Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian Lge (Sat 18 Feb) [EOFL 22-23 20.2.23]

Image from Rayleigh Town v Canning Town in EOFL Premier

Written by Scott W [@ScottMHC14] – Non-League & EOFL Writer

Hello & welcome to the latest edition of the Essex Olympian League round-up. This week, we look at the action in all divisions & Cups from Saturday 18 February, as the weekend’s action in all six divisions was scattered a bit as the divisions below the top-tier start to reach their conclusion.

EOFL Premier Division

In the Premier, leaders Hutton retained their unbeaten run this term but were held 0 – 0 by in-form hosts Old Southendian at Garon Park 3G. The chasing pack did take full advantage and second-placed Catholic Utd stayed there after a 4 – 0 success against Bishop’s Stortford Swifts at the Len Forge 3G. Aaron Baldwin, Liam Oliver, Tom Elliott & Louie Hay all scored for Simon Thomas’ team, and they are now 11 points adrift of the leaders. Rayleigh Town are a point further back in third after an entertaining 5 – 1 triumph over Canning Town at Thames Road, in the match I attended this weekend. George Vile’s treble & goals for Jack Long and Harry Talbot confirmed an important win. Stephen Ikumelo’s spot-kick had levelling things for Canning early on but they remain sixth. If you’d like more of this game, my report is here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2023/02/19/s22-23-match-report-rayleigh-town-5-1-canning-town-sat-18-feb-eofl/

Elsewhere, Runwell Sports got a big 2 – 1 success at fellow mid-table side Shenfield AFC. Strikes by James Dalton & Damian Siemienczuk secured the points which took them up to seventh & AFC drop to ninth. Leigh Ramblers are still enjoying a fine season, after a 2 – 0 win at strugglers Galleywood sent them up to fourth. Ryan Lowe & substitute Owen Reynolds got the goals for Mark Hunter’s side at Slades Lane. Springfield also got the first win of manager Matt Cardy’s reign as they battled to a hard-fought 3 – 2 victory at home to Kelvedon Hatch. Teenager Finlay Dorrell’s treble was enough to claim the win and go level on points with Kelvedon. Wayne Semanshia & replacement Charlie Bott got goals for Darren Hunt’s team but they & Bishop’s Stortford Swifts have been dragged back into the relegation scrap. Toby gave themselves a three point cushion from the bottom four after they won 3 – 0 at Sungate.

EOFL Divisions One & Two

In the second-tier this week, the key result was achieved by Old Chelmsfordians as they won 3 – 1 at ACD Utd. Goals from Shane Pritchard, substitute Liam Landers & an OG outdid Ollie Williams’ reply for ACD and launch themselves up to second spot, two points clear of Epping Town in third. Manford Way are up to fourth spot after a tough 2 – 1 win at home to Beacon Hill Rovers. David Alele & Richard Kadima got the goals which keeps them in the race for a top-four finish. Herongate Athletic are up to sixth after a 1 – 0 victory at Wakering Sports, with George Godfrey netting the decisive goal. The result means that Wakering will finish bottom of the 10 active sides in the division (Leigh Town First’s folded earlier in the season).

Into Division Two this week, Hutton Ressies are up to seventh spot after a hard-fought 3 – 2 victory at Harold Wood Athletic Res. Matthew Harris & replacement Josh Portway netted for Ath, but strikes by Rodney Wilson, Chris Skingley and Hector Beta all sent the points the Reds way. Hashtag Utd Development took full advantage of Ath’s slip-up & leapt above them into third with a 3 – 0 triumph over Old Southendian Res at Barleylands. Samuel Pratt was back on the score-sheet with a brace for Denis Simpson’s team, and Tommy Green’s goal secured the points. Finally in Division Two, Shoebury Town extended their lead at the summit to seven points following a comfortable 4 – 0 victory over Rayleigh Town Res at the Ekco Sports Club. Mechack-Kisoka Asuka returned with some style, bagging a treble and Aaron Marshall got the other goal for Garry Johnson & John Galley’s team. Rayleigh’s Ressie side are in a four-team tussle to avoid finishing second-bottom.

EOFL Divisions Three, Four & Five

In Division Three, we start with Pitsea Athletic who are still in with a chance of catching the leaders after a 5 – 0 win at Corinthians Res, a result which will likely relegate the later side. Ath had Jason Stanhope, Joshua Oteng, Joseph Berry, Iku Adjarho & substitute Sean Devlin all scored a goal each for them, as they reduced Basildon Town Res’ lead at the summit to eight points as Bas were held to a goalless draw by fourth-placed Leigh Town Res. Springfield Res got an important 4 – 0 victory at rivals Old Chelmsfordians Res, with Liam England’s two penalties were added to by Joshua Hubble & Billy Headland goals. Also, Hullbridge Sports Res drew 4 – 4 with Chingford Athletic Res, in a result which sees Hullbridge in third & Chingford remain sixth.

In Division Four, Herongate Athletic Res were the big movers as they went up to third after a 4 – 2 victory over Collier Row at Billericay Road. The ensemble cast of Habeeb Apatira, Paul Hine, Billy Markham & substitute Kai Redmond’s penalty all netted to send them only four points behind Row, with Ath also having three matches in hand on their opponents here. Roydon maintained their unbeaten season but were still held 1 – 1 at Leytonstone Utd, with Connor Presland on target for the visitors & James Medlock scoring for Leytonstone. Utd do inch closer to their relegation rivals, and Roydon can still be caught by Leigh Ramblers Res, who have three additional matches to play compared to the leaders. Pitsea Athletic Res drew 2 – 2 with Wakering Sports A at Basildon Sporting Village. Aidan Lewis scored twice for Sports’ third-team here, with Sean Chiimba & replacement Ben Austin netting for Athletic. Both sides are not entirely safe from relegation just yet. Lastly, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res have confirmed a top-five finish after they defeated Shenfield AFC Res 4 – 1 at Silver Leys. Matthew Allen netted twice here, with Ewan Rockell & substitute Chris Gibbs also netting.

In Division Five, Runwell Sports Res elevated themselves to second spot after a 3 – 0 success at Shoebury Town Res. Harry Ford, Max Harrington & substitute Jimmy Cox all scored to send Ryan Stoker’s team to the win. Wakebury Res are up to fourth spot, following a 2 – 1 victory over Canning Town Res at Shoebury Park. Luke Abbott & Alec Monk both scored for Joe Creak’s team. Basildon Town A are also in with a glimmer of a chance of a top-two finish after a 2 – 2 draw at Collier Row Res. Donnel Kujinga & Benjamin Farrant both scored for the Town side there, who are fifth but crucially have at least two games in hand on the teams above them.

Cups

There was one Reserve Cup tie this week, which saw Catholic Utd Res progress onwards with a 5 – 1 victory at Leigh Ramblers Res. Adam Sargent netted twice for Utd to lead the way, with Daniel Williams, Dominic O’Kane & substitute Matthew Oni also scoring as the Super Hoops team progressed.

End

S22-23 Round-up’s: Essex Olympian Lge & Cups (Sat 11 Feb) [EOFL 22-23 13.2.23]

Image from Corinthians v Harold Hill in D1 this weekend

Written by Scott W [@ScottMHC14] – Non-League & EOFL Writer

Hello & welcome to the latest edition of the Essex Olympian League round-up. This week, we look at the action in all divisions & Cups from Saturday 11 February, as the weekend’s action in all six divisions was bolstered by Cup ties. Also includes the midweek EOFL Premier game this week at the start of that section.

