Rye draw with star-studded rivals

Rye United picked up a point against a Lingfield side containing a couple of high profile ex-professionals.

The Quarterboys earned a 2-2 draw at home to opposition featuring former Brighton & Hove Albion striker Nicky Forster, and ex-Blackburn Rovers, West Ham United and Fulham defender Ian Pearce on Wednesday night.

Sussex County Football League Division One leaders Rye were the better team during the first half and although Scott Ramsay had a 17th minute penalty saved, Sam Adams put them ahead eight minutes later.

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Forster equalised for Lingfield in the 34th minute, Luke Woodley put Rye back in front with a superbly taken goal nine minutes later, but Josh Smith restored parity for a second time a minute into first half added time.

Lingfield got on top during the second half, but failed to carve out a noteworthy chance as Rye stood up well to a battery of set-pieces and long throws. Adams clipped the crossbar at the other end, yet a draw was about right.

Rye (3-5-2): Winchester; Rhodes, Loft, Richardson; Woodley, Kelly, Maclean, Adams, Upton; Ramsay, Tate (Russell 80). Subs not used: Rose, Gall, J. Watson, McMinigal.

Top half standings (played-points): 1 RYE UNITED 9-21, 2 Pagham 6-18, 3 Peacehaven & Telscombe 7-13, 4 SIDLEY UNITED 5-12, 5 Lancing 5-11, 6 Lingfield 6-10, 7 Redhill 5-10, 8 AFC Uckfield 6-10, 9 East Grinstead Town 7-9, 10 Three Bridges 6-9.

A full report and reaction will appear in tomorrow’s Rye Observer.