MATCH REPORT: BALCOME FC

Balcombe emerged victorious in an entertaining contest against Rotherfield in the Gray Hooper Holt LLP Mid Sussex Football League Premier Division, running out 4–2 winners at Warden Park Academy 3G.

Balcombe made the brighter start and took the lead through Marco Jota, whose mishit cross deceived James Gurney and sailed over the goalkeeper into the net to give the hosts the advantage.

Rotherfield responded swiftly. A long throw from Mike Hodges caused problems in the Balcombe penalty area, evading everyone including the home keeper, who was unable to gather cleanly as the ball crept over the line for the equaliser.

The Greens grew in confidence and soon turned the game around. With Balcombe struggling to deal with a loose ball in the box, Bailey Mintrim produced a pinpoint finish to make it 2–1 to Rotherfield just before half-time.

Balcombe returned after the break with renewed intent, but Rotherfield defended resolutely for the opening 20 minutes of the second half. However, the hosts found a way back into the game when a long throw of their own was launched into the area, sailed over the defence, and was nodded home to restore parity.

With around 20 minutes remaining, Dan Gray was introduced and quickly made his presence felt. Latching onto a long forward ball, his pace carried him beyond a defence that appeared to be anticipating an offside flag. One-on-one with the keeper, his effort struck the far post. Moments later, Balcombe broke swiftly and capitalised, taking the lead once more.

Rotherfield reshuffled, introducing Owen Ridley and pushing Callum Ridley further forward in search of an equaliser. The move almost paid dividends when substitute Will Sutton delivered a deep cross that fell invitingly to Callum Ridley. He connected well on the half-volley, but his effort lacked power and drifted narrowly off target.

As Rotherfield pushed late on, Balcombe sealed the result near the end with a rifled strike from inside the box to make it 4–2 and put the contest beyond doubt.