Match Report: Burnham Ramblers 3 – 1 Woodford Town (ESL 31.3.18)

Essex Senior League

Venue: Leslie Field

Attendance: 36

Saturday 31st March 2018 3pm KO

2017/18 Season – Match 59

Burnham: Navy Blue & Black Striped Shirts, Black Shorts, Sky Blue Socks

Woodford: Yellow Shirts, White Shorts, White Socks

 

Scott W Reporting (Twitter: @ScottMHC14) with additional photos by Andy Wilkins (Twitter: @andywilkins2015)

On a slightly grey day at Leslie Field, relegation-threatened Burnham took on mid-table Woodford in another crunch Essex Senior League encounter. For the hosts, Charlee Hughes and Karl Swanborough led the line with recent signing Alex Salmon skippering the side and partnering Jamie Marsh in the heart of the defence. For the visitors, target-man Temi Babalola was the physical presence in attack with playmaker Ethan Kessel and Andrea Montavani among those in a supporting role.

I had a feeling before kick-off there would be goals in this one and the start didn’t disappoint. Three minutes in, Burnham had a close-range effort scrambled off the goal-line. Only five minutes later, the hosts led as Robert Bagnall’s fine cross from the right was headed home by Karl Swanborough past visiting goalkeeper Nick Wilson. Unsurprisingly, this buoyed the hosts and only a good tackle in the area denied hot-shot Charlee Hughes a decent chance on goal soon after.

Woodford did start to find their rhythm going forward as we passed the quarter-hour mark as winger Connor Leon’s goal-bound effort was well tipped over by Burnham custodian Adam French. Moments later, Town full-back Leon Wildman’s lung-busting run down the right flank wasn’t rewarded as his decent ball in found ‘nobody home’ for his side in the Burnham area.

The hosts doubled their lead on 26 minutes as a Hughes free-kick rather fortuitously found the on-rushing Brad Morgan in the area who slotted home well.

Town responded five minutes later as a well-struck floating free-kick found centre-back & skipper Jack Grosvenor free at the back post and he headed home with aplomb. Burnham could’ve extended their lead ten minutes before the break though Hughes uncharacteristically fired wide. Woodford had chances to level though Montovani, Kessel and Leon couldn’t find the target, the latter being a curling effort that just sailed wide of the post.

 

Half-Time: Burnham 2 – 1 Woodford

Burnham made a change at the break as Adekunle Adeyemi replaced Sam Warwick, who I thought had a decent game today. On with the action though and home ‘keeper French was called into action again on 52 minutes as Connor Leon’s drive was well-tipped over. The hosts responded as substitute Julian Bavin was well-denied by Woodford goalkeeper Wilson. Adeyemi also started to make his presence felt too with a long-range drive which fizzed wide. Bavin also did well to round Wilson though skied his effort over from a tight angle.

Woodford once again responded and looked dangerous at times though Babalola twice couldn’t find the target in three minutes midway into the half. Soon after, Burnham skipper Alex Salmon made a crucial tackle to deny Town a good sight of goal.

There had been signs that tensions were boiling over during the match though with 13 minutes remaining, Woodford were down to ten men and honestly, it could’ve been worse for them. Burnham did find a ‘final flourish’ as Wilson denied Bill Howard late on. Minutes later, a superb ball in by Adeyemi found Swanborough and the forward held off a Woodford defender well to slot home the crucial third goal for his side. As we entered added-time, Swanborough was well found again though this time Wilson denied him though the hosts held firm to claim their first win of 2018.

 

Woodford’s Connor Leon curls one just wide.. (Credit: Andy W)

Full-Time: Burnham Ramblers 3 – 1 Woodford Town

In fairness, Burnham were fired-up today which is what they needed though they remain in the bottom four on goal difference after this victory, it will undoubtedly boost their confidence after a really good team display. Woodford were threatening at times going forward as Ethan Kessel was among those who played well though defensively it was a ‘bad day at the office’. That said, Woodford sit 12th and are having a more than decent season.

I’d like to thank Burnham for their hospitality and also thank manager Lee Hughes, who spoke to me post-match which you can hear on the Grassroots Football Show on ELR on Thursday night.

 

Teams:

Burnham Ramblers

Adam French (GK), Alfie Vinton, Ricardo Bailey, Jamie Marsh, Alex Salmon (Capt), Robert Bagnall, Samuel Warwick (Adekunle Adeyemi 46′), Bill Howard, Bradley Morgan, Karl Swanborough, Charlee Hughes (Julian Bavin* 49′ – *Charles Brewer 83′)

Goal-scorers: Karl Swanborough [8′ & 88′], Bradley Morgan [26′]

Booked: Howard    | Subs Not Used: Willsmer, S Plom

 

Woodford Town

Nick Wilson (GK), Leon Wildman, Dion Lewis-Kirwan, Jack Grosvenor (Capt), James Walkinshaw, Malaki Toussaint, Connor Leon, Andrea Montovani, Temi Babalola, Ethan Kessel (Samir Ali 64′), Gamel Nfodju (Larry Asare 56′)

Goal-scorer: Jack Grosvenor [31′]

Booked: Asare, Wilson, Wildman | Sent Off: Walkinshaw (Two bookings)

Subs Not Used: Brown, Steele

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Match Report: Great Wakering Rovers 7 – 0 Burnham Ramblers (ESL 27.1.18)

Essex Senior League

Venue: Burroughs Park

Saturday 27th January 2018 3pm KO

2017-18 Season: Match 52

Great Wakering Rovers: Green & White Striped Shirts, White Socks, White Shorts

Burnham Ramblers: Yellow Shirts, Yellow Shorts, Yellow Socks

Both sides just before KO

Scott W Reporting (Twitter: @ScottMHC14)

On a cold, rainy afternoon at Burroughs Park, Great Wakering Rovers welcomed Burnham Ramblers in another Essex Senior League encounter. Wakering were seeking to keep the heat on the top four, two of which (Basildon & Takeley) were not in action this weekend. Rovers were missing the likes of Jimmy Cook and Aaron Russell though winger Billy Johnson was in the starting XI, alongside the front three of Jay Nash, Nathan Dewberry & Chris Bryan.