EOFL Premier Division

We begin with the first of what could be several midweek EOFL matches as the season comes to its run-in. Catholic Utd got a narrow 2 – 1 victory at Old Southendian on Wednesday night at Garon Park 3G. James Warder & Michael Sammut got the important goals to outdo replacement Nico Dubouchet’s reply for OS. The win took Utd up to second after the weekend’s action. For more on this match, check out Peter Dudley’s match report here: https://pedroslocalfootiefix.blogspot.com/2023/02/old-southendian-1-catholic-united-2.html

In the weekend’s top-tier action, there were some key results at the bottom of the table. None more so than Galleywood‘s narrow 1 – 0 victory over Toby at Slades Lane. Kaiyun Reeves got the decisive goal there to grab their second win this term & go level on points with rivals Springfield, who drew 1 – 1 with Sungate at Arun Park. Lewis Chapman got the hosts’ goal in the opening game of the new era there, under new boss Matt Cardy, formerly of Division Two side Wakebury. Bishop’s Stortford Swifts went up to fourth-bottom with a gritty 1 – 0 win at Kelvedon Hatch. Substitute Harley Merry’s strike saw Swifts go above Hatch in the table but both these sides & Toby are precariously close to the bottom two, which are likely to be the relegation spots in three months’ time.

Elsewhere, Rayleigh Town renewed their rivalry with Old Southendian before coming away with a 3 – 1 success at Thames Road. Nick Henesy netted for OS while Harry Talbot, George Vile’s penalty & an early OG accounted for the hosts’ goals, with the win taking them back up to third, albeit they are 14 points adrift of leaders Hutton. Catholic Utd & Leigh Ramblers look to be their nearest challengers for that coveted second-spot. Finally, Leigh Ramblers drew 1 – 1 with Shenfield AFC. Luke Williamson got AFC’s goal and Andrew Webster netted for the Rams at Belfairs Park

EOFL Divisions One & Two

Division One again saw some big results. We begin with Old Chelmsfordians‘ 4 – 0 victory at home to Wakering Sports. The ensemble cast of Shane Pritchard, Joe Murphy, Ryan Baxter & substitute Billy Duke got the goals which sees the OC’s retain third spot & reduce the deficit to Epping in second to only one point. Manford Way edged a truly marvellous match as they won 6 – 4 at Epping Town. The defeat leaves Town further vulnerable to being caught by both Old Chelms & Corinthians, who battled to an important 3 – 2 victory at home to Harold Hill at Stambridge. Brodie Horne netted two good goals & an early OG proved enough to outweigh goals from Harry Watkins & Troy Tizard-Cleghorn’s spot kick. For much more on this game, here’s my report: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2023/02/11/s22-23-match-report-corinthians-3-2-harold-hill-sat-11-feb-eofl/

Also, Harold Wood Athletic were held 1 – 1 at ACD Utd. Leroy Griffiths scoed for Wood, with Matthew Taylor levelling the match for Utd. Harold Wood’s lead at the summit inches further to five points now, with four wins likely to be enough to secure the title. ACD remain sixth & are not out of the running for a top-four spot yet.

Into Division Two now, and leaders Shoebury Town remain four points clear at the summit after a fine 3 – 1 victory at May & Baker. Lewis Hunt, Oliver Chew & Timi Tinubu goals sealed their 11th win this term. Wakering Sports Res remain their nearest challengers after a 3 – 0 win at home to Catholic Utd Res. Connor Fardyga again found the target, as did substitutes Eben Rowledge & David Watson to confirm the points.

Elsewhere, Harold Wood Athletic Res are back up to third spot after a good 3 – 0 triumph over out-of-form AS Rawreth at Harold Wood Rec. Matt Harris, Kieron Moynihan & an OG meant that the Wood side are still in the running for promotion.

EOFL Divisions Three, Four & Five

In Division Three, leaders Basildon Town Res extended their lead to ten points after a 4 – 1 win over Springfield Res at Basildon Sports Club. Anthony Aylett notched twice here for the hosts to reach seven league goals this term, while Louis Hill & replacement Ola Ogunjobi also scored to confirm the win. Pitsea Athletic are up to second, following an excellent 4 – 0 success at home to Hullbridge Res. Sean Devlin, Reece Stone, Jason Warner & Joe Berry all got goals there for Trevor Wickens’ side, who are now in prime position for that second promotion spot. In the other game this weekend, Chingford Athletic Res fortified sixth spot with a 6 – 1 triumph over Corinthians Res at Town Mead 3G. Luke Dimond netted a fine treble to reach 12 league goals this campaign thus far, allied with two for Sonny Clarke & one from Jack Smith confirmed the points for Carl Gregory’s side. Corinthians Res need a minimum of three wins from their last five matches to avoid a likely relegation to Division Four.

In Division Four, the top two were not in league action, which allowed Leigh Ramblers Res to retain third spot & reduce the gap to leaders Roydon to six points as they won 2 – 0 at Leytonstone Utd. Joe Howson & Jacob Meads got the goals at Forest Row. Also, Herongate Athletic Res are well-placed in fourth now, after a 4 – 0 success over Wakering Sports A at Billericay Road. Thomas Lambourne & Byron Brackett both scored to get the hosts going before further strikes by replacements Kieron Wilson-Fowler & Joe Coldham secured the points.

Lastly in this division, Ongar Town battled with Galleywood Res to a goal-less draw at Marks Hall Centre. the point sees Ongar rise to sixth and Galleywood remain third from bottom, still needing points to secure their place in this division next term.

In Division Five, Collier Row Res are back in second spot, following a impressive 7 – 3 victory at Wakebury Res. Harry Potts netted five goals himself to double his tally to ten goals this term for the Ressie side. Jake Griffin & Raheem Bravo’s penalty added further ache to the hosts. Joe Creak’s side replied through a brace from Ross Barnes & one from Arry Hardy. The other results saw Shoebury Town Res win 4 – 0 at AS Rawreth Res and Sungate Res triumph 3 – 1 at Canning Town Res.

Cups

We start the Cup action with mentions of the two Senior Cup games. First up, it was predictably tight in the all-Premier Division clash in Beckton as Hutton defeated Canning Town 3 – 2. Lewis Scott & substitutes Will Marlowe & Billy Chilcott got the decisive goals for Matt Singh’s side who may well mark this potentially pivotal season with a Cup Final appearance as well. Joining them in the next round will be Catholic Utd, who won 3 – 0 at Division Two side Hashtag Utd Development. Tom Elliott, Harrison Day and Tom Kearney got the goals for Simon Thomas’ side at Barleylands.

Moving on to the other Cup competitions now. Firstly in the Reserve Cup, and Basildon Town A got an upset on spot-kicks, after drawing 1 – 1 with Division Two side Hutton Res at Polo Fields. Donnel Kujinga again netted for the Division Five side, and they won 5 – 4 on penalties to see them through. There was nearly another upset in the Denny King Cup tie this weekend as Division One side Beacon Hill Rovers also needed penalties to progress, after a 1 – 1 draw at Division Four leaders Roydon. Nader Benzid got the hosts’ goal, with Charles Fitt’s late goal meaning a shoot-out was needed. Rovers won that 4 – 2 but credit does go to Roydon, who are continuing to show they may well be alright, should they complete the job & gain promotion for next term.

We end this week with two ties in the Reserve Trophy. Firstly, Manford Way Res narrowly got the better of Leigh Town Res, as Manford won 3 – 2 to send the Division Three team out. Luke Bennett’s double, allied with Charlie Ewing’s strike outdid strikes by Zack Walker & Spencer Izatt for Leigh to send the Division Five side through. Also, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res also prevailed, following a 2 – 0 victory at home to Shenfield AFC Res, with Matthew Allen & David Falzon strikes securing the win at Silver Leys.

End

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian Lge & Cups (Sat 4 Feb) [EOFL 22-23 6.2.23]

Archive Image – Shoebury Town v AS Rawreth earlier this term

Written by Scott W [@ScottMHC14] – Non-League & EOFL Writer

Hello & welcome to another edition of the Essex Olympian League round-up. This week, we look at the action in all divisions & Cups from Saturday 4 February, as the weekend’s action in all six divisions was bolstered by Cup ties.

