Chadwell Heath Spartans

S22-23 Match Report: Chadwell Heath Spartans 1 – 0 FC Baresi (Sat 25 Feb) [EAL 22-23 26.2.23]

Essex Alliance League – Senior Division

Venue: Lakeside Spts Ground [3G]

Attendance: 15 (Est)

2022-23 Season: Match 43

Saturday 25 February 2023 – 2.30pm KO

Spartans: Red & Black Shirts, Black Shorts, Red Socks

Baresi:Yellow Shirts, Black Shorts & Socks

Organised Spartans battle to a narrow win over Baresi at Lakeside

Chadwell Heath Spartans 1 – 0 FC Baresi

Match Report & Photos by Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMHC14]

Additional Photos by Neil Hunwicks (for CH Spartans – @ABridgeTooFar16]

The Saturday match this week was a rare sujorn to the Essex Alliance League Senior Division and a keenly-anticipated match between hosts Chadwell Heath Spartans and promotion-chasing FC Baresi, who are among four or five sides who could yet win the region’s newest Step 7 title this term. Both sides were missing players for this game, and Spartans fielded ever-present Lewis Edwards in goal, with a defence comprised of centre-backs Meer Ishanzadeh & player-boss Aaron Hunwicks, plus full-backs Richard Oteniya & captain Brad Downes. The central midfield had Tommy Harrison and Aka Ezeemo, with Harry Goodwin & Raymond Hunwicks on the flanks. The forward line featured top-scorer Peter Adeleye & Mike Ramsay. Baresi had regular Eric Andoh as their goalkeeper here, with a defence of Zuhayr Amjad, Romauld Boco and Jayyab Mahmood. The forward-minded midfield contained Bradley Soares, Munnir Saad and Korede Da Silva, with the forward line being comprised of Tyreece Robertson, Nicola Rapacchiani and Ahmed Abdulla.

The match began with Baresi pushing hard to wrestle the momentum and put the Spartans under continual pressure. Forward Nicola Rapacchiani had an early sight of goal, which was gathered by home custodian Lewis Edwards but you still felt that there was a lot of work required by Spartans to frustrate their opponents here. Spartans really made an early chance count on 11 minutes as from a Meer Ishanzadeh corner, forward Peter Adeleye got a touch and the ball was bundled in off an opposition defender to give Aaron Hunwicks’ side a surprise lead. Baresi were not unduly affected though as they kept pushing forward, with Munnir Saad’s strike being denied by Edwards at the second attempt.

Baresi midfielder Korede Da Silva on the ball [Image by Scott W]

Chadwell Heath were having to focus hard on their defensive attributes here, as an effort from Tyreece Robertson needed the intervention of Spartans stopper Edwards. It was taking a toll on the hosts, who had to make substitutions because of knocks, with Elie Fanga and Manu Kahatadeniya coming on during the last 15 minutes of the half. Adeleye was a decent outlet for the hosts, shoewing decent control in possession, but it was also increasingly clear that Baresi would have more of the ball as the match went on.

Baresi’s Tyreece Robertson jostles with Spartans player-boss Aaron Hunwicks [Image by Neil H]

Half-Time: CH Spartans 1 – 0 FC Baresi

After the break, Baresi pushed forward seeking the goals they needed to turn the tide of this match. To their credit, the visitors did retain the ball well at times, assisted by the tireless midfielder Korede Da Silva, support forward Ahmed Abdulla plus Saad and Robertson, who moved the ball on well and made some good runs down the channels as well. Edwards in the Spartans goal needed his powers of concentration to deny decent strikes by Da Silva and Abdulla to keep his team ahead. To be fair, Spartans were a threat from set-pieces and sending the ball long in open play did unsettle the visiting defence at times, they didn’t really threaten visiting custodian Eric Andoh, besides a near-post chance for Brad Downes at this stage in proceedings.

As we got into the last fifteen minutes of an increasingly tense contest, Spartans did have a rare glimpse at goal as from Adeleye’s good run, he found substitute Kahatadeniya but his effort was parried wide by Andoh. Baresi poured forward in the last ten minutes or so, and substitute Raymond Poku’s fine strike was superbly parried over the goal frame by Edwards. You had to feel a bit for the hard-working visitors whose only frailty here was not being clinical enough in terms of finishing.

Edwards pulls off a fine save for Spartans [Image by Neil H]

Baresi centre-back Jaayab Mahmood nearly crowned off a good performance defensively with a goal, as his added-time strike was very well struck, forcing Edwards into another acrobatic save to claw it round the far post. Despite all the pressure though, Baresi couldn’t force a leveller and they will be keen to make the most of midweek matches in March to stay in the title picture.

Full-Time: Chadwell Heath Spartans 1 – 0 FC Baresi

So in summary, this was a real battle which saw Spartans have to push themselves hard to defend for large parts of the game, but they did show some promise going forward. Baresi gave it everything and to use the well-used phrase they ‘Did everything but score’ and they will be disappointed with the result which saw rivals Woodford East overtake them into second spot. They are also vulnerable to being caught by Jolof Sports & Sporting Hackney behind them, who both have several games in hand on Baresi.

Baresi’s Zuhayr Amjad looking to start another forward move in 2nd half [Image by Scott W]

There were some really good performances here. Starting as ever with the victors, centre-back Meer Ishanzadeh was adept at his task keeping the rapid Baresi forwards at bay, also adding composure & positioning. Credit has to go to Meer for that. Next, a word for goalkeeper Lewis Edwards who made at least three acrobatic saves to keep his team’s shut-out intact, as well as being a good presence at the back. Midfielder Aka Ezeemo also put in a hard-working shift as well against some good play by an attacck-minded Baresi side, while skipper Brad Downes also defended well and got forward occasionally to good effect, as well as making some decent passes.

For Baresi, there were some good performances also. Firstly, I was impressed by midfielder Korede Da Silva, who was tireless throughout and contributed to his team in defence & attack as well as showing decent passing too. Central defender Jayyab Mahmood also put in a commendable effort, making it hard for the hosts to gather momentum and made a number of good interceptions defensively. Lastly, a word for winger Tyreese Robertson who was a good outlet for his team here, showcasing his pace and movement to good effect & Munnir Saad also had a good game, running from deep and had a few decent shots at goal as well which tested the Spartans backline.