 

Burnham started life without key forward Charlee Hughes here after he left to join Bostik North promotion hopefuls Bowers & Pitsea this week. Lee Hughes’ side was somewhat depleted as Ryan Stillwell and Bradley Morgan were both unavailable. Karl Swanborough led the line with support from Samuel Warwick and Robert Bagnall.

The match began on what was a heavy pitch with the hosts ‘on the front foot’ as five minutes in, GWR forward Nathan Dewberry’s cross was initally blocked by Burnham centre-half Scott Plom, Wakering skipper Scott Pethers blasted a shot over the bar (and into the car park). Dewberry himself blasted a shot over from a good position shortly afterwards. Wakering did break the deadlock ten minutes in a crowded penalty area, the ball fell to forward Chris Bryan and his crisp strike found the left corner.

 

The hosts continued to press and visiting goalkeeper Joshua Strizovic was called into action to deny winger Billy Johnson’s tame effort and a moment later pulled off a good save to deny Dewberry’s shot. Dewberry did extend the hosts lead midway through the first half though, slotting past Strizovic when one-on-one with the ‘keeper. In a rare Burnham attack, forward Karl Swanborough shot wide to warn the hosts not to ‘step off the gas’.

Rovers forward Jay Nash also twice couldn’t find the target as half-time approached though the hosts did increase their advantage a minute before the break as full-back Danny Hurford’s pass fed Dewberry who blasted an effort past Strizovic.

Half-Time: Great Wakering Rovers 3 – 0 Burnham Ramblers

 

Snap-shot early in 2nd half

After the interval, Burnham brought midfielder Leon Lewis on in place of Ryan Willsmer as the re-jigged their defence. Six minutes into the half, Strizovic was in the action again to deny Bryan’s header and then in the same attack, Dewberry’s effort on goal. Despite a few more chances that went astray, Dewberry slotted home to claim his hat-trick just past the hour after substitute Neil Richmond’s unselfish pass. On 65 minutes, Richmond was felled in the area by Burnham defender Plom, Richmond himself stepped up to take the resulting spot-kick and duly converted it.

 

Richmond later had a goal ruled out for off-side though the experienced forward did grab a second with 13 minutes remaining, slotting home from close range after centre-back Oliver Woodhouse did well surging forward in the build-up. Swanborough did force a save from Wakering stopper Louis Hawes on what was a quiet afternoon for the home custodian. Rovers’ Dewberry wasn’t finished either as he netted his fourth with a drive that crept past Strizovic into the net. The torrent of Wakering attacks didn’t end there as late on, Richmond blazed a strike over the bar and Dewberry and substitute Stephen Butterworth were both denied by the ever-impressive Strizovic.

 

Full-Time: Great Wakering Rovers 7 – 0 Burnham Ramblers

 

This was a big win for the hosts, though in truth if it wasn’t for the combination of wasteful finishing and good goalkeeping, it could well have been more to be honest. Burnham struggled to find any fluency going forward as Swanborough didn’t get a huge degree of service while defensively they also struggled with the quick passing of the Rovers forward line. Difficult to watch in a way really and Burnham arguably still require points to secure their place in the ESL next season. Rovers’ third win on-the-spin sees them into 4th place….

Teams:

Great Wakering Rovers

Louis Hawes (GK), Jason Ring, Danny Hurford, Scott Pethers (Capt), Oliver Woodhouse, Sam Carter, Billy Johnson (Neil Richmond 54′),  Ricky Evans, Jay Nash (Finley Dopson 65′), Nathan Dewberry, Chris Bryan (Stephen Butterworth 54′)

Goal-Scorers: Chris Bryan [10′], Nathan Dewberry [25′, 44′, 62′, 82′], Neil Richmond [pen 65′, 77′]

Burnham Ramblers

Joshua Strizovic (GK), Ryan Willsmer (Leon Lewis 46′), Edison Tereziu (Jake Megran 58′), Kyle Musson (Capt), Tomiwa Adebayo-Bella, Scott Plom, William Howard, Alfie Vinton, Karl Swanborough, Robert Bagnall, Samuel Warwick (Jed Bowman  72′)

Subs Not Used: Bond, Burke

 

Match Report: Burnham Ramblers 2 – 5 West Essex (ESL 9.12.17)

Essex Senior League

Venue: Leslie Field

Attendance: 16

Saturday 9th December 2017 3pm KO

2017-18 Season – Match 45

Burnham Ramblers: Navy Blue & Sky Blue Shirts, Navy Blue Shorts, Sky Blue Socks

West Essex: Red & Black Striped Shirts, Black Shorts, Red Socks

 

Scott W Reporting (Twitter: @ScottMHC14)

On a day partly beset by postponements due to the inclement weather, West Essex travelled to Leslie Field to take on Burnham Ramblers. Burnham were depleted though still named Charlee Hughes and Karl Swanborough in attack. West Essex were also missing a few key players though the ever-dangerous Michael Mignot was joined by Fatos Zeqiri up front and Jack Coker was back between the sticks.

I had a good feeling about this match before kick-off and that feeling was soon validated. The hosts had a double-chance early on though forwards Karl Swanborough and Charlee Hughes were both denied by visiting custodian Jack Coker. Both sides traded chances soon after that with home skipper Ryan Stillwell having an effort saved while West defender Nick Walk’s chip was saved by Burnham goalkeeper Josh Strizovic and Mignot’s lob struck the bar. It really was an open start to this match.

The visitors struck 17 minutes into the match through forward Fatos Zeqiri’s strike which found its way past Strizovic. The hosts struggled to keep up with the quickness of the Stags’ attacks and Strizovic produced a really good save to deny Mignot on the half-hour. That save was even more important at this point of the match as the hosts levelled minutes later through Karl Swanborough’s tap-in following-up.

The visitors responded just four minutes later as winger Cameron Gray’s initial shot was blocked though midfielder Joe Lefley slotted home neatly into the right corner. Strizovic was called upon again four minutes before the break to deny Zeqiri’s shot with his feet. There was a sense even at this point that there were more goals in this match.

