In a captivating league match held at the Falmer Sports Complex on 8th February 2025, Preston Manor Royals secured a 4-2 victory against Seaford Town II. The match, which kicked off at 3:00 pm, showcased a blend of skill, determination, and tactical prowess from both sides, but it was the Royals who emerged triumphant in front of a modest crowd of nine spectators.
Preston Manor Royals lined up in a 4-1-2-3 formation, designed to provide a solid defensive base while allowing for dynamic attacking play. Jack Bould took his position in goal, shielded by a back four comprising Daren Calver on the right, Adam Arnold and Jake Burton in central defence, and Gillan Williams on the left. In front of them, Dominic Hewitt operated as a central midfielder, tasked with linking defence and attack. The attacking trio featured Daniel Clark and Valery Jingwa on the flanks, providing width and creativity, while Kevin Wokabi led the line as the central striker, flanked by Reece Coughlan on the right and Marlon Perrin on the left.
The substitutes for the Royals included Sam Copeland, Stiven Lopes, James Purvis, Jake Nurse, and Ahmet Balci, who would later play pivotal roles in the match as the game unfolded.
The match began with an early scare for the Royals when goalkeeper Jack Bould was called into action just a minute in, making a crucial penalty save that set the tone for his team's resilience. As the game progressed, the Royals found their rhythm, and in the 13th minute, Kevin Wokabi opened the scoring with a stunning volley from close range, expertly assisted by Valery Jingwa from a corner kick.
The Royals continued to dominate possession, and their efforts paid off again in the 37th minute when Daniel Clark doubled the lead. A clever flick from Wokabi set Clark free, and he finished with precision using his left foot, showcasing the team's fluid attacking play.
However, just before half-time, Seaford Town II struck back with a long-range direct free-kick that found the back of the net, narrowing the deficit to 2-1. This goal injected fresh energy into the visitors as they headed into the break.
As the second half commenced, Preston Manor Royals made a tactical substitution, bringing on Sam Copeland for Daren Calver. The Royals resumed their attacking intent, and in the 68th minute, Reece Coughlan restored the two-goal cushion, finishing off a well-worked move with a left-footed shot inside the box, assisted by Marlon Perrin.
The Royals continued to press forward, and in the 78th minute, Wokabi scored his second of the match, heading home from a pinpoint cross delivered by Copeland. This goal seemed to put the game beyond the reach of Seaford Town II, who were now trailing 4-1.
In a late twist, Seaford Town II was awarded a penalty in the 85th minute, which they converted with a left-footed strike, bringing the score to 4-2. Despite this setback, the Royals maintained their composure and made further substitutions, introducing James Purvis and Jake Nurse for Jingwa and Wokabi, respectively, in the 79th minute, and later bringing on Ahmet Balci for Daniel Clark in the 89th minute.
As the final whistle blew after 95 minutes of play, Preston Manor Royals celebrated a well-deserved victory, showcasing their attacking prowess and defensive resilience against a spirited Seaford Town II side. The match not only highlighted the Royals' capabilities but also set the stage for an exciting season ahead.
