Max Shepherd (#7) pushes forward for Harold Wood in their game this weekend
Written by Scott W [@ScottMHC14] – Non-League & EOFL Writer
Hello & welcome to the last edition of the Essex Olympian League column for the 2022-23 season, looking at the action in all divisions & Cups from the week to Saturday 13 May, at the end of the piece you’ll see the Champions from all six league divisions listed.
EOFL Premier Division
Two matches were played in the top-tier. Galleywood got a morale-boosting 2 – 1 win in their bottom-two clash with Bishop’s Stortford Swifts, held at Melbourne Park 3G. Freddie Bartram & Lee Judd got the goals for the relegated side to outdo Chris Gibbs’ reply for Swifts, who will finish second-bottom. Also, Runwell Sports‘ superb campaign goes on as they defeated Toby 4 – 3 at St Luke’s. Luca Frankis, Charlie Little, Riley Armstrong & James Dalton all netted here for Robert Hodgson’s side. Albert Perry’s brace & Ben Picton’s strike made it tight but Mark Jones’ side have still had a good season.
In Division Two, AS Rawreth ended their season in the best possible way, as the relegated side won 3 – 2 at home to Catholic Utd Res at the Warren. Eamonn Kearney’s team have the Reserve Cup Final in midweek against Wakering Sports Res at Heybridge’s Scraley Road.
In Division Four, Herongate Athletic Res defeated Pitsea Athletic Res 3 – 1 at Basildon Sports Village to fortify fourth spot. Habeeb Apatira, Alex Newton & replacement Kai Redmond all netted to seal the win. Pitsea Res finished eighth.
One other thing to mention, the Senior Cup Final this week was postponed because of the one thing that may be remembered – hefty rain. It has be re-set for May 24th, again at Heybridge’s Scraley Road. …
‘Roll of Honour’ champions by division
Hutton – EOFL Premier Division
Old Chelmsfordians – EOFL Division One
Shoebury Town – EOFL Division Two
Basildon Town Res – EOFL Division Three
Leigh Ramblers Res – EOFL Division Four
Manford Way Res – EOFL Division Five
Many thanks to all those who have read this column this term & to all who shared it as well. Have a good Summer.
Shoebury: Black & White hirts, Black Shorts & Black Socks
Rawreth: Blue & White Shirts, Blue Shorts, White Socks
Second-half flourish gives Shoebury big win over Rawreth
Shoebury Town 6 – 2 AS Rawreth
Match Report & Photos by Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMHC14]
The main match this weekend was a first visit to Ekco Sports Club to see Shoebury Town take on AS Rawreth in the Essex Olympian League Division Two. Town were looking to maintain their 100% record and go further clear at the summit. John Galley & Garry Johnson’s side had Sebastian Godwin-Turner in goal, with a backline comprised of Jack Clarke, Dominic Walton, Jenson Gentry & Max Drury. Skipper Callum Merenda was alongside Jason Carter & Aaron Marshall in midfield while the goal-hungry forward line was led by Mechack-Kisoka Asuka, with support from Ryan Galley & Luke Jackson. Rawreth are in mid-table, once again under the tutelage of General Manager Shane Bird, and Ryley Walder was their goalkeeper, with stalwarts Lucas Winzar & captain Muntizir Hussain alongside Frank Oluyitan and Salum Abdullah. Archie Tonks, Kyle Fearon, Max Bellamy & Billy Brown pushed on from midfield with skilful forwards Sonny Newcombe and Luke Cassar also starting.
This match began with both sides really competing well, but the hosts couldn’t quite find their ‘A-game’ which gave Rawreth some confidence. Shoebury forward Mechack-Kisoka Asuka had two early sighters at goal but couldn’t quite bypass visiting custodian Ryley Walder. Rawreth also showed their attacking promise at the other end & took the lead through a clinical finish on 12 minutes. Tricky forward Sonny Newcombe was played in well and Newcombe fired home calmly past home stopper Sebastian Godwin-Turner. The tempo was building nicely as we continued through the half, with Max Bellamy firing off-target as Shane Bird’s team sought to grab another goal. Asuka was the key threat for Town but his header was well-parried onto the goal frame by Walder as you sensed that Shoebury were getting their way back into the game.
Kyle Fearon (right) in possession for Rawreth in first half
Shoebury did get an equaliser right on the half-hour as a decent set-piece by Luke Jackson found Mechack-Kisoka Asuka who guided his header past Walder and into the net. Rawreth had just dropped their intensity a fraction by this point & were punished seven minutes before the interval. Forward Mechack Kisoka-Asuka got his second goal with a well-placed curling strike from 25 yards out, which was too good for Walder to get across and parry.
Shoebury were still a little vulnerable out of possession, as Rawreth showed again why they are notching goals & points this term with their free-flowing passing game. Defensively in the first half, you had to respect their attitude led by centre-back Lucas Winzar & skipper Muntizir Hussain as they frustrated the hosts for large parts of the first 45 minutes.
Rawreth’s defence having to withstand pressure towards end of first half
Half-Time: Shoebury 2 – 1 Rawreth
After the interval though, it was a fairly different game. They say ‘goals change games’ and that was almost immediately apparent here. Just two minutes after the resumption, Shoebury extended their lead as another corner from Jackson angled into the six-yard box and captain Callum Merenda slotted home from close range – Rawreth’s lapses were proving costly for them. John Galley & Garry Johnson’s side were really turning the momentum in their favour as they got a fourth goal on 49 minutes. Jackson sent in another probing set-piece which allowed half-time replacement Suhail Yasin to absolutely power home a very good header right into the far corner, giving Walder little chance.
It got harder for Rawreth, as midfielder Kyle Fearon was forced off moments after narrowly missing the target with a decent strike. Shoebury were pushing forward with more enthusiasm now and Yasin was in the action again as his curling effort was well-blocked by influential skipper Muntizir Hussain for Rawreth. Shoebury did continue to test an understandably tiring visiting defence though, and made it five with 21 minutes left, as Mechack-Kisoka Asuka got his third goal with a low strike past Walder after being well played in on goal.
Shoebury did allow the Blues a little more possession in the last fifteen minures and Rawreth did give them a warning of sorts on 81 minutes, as Winzar’s decent ball was just out of reach for Luke Cassar to strike at. Rawreth did get a second goal a minute later as a angled set-piece from just inside their half found captain Muntizir Hussain who rose highest to power home a fine header past Godwin-Turner & into the net.
This of course further motivated Shoebury to add to their goal tally, which they did a few minutes before time as a neat strike by winger Ryan Galley found the left corner, despairingly out of reach for the unfortunate Walder. Sometimes score-lines don’t always tell the story of a game and while credit has to go Shoebury for the ruthlessness and quality they showed in the second half, you have to respect Rawreth for their approach today, as they also played some good stuff at times and contributed to an entertaining tie here.
