The Preston Manor Royals faced off against Ridgewood II at the Victoria Pleasure Ground in Uckfield on 3 May 2025, securing a hard-fought 2-1 victory in this league away match. The Royals showcased their attacking prowess, with two goals in the first half, while Ridgewood II managed to pull one back but could not find an equaliser.
The Royals lined up in a 4-1-2-3 formation, designed to provide both defensive solidity and attacking flair. Adam Arnold took his place in goal, shielded by a back four comprising Daren Calver on the right, Dominic Hewitt and Matt Howard in central defence, and Valery Jingwa on the left. Marlon Perrin operated as a central midfielder, tasked with linking play between defence and attack. The attacking trio featured James Purvis on the right, Ryan Thompson on the left, and Gillan Williams leading the line as a right forward, with Kevin Wokabi as the central striker and Jaegan Roberts on the left forward position.
The substitutes for the match included Asher Colbourne, Daniel Clark, and Danny Grafton, who would later be called upon to influence the game.
The match began with an electric atmosphere, and it didn't take long for the Royals to make their mark. In the sixth minute, Valery Jingwa found the back of the net, giving Preston Manor Royals an early lead. The left defender's strike set the tone for the match, igniting the Royals' confidence as they pressed forward.
As the first half progressed, the Royals maintained their dominance, and just before the break, Jaegan Roberts doubled their advantage in the 42nd minute. The left forward's goal further solidified the Royals' control, leaving Ridgewood II with a mountain to climb as they headed into half-time trailing 2-0.
The second half saw Ridgewood II come out with renewed determination, but the Royals' defence held firm. The match reached a pivotal moment in the 57th minute when Daniel Clark replaced James Purvis, aiming to bolster the midfield. Shortly after, in the 65th minute, Danny Grafton came on for Jaegan Roberts, adding fresh legs to the attacking front.
As the game wore on, the Royals made another substitution in the 79th minute, with Asher Colbourne entering the fray for Valery Jingwa, who had already made a significant impact. The Royals were keen to maintain their lead, but Ridgewood II began to find their rhythm and finally broke through in the 82nd minute, scoring to reduce the deficit to 2-1.
Despite the pressure from Ridgewood II, the Royals held their nerve, and Jaegan Roberts re-entered the match in place of Kevin Wokabi in the 82nd minute, aiming to provide additional attacking threat as the game approached its conclusion. The final whistle blew after 94 minutes of intense action, confirming the Preston Manor Royals' victory.
This match showcased the Royals' ability to perform under pressure, with a solid defensive display complemented by clinical finishing in the first half. The win not only boosts their league standing but also highlights their potential as a formidable side in the competition.