I’ll close this report by adding that this was a tough Step 7 battle to watch and that it was good to see both teams in action.

Teams

Chadwell Heath Spartans | Player-Manager: Aaron Hunwick | Assistant: Niru Hunwicks

Starting XI: 1 Lewis Edwards (GK), 2 Richard Oteniya, 4 Brad Downes (Capt), 3 Meer Ishanzadeh, 6 Aaron Hunwicks, 5 Tommy Harrison, 8 Aka Ezeemo, 7 Raymond Hunwicks, 9 Peter Adeleye, 10 Mike Ramsay, 11 Harry Goodwin

Goal-scorer: OG [11′]

| Subs ON (Time): 14 Elie Fanga [29′, replaced Ramsay], 15 Manu Kahatadeniya [36′], 12 Paul Chukwuwa [72′, replaced R Hunwicks], 16 Niru Hunwicks [82′, replaced Adeleye]

Booked: Adeleye & Kahatadeniya | Subs Not Used: Berwick

FC Baresi

Starting XI: 1 Eric Andoh (GK), 2 Zuhayr Amjad, 19 Romuald Boco, 23 Jayyab Mahmood, 6 Bradley Soares, 14 Munnir Saad, 4 Korede Da Silva, 25 Umaru Kabia, 7 Tyreece Robertson, 5 Ahmed Abdulla, 15 Nicola Rapacchiani

| Subs ON (Time): 26 Nayan Tajbakhsh [44′, replaced Rapacchiani], 17 Raymond Poku [66′, replaced Robertson], 16 Timi Kofo [69′], 10 Ali Shikheey [87′, replaced Poku]

Sub Not Used: Fethallah

Referee: Daniel Norris
Assistants: Stephen Hales & William Fotiou

Guest Blog: Essex Alliance Lge (Sat 17 Sept) [EAL 22-23 20.9.22]

Hello and welcome to the round-up of the action in the Essex Alliance League, from Saturday 17 September which includes the EAL action & representatives in the Essex Premier Cup.

My thanks to the EAL’s Rob Parker. Thank you for reading.

Guest Blog written by Rob Parker for EAL [EAL Twitter: @EssexAllianceFL]

Essex Alliance League Round-up – Saturday 17 September

SENIOR DIVISION

Two teams remain locked at the top of the Senior Division table following the weekend’s action with Lymore Gardens going top for a while on Friday night following their home success against a previously unbeaten Brimsdown side at Coles Park. Dylan Roberts, Inarhu Martin and Andre Rashford goals saw their side come from behind to edge the clash 3 – 2.

FC Baresi were able to move top on goal difference following Saturday’s action as they came away with all three points from their trip to Noak Hill where they had beaten FC Petrocub comfortably in a 6 – 1 scoreline. Tyreece Robertson scored a hat-trick to extend his scoring record, adding to goals from Edson Lami, Raymond Poku and Paul Benfield.

Moving up to fourth spot, Jolof Sports have moved up to within three points of the leaders in the division as they recorded a third success of the season, defeating Kit Out London in a close game at Mayesbrook Park. Two Alexander Sow goals and a Modou Jammeh effort put the hosts onto the path of victory, winning the game by the odd goal in a 3-2 success.

Sporting Hackney’s unbeaten start to the campaign continued over the weekend as they came through their home clash against Crookz United with all three points. The Parrots were 4 – 1 winners as Karim Bukleb, Liam O’hara, Joel Akuwudike and Percival Zeutzius all got on the scoresheet to render Olajide Yusuff’s goal as just consolation for Crookz.

Picking up a second win of the season were Chadwell Heath Spartans who returned home from Hainault with all three points as they defeated Oakside 2 – 0 to climb to ninth in the standings. Joseph Butcher and Peter Adeleye were the scorers of the goals for last season’s runners-up as they continued their push up the table.

Over at Lakeside, Rapid Chingford and Frenford Development went into their clash with just four points separating them prior to kick off. But a strong showing from the visitors saw Frenford claim just their second win so far with a 3 – 0 success. Wisley Baltazar scored twice for his side with Reon Murray-Whyte netting the other off the bench to move Frenford up to seven points.

PREMIER DIVISION EAST

Six sides sit on three points at the top of Premier Division East with Aveley Under 23s the side leading the way after their opening clash having defeated fellow debutants Freetown in a 6 – 1 scoreline. Eugene Sagoe scored twice for the young Millers, Finlay Shipp, Kyle Brand, Sola Adebo and Samuel Omoniyi goals finishing things off.

Waltham Abbey A’s introduction to the league saw them pick up three points in their opening performance after they saw off Wapping in a 3 – 1 scoreline at Town Mead. Nathan Lawrence scored twice and Dom Farmer netted the other to make it a winning start, overcoming a Kudus Olowe effort for the visitors.

There was a five goal thriller at Fairlop Oak where promoted Fairlop Rovers entertained fellow promotees Cowley Community. Manasseh Tackie and Ryan Thompson-Cobham were both scorers for Cowley but Rovers goals in reply from Jayden Francis, Ellis Morgan and Elliot Hastings meant that their side picked up a 3 – 2 opening win.

It was a successful day for another of the promoted sides as RC XI took the points back home with them following a win against last season’s cup finalists London Park City. City keeper Buza Vasile struck a rare goal for the visitors but strikes from Tosin Blacky and Tayo Olasanoye were enough to edge the contest in a 2-1 scoreline for RC XI.

PREMIER DIVISION WEST

Two sides lead the way after two rounds of games in the West division where AEK London’s great start continued on Saturday with a 3-1 success at Wadham Lodge against Wanstead. Two Gabriel Souto goals and a Paulo Machado effort saw the leaders pick up a second league win in two to go clear at the top just on goals scored at this early stage.

Just behind the leaders by a solitary goal are North East Lions who replicated their rivals scoreline with a 3-1 win of their own, defeating Athletic Newham Under 23s at Peter May to make it two wins from two. Rweal Azizur scored twice and Jae Smith once for their side, continuing a positive start to the campaign. Isaac Ofuso netted the Newham goal in reply.

It was a good afternoon for Priory Park Rangers who remain unbeaten in the division as Shepherd Ndlovu led the way for his side, incredibly scoring all six goals in their win at home to Leyton City. Rangers were 6-1 winners on the day to take their points tally to four in the league while their opponents look to get off the mark still.