Sonny Newcombe [#13] looking to push forward for Rawreth
Full-Time: Shoebury Town 6 – 2 AS Rawreth
To summarise this entertaining game, Rawreth competed very well in the first half and more than held their own against the hosts who couldn’t initally find their astute passing game. Shane Bird’s side were a threat in that first half but after Fearon was forced off, they ended up having to play with ten men for large parts of the second half, which assisted a fired-up Shoebury to gain impetus through their faster passing & high-tempo game & score some fine goals too as they secured a deserved win in the end to go three points clear at the summit.
The stand-out performances here start with victors Shoebury, with forward Mechack-Kisoka Asuka’s fine treble leading the way (moving up to eight league goals this season in the process) but he also put in a high-energy shift, making several good runs. Support forward Luke Jackson also had a very good game, conjuring up four assists as well as stretching the understandably tiring visiting defence in the second half. Early replacement Jack Woodham also impressed with his good play & movement while half-time substitute Suhail Yasin also added energy and scored a terrific header as well early in second half.
For Rawreth, skipper Muntizir Hussain scored a fine headed goal himself, to crown off a good individual effort, making several important interceptions throughout the game. Forward Sonny Newcombe also took his goal very well, and made several good mazy runs and neat passes. Centre-half Lucas Winzar also got a decent assist (for Hussain’s goal) and also dealt with the pressure well to stifle the home forwards for most of the game. Lastly, a word for midfielder Kyle Fearon who made several good turns getting past defenders and made several neat passes until he was forced off, which ultimately changed the game.
I’d like to wish both teams well for the rest of the season. Also, my thanks to John Galley, Garry Johnson & Zoe Johnson for the kind ‘Shoebury welcome’ I got today, it is appreciated.
Teams
Shoebury Town | Co-Managers: John Galley & Garry Johnson | Coaches: Reg Cody, Khystian Mirga & Lee Cody
Starting XI: 1 Sebastian Godwin-Turner (GK), 2 Jack Clarke, 3 Dominic Walton, 14 Jenson Gentry, 23 Max Drury, 15 Jason Carter, 7 Callum Merenda (Capt), 11 Ryan Galley, 4 Aaron Marshall, 8 Luke Jackson, 10 Mechack-Kisoka Asuka
Written by Scott W [@ScottMHC14] – Non-League Writer
Hello & welcome to the round-up from the action in the Essex Olympian League. This week on Saturday 24 September, we look at the action in all six divisions, plus an extra section featuring the various Cup competitions.
Image from Rayleigh Town v Leigh Rams last weekend
EOFL – Saturday 24 September
EOFL Premier Division & Division One
In the top-tier, Catholic Utd remain in second after a 4 – 1 win at Kelvedon Hatch. Liam Oliver grabbed a fine treble to lead the way for Simon Thomas’ side, with Harrison Day also notching at New Hall. Sungate also got a super win, 5 – 1 at home to Springfield with Josh Addinall and Solomon Asomah both netting twice here, alongside substitute Jake Willis’ strike. Rayleigh Town remain in the early promotion race after a 2 – 0 win at Canning Town. Sonny Woodward and Philip Anunwa strikes were enough to see Paul Higgins’ side to the win, despite goalkeeper Mark Brown being sent off.
In the other results this week, Runwell Sports won 4 – 0 at Bishop’s Stortford Swifts and Leigh Ramblers were held 1 – 1 at home by Toby. Scott Clark’s goal for the Rams were cancelled out by another goal for Oliver Dingli.
In Division One, Harold Wood Athletic‘s fine start continued as they powered past Harold Hill 6 – 1 in their local derby. James Pottle netted twice, with the supporting cast of Ben Woolven, Billy Gray, Max Shepherd & Dan Spittle all also on target for John Field’s team. Herongate Athletic were held 3 – 3 by Old Chelmsfordians at St Clere’s Sch 3G. Matthew Keiller, George Godfrey and Benjamin Clarke’s spot-kick accounted for the hosts’ goals, but a brace from Joe Murphy and one from Shane Pritchardmean the OC’s left with a point. The other result this week was ACD Utd’s 1 – 1 draw with Manford Way.
EOFL Divisions Two & Three
In the Division Two matches of the week, Shoebury Town got their second consecutive victory with a hard-fought 4 – 3 win at Catholic Utd Res. Enoch Gyimah scored twice for Town, with Aaron Marshall & Takondwa Maosa also on the score-sheet. Hutton Res stayed third after a 2 – 2 draw with Rayleigh Town Res at Polo Fields. David Johnson scored both goals for the hosts, with John Hanrahan & substitute Jack Taylor levelling things up for Dave Barker’s side. May & Baker‘s EOFL side got their first win with a 3 – 0 victory at Wakebury. Darren Seymour, Jack O’Connor & an OG were enough to deny the Berries a chance to climb into the top three.
The other results were leaders Wakering Sports Res winning 2 – 0 at home to Hashtag Utd Dev at Cupid’s and AS Rawreth’s 3 – 2 success over Harold Wood Athletic Res, which sent the hosts into mid-table.
In Division Three, Buckhurst Hill U23 emerged with a 4 – 3 victory at Chingford Athletic Res at Town Mead. Bradley Croft scored a fine treble for the visitors there, with Enis Demirbala adding the other Buckhurst goal. Despite having Jack Barnes sent off and Luke Dimond bagging yet anotyer hat-trick for the hosts, the Hill development side held on to stay third in the table. Leigh Town Res also kept up their decent start with a 3 – 2 success at Corinthians Res. Tehm Vapiwala, Callum Keys and Steve Birnie all netted for Josh Burrage’s side, who ended the game with ten men after Patrick Szabo’s dismissal.
Elsewhere, Hullbridge Sports Res were denied going joint-top on goal difference as they were held 1 – 1 at strugglers Old Chelmsfordians Res. George Prentice got the important goal for the hosts at Lawford Lane, while Joe Ives replied for Hullbridge, who stay second. The other game saw Toby Res held 0 – 0 by leaders Pitsea Athletic. Both of the top two sides are still unbeaten.
EOFL Divisions Four & Five
In the solitary Division Four match, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res got a decent 2 – 0 victory at Ongar Town. Goals from Lewis Wake and David Falzon meant the visitors leapt into mid-table.
In Division Five, Manford Way Res went up to fourth spot after a 2 – 1 home victory over Wakebury Res. Luke Bennett notched two goals here to outdo Luke Abbott’s reply for Joe Creak’s side. Epping Town Res got their first win of the season afs they defeated AS Rawreth Res 3 – 2 at Roding Valley Sch 3G. Joe Bothwell scored twice for the hosts, which Paranveer Sethi added a third for Epping. Lucas Winzar kept up his decent scoring record by scoring both goals for the Rawreth second-side. The other result saw Canning Town Res win 3 – 0 at home against Shoebury Town Res.
Essex Premier Cup R1
So the EPC had one more fixture this week with Shenfield AFC winning 3 – 1 at Basildon Town Res. Jack Shaw, Aaron Lang and Alfie MacKay all netted here for the visitors as they progressed.