Half-Time: Burnham Ramblers 1 – 2 West Essex

Just a minute after the re-start, the Stags extended their lead as a well-directed long pass found forward Michael Mignot and after rounding Strizovic, slotted home calmly into an unguarded net. Soon after, Gray nearly made it four though his effort was well-saved by Strizovic. Burnham spurned a decent opening six minutes after the break as Hughes fired wide. The visitors made it 4-1 moments after as Zeqiri grabbed his second of the afternoon, wrong-footing Strizovic before blasting home. Kwame Kwateng’s side continued to push with rapid attacks and just after the hour, midfielder Brad Russell’s attempted lob was well-saved again by the over-worked Strizovic.

The hosts got some respite in the form of a spot-kick, tucked away by Swanborough midway through the half to lessen the arrears once again and could’ve given the visitors a tricky last 15 minutes though Swanborough’s twin efforts on goal couldn’t get past Coker. In the last ten minutes of a really entertaining affair, West made it five after Mignot slotted home well from a narrow angle while at the other end five minutes later, Hughes couldn’t connect well with his header which was gratefully claimed by Coker.

Full-Time: Burnham Ramblers 2 – 5 West Essex

All in all, a pulsating match filled with both sides wanting to get the ball down and play good attacking football on a tricky pitch though to be fair, West had done more than enough to warrant the points so credit to them and in doing so, ending Burnham’s four-match unbeaten run. As for the hosts, well on another day they may have scored more and I have the feeling that manager Lee Hughes & his coaching staff will drive them on to a decent finish this term. One thing is for sure, watching Burnham’s matches is hardly dull, as there’s usually goals in them.

Finally, I’d like to thank both Burnham boss Hughes and West Essex Head Coach Kwame Kwateng as it was really good to talk to both of them post-match.

 

Teams

Burnham Ramblers

Joshua Strizovic (GK), Jed Bowman, Edison Tereziu (Jake Croft 46′), Ryan Plom, Fraser Inns (Julian Bavin 46′), Alex Karkoski, Ryan Stillwell (Capt), Ben Burgess, Robert Bagnall (Sam Warwick 63′), Charlee Hughes, Karl Swanborough

Goal-scorers: Karl Swanborough [32′ & pen 67′]

Subs Not Used: A French (GK), L Bond | Booked: Burgess

 

West Essex

Jack Coker (GK), Nick Walk, Ben Leo, Maanoon Khan, Josh French, Tom MacLeod (Capt) (Kofi Appiah 87′) , Brad Russell, Joe Lefley (Tom Woodbridge 76′), Cameron Gray, Michael Mignot, Fatos Zeqiri (James Bromley 81′)

Goal-scorers: Fatos Zeqiri [17′ & 53′], Joe Lefley [36′], Michael Mignot [46′ & 81′]

Subs Not Used: T Ahmed, Carroll | Booked: None

Referee: James Masson
Assistant Referees: Ray Parmenter & Trevor Williams

 

Essex Senior League round-up (26.11.17)

Written by Scott W (Twitter: @ScottMHC14)

Hello & welcome to another edition of my semi-regular ESL round-up, which this weekend takes in a few upsets and also some good performances. Enjoy.

Friday 24th Nov

Tower Hamlets 3 – 2 Hackney Wick
| Venue: Mile End Stadium | Attendance: 55

Hamlets edged this encounter with Wick to pick up a much-needed win. Curtis Pond gave the hosts the lead three minutes before the break, though Hassan Nalbant [47′] struck with his fourth goal in two matches to level for the visitors. Pond restored Hamlets lead nine minutes later before Jeff Idemudia once again restored parity on 63 minutes. Hamlets were not to be denied though as David McCarthy got the winner 11 minutes from time.

Also, Hackney Wick announced following this match that ex-Woodford & Brentwood boss Tony Ievoli will be their new manager. I’m sure the Non-League community in the area will wish Tony well in his new role.

 

Saturday 25th Nov

Barkingside 0 – 2 Great Wakering Rovers
| Venue: Cricklefield | Attendance: 58

Wakering ‘got the job done’ with victory at Cricklefield. Goals from Jay Nash [5′] and Billy Johnson [55′] were enough. to seal Rovers’ 6th straight league win. For the hosts, their fourth straight league defeat leaves thrm 14th and in danger of being dragged into the dogfight at the bottom of the table.

Clapton 1 – 1 Ilford
| Venue: Old Spotted Dog | Attendance: 78

These two old rivals were locked in a stalemate at the OSD. The Tons led through Jeffrey Cobblah 65th-minute strike though hot-shot James Peagram secured a point by levelling 11 minutes from time.

Enfield 1893 0 – 5 FC Romania
| Venue: The Harlow Arena | Attendance: 62

FCR continued their superb recent form with a big win at the Harlow Arena. Goals from Mihai Botosan [12′], George Taban [24′], Adrian Balsanu [62′] gave the visitors a big lead though Enfield’s pain was complete as Ionut Juganu [89′] and Sergiu Pitaru [90’+1] added late strikes to seal FCR’s 9th win in their last 11 league matches.

Sawbridgeworth Town 1 – 4 Redbridge
| Venue: Crofters End | Attendance: 50

Redbridge came away with another 3 points after this good win at Crofters. Brian Moses struck on 29 minutes to give the visitors the lead at the break. Second-half goals from Eljay Worrell [51′], Moses [60′] and Martin Tuohy six minutes from time sealed the win though Leon Lewis [89′] got a consolation for Sawbo. The Motormen have won their last seven ESL matches on-the-reel.

Southend Manor 2 – 4 Hullbridge Sports
| Venue: Southchurch Park | Attendance: 65

Manor were surpassed on the day by an lively new-look Hullbridge side. I attended this match, my report is here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2017/11/25/report-southend-manor-2-4-hullbridge-esl-25-11-17/

Sporting Bengal Utd 2 – 0 West Essex
| Venue: Mile End Stadium | Attendance: 15

Bengal grabbed a rare win through goals from David Vaughan [45′] and Oscar Mendes [75′]. Indeed this was Bengal’s first win in ten league matches while West Essex are on a three-match winless run.

