: Luke Pearson; Corey Newman, Harrison Taylor, Jack Keeble, Luke Wilson (C) (sub Josh Lewis), Layton Maddison (sub Theo Lukyamuzi), Avelino Vieira (sub Dan Hempson), Finlay Armond, Sam Bennett, Sam Murphy, Danny Draper.
Cautions: Wisbech Town – none.
Man of the match: Jack Keeble.
Referee: Mr Alistair Wilson.
Attendance: 414.
Reaction
Manager Allan Ross has committed to Wisbech Town for the 2022-23 season. Credit: Dan Mason
Allan Ross was left smiling with glee after Wisbech Town showed a performance he, supporters and his players could be proud of.
Wisbech fought back resiliently against visitors Ilkeston Town, who claimed the Northern Premier League Division One Midlands title with a 2-1 victory at Fountain Fresh Park on April 23.
The scoreline was accurate of how close the hosts were to earning a point against the newly-crowned champions, which Ross agreed with.
“We felt towards the end we would probably steal another goal; we weren’t going to win the game, but a draw was a fair result,” he said.
“I felt some pride as manager that what we’ve gone through, for the players to compete, I was proud of them.
“Ilkeston wanted to make sure they weren’t nervous, but I felt they were as the way we played, we were in and around the game.
“I felt they struggled second half and we were the better team.”
Ahead of kick-off, Ross confirmed he would be staying as manager for the 2022-23 season when Wisbech will play at step five for the first time in four years.
“We’ve already identified six or seven players we know that we want”
And the work towards an instant return to step four has already begun in his commitment to help rebuild the team.
“I’ve done so much off the pitch and hopefully the fans could see the performance against the league champions that we’re moving forwards,” said Ross.
“We’ve got to nail down seven, eight of the players we’ve got. We’ve already identified six or seven we know that we want.
“My aim is setting the foundations and if we can come out with a good cup run and be in top three or four for majority of the season, I’ll be over the moon.”
“I think they’ve seen the work me and my backroom team have put in”
Wisbech have been projected to return to the United Counties League, but whichever league they play in, that is irrelevant to Ross.
He told the club website that he aims to turn “thorns into roses”, and one of the ways he looks to achieve that is developing players through the youth team.
But despite relegation, he is confident he is connecting with supporters through the commitment he is giving to Wisbech.
” I know they can be fickle but I think they’ve seen the work me and my backroom team have put in,” he added.
“I’ve been overwhelmed, which has allowed me to commit to the club because they can see the commitment we’re putting in.
“It gives me the confidence that what I’ve been doing is right, but now we need to take it to the next level quickly.”
Elsewhere in the Fens
Soham Town Rangers finished their Northern Premier League Division One Midlands season with a 2-2 at Bedworth United.
Windsor Elumelu and Hilton Arthur scored Soham’s goals, who finish one place above Wisbech in 19th.
March Town capped off their return to the Eastern Counties League Premier Division with a 10th-placed finish.
The Hares, who were playing in the Premier Division five for the first time since 1997, were beaten 2-0 at Mildenhall Town.
Super striker Sam Bennett was the star of the show as Wisbech Town secured a series of firsts in what turned out to be their biggest win of the season.
Bennett also starred in what could be a crucial victory for the Fenmen as their quest to cement a relegation play-off place in the Northern Premier League Division One Midlands was dramatically bolstered at Histon.
Two goals in three first half minutes led Wisbech on their way, a surprising start from a team winless since December 27 against a side unbeaten in their last five home league games.
After Bennett saw a sixth-minute shot blocked, Town utilised the throw-in prowess of captain Luke Wilson, which sprung to full effect when Danny Draper pounced to drill home.
GOAL! @HistonFC 0-1 @wisbechtownfc: Histon fail to clear a Luke Wilson throw-in on the left. Danny Draper collects possession, forces his way into the penalty box and drills a shot into the bottom corner past a diving Roach. 16’ #fenmen
Danny Draper celebrates Wisbech Town’s opening goal at Histon. Credit: Dan Mason
On 19 minutes, it was a near carbon copy of Draper’s opener when Wilson launched a throw-in into the Histon penalty area, this time flicked on by Sam Murphy for Bennett to smash a back-post volley into the corner.
The Stutes won the reverse fixture 2-1 in August, but they soon realised they were up against a resurgent Fenmen team fighting for their step four lives.
Sam Bennett’s first goal for Wisbech found its way beyond the reach of Sam Roach. Credit: Dan MasonSam Bennett and his teammates celebrate with Wisbech supporters at Histon. Credit: Dan Mason
GOAL! @HistonFC 0-2 @wisbechtownfc: Another throw-in by Wilson on the right this time, and same result! Flicked on by Sam Murphy and Bennett is lurking at the back post to volley home. The #fenmen supporters behind that goal go wild! 19’
That proved the case when Bennett exploited Histon’s defensive frailties once more to latch onto Layton Maddison’s aerial pass to drill into the near post past Sam Roach.
Sam Bennett scores his second and Wisbech’s third goal at Histon. Credit: Dan MasonWisbech Town supporters cheer in unison after Sam Bennett makes it 3-0 at Histon. Credit: Dan Mason
And three unanswered goals inside 30 minutes were not enough for Wisbech, who looked to punish their hosts even more.
GOAL! @HistonFC 0-3 @wisbechtownfc: From defence to attack, executed perfectly. Long ball from Maddison I believe towards the run of Bennett. The ball comes off the striker’s back, fortunately into his path one on one with Roach, and beats him at the near post. 30’ #fenmen
The strange pointer of this half was that Histon had not committed many errors, nor did they attack with much poise, to deserve to be three goals adrift.
That gap increased when Bennett, who picked himself up after being fouled in the penalty area, netted the spot-kick to earn his treble.
What summed up an extraordinary first half was Wisbech’s next move, thanks to the impressive Sam Murphy.