Essex Junior Cup
In the Junior Cup, Roydon put up a strong fight but are out after a 4 – 3 loss at Sheering after extra time. Connor Presland scored twice for the EOFL side, with Nicholas Costagliola adding the other strike but a double for Matt Coe, plus goals from Jordan King & Dan Bryant saw the hosts through. Galleywood Res are also through after a 2 – 0 triumph at South Woodham Ferrers Utd. Diogo Viveiros & Ashley Merritt both netting there.
Written by Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMHC14] – Non-League writer
Hello & welcome to the round-up from the second week of action in the Essex Olympian League for the 2022-23 season. This week, we look at the action in all six divisions, as some teams began their campaigns here.
EOFL Premier Division
As usual we begin with the top-tier, and Rayleigh Town got a fine 4 – 0 victory over Toby at Concord Rangers’ Thames Road. Harry Talbot got a fine treble with George Vile’s penalty securing the points. Leigh Ramblers began their 125th Anniversary season with a good 3 – 2 win in their local derby at Old Southendian. Tom Franks got a brace while stalwart Ryan Lowe got the other goal. Mattias Tonking and Jack Lelliott both notched for OS there.
The two other matches were narrow wins for the home side. Firstly, Catholic Utd defeated Canning Town 1 – 0 at Len Forge, with Louis Robinson the goal-getter. Also at Chadfields, Hutton had a goal from substitute Jude Keeling to thank for a 1 – 0 win against Kelvedon Hatch.
EOFL Division One
In Division One, Corinthians made it two wins from two as they hammered Leigh Town 9 – 0 at Stambridge. Bill Wilton got four goals for the hosts, with Jake Hodder, Max Jones, Bailey Moss and Connor Summerhill also on target, along with an OG. Beacon Hill Rovers edged to a 2 – 1 success over Wakering Sports, with Bertie Whymark and a penalty from Jack Walker enough to seal the three points. Elsewhere, Harold Wood Athletic made it two wins from two games with a 3 – 2 triumph over Herongate Athletic at Harold Wood Park. James Pottle, Zach Holding and Billy Gray’s penalty were enough to overhaul Ath goals from Matthew Keiller and Callum Palmer.
In the other action, Epping Town bagged a 4 – 2 win over Old Chelmsfordians, with Abdul Kamara scoring twice for Epping along with one goal each for Scout Bown and Chris Gormley. Also, Harold Hill drew 4 – 4 with Manford Way in their first meeting in this division. The scorers for Hill were lack by Jack Suters’ brace and one apiece for Connor Donnelly and Jack Stevenson.
EOFL Divisions Two & Three
Into Division Two now, and Harold Wood Athletic Res also won at home, with a 2 – 1 success over Wakebury. James Jenkins and Ollie Portway goals were enough for them. Harry Kateley got the goal for Matt Cardy’s team. Elsewhere, Hashtag Utd Development were held 1 – 1 at home to Catholic Utd Res. Substitute Chandler Wray netted for the hosts with Dominic O’Kane scoring for Utd’s second-side.
The other results in the division were AS Rawreth’s 3 – 1 triumph over Old Southendian Res, and Wakering Sports Res defeated Hutton Res 5 – 2 at Cupid’s.
Moving onto Division Three, Hullbridge Sports Res got a 4 – 2 win over local rivals Corinthians Res at Lower Road. There were doubles for Jay Knight and Joe Tuskin for the hosts to outdo strikes by Chevon Bryan and Agelos Alla for the visitors. Buckhurst Hill U23s had strikes by Cameron Lyttle and Louie Cooper to thank for a 2 – 1 win at Basildon Town Res. Tyler Fowles got the goal back for Town there.
Also, Pitsea Athletic edged to a 2 – 1 win over Leigh Town Res with Precious Aminu and replacement Reece Stone seeing Ath to victory. Springfield Res won 3 – 1 at Toby Res, with Liam England scoring all three goals for the Chelmsford-based side there.
EOFL Divisions Four & Five
There were two games each in Divisions Four and Five. Firstly, in Division Four there was a fine away win for Pitsea Athletic Res as they won 4 – 2 at Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res. Lewis Brown scored two, plus Rinor Zeqiri and substitute Jay Seeley-Hanson were also on target. Ewan Rockell and Lewis Wake got consolation goals for Swifts. Shenfield AFC Res also won away from home, winning 2 – 1 at Collier Row. Ross Riding and replacement Paul Constable Jr both netted for AFC there, with Jack Bird also scoring after coming off the bench.
Division Five there was a good start to Miki Hood’s tenure as Shoebury Town Res boss as his side won 3 – 2 at Collier Row Res, at the Forest Row Centre. Substitute Kyle McAlindon scored twice, with Chadrack Kisoka also netting. Charlie Quant and Harry Potts both struck for Row’s second team but they fell to defeat. Also, Runwell Sports Res were held 2 – 2 by Manford Way Res at St Luke’s Park.
Hutton winger Luke Ricketts in possession v Catholic Utd [Image by Scott W]
Written by Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMHC14] – Non-League & EOFL Writer
Hello and welcome to this week’s extended round-up of the action in the Essex Olympian League this week, including the midweek action In League & Cups and the action on Saturday 7 May. The focus this week is on the League action in the top three divisions. Thank you for reading. Photos are by Scott W & Wakering Sports FC, used with thanks.
Essex Olympian League – Midweek [Tues 3 May]
We begin the midweek action began with the EOFL Reserve Cup Final, held once again at Woodside (Bishop’s Stortford FC). Wakering Sports Res ended a fine campaign with a 4 – 1 triumph over Buckhurst Hill U23 with Connor Fardyga underlining his superb goal-scoring campaign with a brace here, which Ciaran Sweeney and David Watson added goals to complete the win to claim the silverware. Before we move on, I’d like to add my congratulations to the Wakering Sports second-side, as a club Sports have had a strong season.
Wakering Sports celebrate with the Res Lge Cup [Image by Wakering Sports FC]
Also on Tuesday night, Rayleigh Town maintained their slim chances of the EOFL Premier title with a superb second-half showing securing them a 4 – 0 success at home to Galleywood. Harry Talbot netted twice for Paul Higgins’ side, with Liam Oliver and replacement William Vile also on target. Rivals Basildon Town and Ongar Town need a point to both overhaul Rayleigh’s points total as of this point ahead of the weekend’s action. Non-League writer Peter Dudley was there & here is his report: https://pedroslocalfootiefix.blogspot.com/2022/05/rayleigh-town-4-galleywood-0.html
Now onto the weekend’s action, and in the match I attended, Basildon Town got a crucial 1 – 0 victoryat Hutton to seal a top-two finish at least. Graham Harrison got the goal just before the hour mark which means Ongar Town have to win next weekend to claim the title. If you’d like more on this game, my report is here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2022/05/07/s21-22-match-report-hutton-0-1-basildon-town-sat-7-may-eofl/
Elsewhere, CatholicUtd still have a chance of afifth-placed finish after they secured a superb 5 – 1 triumph over Galleywood at the Len Forge. Aaron Baldwin netted twice here, with Franklin Craik, Thomas Kearney and debutant Matt Creevy also netting here. Thomas Watling again scored for ‘Wood but they still need at least a point to avoid a bottom-three finish. Finally, Sungate will definitely finish in the top half after a 4 – 2 success at Harold Wood Athletic. James Pottle and replacement Jamie Webb-Kelly struck for Ath but it was confirmed here that they will finish bottom. ‘Gate will face Canning Town in the Senior League Cup Final on Tuesday at Woodside (Bishop’s Stortford) – the first of three matches against Canning in 18 days.
