TD Shipley marked their home opener with a narrow 2–1 win over newly promoted Rudgwick in a tense Southern Combination Football League Division Two clash. The match, played under humid summer conditions, was a landmark occasion for Rudgwick, making their debut at this level, and also the first competitive outing under new manager Kieran Holmes.

Photos

Match Summary

Rudgwick began brightly and opened the scoring in the 25th minute. Max Furber rose highest to meet Kai Oram’s pinpoint corner, steering his header past the TD Keeper to make it 0–1. The goal was a reward for Rudgwick’s defensive action and effective set-piece delivery.

However, TD Shipley responded well and equalised on the stroke of half-time. Adam Campbell-Stone capitalised on a low cross into the box, rifling home a controlled volley from eight yards in the second minute of stoppage time (45+2), shifting the momentum back to the hosts.

The second half remained evenly contested, with both sides struggling for rhythm amid frequent substitutions and growing fatigue. The breakthrough came in the 74th minute when substitute Bradley Curtis latched onto a fantastic through ball, demonstrated excellent close control, and calmly slotted the ball from ten yards.

Despite late efforts and a tactical reshuffle by Holmes, including the introduction of debutants Josh Gains and Thomas Searle, Rudgwick could not find a leveller. The visitors' frustration boiled over when Max Furber was booked in the 84th minute, and TD Shipley saw out the final moments with discipline and game management.

TD Shipley executed their second-half game plan effectively to secure a valuable three points against a spirited but inexperienced Rudgwick side. For the visitors, the performance showed promise despite the result. Holmes’ men will take encouragement from a strong start and the historic significance of their league debut.

Key Events

25’ – Max Furber scores header (assist: Kai Oram) – 0–1 Rudgwick

45+2’ – Adam Campbell-Stone volleys home from 8 yards – 1–1

74’ – Bradley Curtis finishes well from 10 yards – 2–1 TD Shipley

84’ – Max Furber booked (Rudgwick)

85’ – Aaron Virani booked (TD Shipley)

Notable Performances

Max Furber - Scored the club’s first-ever goal in SCFL Division Two and battled throughout the midfield.

Kai Oram - Provided a dangerous assist and was one of Rudgwick’s key outlets.

Zac Bown - Impressive debut, holding up the ball and creating counterattacks

Seb Ellis - Kept the back line well organised and the TD forwards quiet.

Debuts and Milestones

- Rudgwick made their SCFL Division Two debut, the highest competitive level in the club’s history. Backed by principal sponsors, Hotelcare and Darchini Horsham.

- Kieran Holmes took charge of his first competitive match as manager.

- Debuts: Harry Batley, Zachary Bown, Thomas Searle, and Sebastian Ellis all made their first appearances for Rudgwick.

Lineup
Harry Batley
Matthew Blogg
Zachary Bown
Luke Bridgman
Harry Brooker
Sebastian Ellis
Max Furber
Joseph Groome
Dom Lanaway
Kai Oram
Thomas Pillings

Substitutes
Jay Bicknell
Josh Gains
Jordon Oram
Thomas Searle
Andrew Whitworth