In an east London derby fixture, G7 were the hosts on Saturday to relegated Tower United as the hosts looked to bounce back from their opening defeat a couple of weeks ago. In a game of six goals, it was G7 who prospered, winning 4-2 through strikes from Nawttan Sanca, Joshua Oghagbon, Harrison Paposeco and Musbaudeen Akinosho. Abdisamad Mohamed scored twice in reply but his efforts proved in vain ultimately.

The division’s final game saw a seven goal thriller as London Cranes travelled to Soul for their second game of the season. Two efforts from Kasule Sulaman and one apiece from Moses Kazibwe and Bruno Mwasnje were just enough to give Cranes the points in a 4-3 win in Dagenham. Luke Hillier, Zachary Thomas and Matthew Brady grabbed the Soul consolation efforts.

DIVISION ONE

After two rounds of games in Division One, Something From Nothing are the early leaders as they picked up all three points in their opening match of the new season, defeating promoted Old Esthameians 6 – 0 in Newbury Park. Success Eguzoro, Jamil Gaawo, Cyril Pluche, Derek Adenuga, David Prenga and Micah Innocentall found the back of the net to help their side win comfortably.

Sitting second in the table behind the leaders on goal difference, Unitey were in fine goal scoring form themselves as they secured victory with a home win in Loughton against Renegade. Ozwute Izuchuwku and Wellington Ismael were both on target for the visitors but a pair of Unitey braces from Ishwar Ravi and Ahmed Dousa done the damage with Bubintende Masadi grabbing the other in a 5 – 2 scoreline.

It’s Newham Wanderers sitting third following the weekend’s action, the Wanstead based side picking up maximum points following a home 3 – 0 success against Redbridge Community. Two Mahein Zaman goals and an Amir Gurji strike were the difference on the day to see Wanderers confirm an opening day success.

Forest Green started their new season in a positive fashion after they returned home from Chingford with all three points following a 3 – 1 win against previously unbeaten Atholl at Parmiters. Connor Daniel done the majority of the damage with a double while Andre Emmanuel-De Riggs’ goal competed the scoring for Green as they sit fourth, a couple of points ahead of their opponents.

DIVISION TWO

There are two sides going hammer and tong in the early throws of the new season with Rainham Phoenix sitting top following an 11 – 0 success against newly formed Barking Potters. The Shakes family really mixed it up with Cameron scoring four and Josh two. Sam Springall also netted a hat-trick off the bench with Billy Broadbridge scoring a brace to finish off the performance.

Trailing by just a few goals on goal difference are Snaresbrook who have made a great start of their own, following up an opening day win with a 5 – 0 success this time around, beating Chadwell Heath Spartans Reserves. Alex Gordon scored a hat-trick and Drew Barbier struck two to maintain their perfect start so far.

There was a thirteen goal thriller to complete the day’s action in the division where Old Barkabbeyans were the visitors to Loughton to take on Royal Forest. Forest bounced back well from their opening defeat to win the game 9-4 with Joe Meader (2), Frank Carver, Joe Owers, Jonathan Hick, Charlie Palline, Fifi Banin and Ayodeji Adelekan all netting, despite a terrific four goal Barks performance from Michael Ryder.

DIVISION THREE

In Division Three, Newbury East have moved top of the table on goal difference alone after they earned all three points at home against Frenford A in the latter’s first game. Kishawn James scored the Frenford goal but Chaka Barnett continued his form in front of goal with a double, Sehraan Hussain and Junior Milla netting the others in a 5 – 1 success.

Dagenham United Reserves trail in second by just a few goals as they added a win to their opening day draw, beating debutants Football Club of Riverside down at Lakeside in their first game. Dagenham edged the game by the odd goal, winning 2 – 1 through efforts from Isa Khan and Lewis Bennett. Fayazi Omar-Mohamed struck the Riverside goal in consolation.

It was a good opening day performance from Melbourne Sports who sit third after a first win, beating Flyers Under 21s 4 – 1 down at Fairlop Oak. Jonathan Melia scored twice with Daniel Hughes and Luc Harpon efforts completing the win and meaning that Jack Maydell’s goal was in vain for the visitors.

Over in east London, it was a successful first competitive outing for Jolof Sports Reserves who picked up a win against Glendale over at the Royal Docks. Chris Mosaku and Devendra Choudhary scored for the Dales but efforts from Kosso Toure, Kelechi Dyke, Derek Adu and Ronald Asante for the hosts were enough for them to win 4 – 2.

DIVISION FOUR

It’s two wins from two now for the Division Four leaders, Collier Row Wheels, who picked up a second success following a 4 – 1 win on Saturday against Emerson & Upminster Reserves at Forest Row. Two Farhaan Korimbocus strikes plus goals from Olayemi Mogaji and Jack Stockdale were enough for the win, Zuriel Twum netting the Emerson goal in consolation.

Flyers Under 23s’ first action since the drop from Division Three saw them put in a terrific first performance to secure a win as they defeat Newham & Havering Borough. Ted Watkins scored for Borough but his effort was in vain as Flyers ran out 5 – 1 winners on the day to sit second in the table after the weekend’s action.

It was also a good day for West Essex Under 23s who will be looking to press on in their second season and got off to the best possible start with a solid 4-1 win against Old Esthameians Reserves. Ciaran Farrell-Christian scored twice with Gabriel Morlova and George Sadler-Stephens scoring the other to hand West the win.

London APSA Under 23s have bounced back from their opening day defeat with a solid second performance, beating Inter London 5-1 to record their first three point haul. Reda El Ghaibouz scored a hat-trick for APSA to lead the way, Samuel Reynolds and Sabir Jama scoring the others to get the win. Fahad Abdallah scored the Inter goal in reply as they search for their first points.

COUNTY CUP

In the opening county cup action of the new season, Dagenham United took their place in the next round of the Essex Premier Cup, beating last season’s Junior Cup winners, Catholic United Reserves, 2-1 to head on through. They now face Grays Athletic Reserves in the next round of the competition.

There was a topsy-turvy game at Wadham Lodge where Walthamstow Reserves were in action against Halstead Town Reserves in a game that went all the way to extra time. Following the extra thirty minutes, it was Halstead who left the happier of the sides, edging the game 4 – 3.