Sam Murphy hugs Wisbech Town supporters after his superb strike at Histon. Credit: Dan Mason
Murphy is perhaps known more so for his ability to thwart danger from the opposition, but in a half where Wisbech played with the quality of a promotion-chasing outfit, he was able to push further forward.
The midfielder took his chance, around 20 yards from goal, to find the top corner with an audacious effort and give the visitors a 5-0 half-time lead.
GOAL! @HistonFC 0-5 @wisbechtownfc: Murphy collects possession around 25 yards from goal as Wisbech win the ball in Histon territory. He takes a touch, and swipes the ball into the top corner as #fenmen supporters urged him to shoot. Sensational strike. 42’
A performance that took nearly all at Bridge Road by surprise, which even left club officials wondering when Wisbech last achieved such a feat.
To put the magnitude of that first 45 minutes into context, before meeting Histon on April 9, Allan Ross’ side had scored just eight times in 17 away league games.
Improvement from Histon was to come, and six minutes after the restart they found their groove thanks to Ed Rolph’s header.
An inevitable wave of home pressure was soon to embark on a Wisbech team full of renewed hope that they can pull off the great escape.
It did seem that pressure was paying off for the hosts when they won a penalty of their own, but luck was to turn in favour of the Fenmen when Luke Pearson became Wisbech’s latest hero.
Saved by Pearson! York steps up and tries to pick out the bottom corner, but Pearson dives the right way and comfortably saves. It remains 5-1 to Wisbech. 67’ #fenmen
Pearson got down to his bottom corner to deny Max York a second Histon goal and perhaps a clearer sight of an almighty comeback.
But thanks to the Wisbech goalkeeper, that comeback never came and their misery was compounded when Charlie Lewis was sent off for a foul on substitute Theo Lukyamuzi.
Referee Tom Hancock waves away Histon protests after Wisbech substitute Theo Lukyamuzi is fouled. Credit: Dan Mason
Not the most thrilling of halves, but a period where Town managed to remain composed, defiant and upbeat after conceding when all hope could well have been lost.
The 5-1 win, Wisbech’s biggest this season, lifts them off the bottom and three points behind 18th-placed Histon with three games to play.
FT: @HistonFC 1-5 @wisbechtownfc: Not as thrilling a second half as Wisbech would have liked, but they won’t care. It’s Allan Ross’ first win as manager, the #fenmen’s first victory since December and a triumph that takes them closer to that elusive step four lifeline.
It is a performance that showed the quality of a team that is not ready to give up the battle for step four survival, and a message that this season is not over yet.
Wisbech Town: Luke Pearson; Corey Newman, Harrison Taylor, Jack Keeble, Luke Wilson (C), Layton Maddison, Avelino Vieira (sub Dan Hempson), Finlay Armond, Sam Bennett (sub Theo Lukyamuzi), Sam Murphy, Danny Draper.
Unused sub: Jude Adebayo.
Cautions: Wisbech Town – Murphy, Bennett.
Man of the match: Sam Bennett.
Referee: Mr Tom Hancock.
Attendance: 237.
Reaction
Allan Ross marked his first win since taking charge of Wisbech Town with a 5-1 thumping of Histon. Credit: Dan Mason
Manager Allan Ross felt triumph for his Wisbech Town team was inevitable as he marked his first victory in charge.
The Fenmen exploded into life under Ross after their 5-1 mauling of Histon, with all five goals coming before half-time.
“We had a feeling it would come and it exploded,” said Ross.
“I’ve set seeds over the last few months; you won’t see a forest over a few weeks, but it felt like it was coming.
Wisbech’s win at Histon was their first league victory since December 2021. Credit: Dan Mason
“We’ve had good performances and we kept saying one team’s going to get it and on Saturday, we shone.”
That win was Ross’ first since taking the hotseat in February, a run that has seen Wisbech lose six straight games in the Northern Premier League Division One Midlands.
“I knew we weren’t going to lose”
But since getting his starting line-up training together, belief within the squad has been rekindled.
“We’ve got the loyal players that played their hearts out, the new boys that have come into not the best of atmospheres and I’ve backed them,” he said.
“I knew we weren’t going to lose.
“I’m putting in the work behind the scenes and I can see with the players that stuck by me are putting in the work, too.
“It felt like everything we did in training came to fruition.”
“If I can build a team around players like Sam, our future is very bright”
Ross heaped praise on striker Sam Bennett, who since arriving last year, has lifted the spirits of his fellow teammates.
He is one player that the ex-Bourne Town chief feels can now express themselves more so on and off the pitch.
“Sam is an absolute professional; if I can build a team around players like Sam, our future’s very bright,” said Ross.
Manager Allan Ross believes players at Wisbech Town “can now start to express themselves”. Credit: Dan Mason
“We had some characters in the changing room that were toxic, but they’ve gone and people can now start to express themselves.”
Wisbech could jump above Histon into the relegation play-off spot with victory at home to Chasetown on April 16, 3pm, who are mounting a title charge.
“That organisation on the pitch can beat anybody”
Victory at Fountain Fresh Park has been a rare feeling this campaign, but Ross believes a similar display to the first half on Saturday is capable of beating anyone.
“You could see the set plays, the way we’re scoring goals, we had a pattern of play,” he added.
“The players understand what I expect from them – winning first balls, tracking runners.
“That organisation on the pitch against Histon can beat anybody.”
Ross’ men then prepare for another relegation six-pointer at Soham Town Rangers on Easter Monday, 3pm.
Elsewhere in the Fens
Soham Town Rangers dropped to the bottom of the Northern Premier League Division One Midlands with defeat as Wisbech won.
The Greens were beaten 2-0 at home by Spalding United, a result that leaves them one point behind the Fenmen and four points from the relegation play-off spot.
Lloyd Groves and Matt Clements aim to guide Soham to a first win in four league outings at Shepshed Dynamo next Saturday, 3pm.
