Sometimes a substitution can have a huge impact on a game and the introduction of Maldon Town's Nicky Simpson certainly swung their clash with Wivenhoe Town in their favour.
The first half of their Southern League division one east encounter was keenly contested, but both sides struggled to provide the final ball in the last third of the field.
The second-half saw opportunities for Wivenhoe, especially the two gilt-edged chances that came the way of Stafford Browne within two minutes of each other.
But both times he fired straight at Paul Catley in the home goal when either side of the keeper would have opened the Dragons' account.
Worse was to come as Maldon's Simpson, who had come on on 60 minutes, started to stretch his legs down the home side's right.
His introduction made a vital difference as Maldon suddenly looked capable of opening up the visitors' back line.
With 78 minutes gone, Simpson surged forward again and this time his cross was slotted home by Tommy Noble to make it 1-0.
Wivenhoe went looking for an equaliser, but were caught on the break by Maldon as Dean Parratt doubled the advantage with four minutes remaining.
To add insult to injury Wivenhoe's Adam Bethell was sent off with seconds remaining after gaining his second yellow card.
More in today's Evening Gazette
Published Monday, December 13, 2004
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