In Division One, Snaresbrook are two points from safety now after a fine 4 – 2 victory over Corinthians at Hackney Marshes. Bailey Moss and John Bolton-Smith scored for Chris Stoneham’s visitors but a double from Lee Lashley as well as strikes by Yevhen Zhyvka and substitute Tyrell Holder were enough to claim the win which keeps Rob Caine’s side well in contention for Division One survival. If they defeat Beacon Hill Rovers next weekend, they will stay up. The Stambridge-based side have finished fourth after another good season.
In Division Two, AS Rawreth also earned a crucial triumph, winning 3 – 2 against Harld Wood Athletic Res at the Warren. Freddy Shepherd & Thomas Butler’s penalty made it tough but Rawreth responded to claim the points. A victory next week at home to promotion-chasing Manford Way may be enough to avoid a bottom-two finish, if Hutton Res lose at home to Manford’s promotion rivals Harold Hill.
Lastly, for this week – in Division Four, Roydon kept up their slim chances of a top three finish with a 2 – 0 victory at Sungate Dev. Mike Hayes & an OG secured the win for Roydon but they must win by at least six clear goals at Springfield Res in two weeks’ time to leapfrog their rivals and finish 3rd. Sungate Development are now confirmed as finishing second-bottom and will likely be relegated.
EOL Divisions Three & Five have now been completed.
That’s all for this week, the EOFL round-up has two more editions this month before we end for the season. Thanks to you all for reading.
Written by Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMHC14] – Non-League & EOFL Writer
Hello all and welcome to my round-up of the action in the Essex Olympian League, on Saturday 19 March. This weekend saw a promotion all but confirmed in Divisions Two & Four. The focus remains on the League action and we will have additional sections on Divisions Four & Five. Thank you for reading.
Essex Olympian Lge – Saturday 26 March
Image from Wakebury v Harold Hill earlier this campaign
EOFL Premier Division, Divisions One & Two
In the Premier Division, Basildon Town gained ground on leaders Ongar Town (who were not in action this weekend) by claiming a narrow 2 – 1 victory at Sungate, with Rhys Fatt grabbing both goals for Marcus Bowers’ team. They are four points behind Ongar with two matches in hand. Rayleigh Town were held 1 – 1 by battling Leigh Ramblers at Belfairs, with Ryan Lowe netting for the Rams, and George Vile equalised from twelve yards for Town. Rayleigh remain second, but are three points adrift of the leaders, while the Rams rise one place to twelfth, but are one of four sides still in relegation danger. Another match with ramifications at both ends of the table saw Hutton emerge with a 4 – 1 triumph at Harold Wood Athletic, in another game played at Robert Clack 3G. Luke Ricketts struck twice for Matt Singh’s side, with James Gardner and replacement Abraham Eze also on target as they stayed fourth but in the title hunt with matches in hand. Harold Wood remain bottom, six points adrift of the third-bottom Galleywood.
Elsewhere, Old Southendian won their local derby with Catholic Utd 3 – 2, with Callum Ludlaim scoring two goals at Garon Park 3G, and Nick Henesy also netting as they went up to seventh spot with six matches remaining. Utd got their goals via Jack Thompson and player-boss Simon Thomas and stay ahead of their opponents by goal difference only, in sixth. Also, Springfield drew 2 – 2 with Canning Town in the early kick-off at Arun Park. Ryan Kelland and Reece Simpson scored for the hosts but Canning responded to claim a precious point and stay in touch with their rivals. Finally, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts drew 0 – 0 with Kelvedon Hatch, which means Swifts stay tenth and Kelvedon remain in fifth, twelve points clear of Catholic Utd and Old Southendian.
In Division One, the solitary match saw Toby grab a 3 – 0 win against strugglers Leigh Town in Newbury Park. The trio of Harry Barham, Albert Perry and Ben Picton all netted again for Mark Jones’ side to ensure the win which means a point in their last game next month will ensure a top-two finish, but a win would give them the title.
Moving into Division Two now, and ACD Utd took a big step towards the title after a narrow 1 – 0 win against May & Baker A at Westlands. Michael Wade’s 23rd league goal this term ensured the win which takes them five points clear at the summit, needing only five points to mathematically seal the league championship. That was because Harold Hill were held 3 – 3 at Shoebury Town. Player manager Garry Johnson, Kyle McAlindon and Cassidy Day all scored for Shoebury who rose to fifth with this decent result. AS Rawreth also got a vital win to aid their battle against relegation as they won 3 – 2 at home to Wakebury. Harry Kateley and Shaun Lewis-Evans replied for the Berries but their chances of a top-two finish took a dent here. Rawreth climb one spot to second-bottom after this victory.
Finally, Hutton Res were held 2 – 2 by Harold Wood Athletic Res at Polo Fields. Josh Portway got both strikes for the visitors there, who will probably be safe provided they grab one more win in their last three matches. The Hutton side will need as many points as possible as Rawreth behind them have an extra match left to play.
EOFL Divisions Three, Four & Five
Into Division Three, and Wakering Sports Res have moved right into contention for a top-two finish after a brilliant 6 – 2 victory at leaders Catholic Utd Res. Scott Clark took his season’s goal tally to fourteen with a double here, with Ashley Sexton also netting two along with one goal each for the division’s top-scorer Connor Fardyga and Ciaran Sweeney. Daniel Williams got both goals for Utd’s second side as they will likely need to win their last three games to stay in contention. Third-placed Hashtag Utd Dev were held 3 – 3 at a spirited Basildon Town Res. Jack Main got two goals for Bas, with Nathan Fisher also on the score-sheet. Matthew Gauci, Tommy Green and Samuel Pratt’s 16th league goal this term meant that Denis Simpson’s side claimed a point which importantly keeps them only two points away from the top two and have one game in hand on both of them. Town will finish fourth after playing their last league game here and have a 12-point lead on their nearest challengers Pitsea Athletic.
Speaking of the newcomers, Buckhurst Hill U23 continued their fine form by defeating Pitsea Athletic 3 – 1 at Roding Lane, which meant Darren Gosnell’s side rise up to sixth spot, with three matches left to play. Also, Collier Row ended their campaign with a fine 2 – 1 win at Leigh Town Res. Despite this result, they will finish in the bottom two and will likely face relegation.