Adam Capel scored for Ely City in their 5-1 defeat at Lakenheath in the Eastern Counties Premier Division on Friday night.
Ely visit Wroxham on April 16 before finishing their season against Thetford Town at the Demcom Stadium, both 3pm.
March Town were without a game this weekend and host Mulbarton Wanderers in the same division next Saturday before a trip to Lakenheath two days later, both 3pm.
In Eastern Counties League First Division North, Whittlesey Athletic’s play-off fate will be decided on the final game after they failed to take advantage.
Athletic would have leapfrogged Framlingham Town, who were not in action this weekend, with victory at title-chasing Sheringham before losing 2-1 in Norfolk.
Ricky Hailstone’s men now need to win against Debenham LC at Feldale on April 16, 3pm, and hope Framlingham drop points at Great Yarmouth Town to seal fifth place.
In the same division, FC Parson Drove lost 4-0 at home to leaders Harleston Town while Wisbech St Mary ended their season with a creditable goalless draw with Peterborough North End.
Drove finish their campaign at Downham Town next Saturday, 3pm.
After two outings in the commentary box, it’s so far so good, but only on a personal level.
In terms of the football team I am actually commentating on, though, not so good and perhaps that was to be a possibility.
It’s now two home defeats in as many games since I took to the commentary position for March Town’s most recent fixtures at the GER, both coming against top five opposition.
Narrating a non-league football match has been an idea in the pipeline for a number of months now, purely because it was a new experience that I had not encountered before while covering a sport I love.
But only a few days before March 19 did I plan for it to come to fruition.
And with the aid of video-master Martin, who films March’s home games for the club most weeks, that idea has managed to take off.
March 19 marks the first time I took to a microphone to spectate, commentate and evaluate a football match of any kind in verbal form.
I knew the preparation had to be right, but I had comfort knowing the video and audio were taken care of by Martin so I could sound as professional as possible.
It was one of March’s toughest tests of the season as they put their unbeaten Eastern Counties League Premier Division run on the line against title favourites Wroxham, and the visitors showed why they are where they are.
Today marked the end of an enjoyable and lengthy unbeaten league run for @MarchTownFC. 14 and out, but it had to take a high-quality team in @The_Yachtsmen to beat them. The result was true of the balance in play, but the fighting spirit from the #hares was there for all to see.
As well as watching the Hares crumble to a strong outfit, and with it their four-month undefeated streak, another task of keeping an eye on play every minute that passed while sometimes playing a personal game of ‘Who’s Who’.
A learning curve to say the least, but one I felt happy to take on in a bid to not sound out of tune.
Luckily that day, the sun was shining but the wind was very much a force, so keeping tabs on preparatory notes as well as the action was putting my multi-tasking skills to the test.
The game ended 3-0 to Wroxham, and two weeks later I was back in position to see if March could find their winning mojo again.
FT: @MarchTownFC 0-3 @The_Yachtsmen: Much better from the hosts after the break, as they threatened the Wroxham rearguard centrally and out wide. The visitors had a golden chance to add a fourth, but overall, a disappointing end to March’s long unbeaten league run. #hares
This time, another Norfolk side in Norwich United were the visitors, and again, preparation and testing ahead of the game were key challenges I felt were accomplished once more.
With how the first half played out, it was a challenge in itself to find any interesting parts to mention excluding one key chance for either team.
HT: @MarchTownFC 0-0 @NorwichUnitedFC: On paper, this game looked like a close affair and it’s certainly panned out that way. Craig Gillies with March’s clearest chance, denied by goalkeeper Mark Camidge. United have pushed themselves, but not troubling the #hares so far.
And as I stood in position in a scaffolding tower created by Martin, wind gusts slowly declining in speed, hopes for an improved second half were very much alive.
So it proved to be… but again, not in favour of the Hares.
A half riddled with costly errors meant most of my time on commentary was spent describing how United carved their way to three goals with only one reply, a Craig Gillies penalty.
FT: @MarchTownFC 1-3 @NorwichUnitedFC: March undone by second half errors, including two United goals in 13 minutes. Gillies’ penalty halved the deficit with six minutes to go, but a late mistake proved costly as the visitors pounced to win this 6th vs 5th battle. #hares
On the pitch, back-to-back home reverses for March have not led to overall satisfaction, but commentary has certainly been a skill I am very much inclined to take on more often.
Last month, there was some triumph to celebrate on the same pitch.
When I attended the North Cambs Junior Cup final between Chatteris Town and Whittlesey Athletic Reserves at the GER, one asked if I would be reporting on the game.
Chatteris Town with the North Cambs Junior Cup after beating Whittlesey Athletic Reserves 3-2 at the GER. Credit: Spencer Holl
Not that night, as I watched on amid a healthy crowd to see Chatteris regain some of that glory they have been missing in recent years, coincidentally since the days of current March Town manager Ash Taylor.
In fact, watching that 3-2 win for the Lilies was more enjoyable than if I had been reporting on the game, which I enjoy but in a non-partisan way.
Whittlesey Athletic Reserves had taken the lead but were ultimately outdone in this season’s North Cambs Junior Cup final. Credit: Spencer Holl
What turned out to be a thrilling first half ended in the same way as @ChatterisTownFC win the North Cambs Junior Cup, 3-2 vs @WhittleseyAthFC Reserves. Safe to say their win is in tact. On this evidence, not sure about the cup itself. #liliespic.twitter.com/obeVktFpKy
Two second half substitutes proved vital in Ely City’s chances of earning a comeback victory, but a late defensive mishap was the ultimate drawback.
The introduction of Louis Jenkins and Callum Chambers-Shaw helped spark City into life after a disappointing first half, which a stubborn Whitton United led.
A spirited City response came, but as all too often this season, their hopes of triumph were dashed by a team who frustrated their hosts for much of this contest on March 26.
It is a sixth 2-2 draw of the campaign for Ely in the Eastern Counties Premier Division, as their search for a first home league win since November continues.
