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Visitors cruise to island victory
When Mick Burt first wrote to me back in February about his trip to Mersea Island, I like many other 'hoppers out there, just couldn't wait to make a visit to the club. To be honest I did not even realise that the Islanders issued programmes. And so, tempted by this offer, Fran and I dutifully set out to the Glebe Sports Ground for the Essex and Suffolk Border League clash with neighbours Gosfield.
As Mick's article (TT No.188) quite expertly details information about the club I can only endorse his comments here. For the record the Islanders did not have things their own way and were left to rue some poor finishing. The visitors however looked dangerous from the off and were always quicker into the tackle and at picking up any poor passes. One spectacular shot from distance and two on the counter attack earned the three points and quite deservedly so. Despite bright sunshine, a strong north-easterly breeze prompted wearing an extra layer - so be warned even when visiting in milder temperatures!
This result however might not completely spoil Mersea Island's chances of gaining promotion into the Premier League. Rumour has it that leaders Tiptree Heath have lost the use of their ground and there is a possibility that Witham Town Reserves may be planning to move into a different league next season; in essence this could leave a 'spare' promotion place for one of the chasing teams.
The club is represented by a band of enthusistic helpers who take the trouble to make your stay a pleasant one. When I phoned in the morning to confirm the match details, I was told to arrive thirty minutes early as the game might kick-off before the scheduled 3pm start time (apparently the ref wanted to get back early to watch the televised Sky!).
The club secretary Chris Green could not have been more personable to myself and the two London based travellers who were also in attendance. Although the inserts for the programme were not available for this game Chris gave us the outer shells and took our details so that he could send them on to us. If you are feeling hungry then a wide range of hot and cold food is available from the cosy clubhouse at half-time and after the game for you to sample. Well worth the wait and very tasty! We both enjoyed our visit and the day out (despite not going for a paddle in the sea)!
[Note- West Mersea also boasts another club. Oyster FC play on the second pitch (nearest to the entrance) at the Glebe Sports Ground].
FGIF Rating: 3* | 