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THE Jam-makers' preparations for their first Ridgeons Premier League season continued against Canvey Island and Concord Rangers.

These friendlies contained mixed performances and might have came at a cost, as injuries to key players have hindered manager Colin Wallington's plans for Tiptree United.

Last Tuesday, Tiptree entertained Ryman Premier side Canvey Island, a game which ended 1-1.

Tommy Noble opening the scoring for the Ridgeons Division 1 champions, home keeper Aaron Benstead saving a penalty to keep the home side in front. The visitors equalised with virtually the last kick of the game.

Although this was a game of many chances, the football was not the main talking point. Instead, three minutes into the game, Tiptree United's Lee Owen went in to challenge for the ball and was tackled by an opponent.

Mis-timed rather than malicious, the tackle still left the Tiptree playmaker with a dislocated ankle and a fracture of the lower leg.

Credit must go to Mel Coller, United's club physio, and to members of the Canvey Island medical staff for the support given to the player during the 45 minutes it took for the ambulance to arrive. Eventually, Lee was taken to Colchester General Hospital.

Since last Tuesday, he has undergone two successful operations, and was in attendance at Saturday's game with Concord Rangers.

On Saturday, the Jam-makers entertained Ryman Division 1 North side Concord Rangers in their final home pre-season game. This was arguably Tiptree's worst performance of the whole pre-season and a game that showed many tired legs.

As the Jam-makers struggled, there were bound to be injury risks and Lee Townrow was taken off mid-way through the first half with what looked like a back injury, to be replaced by Judd Coe.

Concord cruised to their 1-0 win, Tiptree offering little fight in response.

Boss Wallington will be praying for no more injuries ahead of the start of the Ridgeons premiership season, when United travel to Wisbech Town on Saturday. Then, next Tuesday will see Tiptree United's first home game of the 2008/ 09 campaign, when they entertain Harwich & Parkeston with a 7.45pm kick-off.

9:14am Tuesday 5th August 2008

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