Now into Division Four, and Chingford Athletic Res sealed the title (for all intents & purposes) in style with a 7 – 2 win at nearest challengers Roydon. Nader Benzid and substitute Jack Bayley-Etheridge got the goals for Roydon here. The Ath second-side will be in Division Three next term and Springfield Res might yet join them there after a 5 – 2 triumph over Canning Town Res in the late kick-off meant they went level on points with Roydon but stay third. The ensemble cast of scorers included Liam England, Jordan Denyer, William Roe, substitute Reece Simpson and fellow replacement Thomas Bloomfield. The Town side look set for a demotion as they will be unable to avoid finishing bottom.
Elsewhere, Leytonstone Utd had a James Medlock goal to thank for a 1 – 0 success at home to Galleywood Res. The result means they have a decent chance of avoiding a bottom two finish but their rivals have matches in hand. Also, Ongar Town Res defeated Wakering Sports A 2 – 1 to go up to fourth in the table.
In the sixth tier, the season is rapidly approaching its conclusion, and leaders Leigh Ramblers Res ended their campaign with a narrow 1 – 0 victory at Runwell Sports Res. Alex Goodson’s seventh league goal gave them the win which for now keeps them at the summit, although they could yet be overhauled. One of those sides in prime position to do that is Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res, who won 3 – 0 at Wakebury Res. Callum Blair Park, Henry Harnack and Lewis Wake got the goals here which means one more win for the Swifts second-side will secure them the Division Five title. The Wakebury side will finish bottom as they completed their campaign here and after the game, Reece Upcraft stood down from his role as Wakebury Res boss, I’d like to wish him well for the future, he will be replaced next season by Joe Creak (Source: Wakebury’s Twitter).
Elsewhere, Herongate Athletic Res got a terrific 7 – 2 win against Collier Row Res at Billericay Road. Lee Glynn scored twice here, with the array of other scorers being Jack Sparrow, Kurt Smith, Thomas Northwood, Jonathan Packer and substitute Benjamin Clarke. Ath went up to fourth spot with this win and still have a chance of a top-three finish as they have three matches left. Emmanuel Akinte and Mark Lee scored for the Row side here. Also, Snaresbrook Res defeated AS Rawreth Res 5 – 0 at Nutters Lane to go up to sixth in the standings, while Epping Town Res got a walkover win against Old Barkabbeyans, meaning they will finish ninth as this was their last game of the term as well.
Corinthians’ Jake Hodder on the ball [Taken from Corinthians v Herongate 30.10.21]
Written by Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMHC14] – Non-League & EOFL Writer
Hello all and welcome to my round-up of the action in the Essex Olympian League, on Saturday 30 October. This week, the focus on League action remains, with this round-up focusing on the top four divisions, with results from Division Four & Five. I also attended a match in the EOFL this weekend, more on that in the Division One section. Many thanks for reading.
EOFL Premier Division
In the Premier Division, Ongar Town remain at the summit after a 5 – 0 win at Kelvedon Hatch. Joe Lilly notched twice for Richard Ponsford’s side, with Eamon Payne, Mitchell McCabe and Jack Zielinski all scoring to also go joint-top in terms of goals scored this term. Kelvedon remain eighth. Basildon Town are still second after they won 3 – 1 at Canning Town. Graham Harrison got another two goals and replacement Antony Aylett confirmed the win for Marcus Bowers’ side in Beckton. Meanwhile, Hutton are just a point further back in third spot after a superb 5 – 0 triumph at Leigh Ramblers. The ensemble cast of Stpehen Judge, George Nash, Sean O’Callaghan, Luke Ricketts and substitute Jack Shaw all contributed a goal each to see Matt Singh’s side to victory.
Rayleigh Town also stayed as they were in fourth place after a good 2 – 0 triumph away at Catholic Utd. Liam Oliver netted both goals to take his League tally up to nine for the season already. The ‘Super Hoops’ fell to seventh after this result, six points adrift of the top three. Old Southendian got their sixth win of the campaign as they won 2 – 0 against strugglers Harold Wood Athletic at Garon Park. Strikes by Ed Gould and Mattias Tonking were enough to see Altar Ali’s side maintain their good start to this term as they rise to fifth.
Also, Springfield got their first win under new boss Francesco Zabotti as they won 2 – 1 at Shenfield AFC, which moved them up two places to 12th, while Sungate were held to a 2 – 2 draw with Galleywood.
EOFL Division One
In the second-tier, Toby were the big movers up the standings with a 4 – 1 triumph at home to Beacon Hill Rovers. Doubles for Ben Picton and Albert Perry were enough to see Toby up to third after their third win in their last four matches. Beacon Hill remain second-bottom in the table after five straight defeats. In the match that I attended this weekend, Corinthians fought back well to claim a 2 – 2 draw against fellow top six side Herongate Athletic at Stambridge Memorial Ground. Herongate had Martin Llewellyn’s double to thank for an early lead, but as the match went on the hosts got stronger and goals from Jordan Stoneham and Leo Clarke levelled things up but Ath defended well to claim a point. For more on this match, my report is here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2021/10/30/s21-22-match-report-corinthians-2-2-herongate-athletic-sat-30-oct-eofl/
Elsewhere in the division, Chingford Athletic got another home win, this time defeating Leigh Town 2 – 1. The win takes Declan Murphy’s Chingford side up to fifth on goal difference, just ahead of Herongate and Old Chelmsfordians, who defeated bottom side Snaresbrook 2 – 0 at Lawford Lane. Finally, Runwell Sports got another win as they defeated Epping Town 2 – 1 at Epping Rugby club. Andrew Smith netted for Town here, but they remain 9th with Runwell now going level on points with leaders Wakering Sports, with Rob Hogdson’s side having played a game more.
EOFL Division Two
Now into Division Two, we have new leaders in Harold Hill after they comprehensively won 7 – 0 at Rayleigh Town Res. Harry Agombar netted a fine hat-trick, with Tommy Foster adding a brace plus Peter Tyler and Matthew Harris also netted for Mark Ellis’ side. Hill are three points clear of ACD Utd, who lost their unbeaten record, as they lost 2 – 1 at Wakebury. Strikes by Max Hall and Harry Kateley were enough to claim a big win for Matt Cardy’s side, overturning a rare goal by player-boss Greg Knock. The win sees the Berries fortify third spot, six points clear of Manford Way, who got a 3 – 0 success over Old Southendian Reserves in NE London.
Meanwhile, Hutton Res got their first win of the season after a 5 – 2 success at home to May & Baker A at Polo Fields. The visitors had to field May & Baker First team boss Jordan Harris in goal for the majority of the match (one of those great stories in Grassroots football) but Hutton did claim the points as Jude Keeling notched a treble and Carl Dutton got the other two goals to claim a morale-boosting win for the hosts. Finally, in their bottom-of-the-table match, AS Rawreth got a narrow 1 – 0 win at Rochford Town and end their six-match losing run. Harold Wood Athletic Ressies’ match with Shoebury Town was postponed, presumably due to a waterlogged pitch.
