Highlight Reel
MATCH REPORT: Punjab United FC 4–1 Bridon Ropes FC
Pre-Season Friendly | Tuesday 15th July 2025 | 7:45pm KO
Bridon Ropes FC continued their pre-season preparations with a spirited performance away to Step 5 outfit Punjab United FC on Tuesday evening, eventually falling 4-1 in a game that was competitive until the final stages.
The match began brightly with both sides finding rhythm early on. Bridon held their own through the opening exchanges, matching Punjab for energy and intent. However, the breakthrough came in the 28th minute when a defensive mix-up inside the Bridon box led to a series of desperate goal-line blocks before the hosts finally bundled the ball over the line to make it 1-0.
Just five minutes later, Bridon responded with purpose. A driving run by Manny Oshinwino saw him brought down 30 yards from goal. From the resulting set piece, Eman Bestman delivered a dangerous cross into the Punjab penalty area. Though their centre-back cleared well under pressure, the ball fell invitingly to Joe Quinnear on the edge of the box. His first-time strike drew a fine save from the home keeper.
As the first half wore on, Punjab’s experience showed. A well-taken corner in the 38th minute was met by their striker at the near post, who headed smartly past the Bridon defence to double the advantage going into the break.
Bridon made several changes at half-time, including the introduction of exciting wide man Shegs on the right flank — a move that paid almost immediate dividends. After a spell of sustained pressure, Shegs collected the ball in space on the right wing, glided past his marker with ease, and unleashed a ferocious right-footed drive from 20 yards that arrowed into the bottom left corner. It was a goal of real quality and lifted the tempo from the visitors.
The second half remained finely poised, with both sides enjoying spells of possession and creating chances. Punjab continued to show their quality in the final third but were made to work for every inch by a resolute Bridon side, who fought hard and gave valuable minutes to a number of promising young reserve players gaining experience at first-team level.
Unfortunately, a late lapse in communication between defender and goalkeeper in the 80th minute allowed Punjab to extend their lead to 3-1, before their lively No.9 sealed the result with a solo effort in the 88th — picking up the ball 30 yards from goal, weaving through the defence, and finishing coolly.
Full Time: Punjab United FC 4–1 Bridon Ropes FC
Despite the scoreline, there were plenty of positives to take from the performance. Against higher-league opposition, Bridon were well in the contest for the majority of the match, with encouraging signs in possession and flashes of attacking threat throughout.
Blooding several young reserve players in such a high-tempo match will serve the squad well as preparations continue ahead of the league opener in two weeks’ time. The experience gained on the night — particularly against well-drilled Step 5 opposition — is invaluable as we build towards full match sharpness.
Next up: Bridon Ropes FC vs Tooting & Mitcham United
Saturday 19th July | 1:00pm KO | Meridian Sports & Social Club