Whitton’s Kyron Andrews troubled the home defence for much of the first period, forcing Robins goalkeeper Harry Reynolds to tip over from underneath his own crossbar.
Chance for Whitton to test Harry Reynolds in the Ely goal. Kyron Andrews with a close-range effort stinging the palms of the #robins goalkeeper who tips over. Resulting corner comes to nothing. 16’
Ely, who were missing striker Ryan Gibbs due to illness, saw their first clear opening came two minutes later when Luke Young flashed wide from close-range.
And as City thought they were about to take the lead through Alex Theobald’s header, they were caught on the counter-attack through live-wire Andrews.
Goalkeeper Jack Spurling launched the resulting goal-kick, and as the ball found Andrews, he carved an opening in the Ely rearguard to slot coolly underneath a rushing Reynolds on 30 minutes.
GOAL! @ElyCityFC 0-1 @WhittonUnitedFC: From the resulting goal-kick, Whitton are on the attack and Andrews is played through. He is one on one with Reynolds and calmly slots under the rushing ‘keeper. 30’ #robins
Spurling performed solidly for Whitton, who have not enjoyed an away league win since January 15 and was called into action to scupper Ash Walter’s hopes of an equaliser.
Equally for the visitors, Miles Powell perhaps should have doubled the advantage after latching onto an Ely mistake, but failed to do so.
Lucky let-off for City, who were in desperate need of a half-time regroup.
HT: @ElyCityFC 0-1 @WhittonUnitedFC: Frustrating to say the least for Ely, who have been fooled by a lack of quality with some decisions perhaps not going their way. Whitton, however, are interfering with the hosts’ usual flowing style and have a deserved lead. #robins
Their annoyance was compounded by some rather questionable refereeing decisions by Ramona Bria, decisions which joint-boss Luke McAvoy has come to accept.
But signs of the free-flowing style that City can possess was evident, as they forced Whitton on the defensive soon after the break.
It seemed luck would turn in Ely’s favour as Young won and took a 67th-minute penalty, only to be stopped by a superb one-handed stop from Spurling.
Save by Spurling! Young goes to the bottom right corner and the Whitton ‘keeper makes a superb one-handed stop and the danger is cleared. It remains 1-0’to the visitors. 67’ #robins
Jenkins, a second half substitute, sprung into action and sped along the right wing wondering when the right time to cross for the run of Chambers-Shaw would come.
And the cross was inch-perfect for the midfielder to latch onto as his strike trickled into the corner.
A lightning impact from Chambers-Shaw after replacing Theobald on 73 minutes, around 60 seconds before his goal which he is sure to claim.
GOAL! @ElyCityFC 1-1 @WhittonUnitedFC: The two substitutes combine as Jenkins is freed on the right. He crosses towards Chambers-Shaw who will claim it as he battled with a defender for the ball. Six yards out, Spurling caught flat-footed as the ball trickles in. #robins
Times got even better for Ely when Luke Crisp, denied once by Spurling from point-blank range, fired home to the delight of the young Robins faithful behind that goal.
But, as often has been the case for City this term, their resistance to hang onto a narrow lead was broken, this time by a left-sided cross.
GOAL! @ElyCityFC 2-1 @WhittonUnitedFC: Pinball inside the Whitton six-yard area and it eventually falls to Luke Crisp. His first effort is saved by Spurling, before the defender slots the rebound into the roof of the net from close-range. Turnaround complete! 79’ #robins
GOAL! @ElyCityFC 2-2 @WhittonUnitedFC: And the visitors are level as a throw-in is flicked goalwards by captain Josh Hubert, who beats Reynolds. Puts his hands to his ears in celebration as he taunts the home supporters. 85’ #robins
Whitton captain Josh Hubert was the recipient to flick home past Reynolds five minutes from time, taunting the home supporters in the process.
The impressive Chambers-Shaw could well have won it for Ely, had his strike from around 25 yards found the corner than the base of a post on 86 minutes.
Despite dropping two points, it was a spirited response from City who had lost 4-0 four days earlier to Thetford Town.
FT: @ElyCityFC 2-2 @WhittonUnitedFC: Three goals after half-time meant this contest turned into an entertaining affair. Ely turned it around in the second half, but were pegged back after a disappointing first period to earn an eighth league draw of the season. #robins
And as they prepare to go for a third Cambs Invitation Cup in a row at Cambridge United’s Abbey Stadium on March 29, 7.30pm, they will certainly need to learn how to solidify winning positions.
Ely City: Harry Reynolds; Dom Hunt, Josh Revell, Luke Crisp, Tom Williams, Taylor Hastings, Luke Young, Ash Walter, Alex Theobald (sub Callum Chambers-Shaw), Ben Tait, Jordan Foster (sub Louis Jenkins).
Joint-boss Luke McAvoy remains unsure why Ely City are failing to hit a consistent run of upbeat results.
He witnessed another game where Ely, who showed their attacking prowess in the second half, concede late on in their 2-2 draw with Whitton United.
“We play well one week and the next we don’t; I can’t put my finger on it,” he said.
Luke McAvoy (far left) hopes to have Ryan Gibbs, who missed Ely’s draw with Whitton United, back for the Cambs Invitation Cup final. Credit: Nick Bowman
“I was expecting us to win. Two goals at home should be enough to win the game, but we keep conceding rubbish goals.”
Ely remain 12th in the Eastern Counties Premier Division and 12 points clear of the relegation zone after their eighth league draw this season.
“I’m not going to get frustrated by referees anymore”
McAvoy was also dubious over some of the refereeing decisions against his team, which added to their frustration.
But despite an under-performing first half, he could not fault the response against stubborn resistance.
“I’m not going to get frustrated by referees anymore because the standard isn’t great and we have to accept it,” McAvoy said.
“The second half performance was good. We were on the front foot, trying to play forwards and played in the right areas.
