JOROME Slew admits Maldon and Tiptree’s players were left ‘devastated’ after they missed out on promotion to the Isthiman League top flight.

The Jammers were 14 points clear at the top of the division one north table and looked almost certain to go up when the season was cut short prematurely, due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Wayne Brown’s side had enjoyed a superb season, dominating their league programme and reaching the FA Cup second round after causing a huge shock by winning at Leyton Orient, where Slew scored a magnificent solo goal.

Slew also enjoyed a superb season, scoring 32 goals in 46 appearances and admits it was hugely disappointing to see their campaign cut short when they were on the verge of glory.

Speaking to TalkSPORT, striker Slew said: “We were 14 points ahead and possibly had a game in hand as well.

“It was devastating because we just missed out in the play-offs last season.

“We all came back so eager to get promoted and we were doing so well but it was just unfortunate circumstances and the boys were devastated.”

Slew’s incredible solo effort in Maldon’s 2-1 win at Leyton Orient is in the running for the FA Cup goal of the tournament for the 2019-20 season.

He advanced from the edge of his own area to fire into the bottom corner from just outside the Orient box.

“We were defending for a while actually,” said Slew.

“Because we were defending for so long and it opened up and the space was just there.

“I realized I was going to score when I got through the last two defenders and when I hit it, I knew that it was going in.

“I don’t think they (Orient defenders) thought I had it in me. They were trying to show me down the line but I always knew that I was going to cut inside.

“I never expected to be in contention for goal of the tournament.”

Slew, who is out of contract at Maldon, has been attracting interest from various clubs but admits his future plans have been put on hold because of the coronavirus pandemic.

He added: “I’m out of contract – it ended at the end of the football season.

“We had future plans but they’ve been put on hold because of the Covid situation but I’m just eager to get going, to be honest.

“It can work two ways.

“It’s not good because some teams will struggle budget wise but on the other hand, clubs will have the money and they won’t have to pay out a lot and give a massive wage.

Hibs

“I would not mind a move up to Scotland but if I’m playing and scoring goals, I’d be happy.

“It’s not easy but I’m just hoping to be back to football ASAP.”