Stansted 1 – 4 Burnham Ramblers
| Venue: Hargrave Park | Attendance: 26

Burnham came from behind to grab a win they badly needed at Hargrave Park. It started well for the Airportmen as Wisley Baltazar [12′] put them ahead. The hosts then missed a penalty soon afterward and were pegged back by Ryan Plom’s goal ten minutes before the break. After the break, goals from Karl Swanborough [56′] and a Bradley Morgan spot-kick on the hour, turned the tide before Swanborough grabbed a fourth in added-time.

Waltham Forest 2 – 0 Takeley
| Venue: Kitchener Road | Attendance: 58

Forest upset Takeley to grab their second league win in their last five matches. Goals from Abiolo Tanimowo [40′] and Mo Sagaf in added-time sealed a ‘bad day at the office’ for Marc Das’ side as their eight-match unbeaten run was ended.

Woodford Town 2 – 4 Wadham Lodge
| Venue: Goffs Lane | Attendance: 32

Wadham’s turnaround to their season continued as they won at Goffs Lane. Eli Benoit [6′] and Mario Gnijaj [32′] gave Wadham the platform though an OG and Dwade James sealed the points five minutes from time. Asher Modeste & another OG accounted for the hosts’ goals. Wadham’s unbeaten run now sits at six matches.

 

 

 

The ESL ‘Ground-Hop’ Day – Sat 11th November 2017

Written by Scott W (Twitter: @ScottMHC14) with afterword by Essex Senior League Chairman Rob Errington

Well, you may have seen some of the match reports from the Essex Senior League ‘Ground-Hop’ Day event, though what did the occasion feel like?

So, as part of a good ‘crew’ that included ESL Chair Rob Errington and respected fellow Non-League colleague Peter Dudley, we set off through the maze of traffic to reach Oakside, home of Redbridge FC, for their match against Burnham Ramblers, which kicked off proceedings at midday.

Redbridge & Burnham players honouring the fallen on Armistice Day with a minute’s silence

I will say that the Motormen always give you a decent welcome, led by Programme/Website chap Adam Silver though being honest, the hot food helps as well! Anyway it did seem like a few ground-hoppers and perhaps curious punters had joined the crowd to watch proceedings. To be fair, the match itself was a good one as the hosts showed why there are one of the in-form teams in the division right now. Though as I’ve said previously, Burnham are a different proposition this season compared to last term. They are spirited, more determined and decent going forward too.

Forest (in white shirts) in action v Woodford Town

I’m not usually in a rush to head off post-match though today it was rather a necessity, what with the next match kicking-off about a half-hour afterwards. Joined by ESL Secretary (& organiser of this event) Michelle Dorling in the ‘Batmobile’ (Well, it was jokingly called that so I thought I’d leave it in), the four of us just about made the start of the second designated match at 2.30pm – Waltham Forest v Woodford Town at Kitchener Road,Walthamstow. It’s been documented in the last week or so that Forest are in some financial strife as they look to keep the club going on to & past its 150th anniversary next season, and while the match itself was alright, the result didn’t go the way of the hosts. Being at the ground was a bit of a change for me as I don’t get round there that often, chiefly due to its location. I sincerely wish Forest all at Forest well in their efforts to preserve the club going forward.
With regards to Woodford Town, I could see why they’ve been scoring a few goals this term though they are probably seeking what quite a few other sides are – that ‘holy grail’ of consistency.

Right, well with the darkening sky well on its way, we made our way to our third and final match of the day at the Old Spotted Dog for the 5.30pm KO between Hackney Wick and Wadham Lodge. The chill in the air had also set in by this point though once settled, my attention turned to this encounter which was an important one at the bottom of the table.

The Wick and Wadham players before KO

Along with Woodford, I hadn’t seen Wadham this term before today though I’m well aware they won’t want to recall the tough start to the season that they had to endure. The visitors looked decent at times as they got the result with their superior finishing being the difference in my opinion. 

An action still from Hackney v Wadham (in red)

As far as the ‘occasion’ goes, I don’t think anyone can complain about a lack of goals (12 in three matches). And that adds to my (and others) thoughts that this season is ‘on its way’ nicely at both ends of the table. Perhaps future occasions of this ilk could have one or two matches on a Sunday or Bank Holiday afternoon though for a debut, it was really rather good. Days like this may help most clubs, though particularly those whose attendances aren’t that strong.
In the main though, ‘more of the same’ please. The ESL is ‘on the rise’ and long may that continue.

As hinted earlier, below are the thoughts of ESL Chairman Rob Errington on the day:

The day dawned with the excitement of the first-ever Hop by conveying Scott and Peter and the resultant chats added to the whole experience of the three matches, all ending 3-1 or 1-3, being very memorable. A day to remember indeed and hopefully to be repeated.

Match Report: Redbridge 3 – 1 Burnham Ramblers (ESL 11.11.17)

Essex Senior League – Ground Hop Day Match #1

Venue: Oakside

Attendance: 106

2017-18 Season – Match 36

Saturday 11th November 2017 12pm KO

Redbridge: Blue Shirts, Blue Shorts and Blue Socks

Burnham Ramblers: Red Shirts, Red Shorts, Red Socks

Both sides observe a minute’s silence on Armistice Day

Report by Scott W (Twitter:@ScottMHC14)

First up on a special elongated day of Essex Senior League action on ‘Ground-Hop Day’, Redbridge took on Burnham Ramblers at Oakside in the midday kick-off. Redbridge were led in attack by Brian Moses and Sipho Mtyanda, with fellow forward Calvin Poku on the bench as midfielder Shaun Harris and winger Reside Coxi-Sebastfao were unavailable. Burnham fielded Charlee Hughes, Bradley Morgan and debutant Fraser Inns in attack.

The Motormen started well as only three minutes in, centre-back Vinny Murphy’s curled free-kick was tipped over the bar by alert Burnham custodian Joshua Strizovic. The hosts took advantage of this early impetus as on eight minutes winger Joshua Hutchinson’s right-wing cross found target-man Moses and his header sailed into the left corner to open their account for the afternoon.