“We missed a penalty, hit the post, ‘keeper’s made a couple of good saves so you can’t ask for much more than that.”
Ely take a much-needed break from league action when they face Cambridge United Development in the Cambs Invitation Cup final on March 29, 7.30pm.
“We’ll try and cause an upset”
The Robins aim to win the trophy for a third successive time at Cambridge’s Abbey Stadium, in a game where McAvoy believes they have nothing to lose.
“I’m expecting a very strong side that play good football, good movement,” he added.
“A lot of them are pretty much pros now, so it’s going to be a tough game.
“We should have Adam Capel and Ryan Gibbs back; they’re big players we’ve missed so it will be good to get them back.
“We’ll try and cause an upset.”
After Tuesday’s cup showpiece, Ely host Walsham-le-Willows in a league clash on Friday, April 1, 7.45pm.
Elsewhere in the Fens
The prospect of relegation to step five looms ever larger for Wisbech Town after a crushing 3-0 defeat at home to Sporting Khalsa.
No league win in 14 attempts since December has led the Fenmen to the foot of the Northern Premier League Division One Midlands, six points off the relegation play-off spot.
Wisbech Town (red) are staring at relegation after a 14th league defeat in a row. Credit: Erin Larham
Manager Allan Ross will aim for a first win in charge at Belper Town on Saturday, April 2, 3pm.
Soham Town Rangers’ chances of avoiding the drop were also compounded after they lost 6-1 to Halesowen Town in the same division.
Jordan Chipps’ late penalty proved a mere consolation for the Greens, who had won 2-1 at Daventry Town on Tuesday night.
Soham Town Rangers (green) are also in relegation trouble as they, too, aim to close the gap on 18th-placed Histon (red). Credit: Dan Mason
Soham look to cut the gap between themselves and 18th-placed Histon when they visit Sporting Khalsa next Saturday, 3pm.
In the Eastern Counties League, March Town drew 1-1 at Brantham Athletic as the Hares bid to mount another lengthy unbeaten run.
The Hares’ 14-game undefeated streak in the Premier Division was cut short by Wroxham on March 19, but Dean Miller’s goal earned them a point this time round.
March welcome Norwich United, who sit one place above in fifth, to the GER on April 2, 3pm.
Whittlesey Athletic were held to a goalless draw by Leiston Reserves in First Division North, FC Parson Drove were beaten 8-0 at Sheringham and Wisbech St Mary lost 2-0 to Huntingdon Town.
Saints host Drove in a Fenland derby at Beechings Close on March 29, 7.45pm, before both sides face Debenham LC and Great Yarmouth Town respectively on April 2, both 3pm.
Whittlesey welcome Huntingdon Town to Feldale Field on April 1, 7.45pm.
From the outset, the pattern of play was clear to see between two teams facing in opposite directions of the league table.
Drove have enjoyed two wins in their last eight league games, and that inconsistency showed with a battling yet quality performance capable of beating the top sides.
As for Whittlesey, they arrested a six-game winless run including three defeats and as many draws in style, showcasing the free-flowing attacking nature that has lifted them back into the play-off picture.
And that Whittlesey control began in earnest inside four first half minutes at Main Road on Saturday, March 12.
Keeping top scorer James Hill-Seekings silenced was perhaps a key mission for Drove if they were to claim a result from this contest, but the striker was keen to impose his presence on the home defence.
Jake Pell clears for Whittlesey Athletic. Credit: Dan Mason
After shooting wide of the mark, he saw another attempt blast wide before strike partner Jack Carter should have stroked the visitors in front after Drove goalkeeper Callum Summers failed to punch clear.
Summers looked rather uncomfortable on his return to the villagers, failing to claim and handle loose balls when most needed, which all but lifted Whittlesey’s confidence of taking advantage.
This is exactly what happened when Hill-Seekings, who slotted into the bottom corner on 27 minutes to edge towards 30 goals for the season.
GOAL! @FC_ParsonDrove 0-1 @WhittleseyAthFC: Cowles again involved as a clearance falls to him inside the #drove penalty box. He tees up Hill-Seekings, who takes a touch and places into the bottom corner past Callum Summers. 27’ #athletic
Strong winds somewhat helped Drove before half-time when Ryan Lennon looked to use momentum to try and test visiting ‘keeper Aaron Bellairs following Jake Pell’s mistimed header.
But to no avail.
An enlivened Drove adopted a front-foot approach to combat the everpresent Whittlesey threat, and their tactics nearly paid off when Teddy Haime’s 55th-minute strike hit a post.
Just two minutes later, Athletic earned a throw-in and after the ball found its way to Hill-Seekings around six yards from goal, there was only one outcome.
GOAL! @FC_ParsonDrove 0-2 @WhittleseyAthFC: Long throw into the #drove penalty box and it lands onto the foot of Hill-Seekings, who controls eloquently, turns and strokes under Summers and into the net. 57’ #athletic
An imperious touch to control under pressure, before a nonchalant turn to place into the far corner past a helpless Summers was a sucker punch to Drove’s earlier efforts.
Joint-boss Robbie Harris felt Drove “gave up to a certain extent” at 2-0, as the fight and hope that a comeback could be mounted started to fade.
Matters were made worse when the vocal Adam Jackson, who continued to motivate his teammates throughout, was sent off for a challenge on Carter nine minutes before full-time.
Nick Davey of FC Parson Drove jumps with Whittlesey captain Harry Jenkins for the ball. Credit: Dan Mason
Jackson was a key cog in the Drove machine, and this gap was something Whittlesey exploited when Hill-Seekings notched his third with a simple stroke into the net on 85 minutes.
GOAL! @FC_ParsonDrove 0-3 @WhittleseyAthFC: And that’s a hat-trick for James Hill-Seekings, as he has a few yards of space to curl a low shot into the bottom corner. Summers helpless. 85’ #athletic
Last month, Drove had beaten Athletic away from home in their bid to distance themselves from the bottom two.
