‘What a pleasure’ Michael Eacott’s departure from Bracknell Town was confirmed as Reading City bid farewell to the legend

Bracknell Town will be a very different looking squad over the next few weeks with long-serving goalkeeper Michael Eacott one of several players leaving the Robins.

The goalkeeper – who played in both of Bracknell’s FA Cup First Round games against Ipswich Town and Cambridge United, was signed by Bobby Wilkinson from Sutton Common Rovers as the ‘giants’ Robins rampaged through the Isthmian League South Central Division One.

Eacott was part of a defense that allowed just 12 goals as the Robins won the division in 21/22.

The goalkeeper announced his departure on social media saying: “After 4.5 years and almost 200 games, my time at Bracknell Town is up. From celebrating league success to back-to-back FA Cups, only to miss out on the play-offs. It’s been a pleasure to represent the club.”

Eacott’s departure was met with an outpouring of well-wishes from fans and opponents alike, he was described by many as ‘the best goalkeeper in the division’.

In a longer post on the club’s Facebook fan page, the goalkeeper said he was looking forward to spending more time with his family over the next few weeks. Of course it is unlikely he will be short of offers when he decides to return to the game.

Meanwhile, Bracknell have confirmed the departure of Ethan Burden who made 158 appearances with the player saying: “Four and a half years, 150+ appearances, promotion, FA Cup First Round Proper, play-offs and memories to last a lifetime.

“Bracknell Town gave me more than just football – it gave me friends for life. As a local player, I hope this shows how much that means. Thank you to everyone at the club and the fans.”

At Combined Nations League side Reading City, the club has bid farewell to King Eddie Lazarczuk.

A post on the Cityzens website read: “Mr Reading City, who played a vital role in our historic 2023/24 season, departs with almost 150 appearances under his belt, leaving a lasting legacy!”

Lazarczuk is in his sixth season with Reading and lifted the Southern Combination Challenge Cup with the team, City’s first trophy since its formation.

He made eight appearances for Reading City this season with his last game being a 4-0 defeat of Chipstead.

Divisional rivals Wokingham Town have added Dylan Clark from Division One Woodley United. Clark made his debut off the bench in a 1–1 draw with Reading City.

Woodley himself has made additions by joining midfielder Jasper Stewart from Windsor & Eton.