To be fair to the visitors, they responded quickly as only minutes later, a drive from midfielder Ben Burgess needed the intervention of Redbridge goalkeeper Lewis Greene. Both sides traded chances in the following period of the game, with Moses really pulling his side forward. His cross found strike partner Sipho Mtyanda on 17 minutes though was denied by a great tackle from a visiting defender. Burnham’s Bradley Morgan’s effort was denied on the line by Liam Thomas as they looked to level things up.

This seemed to pep the hosts up as they created further chances, captain Eljay Worrell’s shot was denied well by Strizovic. After the rain we’ve had this week, the pitch was a bit slippy, though it didn’t really perturb either side here. Burnham put a ‘spanner in the works’ of the home half-time team-talk as they levelled two minutes before the break as Morgan’s pinpoint cross from the right was powerfully headed home by Fraser Inns.

Half-Time: Redbridge 1 – 1 Burnham Ramblers

After the break, the hosts continued with push early-doors as Worrell had a goal ruled out for off-side, Mtyanda and Moses both sent efforts wide before the latter was one-on-one with Strizovic though the ‘keeper made another good save on 51 minutes. Burnham were still showing spirit, particularly at the back though their resistance was broken just after the hour as Worrell’s corner found Moses who nodded home from close range.

The hosts brought on fit-again forward Jacob Dingli around this point also and soon after that, he brought another good save out of Strizovic though with five minutes remaining, Dingli’s shot was blocked though fellow substitute Tommie Turner turned the ball home to seal the points. I must give credit to Burnham as their heads did not drop, with Strizovic making three more good saves to keep his team in it late on.

Overall, I would say that the Motormen were ‘in the mood’ today and that showed, though Burnham showed their determined nature once again and definitely played their part in this encounter. I’d like to pass on my best wishes to both clubs and thank Redbridge FC for their hospitality.

Full-Time: Redbridge 3 – 1 Burnham Ramblers

Moses 8′, 63′     |     Inns 43′
Turner 85′

Teams:

Redbridge: Lewis Greene (GK), Courtney Homans, Jonathan Mbamarah, Phillip Brown-Bampoe (Jacob Dingli 62′), Vinny Murphy, Liam Thomas, Joshua Hutchinson (Marcus Carter 85′), Patrick Duggan, Lindisipho Mtyanda (Tommie Turner 65′), Brian Moses, Eljay Worrell (C)

Goal-scorers: Brian Moses [8′ & 63′], Tommie Turner [85′]

Booked: Moses   |  Subs Not Used: Poku

Burnham Ramblers: Joshua Strizovic (GK), Franco Guidi (Julian Bavin 46′), Edison Tereziu (George Kuderovitch 85′), Ben Burgess, Ryan Plom, Scott Plom, Ryan Stillwell (C), William Howard, Bradley Morgan, Fraser Inns, Charlee Hughes

Goal-scorer: Fraser Inns [43′]

Booked: S Plom, Howard, Hughes | Subs Not Used: Green
Referee: Graham Scott

Assistant Referees: Brian Townsend & Trevor Williams

Report: Tower Hamlets 1 – 0 Burnham Ramblers (ESL 4.11.17)

Essex Senior League

Venue: Mile End Stadium

Attendance: 36

2017-18 Season – Match 34

Saturday 4th November 2017 3pm KO

Tower Hamlets: Orange Shirts, Black Shorts and Black Socks

Burnham Ramblers: Red Shirts, Red Shorts, Sky Blue Socks

Scott W reporting (Twitter: @ScottMHC14)

On a fairly chilly and damp afternoon, I made my way to Mile End Stadium as Tower Hamlets welcomed Burnham Ramblers in another Essex Senior League encounter. The hosts were missing a few players including Kane Wilson and the injured Lee McKnight and Wale Odedoyin though new signings Jerome Martelli and Elias Tackie made the starting XI and substitute’s bench respectively. Burnham were missing the likes of forward Bradley Morgan and Luke Maloney though Charlee Hughes led the line for Lee Hughes’ side.

The pitch had to pass a morning pitch inspection and as things got underway, it was evident that while the pitch was OK, it was still boggy and that did mean players slipped a bit. Hamlets forward Curtis Pond nearly opened the scoring in the first minute after being played in by strike partner Luke With though he couldn’t find the target. Tola Odedoyin won a few good headers at centre-back though after a decent initial spell, the hosts had to deal with a few Burnham attacks, midfielder Bobby Barker and forward Hughes couldn’t test home goalkeeper James Pellin.

Pond and winger Martelli blasted shots wide, the latter having a great chance whilst one-on-one with visiting custodian Joshua Strizovic. Hughes hit the post for Burnham on 26 minutes having beaten Pellin. Tola Odedoyin done his side a favour by making a good last-ditch tackle on Hughes when the Burnham forward was in a good position to ‘pull the trigger’ just shy of the half-hour mark.

Half-Time: Tower Hamlets 0 – 0 Burnham Ramblers

The hosts may have had more of the chances though Burnham could have snuck ahead in the opening half having had some good moments themselves. Hamlets joint-manager AJ Ashinike was firing out instructions from near the stand to keep his side going though as we made our way past the half-way point in the second half, the hosts pushed forward to find that so far elusive goal. Substitute O’Neal Rowe twice tested Strizovic though Burnham thought they’d broken the deadlock 14 minutes from time though Hughes’s goal was ruled out for off-side, much to the consternation of the Burnham dug-out.

That frustration was amplified soon after as Hamlets took the lead with nine minutes remaining. Substitutes Elias Tackie and Rowe combined, with Rowe laying the ball off for Tackie to power his strike into the right corner. Burnham nearly grabbed a last-minute leveller as a free-kick was well-directed though was just over Hughes’ head at the back stick.

Full-Time: Tower Hamlets 1 – 0 Burnham Ramblers

Tackie 81′

Hamlets may have just edged this one on chances created though I really don’t think there was much between the sides. I think it also serves as another pointer that both these sides have improved compared to last season. Congratulations to Hamlets who sit 7th in the table and my best wishes to Burnham as they strive to rise up the table, they are 17th. My thanks also go to Tilia and Adam (T Hamlets) for their hospitality today, it is appreciated.

