Barry: Brilliant win at Tilbury

Romford captain Jack Barry was relieved to see his side claim all three Ryman Division One North points at Tilbury on Bank Holiday Monday.

Barry was forced off with injury midway through the second half and replaced by 18-year-old debutant Andre Gumbs.

And substitute Gumbs netted the winner four minutes from time to the delight of his skipper.

Barry said: “He couldn’t have asked for a better debut, to nick a goal on his first appearance.

“He looked solid when he came on and anyone that strengthens the side is a bonus.

“Lets just hope I get my place back on Saturday now.”

Romford took the lead in the 17th when Ben Jones flicked on for Kurt Smith to finish.

There were chances for both sides, but the score remained unchanged until Tilbury equalised through Aaron Matthews in the 85th minute.

Boro hit straight back, though, as Gumbs got on the end of a free kick and Barry added: “It was a brilliant win, especially away to Tilbury.

“The pitch was terrible and the weather wasn’t great. The wind was strong so we knew it wasn’t going to be a great game to play or watch.”

As for the injury which ended his own involvement in the match, Barry said: “I was carrying a light hamstring injury from last week and I couldn’t carry on for fear of doing more damage.

“I warmed up before the game to see how it would feel and it felt ok, but when I came in at half time I realised how bad it was and at the start of the second half I could feel pain.

“It was causing me pain every time I chased the ball and I knew that was it and I’d have to come off. I’ll have a week off and come back on Saturday to make sure we get another three points.”

Victory lifted Romford to 12th place in the table ahead of their Ship Lane meeting with Harlow on Saturday.