Jammers Can Sea The Finish
Maldon & Tiptree continued their title charge with an impressive three-one win away at Gorleston, on the blustery Norfolk coast. Jammers boss, Kevin Horlock made one enforced change from Saturday’s win over Mildenhall with Anthony Wordsworth absent through injury – Dylan Williams took his place. Anisius Lewis remained absence serving the final match of his suspension.
Maldon started like a team on a mission, knowing the value of three points with this match their long-standing game in hand over title rivals, Felixstowe. The Jammers were rewarded for their first start in the 9th minute, as Dylan Williams scored his second goal in as many games. A long throw from Jack Cawley caused carnage in the box, with ball-bouncing around for what felt like an age. The ball eventually fell to Williams who’s goal bound effort took a deflection before ending up in the back of the net.
Ross Wall thought he had doubled the lead in the 14th minute, however the Refereed chalked the goal off for an apparent foul on the Goalkeeper to the bemusement of most. Maldon continued to create chances, but the hosts almost equalised against the run of play with an audacious long range effort – but it fortunately rebounded off the crossbar. Mikey Faulkner then had a header cleared off the line, as the Jammers searched for a second.
Not to be denied, Ross Wall did score his second Maldon goal since his return and extended the lead. Another long throw, another set piece that Gorleston could not cope with. The ball eventually found it’s way to Ross Wall at the back post who was unmarked to head-home. The Jammers were in control…
Maldon continued to press forward and create chances and at the break, should’ve arguably been further ahead. Tom Eastman had the best chance, however he was unable to convert from close range before Freddie Sears had a goal ruled out for a tight offside. Gorleston almost made their own lives difficult with a bizarre own goal, but the ball fortunately rebounded off the frame of the goal.
Half Time: Gorleston 0-2 Maldon & Tiptree
After dominating for the majority of the first half, it’s fair to say the Jammers had a different challenge in the second half. On a bobbly pitch and wind in their favour, Gorleston began to send the ball forward and go with a direct approach. However, Maldon were still creating chances to seal the match, with Sears once again going close.
Ten minutes into the second half, Gorleston pulled a goal back. Perhaps learning from the Jammers fast half success, they utilised a long throw of their own. With the Jammers unable to clear their lines, Gorleston tapped home. Gorleston continued to grow-in to the game, with nerves potentially getting better of the Jammers.
However, the Jammers were remaining resolute against a barrage of long balls. Terrell Egbri was introduced to the contest, replacing Mikey Faulkner. The change almost brought about a goal, with Cameron James forcing a save from the Gorleston keeper. With fifteen minutes left on the clock, Gorleston were reduced to ten men – Dion Frary was giving his marching orders for a second yellow card after a cynical foul on Egbri.
The game was drifting towards the final whistle, but with only one goal between the sides there was a question whether Gorleston would find an equaliser and put a dent in the Jammers title hopes. However, Ross Wall and Freddie Sears had other ideas. The Jammers front-pair combined superbly, with the latter planting a cool-volley into the bottom corner to calm any nerves, should there have been any…
Full Time: Gorleston 1-3 Maldon & Tiptree
With the Jammers now completing their game in hand, they find themselves three points clear of Felixstowe with two games remaining. The Jammers have a far superior goal difference to the title rivals (+16) so there is an opportunity should Kevin Horlock’s team win on Saturday to lift the Isthmian North title.
On Saturday, the Jammers will welcome the same opponents to the Drewitt-Barlow Stadium, with two unusually, two games against Gorleston in just a matter of days. Tickets for the game are on sale now and supporters are encouraged to buy their tickets in advance, with it expected to be a busy day at the DBS…