Teams:
Tower Hamlets

James Pellin (GK), Lamar Earle, John Watson (Inesh Sumithran 67′), Mata Julio, Tola Odedoyin, Jerome Martelli (O’Neal Rowe 67′), Frankie Sinclair (C), Curtis Pond, Antonio Montiero (Elias Tackie 67′), Luke With, Igor Furtado

Subs Not Used: Harry Wright, James Ross

Goalscorer: Elias Tackie (81′)

Burnham Ramblers

Joshua Strizovic (GK), Luke Caston, Grant Webb, Ben Burgess, Alex Karkoski, Bobby Barker, William Howard, Ryan Stillwell (C), Charlee Hughes, Robert Bagnall (George Kuderovitch 84′), Samuel Warwick (Edison Tereziu 73′)

Subs Not Used: Adam French (GK), Andrew Mowforth

Booked: Barker

Referee: Ede Eruero

Assistants: Michael Wingate & Abdel Hemid Zekri

Match Report: Burnham Ramblers 4 – 3 Redbridge (ESL 17.10.17)

Essex Senior League

Venue: Leslie Field

Attendance: 26

2017-18 Season – Match 30

Tuesday 17th October 2017 7.45pm KO

Burnham Ramblers : Sky Blue & Navy Blue Shirts, Navy Blue Shorts, Sky Blue Socks

Redbridge : Red Shirts, Red Shorts, Red Socks

Both sides at kick-off

Scott W reporting (Twitter: @ScottMHC14)

On a fairly chilly evening at Leslie Field, Burnham Ramblers welcomed in-form Redbridge in another intriguing Essex Senior League encounter. Burnham had the familiar front two of Bradley Morgan and Charlee Hughes in the starting XI while Lindsipho Mtyanda and tall target-man Brian Moses led the line for the Motormen, with forward Calvin Poku and winger Joshua Hutchinson unavailable.

I’ll mention right from the start that this is some match to try and sum-up. We were set on our way as the visitors struck first in the first minute as winger Reside Coxi-Sebastfao struck the crossbar with his drive and forward Brian Moses eventually tucking it away well. Only three minutes later, forward Lindsipho Mtyanda had a shot saved by home goalkeeper Joshua Strizovic. The hosts rallied though soon after as midfielder William Howard’s shot was saved by visiting custodian Lewis Greene. The visitors edged the early-going in both boxes as defender Vinny Murphy’s crucial tackle denied Ramblers forward Bradley Morgan in the area. Thirteen minutes in, Burnham midfielder Ryan Stillwell repaid that compliment with a great tackle on Moses with the forward primed to strike.

The hosts levelled on 17 minutes as a great through-ball found forward Charlee Hughes and he made no mistake, slotting home well to consolidate a super start to this match. There was little let-up in proceedings as ten minutes later, midfielder Julian Bavin swivelled and volleyed a super strike past Greene to put Lee Hughes’ side ahead for the first time. On the half-hour, it needed a great block by centre-back Jonathon Mbamarah to deny Morgan after the Burnham forward had rounded Greene in the area.

The hosts were not to be denied though as twelve minutes before the break from Bavin’s pass, Hughes was in on goal and slotted home to give his side a two-goal lead. A frenetic first half ended in stoppage time as Mtyanda looped a header home from captain Eljay Worrell’s free-kick.

Half-Time: Burnham Ramblers  3 – 2  Redbridge

The second half began with the visitors much the stronger as home custodian Strizovic denying Mtyanda, midfielder Patrick Duggan and Worrell in the opening quarter-hour or so of the half. Redbridge winger Coxi-Sebastfao was impressing on the left flank with his pace and trickery. It was no surprise when Coxi-Sebastfao himself got the visitors level on 66 minutes as he thumped home an effort past Strizovic following another Worrell free-kick in a spell of sustained pressure from the Motormen.

Strizovic was busy again having to deny Mtyanda moments after the leveller though Burnham found another gear in the latter stages with Hughes’ header being saved by Greene. With nine minutes left, Mtyanda spurned a good chance for the visitors though in retrospect, we couldn’t quite have predicted what was coming. Burnham forward Hughes has a knack for scoring crackers and he came up trumps again with a thunderbolt from at least 25 yards which sailed past Greene to give Burnham the lead once again. In a nervy finale, Stillwell headed wide for the hosts and Moses and substitute Liam Thomas also missed the target with headers.

The full-time whistle blew and unsurprisingly there were contrasting emotions by both sides though what I will say is that football was the ultimate winner in this utterly enthralling contest. Redbridge may look back and wonder how they didn’t get something from this game though the hosts will be delighted with their battling qualities and work-rate, alongside Hughes’ finishing. If this was last season then Burnham may have got overwhelmed though this match is another marker to suggest that they are a different side this term. Congratulations to them and also I’d like to thank them for their hospitality tonight. Best wishes to Redbridge as well for the rest of the season.

Full-Time: Burnham Ramblers   4 – 3       Redbridge

Hughes 17’, 33’, 84’    | Moses 1’, Mtyanda 45’+1

Bavin 27’            |   Coxi-Sebastfao 66’

Teams:
Burnham Ramblers Manager: Lee Hughes	Redbridge Joint-Managers: Ricky Eaton & Joey May
1  Joshua Strizovic  (GK)	1  Lewis Greene  (GK)
2  Bobby Barker       (Subbed 29’)	2  Courtney Homans
3  Grant Webb	3  Eljay Worrell  (C)
18 Julian Bavin         (Subbed 73’)	4  Shaun Harris
5  Luke Moloney  (C)	5  Vinny Murphy
6  Scott Plom	6  Jonathon Mbamarah
7  Samuel Warwick     (Subbed 66’)	7  Tommie Turner    (Subbed 82’)
8  William Howard	8  Patrick Duggan
9  Bradley Morgan	9  Lindsipho Mtyanda
10  Ryan Stillwell	10  Brian Moses
11  Charlee Hughes	11  Reside Coxi-Sebastfao
Substitutes:
13  Adam French  (GK)	12  Sam Sheppard
14  Kyle Musson             (On 66’)	14  Liam Thomas       (On 82’)
15  Alex Karkoski	15  Malaki Toussaint
16  Andy Mowforth       (On 29’)	16  Philip Brown-Bampoe
17  Daniel Green            (On 73’)	17  Jamil Shariffu
Referee:	Kirk Edwards
Assistant Referees:	Paul Falvey Joe Burgess
Booked: Moloney, Bavin, Stillwell	Booked: Moses, Mtyanda, Coxi-Sebastfao