This time, they were beaten by a comprehensive display from a team that claimed revenge in a one-sided Fenland derby.
FT: @FC_ParsonDrove 0-3 @WhittleseyAthFC: A treble from James Hill-Seekings ensures Whittlesey claim revenge for defeat in the reverse fixture. Drove were unable to severely threaten the #athletic defence, but didn’t let their heads drop on a tough afternoon. #drove
FC Parson Drove: Callum Summers; Kevin Smith (sub Robbie Harris), Josh Gear, Callum Brown (C), Adam Jackson, Gary Smith, Teddy Haime, Hugo Elwood, Ryan Lennon, Nick Davey, Ryan Alexander.
Unused subs: Gary Haime, Jack Brand, Jermaine Watson.
Whittlesey Athletic:Aaron Bellairs; Ricky Hailstone, Ollie Long, Jake Pell, Ollie Gale (sub Lewis Cook), Aaron Dunmore, Ben Cowles (sub Joe Moore-Papworth), Harry Jenkins (C), Jack Carter, James Hill-Seekings, Jack Bates (sub Dan Redhead).
Unused sub: Alfie Fryett.
Cautions: Sent off – FC Parson Drove: Jackson (foul). Whittlesey Athletic: none.
Man of the match: James Hill-Seekings.
Referee: Mr Joseph Karram.
Reaction – FC Parson Drove
Late changes to FC Parson Drove’s squad played a key role in their derby day defeat, according to joint-boss Robbie Harris.
Drove welcomed the return of goalkeeper Callum Summers to the team to face Whittlesey, and handed a debut to midfielder Hugo Elwood.
However, last-minute call-offs amongst some players is becoming a regular occurrence for Harris.
“We weren’t fully at the races; commitment issues and late call-offs all played a big part,” he said.
Joint-boss Ryan Harris came on for a depleted FC Parson Drove side against Whittlesey Athletic. Credit: Dan Mason
“We’re a small club with a small squad and to be continuously let down by players is very frustrating and difficult to put a strong 11 out week in week out.
“We’ve had to cancel training because of a lack of numbers; we’re going through a tough spell at the moment.”
Drove are not hiding from the fact they are in need of consistency, both in squad personnel and upbeat results in their fight to climb away from the bottom two in Eastern Counties League First Division North.
Harris also hinted at plans for next season, such as fielding a reserve and under 18s team next season, although relegation to step seven still remains uncertain.
“We’ve got big plans for next season and unfortunately, those players who aren’t committed won’t be with us,” he said.
Nick Davey in action for FC Parson Drove vs Whittlesey Athletic. Credit: Dan Mason
“I think it will take a lot for us to get relegated; there will need to be about six teams apply to come up and only three applied.
“We want to build the club and get a better structure and hopefully that will show on the pitch.”
“Their front two are probably the best in the league”
Drove have earned one league win since the start of the year, that coming against Whittlesey who he admits “well-deserved their win”.
Harris praised his teammates for their hard work, but now he wants them to show the same commitment for the full 90 minutes, starting with a trip to Debenham LC on March 19, 3pm.
“Their front two are probably the best in the league,” he added.
“We can’t keep having to make five changes every week and still expect to compete against the best sides.
“We’ll try and drill that into the lads that they need to keep fighting for the whole 90 minutes.
“You get a goal in the 90th minute when 3-0 down, it gives you that little buzz going into the next game.”
Reaction – Whittlesey Athletic
Player-boss Ricky Hailstone admits the next week could turn out to be a pivotal week in Whittlesey’s bid for promotion.
Athletic began three games in six days with a 3-0 win at FC Parson Drove, ending a run of six matches without a win.
“I think we came up against a struggling Parson Drove and we never really got out of third gear, but it was enough, just,” said Hailstone.
“We should have been in front after 10 minutes, then we get in front and from that moment, there was ever only one winner.”
Whittlesey battle for a header vs FC Parson Drove. Credit: Dan Mason
Prior to their Fenland derby success, Whittlesey had lost three and drawn three in Eastern Counties League First Division North.
A patchy run of form since January has seen Athletic slip out of the top five spots, having occupied a play-off place for most of the season.
“We were doing well before Christmas with the Vase run, Covid delayed for two weeks, then we played once in January and haven’t come back (to form) since,” said Hailstone.
“We’ve been trying to work hard in training and three draws in the last three has helped, so the Drove win should be the one where we go again.”
“It’s a big week with three games in six days”
Whittlesey could climb into the top four with victory at title chasers Downham Town on March 15 before heading to Huntingdon Town on Friday, March 18, both 7.45pm.
Five of their final seven fixtures are against teams currently in the bottom half, which fills Hailstone with optimism.
“It’s a big week with three games in six days,” he said.
“If we go through March not beaten, I’ll take that and go into the last four games in April and see where we’re at.”
Elsewhere in the Fens
Wisbech Town’s chances of survival at step four were made slimmer after defeat on the road on March 12.
A 2-0 defeat at Shepshed Dynamo heaped more pressure on the Fenmen to beat the drop from the Northern Premier League Division One Midlands.
Wisbech go for a first win in all competitions since December 27 at home to Cambridge City on March 19, 3pm.
In the same division, Soham Town Rangers remain winless since January despite picking up a 2-2 draw at Loughborough Dynamo.
Joint-managers Lloyd Groves and Matt Clements saw Soham Town Rangers earn a valuable draw at Loughborough Dynamo. Credit: Dan Mason
Alfie Connor and Ollie Ward scored the Soham goals, who saw Jon Kaye sent off.
The Greens, who remain bottom, welcome Corby Town to Julius Martin Lane next Saturday, 3pm.
Goals from Jack Saunders, Danny Emmington and Craig Gillies extended March Town’s unbeaten run in the Eastern Counties Premier Division.
It’s now 14 unbeaten for the Hares, stretching back to November 6, following their 3-1 win at Long Melford.