EOFL Premier Division

In the top-tier, Hutton continue to bolster their chances of the Premier title & promotion, as they defeated Toby 2 – 0 at Chadfields. Stephen Judge & substitute Kyle Linzell goals were enough to see the Reds to 40 points in just 14 matches. Old Southendian are up to second spot after a 3 – 0 win at Leigh Ramblers, securing their third straight League win. Catholic Utd are up third place after securing a comeback 3 – 1 victory over Runwell Sports at the Len Forge. Gianni Frankis’ goal had put Runwell ahead but strikes from Liam Oliver, Aaron Baldwin (on his 100th appearance for the club) & Tom Elliott sealled the win, ahead of a very hectic last three months of the campaign (which sees them still have 15 league games left, starting with a trip Old Southendian in midweek). Shenfield AFC’s decent season continues after they defeated Canning Town 1 – 0 at St Martins 3G. Sam Lock got the only goal there to send them up to eighth spot, while Galleywood battled to a 1 – 1 draw at Kelvedon Hatch. Freddie Bartram got the ‘Wood goal, with Charlie Nichols replying for Darren Hunt’s team. Galleywood still need at least two wins from their upcoming games to draw other teams into the relegation battle.

EOFL Divisions One & Two

Division One saw some potentially big results. First, a mention for strugglers Wakering Sports who battled to their maiden victory this term, as they defeated Manford Way 1- 0, with Nathan Roche scoring the only goal there. Epping Town held promotion rivals Harold Wood Athletic 1 – 1 at home, with Joe Rickett netting for Town & Ben Woolven doing so for Ath, who remain four points clear at the top. Beacon Hill Rovers got an important 2 – 0 success over Corinthians, which sends Hill up to 8th, and dampens the Stambridge-based side’s promotion aspirations, as they stay fourth. Finally, Herongate Athletic are only two points adrift of fourth spot, following a 3 – 0 win at home to Harold Hill. Alfie Yeend, Thomas Lambourne & George Godfrey goals made the most of their chances & notch a fine three points.

Into Division Two, Wakering Sports Res reduced the deficit to leaders Shoebury to four points after a 5 – 2 triumph at Rayleigh Town Res. Substitute Ciaran Sweeney netted twice, with Connor Fardyga, Charlie Smith & Steven Valente also on target for the enterprising Sports side. May & Baker are up to third after a fine 5 – 0 win at AS Rawreth, with Alfie Horan & Kane Messenger notching doubles each, with Jack O’Connor’s fine strike confirming the points. Hutton Res got a battling 1 – 0 victory at Hashtag Utd Development, with Jack Greenwood’s goal enough to push them up to ninth place, a point clear of the bottom two. Lastly, Old Southendian Res drew 1 – 1 with Catholic Utd Res. Both teams are some way off the top six, following that result.

EOFL Divisions Three, Four & Five

Moving now to Division Three, the top two were not in action but Buckhurst Hill U23 gained ground on them with a superb 7 – 1 success over Corinthians Res at Roding Lane. Ayomide Ademokun netted a treble, with Harvey Woods adding a brace, plus Jacob Richards & replacement Bailey Allen also netted for Darren Gosnell’s side, who are well-set in third. Pitsea Athletic are only a point below them in fourth after they defeated Chingford Athletic Res 5 – 0. Both of these teams have the most matches to play in the division remaining, at eight each.

In Division Four, Roydon put themselves back in pole position for the title with a 2 – 1 victory over rivals Collier Row. Connor Presland & Ross Bourke both scored for the hosts who went a point clear at the summit, with three matches in hand on nearest rivals Row. Leigh Ramblers Res are also in the promotion shake-up after a fine 4 – 0 win at Shenfield AFC Res. Jacob Meads netted twice for the Rams, with Dominic North & substitute Taylor Stewart also on target at Warley Fields in a win which keeps them third. Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res had a real battle before coming away with a 4 – 3 victory at Galleywood Res. The hosts got goals through Ebenezer Fasoranti, Aryan Tathgar and Ashley Merritt but they were outdone by Matthew Allen’s brace for Swifts, compiled with strikes from Archie Gerard & Jordan Trott to give the visitors another three points and they remain fourth.

Lastly in this division, a big day for Leytonstone Utd as they notched their first win of a tough campaign, winning 3 – 2 against Ongar Town at Forest Row. The trio of James Medlock, Billy Wallace & George Welsh got the crucial Leytonstone goals. Ongar got goals from Jude Collins, and replacement James McLean but it wasn’t enough to prevent Utd from finally savouring a win – they are only four points behind Wakering Sports A & Galleywood Res directly above them.

In Division Five, Basildon Town A edged to a 3 – 2 victory over Collier Row Res at Basildon Sports Club. Donnel Kujinga netted yet another double to further endorse his good season, while Alex Smith got the other goal, the win takes them up to fourth place. Also, Runwell Sports Res are into second place after a resounding 8 – 0 victory at home to AS Rawreth Res.

Cups

We start the Cup action with mentions of the two Senior Cup games. First, Sungate ended Rayleigh Town’s run in the competition as the ‘Gate had a Arif Mustapha goal to thank in their 1 – 0 win. Also, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts were given a stern test before coming through 4 – 3 on spot-kicks, after a 0 – 0 draw at Silver Leys, In the Denny King Cup, ACD Utd progressed with a narrow 1 – 0 victory over Basildon Town Res, with Jamie Alexandrou getting the only goal there.

Moving on into the Reserve Cup, and Herongate Athletic Res triumphed with a 5 – 1 win at Springfield Res. Kemston Allen got a super treble, added to very well by Habeeb Apatira’s double to see the visitors through. Finally, in the Reserve Trophy, Old Chelmsfordians Res progressed with a 3 – 0 victory at home to Pitsea Athletic Res and Harold Wood Athletic Res sailed through with a 4 – 1 success at Wakering Sports A. Max London netted twice for Wood, with Thomas Butler & Kieron Moynihan also on target for them. Carl Sutton replied for Wakering, but their attention focuses now on remaining in Division Four.

End

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian Lge & Cups (Sat 21 Jan) [EOFL 22-23 23.1.23]

Woodford East v Hutton image from this weekend [Image by Scott W]

Written by Scott W [@ScottMHC14] – Non-League & EOFL Writer

Hello & welcome to the another edition of the Essex Olympian League round-up. This week, we look at the action in all divisions & Cups from Saturday 21 January, as the weekend’s action was again reduced because of the frosty weather.

EOFL Premier Division & Division Three action was postponed this week.

EOFL Divisions One and Two

Division One only saw one match as Harold Wood Athletic got a important 5 – 0 victory over bottom side Wakering Sports. James Pottle netted twice here for John Field’s team, with Zach Holding, Perry Robinson & Louis Bazely’s spot-kick accounting for the other goals. The win takes Ath seven points clear at the top, with Corinthians the most likely rivals once they have played the four games they have in hand on Ath.

Into Division Two now and the only match here saw May & Baker draw 2 – 2 with Harold Wood Athletic Res at home. Matthew Harris & replacement Josh Portway netted for the visitors but they lost the chance to go back up to third here.

EOFL Divisions Four & Five

It’s straight into Division Four now, and Herongate Athletic Res are three points clear in third after a narrow 1 – 0 victory over Leigh Ramblers Res. John Hanrahan’s penalty proved decisive as Ath retained their chances of overhauling second-placed Collier Row, given they have three extra games to play, compared to Row. Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res rose to fourth after a conclusive 4 – 0 triumph at strugglers Leytonstone Utd. The cast of Archie Gerard, Henry Harnack, Matthew Allen & Jordan Trott were all on target for Swifts there. Finally in this division, Shenfield AFC Res defeated Wakering Sports A 4 – 0 at St Martin’s 3G. Mason Everitt, Kyle Constable, Lewis Dalley & Alec Roeper all scored to fortify AFC’s sixth place.

