Sporting Club Thamesmead FC 3–0 Bridon Ropes FC

Bridon Ropes’ run in the Kent County League Invitation Charity Cup came to an end on Monday evening as holders Sporting Club Thamesmead FC claimed a 3–0 victory at the Masher Brothers Community Stadium.

With roll-on, roll-off substitutions permitted in the competition, the fixture also provided a valuable opportunity for new manager Uche Ibemere to continue assessing his squad. Six changes were made from Saturday’s league draw with Croydon FC, with Taylor Fisher, Jamie Thuillier and Olusegun Akinwunmi named among the substitutes. Goalkeeper Albie Penney captained the side for the first time.

Despite the scoreline, there were positives for the Ropes, with full senior debuts for Ivan Coromah, Leo Onye, Cameron Anderson and Charlie Russell-Vick, all gaining important minutes against strong opposition.

The hosts made a sharp start and took the lead early when a well-timed run in behind allowed their forward to round Penney and finish from close range. A second goal followed inside the opening fifteen minutes, a direct ball forward being flicked on into the path of Henry Awokere, who finished confidently to double the advantage.

Bridon responded well and enjoyed a spell of pressure. Coromah went close from a corner, seeing his header cleared off the line, before a follow-up effort was blocked in a crowded penalty area. Penney was also kept busy at the other end, producing several important saves, including a strong stop from close range and an excellent save to push a long-range free kick over the crossbar.

Just before the interval, Thamesmead thought they had extended their lead from a set piece, only for the assistant referee’s flag to deny them, giving the Ropes encouragement heading into the break.

The second half remained competitive, with Bridon continuing to work hard out of possession. Charlie Norcott made a brave block to deny a powerful effort, while the Ropes threatened on the break without being able to find a way past the home defence.

The decisive third goal arrived midway through the second half when another set piece caused problems in the Bridon penalty area and a substitute reacted quickest to control and finish.

Bridon continued to show commitment until the final whistle and enjoyed spells of possession late on, with Akinwunmi firing narrowly wide after creating space for himself. However, the hosts managed the closing stages well to see out the tie.

While the result brought Bridon Ropes’ cup campaign to a close, the evening provided valuable minutes across the squad and further insight for the new management team as focus now returns to league action.

Attendance: 50
Referee: Morgan Davis