EOFL Division Three
In Division Three, Hashtag Utd Development opened up a seven-point cushion in third spot after a 4 – 0 triumph at Pitsea Athletic. Tony Stevens and Kai Warren struck to bolster their position, before late strikes by Samuel Pratt and replacement Charlie Drew sealed the win. Pitsea remain mid-table, a point ahead of Hullbridge Sports Res who got their third win of the season after a 3 – 1 success against Toby Res at Lower Road. Jay knight, Harry Mole and Michael Clark all netted to give the hosts the points. Elsewhere, Catholic Utd Res made it ten wins from ten matches after a 2 – 1 win at Leigh Town Res. Plus, Wakering Sports Res stayed in second on goal difference after winning 5 – 1 at home to Corinthians Res at Cupid’s. Collier Row’s match with Basildon Town Ressies was postponed, due to waterlogged surface at Forest Row.
EOFL Division Four Results
Canning Town Res 1 – 4 Leytonstone Utd | Bobby Moore Pavillon
Rayleigh Res: Navy Blue Shirts, Navy Blue Shorts, Navy Blue Socks
Rawreth: Green Shirts, Green Shorts, White Socks
Rawreth grab a point in well-contested match at Rayleigh Reserves
Rayleigh Town Res 2 – 2 AS Rawreth
Match Report & Photos by Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMHC14]
This weekend saw a rarity of a double-header in the Essex Olympian League. The early match was in EOFL Division Two, which saw AS Rawreth, now managed by Josh Hutchins, travel to London Road to face Rayleigh Town Res who voluntarily dropped down to this division in the summer. Dave Barker’s home side had Jayden Powell between the posts, with a defensive four of centre-backs Dan Webb and Jordan White with full-backs Lewis Dines and William Vile. Support for the front two of Ebeneezer Djan and Matt Oaten came from wingers Byron Down and Kempson Allen. Their options from the bench were forward Robbie Allen plus midfielders Dean Hazleton and Brandon Martin and Jack Taylor. AS Rawreth embarked on a new era in the summer under Hutchins and assistant Callum Bolger and fielded Oliver Johnson as goalkeeper, with a central defensive pair of captain Reece Samuel and Alex Swan, with Tom Binks leading the attack, supported by Ryan Kenyon, Said Ahmed and Mason MacCullum. On their substitutes’ bench were forwards Danny Carr and Mahir Adbulkadir and defenders Todd Bolger and James Brice.
The match got underway with the right-sided duo of Lewis Dines and Byron Down for Rayleigh looking to use that flank to cause the opposition defence problems. Forward Ebeneezer Djan having an early shot on Oliver Johnson’s goal but it drifted wide. The home side did have more of the play in the early stages, with Dines looking to get his team going. But AS Rawreth were starting to find their rhythm with a little more purpose on the ball as on 11 minutes, centre forward Tom Binks’ lofted effort was gathered by home stopper Jayden Powell. That served as a warning though which the hosts didn’t heed as only two minutes afterward, the visitors opened the scoring. A neat move involving winger Said Ahmed and full-back Joseph Frisby-Brown found Binks who slotted the ball into the net past Powell on the second attempt.
Town had a speculative chance just before that goal as support forward Matt Oaten attempted a lob from about 35 yards, trying to catch Johnson out off his goal-line but it was to no avail. Rayleigh couldn’t quite gather their pace and rhythm in possession to get in behind the Rawreth defence, with centre-backs Reece Samuel and Alex Swan doing a good job of clearing their lines. That being said, Town still had a number of half-chances, with a poor pass by the visitors midway through the half allowing Town winger Kempson Allen a strike on goal but he could only fire over the goal frame.
Rawreth were having to hold firm at this stage, and Djan’s curling lob was well-denied by a sprawling save by Johnson. As we passed the half-hour though, Josh Hutchins’ side responded with Binks unfortunate to not squeeze a shot past a congested six-yard area and thus allowing Powell to gratefully claim the ball. Powell also denied AHmed’s strike, cutting inside from the left flank at his near post. Rayleigh knew they had to raise it up a gear after the interval, despite a good move seven minutes before the break which good play from winger Byron Down find Oaten whose imaginative back-heeled effortwas denied at point-blank range by Johnson.
Half-Time: Rayleigh Town Res 0 – 1 AS Rawreth
Town skipper John Hanrahan was encouraging his players from his anchor midfield role and after a quiet-ish opening phase of the second half where his side were causing the visitors problems, the breakthrough came on the hour. Down was felled in the area and without hesitation, referee Daniel Mann pointed to the spot. Hanrahan duly stepped up and converted the resulting spot-kick low into the net and for the first time in the game, Rawreth were really up against it. The introduction of Robbie Allen from the bench just before the hour had proven a positive one for Dave Barker’s side and the visiting defence were starting to concede set-pieces more often as well. The game turned again from one said set-piece on sixty-nine minutes as Allen powered home a free-kick past the wall and Johnson’s grasp to give the hosts the advantage.
Robbie Allen strikes free-kick to give Rayleigh the lead
Both sides were scrambling for the initative as we entered the latter stages of the game, but Rawreth did end up claiming a share of the points as a close-range finish by another replacement in Danny Carr six minutes from time proved important for the visitors. There was still one good chance with moments remaining as two substitutes combined for Town, with Allen’s good ball in finding Brandon Martin who unfortunately the hosts slotted wide. All in all, it was a decent result for both sides, with perhaps Rayleigh having the better of the the second period, after Rawreth had made an encouraging first-half display.
Full-Time: Rayleigh Town Res 2 – 2 AS Rawreth
There were a number of influential performances today by both sides. For Rayleigh Town Res, skipper John Hanrahan led his team admirably and was constant encouraging his team-mates as well as putting in a good display in anchor midfield. Right-bank Lewis Dines put in a commendable display and really stood out in the early stages, looking assured and showed good energy levels. Centre-back Jordan White also showed good positioning for the majority of the match whilst substitute Robbie Allen gave his side a lift after his introduction and his goal was a turning point in the match. For Rawreth, centre-back Reece Samuel marshalled his backline well and dealt with a lot of crosses aerially as well. Forward Tom Binks was also a threat for the home defence, looking to breakthrough and had a decent strike in him as well. Said Ahmed had a decent match on the left side too, whilst goalkeeper Oliver Johnson also deserves a mention for two or three smart saves to keep his side in the match.
I’d like to thank both teams for their assistance & wish them a good rest of the season.