In Division Five, Collier Row Res are up to second after a 2 – 1 win at Sungate Res, with Raheem Bravo and Nicholas George the scorers for Row there. In the other match, Runwell Sports Res are five points clear in fourth after a 2 – 0 success at Wakebury Res. Harry Ford and Daniel Hobbs scored for Sports as they secured their sixth win this term.

Cups

Starting the Cup round-up with the Essex Premier Cup Quarter-Finals, and Wakering Sports Res‘ dream run continues after a superb 5 – 1 victory over Toby at Cupid’s. Connor Fardyga once again contributed hugely in big games with a hat-trick here, and Eben Rowledge & Charlie Smith also scoring. Jamie Simpkins replied for Toby but they bowed out – their focus is now on EOFL Premier survival. Rayleigh Town renewed their rivalry with Catholic Utd and Town prevailed 3 – 2 at Len Forge 3G. Harry Talbot scored twice for Paul Higgins’ side here, with Jack Long also scoring. Joe O’Kane had earlier given Utd the lead, and Aaron Baldwin netted a late second but they exited the Premier Cup.

Elsewhere, Shenfield AFC were made to battle hard for a 2 – 1 win at EOFL Division One side Corinthians. John Bolton-Smith’s spot-kick gave the hosts the lead but Ben Carroll & Elliott Thompson strikes turned the tide and saw AFC progress to the last four. Also, in the match I attended this week, Woodford East produced a superb comeback to defeat Hutton 4 – 2 at Mabley Green 3G. The Reds led by two goals at the break, through Lewis Scott & David Johnson. But a roaring response by East saw strikes by Harry Robinson, Matt Stacey, Billy Barr & Ben Smith saw the Essex Alliance side prevail. If you’d like more on this game, my report is here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2023/01/21/s22-23-match-report-woodford-east-4-2-hutton-sat-21-jan-epcqf/

Now into the EOFL Senior Cup games, Old Southendian progressed with a 4 – 1 success over Leigh Ramblers at Belfairs Park. Mattias Tonking netted two goals for Altan Ali’s team, while Mitchell Ali & Connor Burrows strikes secured a fine win. Canning Town also went through as they won another penalty shoot-out 5 – 4 after a 1 – 1 stalemate at Runwell Sports. Oliver Williamson netted for Runwell there.

The solitary Reserve Cup match this weekend saw Galleywood Res go through after a 3 – 1 victory at Shoebury Town Res. Alfie Hooper’s fine treble secured a good win for the visitors at the Ekco Sports Club.

Lastly this week, in the EOFL Denny King Cup, Epping Town had a Conor Corrigan goal to thank for a 1 – 0 win at home to Chingford Athletic Res. Shoebury Town also went through after a 4 – 1 win at home to Buckhurst Hill U23. Mechack-Kisoka Asuka scored another two goals here, with Aaron Marshall & an OG accounting for the other goals.

End

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian Lge & Cups (Sat 3 Dec) [EOFL 22-23 5.12.22]

Written by Scott W [@ScottMHC14] – Non-League & EOFL Writer

Hello & welcome to the first edition in December of the Essex Olympian League round-up. This week, we look at the action in all divisions from Saturday 3 December, and we begin with the Cup competitions this weekend.

Essex Premier Cup – Round Four

This week we begin with the Essex Premier Cup fourth round. Premier Division side Toby defeated Essex Alliance League Senior side Kit Out London 3 – 0 at Nursery Sports Ground. Callum Mann, Jake Jones & Luis Ruiz all netted to seal progression to the last eight for Mark Jones’ side. Fellow top-tier side Rayleigh Town also went through after a 3 – 0 victory at Division One side Beacon Hill Rovers. Harry Talbot netted twice for Paul Higgins’ side here, with Jack Long again on target to seal the win. EOFL Prem leaders Hutton had a battle before winning 3 – 2 against Border League side Dunmow Town at Hannakins Farm, after extra time. Will Marlowe, Rodney Wilson & replacement David Johnson got the crucial goals there for the Reds. There was a win for Shenfield AFC in their local derby with Harold Wood Athletic, as another double for Ben Absolon secured a 2 – 1 win for AFC, with Zach Holding getting the solitary goal for the second-tier side.

Meanwhile, there was a real battle at Stambridge Memorial Ground which saw Division One side Corinthians narrowly defeat Premier side Leigh Ramblers 4 — 3. Bailey Moss’ treble & a goal for Bill Wilton secured an excellent victory for Chris Stoneham’s team, outdoing strikes for the Rams by Tom Franks, George Moxon and Matthew Brinklow. The lowest-ranked EOFL side in the competition – Division Two’s Wakering Sports Res , produced an excellent display to secure a 3 – 2 success against Essex Alliance League Senior Division side Chadwell Heath Spartans at Cupid’s. Connor Fardyga scored another two goals, and substitute Oliver Greene also netted for Sports. Joe Butcher & Jon Evans goals for the Spartans made it tight but it was a tough afternoon for Aaron Hunwicks’ side.

Finally, Catholic Utd put in a good performance to defeat Essex & Suffolk Border League Premier side Colne Athletic 5 – 2 at the Len Forge 3G, in the match I attended on Saturday. A brace for Aaron Baldwin added to goals by Louie Hay, Franklin Craik & a James Warder spot-kick to see the Super Hoops through & make it seven Olympian League sides in the quarter-finals this term, thus continuing the dominance by EOFL sides in recent years, in this competition.

If you’d like more on the win for Catholic Utd. my report is here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2022/12/04/s22-23-match-report-catholic-utd-5-2-colne-athletic-sat-3-dec-epc/

EOFL Reserve League Cup

Two matches to note in the Ressie League Cup. Firstly, Collier Row Res produced a fine performance to win 4 – 0 at Old Southendian Res, with Aloisio Dos Santos netting twice, along with goals from Charlie Quant & Ryan Costello to ensure the win for Mark Lee’s side. Leigh Ramblers Res joined them in the next round after a narrow 1 – 0 win in their derby with Leigh Town Res at Belfairs. Luis Bracci got the winning penalty with five minutes left to seal the tie.

EOFL Premier Division & Division One

In the top-tier this week, there was two vital wins for teams in the bottom three. Firstly, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts gained ground on the teams above them with a 5 – 0 triumph over Galleywood at Silver Leys. Mitchell Burr’s fine treble was added to by goals for Valter Simao & Edward Atkinson-Purse to ensure a fine win and leave ‘Wood three points adrift at the bottom. Springfield also got an important 2 – 1 victory at Runwell Sports, with Lewis Chapman & an OG ensuring Allan Fenn’s side got the win. Finally, Sungate had a Solomon Asomah strike to thank for a 1 – 0 win over Old Southendian which sees them rise to second spot.

In Division One, Epping Town cut the deficit to leaders Harold Wood Athletic to seven points after a 5 – 2 victory at home to Harold Hill. Chris Gormley let the way with a superb hat-trick, with goals from Abdul Kamara & Scout Bown adding to Hill’s pain. Old Chelmsfordians moved back up to third after a 6 – 1 win at home to ACD Utd, and Manford Way went up to seventh spot after a comprehensive 4 – 0 success at home to winless Wakering Sports. Daniel Demain, David Alele, James Dobson & an OG secured a good win for Colin Dobson’s team.

EOFL Divisions Two, Three, Four & Five

In Division Two, with leaders Shoebury Town not in action, the chasing pack all got important wins. Hashtag Utd Development remain second after a enthralling 8 – 1 victory at Rayleigh Town Res. Jay Knight got a fine treble, with an ensemble cast of Thomas Matthew, Josh Jarvis, Tony Stevens, Matthew Gauci & Tommy Green all grabbing a goal each for Denis Simpson’s team. Harold Wood Athletic Res are two points behind in third spot after a battling 3 – 2 win away at Hutton Res. Kieron Moynihan, Max London & Matthew Harris all scored for Steve Hubbard’s side there. Thomas Price & Ronnie Richardson-Cook both scored for the hosts there at Polo Fields.