Essex Senior League & EOFL round-up (8.10.17)

Written by Scott W  (Twitter:@ScottMHC14)

Hello & welcome to the round-up of this weekend’s action in the Essex Senior League here on my blog. We start off with a Friday night match at Mile End then touch on all the Saturday action. And there’s a run-down of the results from the Senior League Cup 2nd Round involving Olympian League sides plus a smattering of Olympian League action. How did your side do this weekend? Find out below. Enjoy.

Friday 6th October

Tower Hamlets   3 – 0   West Essex

Venue: Mile End Stadium     |   Attendance: 94

Hamlets produced a good second-half display to win this one at Mile End. Curtis Pond’s brace [59’ & 69’] and substitute Wale Odedoyin’s goal was enough to defeat an under-par West Essex side and give Hamlets their sixth win of the season.

I attended this match and my full match report is here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2017/10/07/report-t-hamlets-3-0-w-essex-esl-6-10-17/

Saturday 6th October

Burnham Ramblers   4 – 1   Sporting Bengal Utd

Venue: Leslie Field   |    Attendance: 24

Burnham prevailed the second match in succession with this win at Leslie Field. Bradley Morgan gave the hosts the lead on 32 minutes, though Oscar Mendes levelled for Imrul Gazi’s side six minutes later. Burnham restored their lead a minute after that through Julian Bavin and second-half goals from Morgan [50’] and Charlee Hughes [65’] sealed a good day for Lee Hughes’ men.

Enfield 1893  3 – 1   Barkingside  

Venue: The Harlow Arena      |      Attendance: 68

Enfield came from behind to seal a good victory at the Harlow Arena. Jayden Mitchell-Brown gave ‘Side the lead after only two minutes though the hosts turned the tables with goals from Danny Jones [9’] and Andrew Tirivanhu [16’] before James O’Brien got the hosts’ third seven minutes before the break to seal their third win of the campaign.

Hackney Wick   1 – 2   Clapton

Venue: Old Spotted Dog     |        Attendance: 785

Clapton triumphed in the ‘Old Spotted Dog’ derby against tenants Wick, watched by a huge crowd of nearly 800 fans including many of the Clapton Ultras. Jeffrey Cobblah gave the Tons the lead before Hassan Nalbani ‘s penalty put Jon Fowell’s side in command before Jay Hardwick reduced Tolga Dervish’s side’s arrears though Clapton held on to claim their 5th win of the season.

Hullbridge Sports  1 – 4   FC Romania  

Venue: Lower Road   |        Attendance: 59

All the goals came in the second-half as FCR prevailed against out-of-form Hullbridge at Lower Road. Florin Pop gave the Wolves the lead ten minutes after the re-start. Ioan Petresc made it two on 62 minutes though Howard Wright netted to make it 1-2 four minutes later. FCR responded as Pop  [67’] and Petresc [69’] both got their braces and sealed a good day for the visitors.

Ilford   2 – 0   Takeley

Venue: Cricklefield      |     Attendance: 71

Two first-half goals were enough to give Ilford a moreale-boosting success at Cricklefield. James Peagram’s spot-kick on 29 minutes and Paul Oshin’s goal five minutes before the break were enough to give Allan Fenn’s side their sixth win of the campaign.

Sawbridgeworth Town   3 – 3  Woodford Town (2017)

Venue: Crofters End      |     Attendance: 45

Both these sides had to settle for a point in this six-goal cracker at Crofters End. Woodford led until the latter stages as goals from Larry Asare [43’], Andrea Montovani [58’] and a late goal from Jack Grosvenor though Sawbridgworth made it honours even through a brace from defender Matt Frew [7’ & 90’] and an Grosvenor OG [46’].

Southend Manor    0 – 3* (*A-A on 80 mins)     Redbridge     

Venue: Southchurch Park      |     Attendance: 64

I attended this match and the Match Report is here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2017/10/07/outhend-manor-0-3-redbridge-abandoned-after-80-mins-esl-7-10-17/

Stansted  0 – 1  Basildon Utd

Venue: Hargrave Park           |        Attendance: 78

Basildon narrowly won this encounter at Hargrave Park. Ash Blackburn’s goal a minute before half-time was enough to give the Bees their eighth win in ten league matches this term.

Waltham Forest  0  – 2    Great Wakering Rovers

Venue: Kitchener Road       |     Attendance: 47

A goal in each half saw Wakering to another victory, this time at Kitchener Road. Oliver Woodhouse gave GWR the lead 11 minutes before the break before Jake Gordon made it two nine minutes before the end.

 Saturday 7th October

Essex Olympian League

Premier Division

May & Baker E.C  2 – 2   Rayleigh Town

 

Division One

FC Hamlets   4 – 0   Old Chelmsfordians

Shenfield AFC  1 – 1  Harold Hill

 

Division Two

Rochford Town   1 – 1   Upminster

Ryan  5 – 2  Ongar Town

 

Senior League Cup 2nd Round

Basildon Town  1 -1 Newham Utd (Newham won 4-3 on Penalties)

Buckhurst Hill  4 – 5   Frenford  (AET)

Canning Town  2 – 6  White Ensign

Catholic Utd  6 – 0    Epping

Harold Wood Athletic   4 – 2  Galleywood (AET)