In the Essex Junior Trophy, an old rivalry was renewed as Avondale Rangers played host to Durning for a place in the next round. The sides shared five goals with old Ilford & District League side, Durning, taking a 3-2 win to secure their passage into the next round.

Guest Blog 22/23: Essex Alliance Lge (Wed 24-Sat 27 Aug) [EAL 22/23 30.8.22]

Hello and welcome to the third week season in the Essex Alliance League, as the Senior Division continued last weekend, with the other divisions due to start next month. My thanks in advance to the EAL’s Rob Parker, as ever.. Thank you for reading

Guest Blog written by Rob Parker for EAL [EAL Twitter: @EssexAllianceFL]

With Introduction & additional reporting by Scott W

Essex Alliance League Round-up- Wednesday 25 – Saturday 27 August

Frenford Dev v Spartans from Thurs night (Image by Scott W)

SENIOR DIVISION

Another busy week in the Essex Alliance League saw three fixtures in midweek where, firstly, FC Baresi moved to the top of the standings on Wednesday night as they took on fellow unbeaten side Oakside in their game at Wodson Park. Jahvid Irish struck for ‘Side but a quintet of goals from Tyreece Robertson, Edson Lami, Munnir Saad, Paul Benfield and Raymond Poku gave Baresi a 5 – 1 success.

Some rare Thursday night action took place at The Drive where Chadwell Heath Spartans secured their first win of the campaign against Frenford Development in a terrific contest. A terrific Jamie Pooley goal and Samir Aboulainaf effort gave Spartans a 2-0 lead at the break before a wonderful Wisley Baltazar goal from range brought Frenford back in it, only for Daniel Wheeler to net late on and make it 3-1 to the visitors. Non-League writer Scott W was there here’s his report: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2022/08/26/s22-23-match-report-frenford-dev-1-3-chadwell-heath-spartans-thurs-25-aug-eal/

On Friday night, it was a great night for Lymore Gardens under the lights of Coles Park as they peppered the Kit Out London goal to record an 8 – 0 success and remain unbeaten. Tyrique Peters, Andre Rashford and Adam Tebbani all scored twice each with Inarhu Martin and George Dwobeng goals giving their side the points in comprehensive fashion.

Saturday’s action saw FC Petrocub go top of the table after four games as they took maximum points from their home game against Oakside in Noak Hill. The hosts were 4 – 0 winners on the day to make it three wins from four from their solid start to the season. Just behind the leaders, by a single point, Brimsdown sit second after their opening four games, remaining unbeaten too as they recorded an opening 2 – 0 victory against Crookz United in their first competitive home match at Wormley Playing Fields. Jacob Wint scored twice, netting both of this sides’ goals as they recorded win number two this season.

Walthamstow Reserves also remain unbeaten after three games as their second win of the season was wrapped up with a hard fought 3 – 2 win at Wadham Lodge, defeating winless Rapid Chingford in the process. Dragos Aenasoaie scored both of the Rapid goals but his efforts were in vain as ‘Stow goals from Elijah Grant (2) & Callum Malcolm saw them prevail.

After a difficult start, Jolof Sports have recorded their first win of the new season as they came through in a 1 – 0 success in their away trip to Lakeside for Chadwell Heath Spartans’ first outing at their new home ground. Abdou Sow netted the only goal of the game during the second half to secure three points for his side. Over at Barking & Dagenham College, the division’s two draw specialists so far, Dagenham United and Sporting Hackney, ended their clash level at 2 – 2 with Cain Dash’s brace equalled by Parrots’ strikes from Richard Balogun and Ross Murphy. That confirmed United’s fourth successive draw and their opponent’s second.

S22-23 Match Report: Frenford Dev 1 – 3 Chadwell Heath Spartans (Thurs 25 Aug) [EAL 22/23 26.8.22]

Essex Alliance League – Senior Division

Venue: Jack Carter Centre [3G]

Attendance: 40 (Est)

2022-23 Season: Match 9

Thursday 25 August 2022 – 7.45pm KO

Frenford: Red & White Shirts, Red Shorts & Socks

Spartans: Grey Shirts, Grey Shorts, Black Socks

Organised Spartans play well to win at Frenford Development

Frenford Dev 1 – 3 Chadwell Heath Spartans

Match Report by Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMHC14]

Photos by Scott W and Neil Hunwicks [@ABridgeTooFar16], used with thanks.

A rare Thursday night match saw me make the trip back to Frenford’s Jack Carter Centre as their Development side welcomed Chadwell Heath Spartans, in what was my first EAL venture of the new term. Frenford were elevated to Step 7 after a fine season in Division One last season and boss Wayne Phillips was seeking to get the win against a Spaartans side known for being determined and rugged.

After a decent opening salvo to this game, it was the Spartans who took the lead on ten minutes. A good forward move ended with midfielder Jamie Pooley finding some room just inside the penalty box before firing home a good strike just over the grasp of Frenford custodian Luis Silva which went high into the net. The visitors were having a good spell at this point, with further half-chances for quick forward Samir Aboulainaf and player-boss Aaron Hunwicks’ whose header wasn’t far off target from a set-piece.

Jamie Pooley (#8 in Grey) puts Chadwell Heath ahead with a fine strike [Image by @ABridgeTooFar16]

Frenford did look quite decent down the flanks, with forward Damilola Olaiya making some good bursts to get into crossing positions, unfortunately the central forwards couldn’t evade a resolute Spartans backline. Home defender Rafay Khan’s fierce strike from at least 25 yards did keep visiting stopper Lewis Edwards alert though as it was a well-struck effort. Chadwell Heath’s Tommy Harrison nearly joined his central midfield partner Pooley on the score-sheet after fizzing a good strike narrowly over Silva’s crossbar.

Frenford build a forward move in first half [Image by Scott W]

Spartans did extend their lead on 27 minutes, as a errant pass back to Silva was seized on by Aboulainaf and he made no mistake in sending a low finish into the corner. Frenford had glimpses of goal before the break, as forward Wisley Baltazar sent a decent strike at goal, only for a deflection to see it away for a corner.

Half-Time: Frenford Dev 0 – 2 CH Spartans

To give credit to the home side, they certainly emerged with more energy after the interval. Baltazar was unsurprisingly in the action again soon after we began again, as his low strike was well-denied by Edwards who got down well to it. The visitors responded on 49 minutes as Portuguese forward Miguel Martins’s goal-bound effort brought a good low save from Silva, and debutant Manu Kahatadeniya was only narrowly off-target with his strike, following-up on the rebound.