Meanwhile, Wakebury are up to fourth after a 2 – 0 victory over third-bottom Catholic Utd Res at Cupid’s. Finlay Dorrell & Jordan Farrell both netted for Matt Cardy’s side there. And last but not least in this division, May & Baker EOFL secured another fine win with a 6 – 3 triumph over AS Rawreth. Jack O’Connor led the way for the hosts with a double, while Carl Patten, Kane Messenger, Darren Seymour & Alfie Horan all netted too to ensure they are eight points clear in sixth place. Billy Brown’s double & a goal from substitute Hamoud Salum accounted for the Rawreth goals here.

In Division Three, Basildon Town Res remain seven points clear at the summit after a fine 5 – 0 triumph at Springfield Res. Jamie Bradbourn’s double, allied with goals for Antony Aylett, Joe Fogarty & substitute Ashley Drury ensured the points went back with the visitors. Second-placed Pitsea Athletic look the most likely side to be able to catch the leaders, but had to settle for a narrow 1 – 0 home win against Buckhurst Hill U23. Hullbridge Sports Res lost ground on the top two after losing 1 – 3 to Old Chelmsfordians Res, who remain in seventh.

Moving into Division Four now, unbeaten leaders Roydon retained their three-point lead after a 4 – 0 win against Shenfield AFC Res at Roydon Rec. Nader Benzid, Connor Riddoch, Rene Pivarnik & Mike Hayes all scored for Nigel Jordon’s team in that game. Collier Row are eight points clear in second after a 3 – 1 victory over Leytonstone Utd in the ‘Forest Row derby’. Elsewhere, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res went three points clear in fifth spot after a 3 – 1 win at Herongate Athletic Res. Matthew Allen got a fine double here, with Archie Gerard also on target for the Swifts side. Finally, Galleywood Res defeated Ongar Town 2 – 0 at Slades Lane, with Ebenezer Fasoranti & Aryan Tathgar goals giving them only their second league win this term & also saw them rise out of the bottom two.

In Division Five, we have new leaders after Manford Way Res won 5 – 0 in their top-two clash at Basildon Town A. There were doubles for Luke Bennett & Callum Thomas, as well as a goal for George Green as Manford went two points clear at the summit. Wakebury Res also won as they defeated Sungate Res 5 – 1 at Shoebury Park.Liam Dunne & Riley Oliver both scored twice for Joe Creak’s side, with Charlie Canning’s goal sealing their fourth straight victory and a rise to third spot, three points behind Basildon Town A. In the other game, Canning Town Res got a comfortable 4 – 0 success over Runwell Sports Res to fortify their position in sixth.

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian Lge & Cups (Sat 12 Nov) [EOFL 22-23 14.11.22]

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 this Rememberance Weekend or Saturday 12 November, we look at the action in all divisions, plus an extra section on the various Cup competitions this weekend. Lest we forget.

AS Rawreth’s Sonny Newcombe (13) jostling for the ball v Shoebury this weekend

EOFL Premier Division

Firstly in the top-tier, Runwell Sports flew up into seventh spot with a 4 – 1 victory over visitors Bishops Stortford Swifts. Charlie Little & Gianni Frankis both notched doubles to see Rob Hodgson’s side to a big win. Alex Scott-Bell got an eventual consolation for Swifts, who remain a point clear of the bottom. Old Southendian got an good 2 – 0 win at Springfield, with Nico Dubouchet & Jack Lelliott both on target for Altan Ali’s side who for the moment go into sixth spot. Finally, Canning Town missed the chance to gain ground on the top two (who were in Cup action) as they lost 4 – 3 at Sungate, who rose to fourth, behind Canning by virtue of the latter scoring more goals.

Shoebury & Rawreth observe minute’s silence before KO

EOFL Divisions One & Two

In the only game in Division One this week owing to Cup action, second-placed Epping Town are seven points adrift of leaders Harold Wood Athletic after drawing 2 – 2 with mid-table Harold Hill. Scout Bown got both goals for player-boss Stuart Hoskins’ team there.

Moving into Division Two, Harold Wood Athletic Res kept up the pressure on the top two with a 5 – 1 triumph at Old Southendian Res. Chay Saggers scored for the OS side but Ath went three points clear in third, thanks to braces for Matt Harris & Thomas Butler, with Nazarij Bilanovszkij also on target. The bottom six clubs are seperated by only three points after Catholic Utd Res defeated Hutton Res 2 – 1 and Rayleigh Town Res held May & Baker EOFL 1 – 1, with Byron Down netting for the home side at London Road.

In the match I attended this week, Shoebury Town were given a test initially before powering to a 6 – 2 victory over AS Rawreth at Ekco Sports Club. Mechack-Kisoka Asuka netted a fine treble to lead the scorers, with captain Callum Merenda, Suhail Yasin & Ryan Galley all also scoring for John Galley & Garry Johnson’s side, who are now three points clear at the summit. Sonny Newcombe & captain Muntizir Hussain netted for Shane Bird’s side. If you’d like more on this match, my report can be viewed here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2022/11/12/s22-23-match-report-shoebury-town-6-2-as-rawreth-sat-12-nov-eofl/

EOFL Divisions Three, Four & Five

Into Division Three now, Basildon Town Res are five points clear at the top after a 4 – 1 success at Old Chelmsfordians Res. Keith King netted a fine treble, with Antony Aylett also on target to make it 35 league goals already this term (at an average of 3.88 goals per game) for Bas. Buckhurst Hill U23 are also well-placed, moving up to third after a 2 – 0 victory at Hullbridge Sports Res. Jacob Sember Richards & Olaobajuwan Olagbaju both scored for Darren Gosnell’s side. Finally, Springfield Res are up to fifth after a 3 – 2 win at Corinthians Res. Billy Headland, Edward Coggins & replacement Michael Loannou all scoring for ‘Field there.

In Division Four, Leigh Ramblers Res strengthened their fourth position with a 3 – 1 victory at Ongar Town. Alex Goodson, Dominic North & Ethan Nunn all netted at Marks Hall to leave Town in eighth. Galleywood Res got their first win this term, winning 3 – 2 at strugglers Leytonstone Utd. An OG, Alfie Hooper & Joshua Lapidus goals saw them to a vital win. Elsewhere, Roydon were held 1 – 1 by Herongate Athletic Res, with Nader Benzid getting the goal for the leaders. Collier Row are up to a second spot, a point behind Roydon after a 2 – 0 win at Shenfield AFC Res. Jake Skeet’s seventh league goal this term & substitute Freddie Donkor’s goal confirmed the points for Row. Finally, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res celebrated a big 6 – 1 triumph over Wakering Sports A at Silver Leys. Matthew Allen’s treble plus strikes by David Falzon, Ewan Rockell & Huey Reid saw them to victory & up to fifth. James Clark hot the solitary reply for the Sports’ third-side.

In Division Five, Wakebury Res became the first league side to beat leaders Basildon Town A & they did so in some style, winning 6 – 2 at Basildon Sports Club. Ross Barnes netted a hat-trick here for Joe Creak’s side, with Tommy Wolfe netting two more & Luke Abbott also ontarget. Luke Soley & substitute Alex Shields got replies for Bas but they now only lead the table on goal difference. That is because Runwell Sports Res got a 2 – 2 draw at Manford Way Res. Max Harrington & Benjamin See got the goals for Sports, while Manford’s goals came from Luke Bennett’s double. The other game in the division saw a huge win for Sungate Res as they won 8 – 2 at AS Rawreth Res, which earned them their first win this term.

