THE LINGERS’ EXPERIENCE IS BACK IN BUSINESS AT LONG LAST

The 10th-placed club ended a wretched recent run of six successive defeats in all competitions and a goal-less draw to record their first victory since beating Chichester City 2-1 at home in the league way back on October 12.

Lingfield’s famous club spirit was evident again on and off the field as celebrations went on long into the night at Bobby Bryce’s youth team fundraiser at the nearby Lingfield Victoria Sports and Social Club in the village High Street.

Despite the absence of unavailable captain midfielder Gareth Graham and giant goalkeeper Rob O’Hara The Lingers produced this against all odds success but made hard work of it after surging into an early and uncustomary 2-0 lead.

The deadlock was broken after only 11 minutes when returning striker Josh Coulson re-opened his club scoring account from the penalty spot, referee Dane Johnston having awarded a spot-kick after Coulson was fouled by Liam O’Connor in the box, the taker sending goalkeeper James Binfield the wrong way from 12 yards.

Lingfield were in dreamland three minutes later when lively midfielder Jonathan Soares unleashed a stunning 30 yard shot in off the far post past Binfield for 2-0, also opening his Lingers’ goal account.

A minute later Coulson had to go off injured, being replaced by able substitute striker Joel Amos, the hosts reaching the interval firmly in charge.

However, the tide turned dramatically after the break as John Price’s men reduced the arrears on 47 minutes, towering striker James Temple punishing dithering defence, Scott Murfin having headed on Rueben French’s deep free-kick from the right. Worse was to follow on 59 minutes, Pagham levelling following further sustained pressure, Jake Hawker’s header giving goalkeeper Dan Burnett no chance again from danger man French’s centre from the right.

Four minutes later The Lingers’ brave new world looked to have caved in completely following Neil Murfin’s close range header, giving Burnett no chance again, for the visitors’ lead.

But back bounced Lingfield two minutes later, skipper Dan Oakins leading from example from centre-back, heading home an equaliser after concerted pressure.

Dom Lugard’s 71st minute substitution for Harry Sintim proved to be crucial, particularly with Amos eventually being forced off through injury after 87 minutes, with The Lingers being forced to play with 10 men late on as Amos was helped off before returning, eventually handing youth team defender Ollie Acutt his first team debut. And there was just time for influential striker Joel O’Hara to climax a great run by shooting home the 81st minute winner, leaving Binfield helpless.

Five additional minutes were negotiated before the good old days finally returned to The Lingers and a buzz went around the village again.

By David Groves