Three Bridges claim first league win of the season

Bridges had the perfect start with a goal after just eight minutes, Harry Docherty and Alex Barbary both being involved before Tom Tolfrey lashed home. Ashley Miller had a golden chance to level just a minute later but his soft shot was easily gathered by Kieron Thorp.

Brannon O’Neill and Jordan Wilson both had drives that came close, but a breakdown in communications cost Bridges a second goal as three players converged on goal but made one pass too many when a shot looked on the cards. And two minutes before half time Ramsgate equalised as Miller played in Tom Chapman, who had looked their most dangerous player with a number of surging runs down the flanks.

The second half started promisingly for the visitors with Curtis Gayler having a shot blocked and Docherty running through but being foiled by Brannon Daly. Barbary also made a good run but was denied by the post before Daly scrambled the ball clear, but it was then Ramsgate’s turn to have a purple patch. Troy Williams cleared one effort off the line whilst Callum Donaghey and Steve Smith, who was constantly heckled by the home supporters, showed stubborn resistance.

With just ten minutes left Ben Bacon proved a nuisance in the box and a Ramsgate defender clearly handled, giving Brannon O’Neill the opportunity to grab the winner from the penalty spot. There were a few heart stopping moments in the closing stages, but Jamie Crellin sunk to his knees in relief at the final whistle.

Bridges Man of the Match – Jordan Wilson.

Bridges continue to be on the road with two away fixtures this Saturday (17th) and next Tuesday (20th). Saturday’s game at Chipstead is an F.A.Trophy tie, whilst it looks like a tough proposition when they then travel to Hastings United for a League encounter.

Ramsgate: B.Daly, J.Aboagye, J.McIntyre, R.Johnson, J.Jewers (G.Nikaj, 58), J.Johnson, T.Chapman, M.Chapman, R.Smith (B.Wilson, 31), A.Miller (W.Hennessey, 70), O.Giraud-Hutchinson.

Unused Subs. – S.Nwaokolo, E.Harvey.

Booked – Aboagye (57), Jewers (58), Hennessey (79).

Bridges: K.Thorp, T.Williams, S.Smith, D.Lovegrove, C.Gayler, B.O’Neill, J.Wilson, H.Docherty, C.Donaghey, A.Barbary, T.Tolfrey (B.Bacon, 78).

Unused Subs. – G.Ashley, D.Street, J.Lansdale, K.Woolven.

Booked – Wilson (17), Crellin (72), Bacon (90 + 2).