On the hour, Frenford did translate their momentum into some scoreboard pressure, courtesy of a fine strike by Baltazar who powered home an unstoppable strike past Edwards and into the net. It was a goal of good technique. Wayne Phillips’ team did keep the pressure on for a good portion of the half, but couldn’t breach the well-drilled & hard-working Chadwell Heath defence. Substitute Reon Murray-Whyte had their best chance to add to the score-sheet but somehow lifted his effort over the woodwork from mere yards away.

Handley [#3] looks to break down left side for hosts [Image by Scott W]

Just when it looked like it could have been a really twitchy end for the visitors, they did grab a third goal on the counter with six minutes left. Frenford stopper Silva couldn’t clear the ball away in time, allowing Spartans replacement Daniel Wheeler to pinch the ball off him and curl home from a very acute angle, despite an attempted clearance off the goal-line.

Full-Time: Frenford Development 1 – 3 Chadwell Heath Spartans

So in summary, the Spartans played some neat football to get round an enterprising Frenford team, who did threaten themselves in the wide areas but didn’t test the visiting defence too much until the second half, when they forced the Chadwell backline into being the resilent outfit that they are.

There were some strong performances here. Beginning with winners Chadwell Heath and a word for central midfield pair Jamie Pooley and Tommy Harrison, who worked well together as well as having good individual performances. Pooley took his goal well and generally contributed to his team in both attack and defence while Harrison put in a hard-working display and also set about starting forward moves as well. Forward Samir Aboulainaf put in a good display too, his goal was a oppurtunist forward’s strike but he was alert to the chance. He also chased down the home defenders well, not giving them much peace. Lastly, player-boss Aaron Hunwicks made a number of characteristic & important interceptions to keep his team ahead when the were retteating somewhat in the middle bit of the second half.

For Frenford, forward Damilola Olaiya made several good runs down the flanks and gave the opposition backline some nervy moments. Defender Rafay Khan had a good game to keep his team in it, making a number of good clearances, with forward Wisley Baltazar reminding us of his talents for goal-scoring with a well-taken goal, and being a good presence in attack. Finally, new signing Louie Handley had a good debut at left-back, getting forward well and also making a few good tackles too.

Teams

Frenford Development | Manager: Wayne Phillips |

Starting XI: 1 Luis Silva (GK), 16 Rafay Khan, 12 Daniel Francis, 4 Quam Adesanya, 3 Louie Handley, 11 Tiwa Osifuwa, 7 Michael Clayman, 8 Murilo Pereira (Capt), 10 Wisley Baltazar, 9 Isima Iguisi, 14 Damilola Olaiya

Goal-scorer: Wisley Baltazar [60′]

| Subs ON: 15 Reon Murray-Whyte [50′], 17 Kyron Chiedozie [57′], 5 Edem Tetteh [76′], 2 Tyler Beaufort [78′]

Sub Not Used: Barahona

Chadwell Heath Spartans | Player-Manager: Aaron Hunwick | Assistant: Niru Hunwicks

Starting XI: 1 Lewis Edwards (GK), 2 Harry Goodwin (Capt), 3 Meer Ishanzadeh, 5 Joe Butcher, 6 Aaron Hunwicks, 4 Tommy Harrison, 8 Jamie Pooley, 10 Josh Duah, 7 Miguel Martins, 9 Samir Aboulainaf, 11 Manu Kahatadeniya

Goal-scorers: Jamie Pooley [10′], Samir Aboulainaf [27′], Daniel Wheeler [84′]

| Subs ON: 21 Rasheed Matabaro [64′], 12 Mofi Lionel [67′], 17 Cory Brown [77′], 15 Daniel Wheeler [82′], 16 Thomas Chawner [90’+2]

Subs Not Used: None

Referee: Albert Forbes
Assistants: Malcolm Pond & John Grocock

Guest Blog: Essex Alliance League Round-up (Wk 34 – Sat 23 Apr) [EAL 21-22 25.4.22]

and welcome to the latest action from the Essex Alliance League, which continues on this blog this season under the “Guest Blog” strand. This edition looks at the action across the League divisions and action in the respective Divisional Cups on Saturday 23 April. My thanks to the EAL’s Rob Parker. This round-up is posted with the author’s permission. Thanks for reading.

Guest Blog written by Rob Parker for EAL [EAL Twitter: @EssexAllianceFL]

With additional reporting by Scott W

Essex Alliance League Round-up- Saturday 23 April

DIVISION TWO CUP

The line-up for the Division Two Cup Final is now complete as the second semi-final took place on Saturday with Emerson & Upminster Reserves in action away at Unitey. A sparkling performance from the hosts saw Unitey book their place at Dagenham & Redbridge as Bubintende Masadi’s hat-trick, a brace from Ahmed Dousa and a Mohammed Abaker goal sealed a 6 – 1 win. Tobi Onafeko grabbed the Emerson goal in reply.

SENIOR DIVISION

It’s celebration time for DTFC as the Harlow based side were crowned league champions on Saturday in their last league game of the season, defeating Kit Out London in a 3 – 1 scoreline to seal the title at the Harlow Arena. Many congratulations to all involved at the club on this significant achievement, confirming promotion to Step 6 football in the process! They still have cup ties ahead to really make this an even more memorable campaign.

The chase for the runners-up spot will go down to the last games of the season as Chadwell Heath Spartans kept themselves in the mix with a 5 – 0 success in their last game of the season. Rapid Chingford were the final visitors to Chigwell where Harry Payne and Jeffrey Nketia both struck twice and Ray Hunwicks netted the other to finish a very creditable season for the Spartans.

Woodford East go into their remaining games knowing what they need to do and saw their runners-up quest dented with a shock defeat at home against FC Baresi at the Marshes. Connor Brathwaite’s double and an Andrew Rowe goal were not enough as Raymond Pok scored twice for the visitors with Tyreece Robertson, Jeffery Botendo and Abdisamad Mohamed strikes handing Baresi a 5 – 4 win.