Kelvedon Hatch  4 –  0  Snaresbrook

Manford Way    4 – 0   Dagenham Utd

Newbury Forest  0 – 5   Westhamians

Ramsden Scotia   3 – 1    Herongate Athletic

Runwell Sports   1 – 3  Southend Sports

Springfield   2 – 1  Old Southendian

Sungate  1 – 3 Great Baddow

Toby  3 – 1  Hutton

Match Report: Hullbridge Sports 3 – 3 Burnham Ramblers (ESL 12.9.17)

Essex Senior League

Venue: Lower Road

Attendance: 57

2017-18 Season – Match 19

Tuesday 12th September 2017 7.45pm KO

Hullbridge Sports: Blue & White Striped Shirts, Blue Shorts, Blue Socks

Burnham Ramblers: Red Shirts, Red Shorts, Red Socks

Rob Hodgson (far right) heads Hullbridge ahead (Credit: Neil H –  Twitter: @ABridgeTooFar16)

Scott W reporting (Twitter: @ScottMHC14)

On a wet, grim evening at Lower Road, Hullbridge welcomed Burnham Ramblers in another Essex Senior League encounter. And this one was a cracker!

Hullbridge started this match like a train and hassled the visitors’ defence early-doors. They made good on their intentions early-doors too as player-boss Rob Hodgson, playing in midfield, got the opener just four minutes in, heading in defender Aaron Hunwicks’ free-kick. The hosts were in dreamland after just eight minutes as winger Yvan Kombi blasted a curling effort that sailed past visiting goalkeeper Josh Strizovic to put Sports two goals to the good.

Importantly though for the visitors, Burnham pulled one back on the quarter-hour as after a good right-wing cross by full-back Jed Bowman eventually fell to midfielder Billy Howard who slotted home in a congested penalty area. In all fairness, it was a super start to the match.

As the midway point of the first half approached, the visitors hit the bar twice, forward Charlee Hughes hit a 25-yarder which cannoned off the woodwork and then soon after fellow forward Bradley Morgan’s drive was spilled by Hullbridge goalkeeper Bobby Mason onto the bar and out. Mason has returned to the club after ending his spell at Isthmian Premier side Thurrock recently.

The visitors did have a good spell around the half-hour mark though couldn’t convert their decent play. In the last six minutes of the half, it was a tale of two chances. Firstly, on 39 minutes Burnham were awarded a penalty after a foul on Morgan by Hullbridge defender Angus Poole in the area. Hughes stepped up to take it though blazed his effort over the bar.

And secondly, three minutes afterward, Hodgson made a good run down the middle and was found by captain Jimmy Cox and slotted home well for his second of the evening to restore Hullbridge’s two-goal cushion at half-time.

Half-Time: Hullbridge Sports 3 – 1 Burnham Ramblers

The rain continued to lash down as the second half began and before long, the conditions were not easy to play in.  A minute into the second half, Hullbridge winger Charlie Gerada made a good darting run down the left wing though couldn’t find the cross to pick out Cox in the middle. Burnham responded though Burnham midfielder Adam Brotherton twice couldn’t find the target. The hosts could have extended their lead seven minutes after the break, though Hodgson couldn’t direct his header past Strizovic and the ‘keeper made the save.

Burnham were reduced to ten men eight minutes into the second half as Brotherton was given a straight red what was adjudged to be a dangerous tackle. This seemed to invigorate Burnham though as on 59 minutes, Hughes got his side’s second as he nodded home a free-kick past Mason. And then only two minutes later, Burnham were level as a drive from distance from Hughes sailed past Mason into the left corner to get his brace.

The visitors really had their ‘tails up’ now and midfielder Ben Timson’s strike was well-saved by Mason. Hullbridge forced Strizovic into a good save soon after as Kombi made a good run and strike though the ‘keeper was equal to it. For about 20 minutes from the midway point of the half onwards, Burnham pliled forward as Morgan was twice denied by Mason and Hughes blasted a 30-yard drive which went over the bar. Full-back Grant Webb also shot wide of the far-post after substitute Craig Heskey’s pass.

Hullbridge also poured forward in the dying moments though couldn’t quite fashion any clear-cut chances.

So, it ended as a draw, on another day it might’ve been a different result. We could’ve conceivably had eight or more goals tonight. Both sides may be frustrated, though what I do know is that this encounter was richly entertaining and credit has to go to both sides on that note. For Hullbridge, Rob Hodgson played well and could’ve had a hat-trick, Yvan Kombi also did well. For Burnham, Charlee Hughes ran his socks off in leading the line for his side and full-back Jed Bowman really put in a good performance as well in my view.

Full-Time: Hullbridge Sports 3 – 3 Burnham Ramblers

Hodgson 4’, 42’                 Howard 15’

Kombi 8’                             Hughes 59’, 61’

I’d like to wish both sides well for the rest of the season and thank Hullbridge for their hospitality.

Teams:
Hullbridge Sports Player-Manager: Rob Hodgson	Burnham Ramblers Manager: Lee Hughes
1  Bobby Mason (GK)	1  Josh Strizovic  (GK)
2  Charlie Buffin	2  Jed Bowman
3  Aaron Hunwicks	3  Grant Webb
4  Lewis Watson	4  Scott Plom
5  Angus Poole	5  Andrew Mowforth   (Subbed 76’)
6  Ollie Quick	6  Billy Howard
7  Yvan Kombi	7  Adam Brotherton
8  Rob Hodgson	8  Ben Timson
9  Jimmy Cox  (C)	9  Bradley Morgan     (Subbed ‘90+3)
10  Sam Dulieu            (Subbed 80’)	10  Ryan Stillwell  (C)
11  Charlie Gerada      (Subbed 68’)	11  Charlee Hughes    (Subbed ‘90+1)
Substitutes:
12  Ronnie Pallett         (On 80’)	12  Craig Heskey   (On ‘90+1)
14  Ryan Wallington     (On 68’)	14  Sam Eve
15  Jamie Buffin	15  Daniel Green     (On 76’)
16  George Vile	16  Albino Christo   (On ‘90+3)
17  Jamie Merralls (GK)	17  Aydin Coban
Referee:	Jamie Pope
Assistant Referees:	Paul Falvey Cristiana Hattersley
Booked: Cox	Booked: Plom, Howard
	Sent Off: Brotherton