Old Richians chairman Jason Dean demonstrated remarkable determination and resilience on Saturday after breaking his hand during the warm-up yet still playing the full 90 minutes in goal. The 55-year-old, who usually plays as a centre midfielder, stepped in to guard the net for the Gloucestershire Northern Senior League Division Two leaders in their 1-1 draw against Harrow Hill.
Dean sustained the injury during a shooting drill shortly before kick-off when he pushed a low shot around the post but landed awkwardly on his hand on the hard ground. Despite feeling a snap and sensing the severity of the injury immediately, he chose not to disclose it to anyone until after the final whistle, explaining that with no replacement goalkeeper available, withdrawing was not an option.
“I’m usually a centre midfielder, but I will always cover when needed so I had no hesitation,” Dean said. “I felt a snap straight away and knew it was something not good, but it didn’t enter my head to withdraw as there was no replacement.”
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In the game, Ben Smith put Old Richians ahead before Marshall Hopkins equalised for third-placed Harrow Hill. Dean reflected on the match, observing that the opposition started strongly but Old Richians managed to settle and gain control in the second half, though they struggled to create clear chances in the final third.
Dean made just one notable save in the first half, similar to the difficult save he made in warm-up despite his injury. Adopting a proactive approach, he encouraged the defence to push forward so he could act as a sweeper behind them, successfully limiting Harrow Hill’s counter-attacks in the latter stages.
“A draw was probably the fair result,” Dean commented.
The point earned maintains Old Richians' position just above Mushet & Coalway on goal difference. Regular goalkeeper Nick Sheppard is expected to return for the upcoming match against Tewkesbury Town Reserves.
Beyond the pitch, Dean, a West Ham United supporter and clothing brand owner, has served as chairman of the Sandyleaze-based club for the past four years. He highlighted the club’s steady progress, emphasising the commitment of the committee amid challenges faced by local teams in recent years.
“We are steadily building up due to the hard work of our committee, while a lot of local teams have been struggling over the last 10 years, with some forced to fold,” he said. “Hopefully, we have steadied the ship and are working to bring in youth football to sustain us into the future.”
Dean described the club as a family, united in their efforts despite occasional disagreements, all striving for the best outcomes.
“We’re a bit of a family club with everyone pushing in the same direction. As with all families we have our disagreements, but we talk things through and we all want the best for the club.”