Over in Noak Hill, Lymore Gardens kept up their outside hopes of a top four finish as they sent FC Petrocub to a big defeat, Lymore winning the game 7 – 3 ahead of a big week for Petrocub. Andre Rashford scored a hat-trick with Bradley Williams, Alex Coster, Tyriq Davies and Jonathan Hurrell efforts finishing off the game. In matters at the other end of the table, the race to beat the drop will head to a dramatic conclusion it appears as both of the bottom two sides recorded hugely important wins. Bottom team Tower United had a massive game at home against Blue Marlin and were able to record a 6 – 1 success, despite a Josh Morris goal for the visitors. That result closes the gap between the two sides to just a couple of points.

Over in Dagenham, a game with just as much significance saw Chigwell Town get themselves into a 3 – 0 lead in their game against top four chasing Jolof Sports. John Lye scored two and Ross Chimes one and they eventually held on to take the victory, despite second half fightback goals from Joshua Kweifio-Okai and Ahmadou Seye, the 3 – 2 victory giving Town vital points.

PREMIER DIVISION

The race for promotion in the Premier Division is into the final sequence of games and Dagenham United’s final game of the season has seen them move up into second place as they came through 3 – 1 victors in their game against Crookz United. Ancuba Cassama, Iaia Jau and Shaquille Mathurin were the men on target to give Dagenham a big chance of a top three finish.

In the other game from the division, Oakside’s own push for the top three is also still on track after they recorded win number ten this season with a 5 – 1 success away against Athletic Newham Under 23s. Kieren Huddart, Jahvid Irish, Demi Elegushi, Sam Davie and Kyrone Scotland were all on the scoresheet with this crucial three point haul. Rodney Botuli got the solitary reply for Newham, who will finish in mid-table.

DIVISION ONE

The promotion race in Division One took another turn on Saturday as promotion favourites, Cowley Community, slipped to defeat with two games to go, going down 3 – 1 to Kwanzas London Sport. Dwayne White scored for the hosts but his efforts were not quite enough as Kwanzas recorded their own ninth win of the campaign in their final league game of the season.

Something From Nothing will be relatively pleased with their first outing in Saturday football as their last league game of the season saw them confirm a top half finish following a 3 – 2 win at home against relegated Francis Luke. Brighton Tutalamon scored twice for Luke but those goals were not enough to take any points from the game.

DIVISION TWO

League leaders, Fairlop Rovers, missed the chance to take the title on Saturday as they could only take a single point from a double header against a rampant St Francis side who themselves moved further clear of danger at the bottom. Saints were 3 – 2 winners in the first game with Martin Valkov (2) and Omar Hafid netting the all important goals before taking a point in game two, Godwill Kumpana netting to make it 1 – 1.

The only side left who can catch the leaders are Rainham Working Mens Club but they failed to make the most of that Rovers slip as they could only draw in their home game against Old Esthameians, the two sides starting the day six points apart. That gap remained by full-time with neither side able to trouble the scorers in a 0 – 0 draw.

Over in Loughton, two more sides locked in a mid-table battle, Royal Forest and FHN Athletic, met at Roding Valley with the latter holding a slender one point lead going into the fixture. By full-time they had extended that to four as FHN ran out 3 – 1 victors to record their ninth league win of the season with three games to go.

DIVISION THREE

Congratulations are in order for the now confirmed Division Three league champions after FC Baresi Under 23s secured the points they needed to take the title, beating Buckhurst Way 6 – 0 in their eighteenth game of the season to move above runners-up, Old Barkabbeyans Reserves. Zach Aliane has had a fine season and he netted a hat-trick, Joshua Adu and Kii Jean-Baptiste scoring the others. Well done to all involved with the team on such a fine success.

Over in Hainault, two further sides completed their league seasons with Royal Forest Reserves the hosts to a Glendale side, both teams knowing the game had little riding on it with positional matters resolved. The Trees scored a couple of early goals and consolidated that with a third in the second half with Josh Loften, James Nelson and Tom Alexander all netting in a 3 – 0 scoreline.

S21-22 Match Report: Woodford East 2 – 1 Chadwell Heath Spartans (Sat 9 Apr) [EAL 21-22 9.4.22]

Essex Alliance League – Senior Division

Venue: Hackney Marshes (Show Pitch)

Attendance: 15 [Est]

2021-22 Season: Match 69

Saturday 9th April 2022 -2pm KO

Woodford E: Navy Blue Shirts, White Shorts, Navy Blue Socks

CH Spartans: Grey Shirts, Grey Shorts, Black Socks

Action still from the match [Image by Scott W]

Woodford East put in diligent performance to claim big win over Spartans

Woodford East 2 – 1 Chadwell Heath Spartans

Match Report & Photos by Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMHC14]

The weekend match was a rare match in the Essex Alliance League Senior Division and a first visit to Hackney Marshes for this top-of-the-table clash between Woodford East and Chadwell Heath Spartans. The matches are unrelenting for Halil Hassan’s side just now and they fielded Callum Drummond in goal, with Billy Barr and Matt Stacey in central defence, Frank Glock skippering the side alongside Eren Mehmet in central midfield and the forward line was led by Callum Maltese and Connor Brathwaite. Spartans started the day at the summit but needed points to stay there, and fielded the highly-rated Lewis Edwards in goal, with a defence of Joe Robb, Meer Ishanzadeh, player-boss Aaron Hunwicks and Janel Alexander, who also captained the side. James Odukoya and Harry Payne led the attack, with Tom Callagher among those in support.

The match began in the swirling wind of East London, though the chances were relatively few in coming early-doors. Spartans had the only clear chance whch saw forward James Odukoya one-on-one with East stopper Callum Drummond, unfortunately for the visitors, Odukoya’s strike was straight at the goalkeeper. Woodford East responded tellingly soon after as on thirteen minutes, visiting skipper Janel Alexander was caught in possession by rapid forward Callum Maltese on the edge of his own 18-yard area and Maltese ran through on goal and placed a fine finish past Sans goalkeeper Lewis Edwards and into the right-sided corner.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, the hosts were spurred on by that opening goal and they showed no lack of energy or good passing as they kept the pressure on their opponents’ backline. Midfielder Eren Mehmet’s strike was deflected and well-tipped over by Edwards as it was dipping into the net. Spartans were finding it difficult to maintain the momentum in attack, though Harry Payne did strike wide of Drummond’s goal frame as we headed towards the half-hour mark.

