In a gripping league clash at The Crouch on 12 October 2024, Preston Manor Royals and Seaford Town II played out a thrilling 3-3 draw. The match, which kicked off at 2:00pm, saw both teams exchange goals in a contest filled with drama and excitement, leaving the 18 spectators on the edge of their seats.
Preston Manor Royals lined up in a 4-3-2-1 formation, designed to provide a solid defensive base while allowing for attacking flair. Ryan Thompson took his place in goal, shielded by a back four comprising Sam Copeland on the right, Adam Arnold and Jake Nurse in central defence, and Gillan Williams on the left. The midfield trio featured George Mathai on the right, Matt Howard in the centre, and Valery Jingwa on the left, while Danny Grafton and Stiven Lopes operated as right and left attacking midfielders, respectively, supporting lone striker Marlon Perrin.
The substitutes for Preston Manor Royals included Daren Calver, Reece Coughlan, and Mark Baroni, who would play pivotal roles as the match unfolded.
The match began with a shocking twist as Seaford Town II capitalised on a defensive error from the Royals, scoring within the first minute through a right-footed strike. This early setback seemed to ignite the Royals, who responded with urgency. Just two minutes later, Marlon Perrin attempted to level the score but sent his shot wide. Adam Arnold followed suit shortly after, firing high and missing the target.
However, the Royals found their equaliser in the third minute when Stiven Lopes took advantage of another defensive mistake, scoring from close range with his right foot. The momentum shifted firmly in favour of the visitors, and just four minutes later, Marlon Perrin put the Royals ahead, converting a short pass from Lopes with a precise left-footed finish inside the box.
Despite their lead, the Royals faced a barrage of attempts from Seaford Town II. Perrin had another chance in the 11th minute, but his effort was saved. The match took a contentious turn in the 16th minute when Perrin received a yellow card for unsporting behaviour, a decision that sparked debate among the players and fans alike.
As the first half progressed, Sam Copeland committed a late tackle in the 20th minute, but fortunately for the Royals, no penalty was awarded. Seaford Town II managed to pull level again in the 34th minute, scoring from inside the box with a right-footed shot that left Thompson with no chance.
The first half concluded with the score tied at 2-2, and the Royals made a tactical substitution at half-time, bringing on Daren Calver for Sam Copeland.
The second half began with both teams eager to assert their dominance. Marlon Perrin had another chance in the 47th minute but missed the target again. Matt Howard's attempt just a minute later also went high, indicating the Royals were still searching for a breakthrough.
In the 53rd minute, Stiven Lopes had a shot saved, showcasing the Royals' continued attacking intent. Tactical changes were made again in the 58th minute as Reece Coughlan replaced Danny Grafton, aiming to inject fresh energy into the midfield.
As the match wore on, Seaford Town II took the lead for the second time in the 76th minute with a volley from close range, leaving the Royals trailing 3-2. Yet, the Royals refused to back down, and in the 80th minute, Coughlan made a key pass that created a chance, demonstrating his immediate impact on the game.
Valery Jingwa had a chance to equalise shortly after but shot high, leaving the Royals frustrated. However, the breakthrough came in the 84th minute when Mark Baroni, who had come on for George Mathai due to injury, scored from close range following a goalmouth scramble, bringing the score to 3-3.
As the final whistle blew, both teams were left to reflect on a match that showcased resilience, skill, and the unpredictable nature of football. The Royals will take heart from their fighting spirit, while Seaford Town II will rue missed opportunities in a match that could have gone either way.