Essex Premier Cup – Round Three

In the first of our ‘in-focus’ matches in the EPC, Shenfield AFC got back to winning ways with a hard-fought 3 – 2 victory over Essex Senior Reserve side White Ensign Res at St Martins’ 3G. Marlon Stratford, Luke Williamson & Courtney Justin got the goals for the home side in that tie as AFC went through. Catholic Utd also made the fourth round with a 2 – 0 victory over Heybridge Swifts Res at the Len Forge. Aaron Baldwin getting both goals for Utd with gives them a much-need confidence boost ahead of their other Cup fixtures this month. At Belfairs, Leigh Ramblers powered to a terrific 5 – 2 victory over Border League side Dedham Old Boys. Scott Clark continued his good season with a double here, while Callum Morris, Billy Field & an OG rounded out the scorers for the hosts.

Ellsewhere, Toby put in a clinical display to defeat Chelmsford City Res 5 – 0 at the Nursery Sports Ground. Jamie Simpkins & Oliver Dingli both got doubles, with Ben Picton getting the opener there for Mark Jones’ side. Harold Wood Athletic put in another excellent display to defeat Essex Alliance Senior side Frenford Development 4 – 3 at the Rec. Billy Gray, Billy Spencer, Mitchell Prue & Max Shepherd all notched as Ath progressed.

Rayleigh Town also progessed with a 6 – 0 trouncing of Galleywood at Slades Lane. Sonny Woodward netted a treble here to lead the way, with George Vile, George Aston & substitute Harry Talbot also netting. Wakering Sports Res also got a big 5 – 1 win ag home to Alresford Colne Rangers at Cupid’s, with Connor Fardyga again leading the scorers with a double here, with Billy Cottrill, Charlie Smith and a thunderbolt from David Watson adding more pain to the visitors. Finally for this section, Corinthians won 3 – 2 at Hashtag Utd Res, with a brace for Bailey Moss & one for Max Jones proving enough to win at Barleylands.

Other Results In EPC:

Colne Athletic 2 – 1 Old Chelmsfordians

Hutton 2 – 1 Kelvedon Hatch

May & Baker Res (EAL side) 1 – 1p ACD Utd (3 – 5 on pens)

Pitsea Athletic 1 – 2 Beacon Hill Rovers

EOFL Senior & Reserve Cups

In the single match in the EOFL Senior Cup, Wakebury progressed with a very good 4 – 1 victory over goal-hungry Chinford Athletic Res at Cupid’s. Finlay Dorrell again netted twice for Matt Cardy’s team, with Junior Lawrence & Isaac Bello also on target for the hosts. Leighton Hughes-Franklin got the reply for Ath but they exited the competition here.

In RLC: Shoebury Town Res 1 – 0 Toby Res

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian Lge (Sat 22 Oct) [EOFL 22/23 24.10.22]

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 22 October, we look at the action in all divisions, plus an extra section on the Cup competitions this weekend.

EOFL Premier Division

In the top-tier this week, Hutton continue to lead the way as they roared to a 6 – 1 success over Leigh Ramblers at Chadfields. David Johnson struck another two goals here, with Jude Keeling, Jonathan Hilliard and two seperate OG’s adding further gloss to the scoreline for Matt Singh’s team. Rayleigh Town were held 1 – 1 by a Shenfield AFC side who are tough to beat at present. Jack Long got the goal for Town, before later being dismissed. Allan Fenn’s tenure at Springfield began with a 2 – 1 success at home to Bishop Stortford’s Swifts. Olle Gentry and Leonidas Brotherton got big goals ass they got the first win this term. Alfie Bowen replied for Swifts but they still fell to defeat.

The other results saw Canning Town go back up to fourth after a 5 – 0 win at home to kelvedon Hatch and Old Southendian exited the bottom two with a 3 – 2 triumph over Runwell Sports at Garon Park, despite Gianni Frankis and James Dalton goals for Rob Hodgson’s visitors.

EOFL Divisions One & Two

In the second tier, Beacon Hill Rovers won 2 – 1 at struggling Wakering Sports. Semi Akinlolu and Bertie Whymark both scored for the victors there, while Nathan Roche replied for the hosts. Corinthians continue to bag the points with a 3 – 1 success at home to Epping Town. Jordan Stoneham, Leo Clarke and Bailey Moss all found the net there for Chris Stoneham’s team. In other results, ACD Utd were held 3 – 3 by Harold Hill at Westlands, while Herongate Athletic were held 1 – 1 by Harold Wood Athletic. Benjamin Clarke’s penalty supplied Ath’s goal and Matt Donovan levelled things up for John Field’s side.

In Division Two, Wakering Sports Res continued their fine season with a 5 – 1 win at local rivals Catholic Utd Res. Ciaran Sweeney continues to find the net regularly as he got two goals here, and he was supported by goals from Connor Fardyga, Ashley Sexton and substitute Kasey Brannan. Daniel Williams netted the consolation for the Hoops second-team. Hashtag Utd Dev got a terrific 6 – 2 victory at May & Baker EOFL, as Chandler Wray netted two goals himself, along with an ensemble cast including Shaun Warren, Matthew Gauci, Tony Stevens and Samuel Pratt who all netted a goal each. Danny Gillham and Danny Horan got the strikes for Josh Lowbridge’s team. Lastly in this tier, Wakebury got back on form with some style as thewy won 6 – 1 at home to AS Rawreth at Cupid’s. Finlay Dorrell scored a fine treble for Matt Cardy’s team, with Jake Butler, Ben Perry and Harry Kateley also finding the net.

EOFL Divisions Three, Four & Five

In Division Three, the majority of home sides prevailed. Firstly, Basildon Town Res continued their fine start with a 5 – 0 triumph over Tooby Res at Basildon Sports Club. Antony Aylett & Scott Read both got braces here, with Jamie Miller also scoring here. Hullbridge Sports Res also hit five goals in a 5 – 0 victory over Springfield Res. Nicholas Sherlock netted twice here, with the supporting cast of Harry Mole, Harry Boswell and Lewis Foster all got a goal each. Pitsea Athletic also were successful with a 4 – 2 win over Old Chelmsfordians Res at Basildon Sporting Village. Lee Mulholland and Declan Peters both scored to give the OC’s a chance but a treble for Joshua Oteng and one for substitute Reece Stone comfirmed the points for Ath. Lastly in D3, Leigh Town Res now take on the mantle as their ‘lead’ side and they won 2 – 1 at Chingford Athletic Res. Liam Wragg and Kyras Harris both struck to give Josh Burrage’s side the win at Town Mead.

Moving into Division Four, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res ggot a big 4 – 1 win over Leytonstone Utd at Silver Leys. Matt Kemp was the hat-trick hero for the hosts, with Harry Senior also finding the net. William Medlock got the consolation for Utd. Ongar Town also got a much-needed victory with a resounding 5 – 0 triumph against Wakering Sports A at Marks Hall. Billy Welch struck four goals for Town there, with Samuel Flynn also on target there. Other results in the division included Collier Row’s 4 – 1 home win against Galleywood Res and a 2 – 1 victory for Shenfield AFC Res at Leigh Ramblers Res.

In Division Five, Basildon Town A continued to impress with an 8 – 1 success at Epping Town Res. Donnel Kujingaadded to his impressive goal haul this term with another treble, with Nathan Fisher, Luke Soley, Benjamin Farrant, Charlie Jarvis and Kyanou Stylianou rounding out the list of scorers. Joe Bothwell’s goal was a good moment personally but Epping had no answer in this match. Manford Way Res got a 2 – 0 victory at home to Collier Row Res. with Luke Bennett and Charlie Thomas the scorers there. Meanwhile, Wakebury Res had a strike by replacement Kieran Wheal to thank for a 1 – 0 win at Canning Town Res. Also, Runwell Sports Res won 6 — 1 at AS Rawreth Res.

