Joshua Brown reflects on Barkingside’s final game of the season in the Ryman Division One North side.
Barkingside rounded off their relegation season in fine style, as they beat Dereham Town 2-1 at the Cricklefield Stadium at the weekend.
After being relegated three weeks ago, Barkingside have remained unbeaten in their final three game, which has turned out to be their best run of the season.
In an even start to the game neither team were able to create any clear cut chances until Barkingside’s Luke With was brought down in the penalty box 20 minutes in. He brushed himself down and stepped up to calmly convert from the spot.
The opening goal was followed by a number of chances for Dereham Town’s, Luke Tuttle, but the striker was unable to find the back of the net.
Tuttle was not made to rue his missed chances for too long, as he linked up with Lewis Butcher for the equaliser just before the half time whistle.
Comeback on the cards
Desperate to finish the season on a high Barkingside started the second half strongly but Luke Withs’ height caused problems, as his hold up play created a number of chances for his team mates, although they couldn’t find the back of the net.
The winner came fifteen minutes from the end, as player of the season Michael Spencer continued the fine form he has shown throughout the season to find space inside the opposition penalty area and slot home.
The final three games have seen Barkingside defeat 16th place Romford, eighth place Brightlingsea Regent and now ninth place Dereham Town highlighting the ability the team does have.
The weight lifted once relegation was confirmed to the Essex Senior League may has played a big part in their end of season form.
A quick return to the Ryman Division One North is looking likely with manager Gus Gulfer reassuring the fans of his confidence with a simple tweet. “@GulferGus: @BarkingsideFC We will be back stronger.”
Barkingside 2
Luke With (pen 20′)
Michael Spencer (75′)
Dereham Town 1
Lewis butcher (39′)