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Reece’s goal leaves Barking’s double dreams in tatters
Reece Barrett. Picture by Jamie Pluck - Credit: Archant
Reece Barrett followed up Saturday’s hat-trick in the 5-1 home win over Burnham Ramblers with the late winner on Tuesday night to book Takeley’s place in the Gordon Brasted Memorial Trophy final.
Reece Barrett. Picture by Jamie Pluck - Credit: Archant
The 21-year-old attacking midfielder came off the bench in the semi-final to bag the only goal of the game to upset Essex Senior League champions-elect Barking and deny them a shot at the double. Takeley will face Waltham Forest in the final.
Barrett, whose older brother Nick started the game, told the Broadcast: “At the start of the season the aim was maybe not to win the title, but to get to a final and make the top four. To get a cup win would now be great.
“To get the winner in the semi-final was unbelievable, I didn’t know how to celebrate so just ran to the corner and all the players came up to me it was great.
“That was in the 83rd minute, but it felt like we played another half an hour after that when they came back at us.
Reece Barrett. Picture by Jamie Pluck - Credit: Archant
“Barking have been in and around the top of the league for a few seasons and this is their year.
“Hopefully we can do the same next season.
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“I think most of the lads will stay, the club is like a family and the pitch, club and facilities are really nice.”
Takeley, who have lost just twice since November in all competitions, claimed their fifth Essex Senior League win in a row on Saturday with the triumph over Ramblers.
Barrett’s goals were added to by skipper Jason Todd and leading scorer Charlie Cole with his 51st of the season.
With Cole taking many of the plaudits this term with his scoring exploits, Barrett’s treble was something of a surprise, even to the player himself.
“The hat-trick on Saturday was a bit unexpected,” he added.
“I think the last one I scored was when I was 15 so when the goals went in I was buzzing.”
It is the Barrett brothers’ first season with the club and they are enjoying the campaign at Station Road.
“Last season me and my brother Nick were at Sawbo with Dassy [manager Marc Das],” added Barrett.
“When he joined Takeley he said we could come with him and so we did.
“I like playing for him, he tells me to express myself on the pitch, be creative and try to get a goal.”
Takeley are back in league action Saturday as they head to Wadham Lodge.