March welcome promotion-chasing Wroxham to the GER on March 12, 3pm.
Ely City, who reached the Cambs Invitation Cup final in midweek, were without a fixture this weekend.
Ryan Gibbs scored for Ely City in their Cambs Invitation Cup semi-final win over Newmarket Town. Credit: Nick Bowman
They host Hadleigh United at the Demcom Stadium on March 15, 7.45pm.
In Eastern Counties League First Division North, Wisbech St Mary went down 3-0 at home to Norwich CBS.
One of the main reasons why March Town failed to showcase their usual entertaining style of play was, in manager Ash Taylor’s thoughts, down to “fire in the belly”.
He was referring to ‘fire’ inside opponents Long Melford’s proverbial ‘belly’ as the struggling visitors came away with a well-earned 1-1 draw.
It is a valuable point in Melford’s fight for Eastern Counties Premier Division survival, against a team who were 12 league games unbeaten heading into this contest at the GER on Saturday, March 5.
March were forced into frustration, a contrast to their previous two home games against Newmarket Town and Woodbridge Town which both ended in 2-0 triumphs.
But against a valiant Melford, the hosts were unable to play with the free-flowing attacking nature that has seen them rocket into fifth spot in the league table.
And that was not down to luck, but to a battling second half response after deciding to camp inside their own defensive third for large periods.
Top scorer Jack Friend and Lewis Gibson enjoyed early half-chances for March, as they looked to dominate possession from the outset.
Dean Miller (left) scored for March Town in their 1-1 draw with Long Melford. Credit: Ian Carter
And those glimpses of goal came to fruition when defender Dean Miller rose highest to head in a Danny Emmington corner on 18 minutes.
GOAL! @MarchTownFC 1-0 @Longmelfordfc: Dean Miller scores for March! A Danny Emmington corner is headed on target by Miller, despite the defender’s best efforts to clear but can only find the roof of the net. 18’ #hares
This preceded what seemed to be the turning point of the match when referee Ahmed Mohamed dismissed Melford’s Ant Waugh for a challenge on Hares full-back Sam Garner.
With the goal advantage, March now a man to the good as they look to gather momentum from here. From this angle, Waugh went in late on Garner, but no malice. #hares
No malice intended, but no ball either for Waugh and the visitors were reduced to 10 men with 70 minutes to play.
This sprung Luis Cowie into life, teasing his marker with quick feet as he tried to find teammates in the Melford penalty box, but to no success.
Cowie is one of March’s new arrivals since Taylor took charge last August, and the youngster is proving to become a worthwhile addition to Town’s attacking arsenal.
Taylor’s men were keen to continue on the front foot minutes after the break, Sam Green going close with a strike from distance towards the designated ‘Scaffold End’, where the more vocal home supporters are housed.
However, one opening for Melford and the mood around the GER changed.
Hassan Ally was brought down by Hares goalkeeper Charlie Congreve after running through on goal – penalty kick given.
Up stepped George Day to plant into the top corner on 66 minutes.
All-square.
GOAL! @MarchTownFC 1-1 @Longmelfordfc: George Day with the penalty which he plants into the top corner. Congreve dives the wrong way. March have work to do now. 66’ #hares
That equaliser was a blow to March, who were told to find a way to beat a Melford team that claimed four points from their last two fixtures against two of the league’s current top three sides.
The visitors may not have attacked much after their goal, but they certainly rattled a March team who perhaps did not expect the strong resilience their opponents showed.
It may well have been harsh on Melford had Friend’s 86th-minute strike from close range was allowed, but for the linesman’s flag.
FT: @MarchTownFC 1-1 @Longmelfordfc: Honours even and to Melford’s credit, they battled back to earn a respectable point. A second half penalty spurred them on as March lacked the firepower they’ve shown in recent weeks to kill the game off. But, the unbeaten run goes on. #hares
Honours even in a rain-affected game that showcased plenty of ‘fire’, but for March Town, in the wrong ‘belly’.
March Town:Charlie Congreve; Sam Garner, Adam Brumby, Dean Miller, Danny Emmington (C), Sam Green, Lewis Gibson (sub Josh Burrows, 60’), Eoin McQuaid, Craig Gillies, Jack Friend, Luis Cowie (sub Jack Saunders, 67’).
Unused subs: Scott Callaghan, Harry Edwards.
Cautions: March Town – Gibson, Congreve.
Man of the match:Adam Brumby.
Referee:Mr Ahmed Mohamed.
Attendance: 224.
Reaction
Ash Taylor felt March Town’s performance was unacceptable after an underwhelming display.
Taylor’s side stretched their unbeaten league run to 13 games, but the Hares chief was frustrated with the result.
“It wasn’t acceptable regardless of an undefeated run; it should have been three points today,” he said.
“We spoke at half-time about not dropping our levels because if we do, we give them a foothold in the game.
“Long Melford defended for their lives, tried to frustrate us, it worked and I think they deserved a point.”
“The difference is Long Melford had fire in their belly”
Better decision-making was something that could have been improved for Taylor, and believes too much time in possession proved more difficult than first thought.
“I think we had too much time on the ball, which gave us more time to think,” he admitted.
“You probably had one decision in your mind and that then changes.
“First half, we dropped the tempo at times and spoke about what we needed to do and we wanted to play quick.”
Had Melford played with 11 men throughout the contest, Taylor feels March would have claimed the victory.
Cowie was one player who shone in the manager’s mind, amid a performance that lacked clear-cut goalscoring opportunities.
But, compared to previous wins over Newmarket and Woodbridge, there was one clear reason as to why one point was earned instead of all three.
“The difference is Long Melford had fire in their belly,” said Taylor.
“We’re playing against a team that wants it and showed they are committed to the cause.
“Today just wasn’t our day”
“Probably Woodbridge and Newmarket maybe want to see the season out and not have that same fire.
“The amount of ball we had, you’d expect us to create better opportunities than what we did.
“Today just wasn’t our day.”
