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With only two weeks to go until the start of the 2008/09 campaign, Tiptree United's preparations continued this week with three friendlies against teams classes apart.

Last Tuesday saw the Jam Makers entertain a strong Heybridge Swifts side, with Tiptree winning the game 3-1. Goals came from last season's top goal scorer, Tom English, along with Darren Mills and Jamie Arlick.

The performances of both teams may have made difficult decisions the managers face in the coming weeks some what easier, ahead of the new season.

Last Thursday saw Ipswich Town bring a very strong side to Chapel Road and run out 5-0 winners. It was a fantastic evening, with the Ipswich side containing first-team regulars such as Alex Bruce, Richard Naylor and up-and-coming prospect Jordan Rhodes in the starting XI.

Ipswich Town manager Jim Magilton was also in attendance with other first team players Alan Lee and Owen Garvan, who were on hand for any younger spectators who wanted autographs or photos.

The difference in class and especially fitness clearly showed and there were many very tired legs in the United camp come 9.30pm on Thursday evening.

Tiptree United FC would like to thank the many people who volunteered to help throughout the day either selling tickets or programmes for the game. The club would also like to extend special thanks to Chris's Fish Bar, Right's Estate Agents and Wilkin's Jam Factory for making the day a success After the events of last Thursday, Tiptree had another friendly to contend with on Saturday when they travelled to face Bowers and Pitsea of the Essex Senior League.

It was a changed side from the side that faced Ipswich - captain Neil Shade was missing which lead to Colin Wallington handing the armband over to stalwart Judd Coe.

First-half goals from the returning Danny Rochester and Tommy English and a late strike from Gary Hill was enough to seal a 3-0 win for the away side, which even saw goalkeeper Matt Belcher come on for the final ten minutes at right wing-back. He was very unlucky not to find the net in the closing minutes of the game.

The club would like to remind supporters that the fixtures for the 2008/09 season are now available either at the ground or from the club website.

The opening game sees the Ridgeons Division 1 champions travel to Wisbech Town on Saturday August 9 and then for the first home game of the new campaign, Tiptree entertain Harwich & Parkeston on Tuesday August 12, kick-off 7.45pm.

2:09pm Friday 1st August 2008

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