Step 5 Play-Off Semi-Final. Never did I dream of saying that.
The journey this club has been on is remarkable — from Step 8, Essex Olympian Division 1, to tonight, where we’re two games away from reaching Step 4. I’ve always said that when you’ve got a great group, managing them is like steering a car — just small adjustments here and there to keep things on track.
Players who have come into this squad all say the same thing: it’s one of the best dressing rooms they’ve ever been in. The camaraderie is unreal, and they play for each other as much as they do for the badge. Ted and I couldn’t be prouder. There are too many to name, but from back to front, they’ve always tried to play the right way, and it’s been a real pleasure to watch.
The patterns of play and rotations are down to Ted — a young, inventive coach with a big future ahead of him. I’m lucky to have him alongside me.
Tonight’s opponents, Great Wakering, are a very strong side who were unlucky not to secure automatic promotion. We’ve found them tough over the years, and we know exactly what we’re up against. But we’re not here to make up the numbers — we’re ready for it.
A big thank you to all our supporters for the last 50 games. We need you more than ever tonight.