Match Report: Bridon Ropes FC 2 – 1 Chessington & Hook FC
Meridian Sports & Social Club — Saturday 11 October 2025, 3:00pm kick-off
Bridon Ropes produced a stirring second-half comeback at the Meridian to overturn a one-goal deficit and defeat Chessington & Hook 2–1 — but the afternoon was marred by serious injuries to skipper Charlie Norcott and forward Emmanuel “Manny” Oshinowo.
First Half: Flat and Frustrating
The opening 45 minutes were ones to forget for the Ropes. Lacking their usual intensity and rhythm, Bridon struggled to settle, while Chessington & Hook controlled the tempo and exploited gaps in midfield.
The hosts’ afternoon took a worrying turn when captain Charlie Norcott suffered a knee injury midway through the half after a heavy collision. Moments later, talismanic striker Manny Oshinowo twisted awkwardly in a challenge and was forced off with an ankle injury.
Those twin setbacks visibly disrupted Bridon’s structure and spirit, and Chessington took full advantage. On 37 minutes, the visitors broke down the right, with a sharp cross converted at the near post to give them a 1–0 lead heading into the break.
Second Half: Inspired Response
Manager Lee Roots rang the changes at half-time, introducing all available substitutes in search of energy and direction. The transformation was immediate.
The Ropes began the second period with far greater urgency, pressing high and regaining control of midfield. Their persistence paid off in the 57th minute when Paris Jackson, one of the substitutes, reacted quickest to a loose ball in the box and drilled home the equaliser.
With belief restored, Bridon continued to push. The midfield pairing of Olusegun Akinwunmi and Anthony Skordilis dictated play, while Patrick Da Lomba grew increasingly influential in attack.
As the game entered its final stages, the Ropes’ pressure finally told. In the 90th minute, Da Lomba produced a moment of composure — collecting a pass inside the box, turning sharply, and firing low into the corner to seal a dramatic 2–1 victory.
Reflections
The result was a testament to Bridon’s character and depth, with the substitutes making a decisive impact. However, the celebrations were tempered by concern for Norcott and Oshinowo, both of whom will undergo assessment in the coming days.
A first-half to forget was replaced by a second-half full of conviction — a reminder of the resilience and spirit within the squad.
Bridon Ropes Line-Up
Starting XI
- Albert Penney
- Kaya Mahmut
- Eduard Mare
- Jason Bye
- Charlie Norcott (C) — off injured, knee
- Anthony Skordilis
- Charlie Gray
- Olusegun Akinwunmi
- Emmanuel Oshinowo — off injured, ankle
- Patrick Da Lomba ⚽️ (90’)
- Tony Newbrook
Substitutes Used
12. Jack Keen
14. Adrian Brown
15. Ayodeji Akinsuyi
16. Paris Jackson ⚽️ (57’)
18. Prince Nzinga
Final Score: Bridon Ropes FC 2 – 1 Chessington & Hook FC
Scorers: Jackson (57’), Da Lomba (90’)