Tom Callagher [#8] jostles with East’s Connor Brathwaite [#23] as Spartans look to push forward [Image by Scott W]

That half-hour was heralded by arguably the best move of the match, which saw East exchange three or four fast passes before finding forward Connor Brathwaite who struck a fine low finish into the corner of the net, adding to the visitors’ headache. Being fair, the hosts did not concede possession easily and when they lost it, they hurried the Spartans midfield well.

Half-Time: Woodford East 2 – 0 Chadwell Heath Spartans

After a quick break, the match resumed with Woodford East looking for that important third goal to really put themselves in a commanding position. They had two good chances early in the half, with Brathwaite firstly well denied by Edwards from close range. Soon afterwards, the East forward was well-placed again from barely six yards out but somehow Brathwaite headed narrowly over the upright. You felt that Spartans had used up a fair bit of fortune by not conceding a third goal there but to their credit, they were up for the battle in the second period.

The visitors did have more ball time in the last half hour, as they sought to jostle their way back into the match. Their approach play was decent but if you was to be critical, you’d have to also say they couldn’t create many chances. Alexander and Aaron Hunwicks both had chances from set-pieces but late on, the Spartans did ensure a nervy last five minutes for East. Direct from a corner, Hunwicks sent in an in-swinging corner which got caught up in the wind and managed to find its way past Drummond into the net.

Spartans did push on to try and force a leveller but in fairness, East did do enough to claim a narrow but nonetheless important triumph to fortify third spot with two games in hand on new leaders DT FC, who won 4 – 1 at Tower Utd today.

Full-Time: Woodford East 2 – 1 Chadwell Heath Spartans

In summary, Woodford East did the damage in an energetic first-half display which showed their credentials as a really good side at this level here, but found it a rather harder battle in the second period, where Spartans showed more of what they are about, showing guile, work rate and dedication. Unfortunately for Aaron Hunwicks’ side, they couldn’t quite create enough chances to test East stopper Callum Drummond.

There were several fine performances from both sides in this match. Firstly for victors Woodford East, plaudits have to go to tricky forward Callum Maltese for an excellent display of energy, pace and passing. Fellow forward Callum Brathwaite also took his goal well to cap a terrific team move and could have had at least one more goal today, showing good movement. Rounding out the mentions are full-back Kai Law who showed good work rate, passing and concentration plus centre-back Billy Barr who also put in a good display to restrict the Spartans forward line.

For Chadwell Heath Spartans, skipper Janel Alexander had another good game at centre-back, recovering from a uncharacteristic error to make several good interceptions in the match. Tom Callagher again showed good energy making darting runs from midfield to assist his forward line. Goalkeeper Lewis Edwards also made two good saves to keep his team in it in the first half when they did concede several chances at his goal. Lastly, forward James Odukoya also worked hard to bypass a robust East defence, alongside strike partner Harry Payne who also put in a lot of effort today.

Best wishes to both sides for the remainder of the season.

Callagher about to take a free-kick in a dangerous position for Spartans [Image by Scott W]

Teams (up to 5 substitutes allowed)

Woodford East | Manager: Halil Hassan |

Starting XI (Subs): 1 Callum Drummond (GK), 3 Kai Law, 9 Billy Barr, 4 Matt Stacey, 19 Eren Mehmet (68 Liam Adams 74’), 14 Will Letchford, 15 Frank Glock (Capt), 21 Sonny Feltwell (6 Kieran Bruns 59’), 5 Adam Tabbani, 23 Connor Brathwaite, 12 Callum Maltese

Goal-scorers: Callum Maltese [13’], Connor Brathwaite [30’]

Subs Not Used: Beaumont, Tibbitts, Gilley | Booked: Mehmet, Tabbani

Chadwell Heath Spartans | Player-Manager: Aaron Hunwicks

Starting XI (Subs): 1 Lewis Edwards (GK), 2 Joe Robb, 3 Meer Ishanzadeh, 5 Janel Alexander (Capt), 6 Aaron Hunwicks, 4 Leon Kasozi, 14 Rashid Matabaro (17 Samir Aboulainaf 79’), 7 Raymond Hunwicks (15 Harry Goodwin 57’), 8 Thomas Callagher (11 David Amire 77’), 9 James Odukoya (10 Tommy Harrison 68’), 16 Harry Payne

Goal-scorer: Aaron Hunwicks [84’]

Subs Not Used: None | Booked: Robb, Kasozi | Sin-Bin: Alexander [87’]

Referee: Nathan Buckle

Assistants: Daniel Rowan & Dylan Connolly

Guest Blog: Essex Alliance League Round-up (Wk 31 – Sat 2 Apr) [EAL 21-22 4.4.22]

Chadwell Heath Spartans about to grab another goal this weekend [Image Credit: CH Spartans/ @ABridgeTooFar16]

Hello and welcome to the latest action from the Essex Alliance League, which continues on this blog this season under the “Guest Blog” strand. This edition looks at the action across the League divisions and action in the respective Divisional Cups on Saturday 2 April. My thanks to the EAL’s Rob Parker. This round-up is posted with the author’s permission. Thanks for reading. Image used is thanks to CH Spartans / @ABridgeTooFar16, Used with thanks.

Guest Blog written by Rob Parker for EAL [EAL Twitter: @EssexAllianceFL]

With additional reporting by Scott W

Essex Alliance League Round-up- Saturday 2 April

COUNTY CUP FINAL

The Essex Saturday Junior Trophy reached its conclusion on Friday evening at Heybridge Swifts where Cowley Community represented the league against Mid Essex side, Haver Town Reserves. Cowley started strongly but failed to convert early chances, enabling Haver to get a foothold in the game and took a solid 3 – 0 lead into the break, thanks to goals from Harry Andreetti (2) and Luke Dallison’s opener. Cowley started strongly again in the second half and cut the deficit down to just one with efforts from Wright and Taylor, leaving around twenty minutes to go. But Haver responded well to those setbacks and comfortably held on to win the game 3 – 2, despite the valiant efforts of Cowley.

DIVISION TWO CUP

The line-up for the Division Two Cup semi-finals was completed on Saturday afternoon as Emerson & Upminster Reserves took their place in the last four after winning 4 – 1 at Old Esthameians. Billy Biggs was in great form, netting a hat-trick for his side, while Tobi Onafeko also struck to put the Upminster side just ninety minutes away from a possible final. They now face Unitey in the semi-final.