March will seek a much-improved display when they visit Melford in a league clash on Saturday, March 12, 3pm.
Elsewhere in the Fens
Wisbech Town sit 13 points from safety after defeat to Loughborough Dynamo in the Northern Premier League Division One Midlands.
Goals either side of half-time sealed a second defeat for Fenmen boss Allan Ross since taking charge, and their 11th in a row in all competitions.
Allan Ross has lost both of his games since taking charge of Wisbech Town. Credit: Supplied/Allan Ross
Wisbech go to Shepshed Dynamo on March 12, 3pm.
In Eastern Counties League First Division North, both Whittlesey Athletic and Wisbech St Mary were unable to reign victorious.
A 1-1 deadlock with Great Yarmouth Town meant Whittlesey dropped out of the play-off spots, while the Saints lost 6-0 at home to leaders Harleston Town.
Whittlesey Athletic player-boss Ricky Hailstone (centre) helped earn a 1-1 draw at Great Yarmouth Town. Credit: Spencer Holl
Whittlesey travel to FC Parson Drove, who did not play this weekend, on March 12, as Wisbech St Mary host Norwich CBS at the Nissan Direct Leasing Stadium, both 3pm.
Soham Town Rangers return to Northern Premier League Division One Midlands action at Loughborough Dynamo on March 12.
Ely City, whose Eastern Counties Premier Division game with Thetford Town was postponed today, host Newmarket Town in a Cambs Invitation Cup semi-final at the Demcom Stadium on Tuesday, March 8, 7.45pm.
Their next league clash is at home to Hadleigh United on March 15.
Since leaving his hometown club of Terrington St Clement earlier this year, the search for newfound comfort has been a long-winded one for Gavin Caney.
Experimenting with teams likely to propel his career into fresh territory, into a dream that had the makings of becoming reality, was the primary aim. What was actually achieved, however, was something on the other end of the excitement spectrum.
“Other than cracking two ribs and spraining an ankle, touch wood, I’ve never really been injured in my 22 years of playing. Bumps and bruises are all part of the job so I get plenty of those and just grit my teeth and get on with it”, Gavin said when expressing his desire to ease back into playing again.
But having suffered injury heartbreak during the 2017-18 campaign with Wisbech St Mary Reserves, nearly six months have passed and, despite signing for semi-professional sides in March Town and King’s Lynn Town Reserves during that period, the majority of time was spent watching on at players that have already achieved his dream.
“Leaving was the toughest decision I’ll ever have to make”
Now, it seems that the balance between achievement and personal satisfaction may well have been struck, even if it is a different standard to what Gavin has been used to.
“My desire to play in the Thurlow Nunn League is hardly a secret, but I’ve learned the hard way that the grass isn’t always greener when a tempting offer comes along.
“I made the decision earlier this year to chase the dream of playing away from Terrington and at a higher level.
“Leaving was the toughest decision I’ll ever have to make, so since then it’s not been painful, albeit frustrating, to bounce around until I’ve felt I’ve ended up somewhere where everything fits. That’s Chatteris and now I can get my head down on football and enjoying it again.”
“I want to be the best I can be and play at the highest standard I can”
It was an easy decision to make the move to West Street, a chance to prove his ability in an environment that he has not been accustomed to in recent times.
“Within minutes of my first training session, I felt like I’d finally found a new home at Chatteris. I was made to feel welcome and wanted and that’s all anybody really needs”, Gavin said.
“I’ve kept a keen eye on things at West Street this summer and have been intriguingly excited about the way things have been building up. When I saw Gary Smith and Ports (Stuart Porter) – who I got to know in pre-season at March – had joined, I fancied it even more.
“Once things didn’t work out at King’s Lynn Reserves, Gaz told me to get over and all it took was a few texts from Alex Kaufman and Ash Taylor about their vision for the future to convince me once and for all to make the move.
“The thought of playing at Step Eight for Chatteris, which would be the highest level I’ve regularly played, is what’s driving me forward.
“I want to be the best I can be and play at the highest standard I can before I hang my boots up, so I hope to force my way into the First Team by giving everything for them and the Reserves.
“I wanted to feel a buzz for football and there’s definitely one at West Street right now. To be part of the club’s drive to move back up the ladder excites me, as does playing at a great little ground in front of crowds of 150-plus.”
Something that has not been accomplished for some time could act as the platform for a memorable year for Gavin. Having made his friendly debut for the Reserve Team last Saturday, alongside the added bonus of scoring in a 3-1 victory, the long-awaited goal had arrived: a first-team appearance.
“I want to be a key member and enjoying my football again”
A proud moment indeed, but there is plenty more work to be done yet.
“I want to be the best I can be and play at the highest standard I can before I hang my boots up, so I hope to force my way into the First Team by giving everything for them and the Reserves.
“Having spent a lot of this summer training hard and not playing many minutes, I felt like a kid at Christmas on Saturday to get 90 minutes for the Reserves. I felt fit but rusty early on so (I) needed the minutes.
“I improved as the game went on and notched a rare goal in a win so it went pretty well, although I’ve got loads to improve on.”
Life in Kershaw Senior A of the Cambridgeshire County League may not have been on Gavin’s to-do list when aspiring for playing success, but for now, he is looking to make progress in Lilies colours and make an imprint on his new club.
“Hopefully in two, three years the club are back where they belong at Step Six and the Reserves are where the First Team are now at Step Eight.
“I’m far from the best player. I wouldn’t even say I am the best in my house that contains a football-hating wife and son who has only just started walking. But I’ve always been seen as a key player on the pitch and in the dressing room.
“A success for me would ultimately be playing a large part in promotion, but for now, I want to be a key member of either the First Team or Reserves’ starting eleven and enjoying my football again.”
The quest for enjoyment can be a challenge in many footballers’ careers, but for Gavin, it seems that quest may well have reached its conclusion. The search for a new home, is over.
Dan Mason 