Rayleigh Town Res | Manager: Dave Barker
Starting XI: 1 Jayden Powell (GK), 2 Lewis Dines, 3 William Vile, 4 John Hanrahan (Capt), 5 Dan Webb, 6 Jordan White, 7 Kempson Allen, 8 Jordan Lewis, 9 Ebeneezer Djan, 10 Matthew Oaten, 11 Byron Down
Subs On: 12 Dean Hazleton [30′], 16 Robbie Allen [55′], 14 Jack Taylor [63′], 15 Brandon Martin [79′]
Goal-scorers: John Hanrahan [pen 60′], Robbie Allen [69′]
Booked: None | Subs Not Used: None
AS Rawreth | Manager: Josh Hutchins |
Starting XI: 1 Oliver Johnson (GK), 12 Chris Batt, 3 Joseph Frisby-Brown, 4 Derek Boakye, 15 Reece Samuel (Capt), 6 Alex Swan, 7 Ryan Kenyon, 8 Harry Groves, 9 Tom Binks, 10 Mason MacCullum, 11 Said Ahmed
Goal-scorers: Tom Binks [13′], Danny Carr [84′]
Subs On: 22 Todd Bolger [46′], 14 Mahir Adbulkadir [58′], 5 James Brice [73′], 19 Danny Carr [76′]
Written by Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMHC14] – Non-League & EOFL Writer
Hello all and welcome to my round-up of the third weekend of action in the Essex Olympian League, on Saturday 28th August. This weekend saw some high-scoring matches and some surprise results as ever. As usual, the focus is on the top four divisions with results from Divisions Four & Five.
Many thanks for reading.
EOFL Premier Division
As ever we begin in the Premier, and Old Southendian maintained their 100% record with a 3 – 2 win over Kelvedon Hatch at Garon Park. Craig Paton, Mattias Tonking and Taylor Turner all scored for Altar Ali’s side as they held on for a good victory. Sungate also shone this weekend with a 5 – 1 success at Galleywood, with Ciaran Kelly, Ben Absolon and Thomas Drayton among the scorers for the visitors there. Jack Chatterway got the solitary response for ‘Wood in that game. Elsewhere, Springfield edged to a late 2 – 1 victory over Basildon Town at Springfield Hall Park. Strikes from Jack French and Aiden Brown were enough to overturn an earlier Antony Aylett leveller for Marcus Bowers’ side and complete a surprise win.
Meanwhile, Rayleigh Town got back to winning ways with a good 2 – 1 triumph at Bishop’s Stortford Swifts. Paul Morris and Jack Long both scored for Paul Higgins’ side, with Sam Chaney responding for Craig Glashan’s new side. Catholic Utd also got a second successive win as they defeated Harold WoodAthletic 2 – 1 at Harold Wood Park. Pablo Passenda and Max Kent got the goals for Simon Thomas’ team, while Matt Donovan replied for Gary Willis’ side.
In other action in the division, Shenfield AFC managed a comfortable 3 – 0 win over Canning Town at St Martins School 3G. Ben Carroll, Pelumi Adedokun and replacement Alex Broadbridge got the goals here in what was a much-needed win for them. Finally, Ongar Town continued their 100% record with a hard fought 2 – 0 win over Hutton at Lakeside Sports Ground, thanks to goals from Frankie Goodhall and Ayodele Awosika.
EOFL Division One
Moving now into Division One, with Herongate Athletic sitting as early front-runners as they made it three wins from three games with a 2 – 0 victory over Runwell Sports at Billericay Road. Another brace from Robbie Farrell made it five goals already for him this term, as Billy Cove’s side sit three points clear. Toby won their top-of-the-table clash, impressively defeating Wakering Sports 3 – 1 at Cupid’s. A brace from Albert Perry and thunderbolt from Mitch Grace gave Mark Jones’ side the win as they went second. Substitute Alfie Fossett scored for Mitch Gleeson’s side here. Snaresbrook got their first win of the new campaign, winning 3 – 2 at Epping Town. Ife Ogunbayo, Daniel Tesfay and Max Catherall all netted one each to outdo strikes by Andrew Smith and Joe Rickett for Town and ultimately give Rob Caine’s side the points.
Also, Beacon Hill Rovers won 2 – 1 at home to Old Chelmsfordians and there was a hugely entertaining match for the neutral at least at Stambridge where Corinthians came from three goals down to draw 4 – 4 with Leigh Town. Bailey Moss struck twice for Chris Stoneham’s side, with Jake Hodder and Damian Siemienczuk also on target.
EOFL Division Two
In Division Two, it is newcomers Harold Hill who are at the summit on goal difference after a 4 – 0 win at home to Rayleigh Town Res. In second spot are ACD Utd after they won 5 – 2 at Hutton Res. Jacob Dingli and Jamie Alexandrou both got doubles for Greg Knock’s team, with replacement Shaun Goddard also finding the net. Jack Shaw got both of the hosts’ goals here. Also on six points are Old Southendian Res as they made two wins from two following a 2 – 1 win at Shoebury Town. Jack Cripps and Nico Dubouchet got the goals for Josh Bambury’s side, with Jason Doyle’s team responding through club stalwart Garry Johnson.
Meanwhile, AS Rawreth are the last of the four teams at the top end of the table on six points after a 1 – 0 win over Rochford Town at The Warren. Tom Binks got the all-important goal for Josh Hutchins’s team here.
EOFL Division Three
In Division Three, the early leaders are Basildon Town Res after a 2 – 0 triumph over Collier Row at Basildon Sports Club. Jamie Miller and Nathan Fisher saw Tony Bowers’ side to the points. Buckhurst Hill U23 got their maiden win this term with a 4 – 0 victory over Corinthians Res at Roding Lane. The ensemble cast of Buttrint Iecaj, Jason Gomes, Nicolas Chramiec and Flynn Toye got the goals that saw Alan Byers’ team get their season underway in earnest. A hat-trick from perennial goal-getter Joseph Darby saw Hullbridge Res to a 3 – 0 home success over Leigh Town Res at Lower Road.
Elsewhere in the division, Hashtag Utd Development got another victory as they defeated PItsea Athletic 5 – 0 at Barleylands. Samuel Pratt netted twice for Denis Simpson’s team, with Bradley Bunker, Kai Warren and Jake Smith also on the scorer’s sheet. Also, Catholic Utd Res joined them on six points after a resounding 7 – 1 success at Toby Res.
EOFL Division Four
Results
Chingford Athletic Res 5 – 2 Galleywood Res | Town Mead [3G]
Leytonstone Utd 1 – 2 Springfield Res | Forest Row Centre (Pitch 1)
Ongar Town Res 3 – 2 Roydon | Melbourne Park 3G, Chelmsford
EOFL Division Five
Results
Collier Row Res 0 – 2 Epping Town Res | Forest Row Centre (Pitch 2)
Old Barkabbeyans 5 – 6 Leigh Ramblers Res | Barking Abbey Sch 3G
Pitsea Athletic Res 6 – 2 AS Rawreth Res| Basildon Sporting Village
Runwell Sports Res 5 – 2 Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res | St Luke’s Park
Wakebury Res 0 – 2 Snaresbrook Res| Nursery Sports Ground
Written by Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMHC14] – Non-League & EOFL Writer
Hello all and welcome to the first of a new season of weekly round-up articles on Essex Olympian League divisions, The first weekend of action from Saturday 14th August saw a myriad of teams adjust to new divisions, and before the action is described I’ll put in a short listing of which sides are in each division. As ever, the focus is on the top four divisions with results from Divisions Four & Five.
Many thanks for the support and for reading.