Cup Section

In EOFL Senior Lge Cup – Old Chelmsfordians 3 – 2 Shoebury Town

In the EOFL Reserve Lge Cup, Rayleigh Town Res bossed their tie as they defeated Pitsea Athletic Res 6 – 1 at London Road. Calvin Armstrong and Ebeneezer Djan both scored twice, with Harry Herbert and Daniel Beestone also on target for Dave Barker’s side. The other result saw Old Southendian Res progress with a 4 – 2 win at Sungate Res.

In the Anagram Records Trophy, Catholic Utd progressed in the late kick-off with a 2 – 1 win at Tottenhoe, thanks largely to Aaron Baldwin’s brace at the Rec. Galleywood also made the next round with a fine 5 – 1 victory over Sudbury Sports. Ben Smith scored two goals here, with Craig Skipper, Roman Sparks and Jamie Lockwood all finding the net as well. Sungate also went through with a 4 – 1 win at EAL Senior side Sporting Hackney.

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian Lge (Sat 17 Sept) [EOFL 22-23 19.9.22]

Written by Scott W [@ScottMHC14] – Non-League Writer

Match Photos by Scott W

Hello & welcome to the round-up from the action in the Essex Olympian League. This week on Saturday 17 September, we look at the action in all six divisions, plus an extra section on the Essex Premier Cup which also got underway once again this weekend. The above image is taken from a fine minute’s silence observed to mark Queen Elizabeth II, at Rayleigh Town v Leigh Ramblers as was the case at all EOFL matches and elsewhere this weekend.

EOFL – Saturday 17 September

Still from Rayleigh Town v Leigh Ramblers this weekend

EOFL Premier Division & Division One

We start this week in the top-tier with Toby‘s 3 – 2 win over Bishop’s Stortford Swifts at the Nursery Sports Ground. Jamie Simpkins, Oliver Dingli and Luis Ruiz’s spot-kick were enough to send Mark Jones’ team to victory, overhauling goals from Jordan Robertson and Jack Clarke for Swifts to confirm the points. Hutton had a Stephen Judge goal to thank for a 1 – 0 win over Old Southendian at Chadfields which keeps them top by three points.

In the match I saw myself at Thames Road, Rayleigh Town left it late to secure a comeback 4 – 3 win over Leigh Ramblers in a superb match. Frank Hession-Harris, Will Baldry, Harry Talbot and substitute Philip Anunwa’s strike overturned a brace from Andrew Webster and a stunner from Scott Clark to grab the points. If you’d like more on this match, my report is available here:

S22-23 Match Report: Rayleigh Town 4 – 3 Leigh Ramblers (Sat 17 Sept) [EOFL Prem 22-23 18.9.22]

Finally in the Premier, Springfield were held 2 – 2 by Canning Town. Emmanuel Etcheri and Arinze Ossai both netted for Franco Zabotti’s side.

In Division One, Harold Wood Athletic continued their fine form with a 5 – 0 victory over Wakering Sports at Cupid’s. James Pottle netted twice again here, with the supporting cast of Leroy Griffiths, Billy Gray and Connor Sheehan all netting for John Field’s team, who are three points clear at the summit. Corinthians sit second after a 4 – 2 success at home to Herongate Athletic. Bailey Moss netted another fine treble here for Chris Stoneham’s team, with Max Jones adding the other after coming off the bench. Both the top two remain unbeaten.

Still in the second-tier, Manford Way got their first win of the new term in some style as they won 5 – 1 at home to Leigh Town. David Alele, Richard Kadima, Dawid Potoczek, Alfie Smith and substitute Samuel Oramadike all scored to secure the win. Zack Walker got the consolation goal in what proved to be boss Antony Lane’s last game in charge, I’d like to wish him well for the future.

EOFL Divisions Two & Three

In the only Division Two match this week, Harold Wood Athletic Res were too strong on this day as they defeated May & Baker EOFL 5 – 2 at Harold Wood Rec. Thomas Butler scored twice here for the hosts, with substitutes Del Hawtin, Lennie Milton-White & Sam Tampkins all netting as well.

In Division Three, Hullbridge Sports Res were a rare side who handed Bickhurst Hill U23 a defeat at home, with Hullbridge winning 3 – 2. Joe Tuskin scored twice for the Sports’ developmental side, and Jay Knight was once again on the score-sheet. Stefanos Ladoukakis and Jack Barnes goals made it tight but ultimately the Buckhurst developmental side fell to defeat. Also, Leigh Town Res were 2 – 0 winners at Old Chelmsfordians Res, with Chris Pope and substitute Nathan Cox on target for Josh Burrage’s side. Lastly in Division Three, Pitsea Athletic were 3 – 1 victors over Springfield Res at Basildon Sports Club. Liam Jeffrey netted twice here, with replacement Carlos Dias adding his name on the score-sheet. Harrison Elles responded for the visitors.

EOFL Divisions Four & Five

Moving into Division Four now, Roydon continued their decent start with a 1 – 0 win away at Shenfield AFC Res. Rene Pivarnik was the hero as they celebrated another welcome win. Leigh Ramblers Res also got a huge win with an 8 – 0 triumph over Ongar Town at Belfairs. Substitute Temi Adebayo struck three goals here, with Luis Bracci adding two goals plus there was one goal each for Taylor Stewart, Matthew Pooley and replacement Cameron Jarvis. Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res also got maximum points with a 4 – 1 win over Galleywood Res at Silver Leys. Substitute Matt Kemp led the charge with two goals, with Henry Harnack and Matthew Allen adding to the visitors’ pain.

Elsewhere in Division Four, Herongate Athletic Res got all three points with a 4 – 0 victory over Pitsea Athletic Res at St Clere’s 3G. Kai Redmond scored twice here, with Kemston Allen and Kieron Wilson-Fowler also finding the net in this good win. The other game saw Collier Row grab a huge 7 – 1 victory over Wakering Sports Res at Forest Row Centre.

In Division Five, Basildon Town A got a big 7 – 0 triumph at AS Rawreth Res, with Harry Payne scoring a treble, Scott Read adding two goals and Rodney Wilson getting the other strike. Wakebury Res also got three points, as they won 2 – 1 at Shoebury Town Res. Tommy Wolfe got both goals for Joe Creak’s team there. The other result saw Runwell Sports Res defeat Epping Town Res 5 – 0 at St Luke’s Park. Benjamin See and substitute Wallace Hoyi both netted twice here, with Alex Gray grabbing the other goal.

Essex Premier Cup R1

So the EPC got underway with the various leagues at Step 7 of the pyramid (Essex Olympian, Essex Alliance, Essex & Suffolk Border etc) facing each other as well as some Reserve sides. We begin our in-focus look at seven matches with Shoebury Town‘s superb 5 – 1 victory over Olympian League local rivals Old Southendian Res. Kyle McAlindon came off the bench to score twice for Garry Johnson & John Galley’s team here, with Kian Bradshaw, Aaron Marshall and Enoch Gyimah also finding the net. Jack Pagett’s goal for the OS side did little to inspire them unfortunately.

In the lunchtime game, Catholic Utd negoiated a tricky trip to Barking U23 as Utd prrevailed 4 – 0 at Mayesbrook Park 3G. Louis Robinson, Franklin Craik, Ben Burrows and James Warder all netted for Simon Thomas’ team as they progressed. Beacon Hill Rovers went through thanks to a 3 – 2 win over Saffron Walden Town Res with Charles Brewer, Ashley Hill and Jack Walker all netting for the victors there. Harold Hill also had a good day, as they defeated fellow Olympian side AS Rawreth 4 – 1. Robbie Farrell, Charles Georgiou, Joe Killingback and Freddie Madle all score to see Billy Cove’s side through.

ACD Utd also went through after despatching Belle Vue SC 4 – 1 at Westlands. Jacob Dingli scored twice here for Michael Wade’s team, with Scott Perkins and an OG accounting for the other goals. Galleywood were made to work hard for their 3 – 2 victory over West Essex Development, with Roman Sparks’ double leading the way and Ben Smith also notching for the hosts there. Lastly for this week, Old Chelmsfordians progressed with a 3 – 1 success over Takeley Res. The trio of Max Johnson, Shane Pritchard and Greg Strong were all on target to see the hosts through. Alfie Nicholls got the solitary reply for the ESL Reserve side.

