White Ensign aim to bounce back from FA Vase heartbreak
WHITE Ensign will be bidding to bounce back from their FA Vase heartache when they host Little Oakley in the Essex Senior League tonight.
Ensign lost their fourth round clash 4-2 on penalties against Erith & Belvedere on Saturday after the two teams had been locked level at 1-1 after 90 minutes.
And Taylor Jacobi, who netted Ensign’s goal, admitted the setback was tough to take.
“Obviously we are gutted we didn’t manage to get ourselves through to the next round,” said Jacobi.
“It was a tough game and they were a aggressive and physical side.
“We had our chances to put the game to bed however it wasn’t our night and unfortunately that’s how football works at times.
“But speaking on behalf of everyone at the club I think we can say that we are beyond proud of how far we have come.
“With it being such a young side getting to where we did in the competition and making club history is a huge achievement in itself.”
Ensign will now focus back on their league campaign, starting with this evening’s encounter at Burroughs Park.
And Jacobi is certain Aaron Bloxham’s side will be able to lift their spirits.
“Of course we are disappointed, but we’re in strong form in the league at the moment and I don’t think the result on the weekend will change that,” said Jacobi.
“The players and management team all have big expectations for this season and we know that Wednesday’s game is just as important as Saturday’s so I believe everyone is just excited to keep pushing and aiming to have a fantastic season.”
Ensign head into the game sitting ninth in the standings.
But Jacobi is expecting another stern test against 11th placed Oakley.
“We know they are a strong team and it won’t be a walk in the park,” said Jacobi.
“As I’ve said though, we are on a good form at the moment but we still respect the difficulty and competitive nature that this league has to offer.
“We are expecting a tough game and hopefully they are expecting one too.”
Another win would push Ensign closer to the play-offs.
And Jacobi remains eager to end the season strongly.
My hopes are just to do everyone at the club proud from the club staff to the fans and the management team,” said Jacobi.
“They have all made huge sacrifices and put in a lot of hard work to help us to get to where we are.
“In terms of the team’s hopes I think they can all agree with saying there is no limit and every game we walk into we will all give 100 per cent to make sure that we have done everything we possibly can to ensure a strong finish to the season.”