EOFL Premier Division
Teams (15): Basildon Town, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts, Canning Town, Catholic Utd, Galleywood, Harold Wood Athletic, Hutton, Kelvedon Hatch, Leigh Ramblers, Old Southendian, Ongar Town, Rayleigh Town, Shenfield AFC, Springfield, Sungate
In the Premier Division, Basildon Town overcame a spirited performance by their visitors as they defeated Rayleigh Town 4 – 3, in their first match at landlords Basildon Utd. Player-boss Marcus Bowers led the way with a brace for the hosts, with new signing Rhys Fatt also notching twice for his new team. Rayleigh responded through goals from Paul Morris, Shaun Gittleson and Liam Oliver but ultimately they fell to defeat. Old Southendian got a win on the opening day as they defeated Canning Town 2 – 1 at Garon Park. Sam Adcock and substitute Craig Paton got the important strikes there for the hosts.
Meanwhile, Kelvedon Hatch began their new campaign with a 3 – 2 win at promoted Galleywood. Drew Klessa-Smith nabbed a terrific treble for the visitors and that outshone strikes by Matthew Buckingham and Jamie Lockwood for Galleywood to give Darren Hunt’s side the win. Hutton also got a welcome three points as a Stephen Judge strike was enough to give them a 1 – 0 success over Catholic Utd at Polo Fields. Harold Wood Athletic let a two-goal lead slip before being held 3 – 3 by a new-look Springfield side at Harold Wood Park. Strikes by Jacob Roberts, James Pottle and Harry Clifford put Gary Willis’ side ahead but a double from replacement Jordan Sargeant and one from Charlie Nichols saw Dan Williams’ team make a good comeback and left with a point.
Also, Ongar Town began their season at Step 7 with a superb 4 – 1 home win over Leigh Ramblers. Jack Gardner got the goal for Mark Hunter’s visitors but the winning feeling continued for Richard Ponsford’s side, thanks to a brace from Frankie Goodall, plus strikes by Harry Rawlins and Rodney Wilson. Finally, Sungate won 2 – 1 at Shenfield AFC with Ben Carroll scoring for the home side.
EOFL Division One
Teams (11): Beacon Hill Rovers, Corinthians, Chingford Athletic, Epping Town, Herongate Athletic, Leigh Town, Old Chelmsfordians, Runwell Sports, Snaresbrook, Toby, Wakering Sports
Moving now into Division One, and Toby got a superb 4 – 0 triumph over Epping Town in Newbury Park. Albert Perry, Marc Porter-Brown, Louis Hill and new recruit Harry Barham all netted as Mark Jones’ team started strongly. Wakering Sports also grabbed an impressive 5 – 1 success against Old Chelmsfordians at Cupid’s, with Connor Burrows netting twice, alongside Ben Burrows, Matthew Catlin and Aaron Clark goals for Mitchell Gleeson’s side.
The new era at Herongate Athletic under Billy Cove also began with a victory as they defeated Snaresbrook 3 – 1 at Billericay Road. Robbie Farrell’s brace and one from Izaih Antoine did the job for the home side. Elsewhere, and Runwell Sports began life under boss Rob Hodgson with a creditable 1 – 1 draw with Chingford Athletic at St Luke’s Park. Dylan Hawley netted for Runwell, with Lewis Watson scoring for Ath. Also, Leigh Town began their journey as a second-tier club with a fine 3 – 1 victory at fellow promoted side Beacon Hill Rovers.
EOFL Division Two
Teams (12): ACD Utd, AS Rawreth, Harold Hill, Harold Wood Athletic Res, Hutton Res, Manford Way (fmrly Res), May & Baker A, Old Southendian Res, Rayleigh Town Res, Rochford Town, Showbury Town, Wakebury
In Division Two, ACD Utd got their first win as a third-tier club as they won 2 – 1 at new club Harold Hill. Player-boss Michael Wade got both goals for the visitors as they negotiated a tricky test well. Elsewhere, Shoebury Town started strongly in their new division as they won 4 – 1 against visitors Harold Wood Athletic Res at Cupid’s. Steven Sharpe struck twice here for Town, with Daniel Brooker and an OG accounting for the other goals. Ben Rowe responded for the Wood second-team.
In other action, AS Rawreth got their new era under Josh Hutchins started with a good 2 – 1 home win over May & Baker A. Alex Salmon and Ryan Kenyon provided the goals as they began the season well.
EOFL Division Three
Teams (12): Basildon Town Res, Buckhurst Hill U23/Res, Catholic Utd Res, Collier Row, Corinthians Res, Hashtag Utd Dev, Hullbridge Sports Res, Leigh Town Res, Pitsea Athletic, Toby Res, Wakering Sports Res
Finally for this week, in Division Three, newcomers Pitsea Athletic began their EOFL campaign with a decent 3 – 0 win over Leigh Town Res at Basildon Sports Village. Ben Challis’ fine treble was enough to seperate the sides there. Elsewhere Basildon Town Res drew 1 – 1 with Toby Res. Matthew Keiller struck for Town, with Brandon Richmond netting for the East Londoners.
Collier Row started the new season with a 3 – 2 home win over Corinthians Res. Jay Knight and replacement Finlay Grant scored for Ben Adams’side but it wasn’t enough to claim a point. Also, Wakering Sports Res claimed a big 9 – 0 victory over Buckhurst Hill U23 and Hashtag Utd Development won 2 – 0 at home to Hullbridge Sports Res at Barleylands.
EOFL Division Four
Teams (12): Canning Town Res, Chingford Athletic Res, Galleywood Res, Leytonstone Utd, Old Chelmsfordians Res, Ongar Town Res, Roydon, Shenfield AFC Res, Southend Manor Dev., Springfield Res, Sungate Res, Wakering Sports A
Results
Ongar Town Res 7 – 1 Shenfield AFC Res | Melbourne Park
Southend Manor Dev. 2 – 0 Roydon | Southchurch Park
EOFL Division Five
Teams (12): AS Rawreth Res, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res, Collier Row Res, Epping Town Res, Herongate Athletic Res, Leigh Ramblers Res, Old Barkabbeyans, Pitsea Athletic Res, Runwell Sports Res, Snaresbrook Res, Wakebury Res
Results
Collier Row Res 0 – 5 Herongate Athletic Res
Pitsea Athletic Res 6 – 2 Wakebury Res | Basildon Sporting Village
Thank you for reading, this column will be running throughout the season as much as I can.
![S22-23 Match Report: Shoebury Town 6 – 2 AS Rawreth (Sat 12 Nov) [EOFL 22-23 12.11.22]](https://survivor16b.files.wordpress.com/2022/11/first-half-still-.jpg?w=1200)
![S21-22 Match Report: Rayleigh Town Res 2 – 2 AS Rawreth (Sat 4 Sept) [EOFL 21/22 5.9.21]](https://survivor16b.files.wordpress.com/2021/09/20210904_131014.jpg?w=1200)
![S21-22 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League (Sat 28 Aug) [EOFL 21/22 29.8.21]](https://survivor16b.files.wordpress.com/2021/08/20210821_144204.jpg?w=1200)
survivor16b 