Other Results in EPC:

Alresford Colne Rangers 5 – 0 Runwell Sports

Chingford Athletic EOFL 3 – 4 Wakering Sports Res

Clapton CFC H – W Corinthians Res (Home Walkover)

Colne Athletic 1 – 0 Sungate

Dagenham Utd 2 – 1 Catholic Utd Res

Epping Town 3 – 4 Stanway Rovers U23

Hashtag Utd Dev 2 – 3 Tiptree Heath

Wakebury A – W Kelvedon Hatch (Away Walkover)

S21-22 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League (Sat 26 Mar) [EOFL 21/22 21.3.22]

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.

EOFL Denny King Cup Result

Old Chelmsfordians 1 – 2 Manford Way

Thanks again for reading.

S21-22 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League (Sat 4 Sept) [EOFL 21/22 5.9.21]

Rayleigh Res winger Byron Down about to launch curling pass forward [Image: Scott W]

Written by Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMHC14] – Non-League & EOFL Writer

Hello all and welcome to my round-up of the fourth weekend of action in the Essex Olympian League, on Saturday 4th September. This weekend saw a double-header of matches for me to see first-hand 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

In the Premier, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts ended Old Southendian’s unbeaten start to the season as Swifts won 5 – 2 at Silver Leys. Sam Chaney netted a treble with Archie Gerard and Toluwani Osiyemi also scoring for Craig Glashan’s team. OS responded with goals from Nick Henesy and Mitchell Ali but a hard afternoon for them saw them down to ten men. Drew Klessa-Smith notched another double as Kelvedon Hatch won 2 – 1 at Canning Town, in what was Hatch’s second win this term. Also, Basildon Town recovered from defeat last week with a 3 – 1 victory over Catholic Utd at the Len Forge Centre. Jamie Selby-Knight, Matt Brinklow and replacement Jamie Bradbourn were among the scorers for Marcus Bowers’ team there.

Elsewhere, Hutton got their first win since the opening day with a 2 – 0 triumph over Galleywood at Polo Fields. Jude Keeling and Will Marlowe got the win for Matt Singh’s side as they again look to get into the upper echelons of the standings. Shenfield drew 1 – 1 with Harold Wood Athletic at St Martins Sch, with Luke Williamson scoring for the hosts and James Pottle levelling for ‘Wood from twelve yards. Also, a dramatic match saw Sungate inflict a first loss of the campaign on promoted Ongar Town as the ‘Gate won 7 – 3 at Ilford Wanderers Rugby Club. The scorers for Sungate were Thomas Ward (2), Jaiden Odle (2) with Arif Mustapha, Scott Truman and Thomas Drayton chipping in as well. Ongar were up against it when they were reduced to nine men at one point, and responded through a double from Frankie Goodhall and one from Joe Lilly.

Finally, in the match I attended at London Road, Rayleigh Town put in a strong display to emerge with a 2 – 1 win over resilent Leigh Ramblers. Shaun Gittleson and Charlie Seaden got the goals for Paul Higgins’ team, with Dan Williams notching a late consolation for Mark Hunter’s side. If you’d like more on this match, my report is here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2021/09/05/s21-22-match-report-rayleigh-town-2-1-leigh-ramblers-sat-4-sept-eofl/

Leigh R skipper Ryan Lowe launching a long throw [Image: Scott W]

EOFL Division One

Moving into the three matches played in Div One, and Herongate Athletic saw their 100% start ended with a enterprising 2 – 2 draw with Chingford Athletic at Billericay Road. Robbie Farrell and Harry Watkins struck for Billy Cove’s side, with Andrew Omusi and Alex Gordon replying for Declan Murphy’s team.

Also, Runwell Sports got a fine 3 – 1 home win over Beacon Hill Rovers at St Luke’s Park. Matt Tapley got two goals here for Rob Hodgson’s side, with Kleshay Grant getting his first league goal as well here. And Wakering Sports defeated Corinthians 1 – 0 at Cupid’s with Aaron Marshall getting the decisive goal there.

EOFL Division Two

In Division Two, ACD Utd have three wins from their three matches now after a 6 – 3 win at Rochford Town. Michael Wade scored another terrific treble to make it to five goals this term, with Jacob Dingli, Paul Mangan and Warren Taylor also netting for Greg Knock’s side. Harold Hill made it three straight wins as they won 4 – 1 at Old Southendian Res. Hill were thankful to Peter Tyler, Baciro Bari, Siddy Clarkson and substitute Jack Suters for the match-winning goals. Jack Cripps’ goal was a mere consolation for Josh Bambury’s previous unbeaten side. Harold Wood Athletic Res also got a good win, 2 – 1 over the new Manford Way side. Ben Gibbons and Daniel Spittle scored for Steve Hubbard’s Wood team who earned their first win of the new season.

Also, Wakebury had to fight hard in their 4 – 2 success at May & Baker A, with Max Hall scoring a double for Matt Cardy’s side here, with Ibrahim Kagbanda and Will Wheeler also on target for the visitors. Meanwhile at Cupid’s, Shoebury Town played out a superb 4 – 4 draw with Hutton Res, which saw both sides finish the match with ten men. Harvey Yellop’s brace coupled with goals from James Gardner and substitute Bailey Morris accounted for the visitors’ goals. Shoebury responded through the exsemble cast of stalwart Garry Johnson, Kian Bradshaw, Kirk Hudson and Oliver Chew to claim a decent point.

Finally, in the match I saw at London Road, AS Rawreth fought back late on to draw 2 – 2 at Rayleigh Town Res. John Hanrahan’s penalty and Robbie Allen both netted for Dave Barker’s side, while Tom Binks and Danny Carr responded for Rawreth. If you’d like more on this match, my report is here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2021/09/05/s21-22-match-report-rayleigh-town-res-2-2-as-rawreth-sat-4-sept-eofl/

EOFL Division Three

Finally for this week’s main section, in Division Three, Hashtag Utd Development made it three wins from four league matches with a comfortable 5 – 0 victory at Corinthians Res. Replacement Tommy Sykes struck two goals here for Denis Simpson’s team, with Bradlery Bunker, Jake Smith and an OG accounting for the other goals. Toby Res also put in a superb performance, comprehensively defeating Collier Row 7 – 1. Oliver Dingli led the way with a hat-trick , assisted by Thayne Myrie, Rhys Willson and Ben Picton, who were all amongst the scorers here for Lee Glynn’s side.

Basildon Town Res were held 2 – 2 by Buckhurst Hill U23 with Joe Barrett and James O’Brien netting for the Town second-side. In other results, Catholic Utd Reserves edged a nine-goal encounter, winning 5 – 4 against Leigh Town Res at St Thomas More Sch. Plus Wakering Sports Res pulled a brilliant 8 – 2 win at Pitsea Athletic, held at Basildon Sporting Village.

EOFL Division Four Results

Chingford Athletic Res 3 – 3 Springfield Res | Town Mead 3G

Galleywood Res 0 – 4 Ongar Town Res |

Leytonstone Utd 0 – 2 Southend Manor Dev. | Forest Row Centre (Pitch 1)

Old Chelmsfordians Res 4 – 1 Sungate Dev. | Lawford Lane

Shenfield AFC Res 1 – 1 Canning Town Res | The Drive

Roydon P – P Wakering Sports A

EOFL Division Five Results

AS Rawreth Res 0 – 2 Leigh Ramblers Res

Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res 2 – 1 Collier Row Res

Epping Town Res 1 – 3 Herongate Athletic Res

Pitsea Athletic Res 1 – 4 Runwell Sports Res

Old Barkabbeyans 2 – 3 Snaresbrook Res