DIVISION THREE CUP

There were two ties in the Division Three Cup where a shock was seen in the first round game between hosts Melbourne Sports and Buckhurst Way in Hainault. Despite an eight point gap in between the sides in the table, it was Way who progressed on to the quarter-finals, winning 6 – 1 to book a trip to Old Barkabbeyans Reserves in the last eight. There was also a big shock in the quarter-final tie completed over the weekend as sixth placed Together United were eliminated from the competition on the back of a defeat to ninth placed ASA, despite the latter being fourteen points and three places behind their opponents. A 0 – 0 draw saw the sides finish level at ninety minutes before ASA held their nerve to win the shootout 7-6.

SENIOR DIVISION

There were big wins for all of the top ranked Senior clubs ahead of a crucial run of games for all sides, Chadwell Heath Spartans remaining top of the standings by two points as they put seven goals past FC Petrocub in Chigwell. Elie Fanga scored twice coupled with further strikes from Tom Callagher, Harry Payne, Samir Aboulainaf and manager Aaron Hunwicks to complete that 7 – 0 success. DT FC sit just behind Spartans with a game in hand as they completed a solid victory of their own with a 5 – 0 home win against Chigwell Town at the Harlow Arena. Billy Jones, Cory Ugbomah, Alex Paraskeva, Izaih Antoine and Jacob Melford all found the back of the net for the hosts to ensure they remain the side with everything in their hands.

Third placed Lymore Gardens also racked up another win, making it twelve for the season with a 3 – 0 home success at the County Ground against CSM London. Dylan Roberts, Andre Rashford and Gracia Muhemba were the men to notch for Garden to keep them well in the mix at the business end of the league table. Sitting just a point further back from Garden are Woodford East who can still make a major impact on the title race with a busy April ahead and they started their month with a 5 – 0 win against Rapid Chingford at Lakeside. Two Connor Brathwaite goals plus one each from Matthew Stacey, Adam Tabbani and Jack Smith helped East to a comfortable winning scoreline with seven league games still to go.

Jolof Sports still sit fifth and made it ten league wins for the season on Saturday as they ran out 3 – 1 home winners against bottom of the table Tower United at Flanders. A goal apiece from Joshua Kweifio-Okai, Khadim Mbacke and Papa Ndiaye were enough for the hosts to take the points home with them and keep Tower trailing safety by three points. A huge game in the context of the relegation fight took place at Fairlop Oak where eleventh placed Blue Marlin were in home action against eighth placed Kit Out London knowing how vital points are for both clubs. A five goal thriller saw Kit Out edge the game 3 – 2, Lewis Jacobs scoring twice and Yasin Zougui once to all but seal their place in the top flight one again while Marlin’s place remains in the balance.

PREMIER DIVISION

Top of the table Frenford A will be celebrating as they confirmed promotion to the Senior Division on Saturday with results going their way and their own success earning a 3 – 0 home win against local rivals London Park City. Isima Iguisi scored a brace and Joel Opara netted the other to confirm their ascent to the top flight while a win in their next game will ensure they go up as champions. Oakside are now the only side that can catch the leaders mathematically and they faced a tough London Cranes side at Fairlop Oak in the sunshine on Saturday knowing they had to win to keep up the pressure. And a win was what they walked away with, defeating Cranes 1 – 0 to make it nine victories for the season, with four games left to play in their chase for promotion.

An entertaining game at Peter May rounds off the Premier Division action where Athletic Newham Under 23s were the visitors to Walthamstow to take on a promotion chasing Crookz United side, the latter knowing that victory was vital if they were to challenge for top spot. But the sides had to settle for a point apiece as the game ended in a 3 – 3 draw.

DIVISION ONE

It was a glorious afternoon for Belfry who took the Division One title in dramatic fashion on Saturday coming from 3-1 down in their first game against Newham Wanderers to win it 4 – 3 late on, sealing the title. Solomon Ogunwomoju struck twice with Lewis Warren and Kieran James scoring the others to seal the points they needed. In game two, a rather more sedate affair saw a narrow win once again as Ryan O’Connell scored the only goal of the game for Belfry to win 1 – 0.

The focus now turns to the race for promotion where Ilford Reserves saw their quest put in doubt, going down to a 2 – 1 away defeat against Something From Nothing at the Flats. The Foxes remain second with two games to go but games in hand for others may well cost them while SFN were able to move into the top half on the back of that result and others around them.RC XI have thrown themselves back into the promotion mix, moving up to third at the weekend as they defeated eighth placed Kwanzas London Sport over at Belhus Park. Tobi Alabi, Michael Temitayo and Tosin Blacky goals were enough to seal the points in a 3 – 0 win, the hosts’ eleventh success of their maiden season.

Wanstead have all but assured themselves of a top half finish in their first season as a club after they recorded a solid 2 – 0 home win in their game against Forest Green at the Flats on Saturday. Their ninth of the season while taking their points tally to thirty-one for the season. Eleventh placed Barkingside A have given themselves the best chance of avoid the drop this season as they took a vital three points against fellow relegation threatened Renegades in Wanstead. Side were 3 – 1 winners at Nutter Lane, recording win number four and moving to within six points of their opponents with five games in hand.

DIVISION TWO

It’s Fairlop Rovers who remain top of the pile in Division Two entering the penultimate month of the season and they will have been pleased with their efforts on Saturday, defeating rivals Loughton Lions in a 5 – 1 scoreline in Hainault. Sam Beaman opened the scoring, setting the platform for Harry Oliver and Logan Simmonds to both score twice in a big victory. Second placed Unitey remain the closest to Rovers but with just two games to go, following a thumping 6 – 0 away win in Hainault on Saturday, defeating FHN Athletic. Unitey goals from Matthew Surry, Nathan Lupumba, Romario Christian, Matthew Pitchford, Mohammed Abaker and Ahmed Dousa were plenty enough to earn their side the points.

An incredible game at Wanstead Flats saw St Francis and Ryan Under 23s combined for an eleven-goal thriller with attacks certainly dominating an open game. It was the visitors who ultimately prevailed in this incredible game, Ryan winning it 6 – 5 to move into the top half of the table for the first time this season, in their penultimate game of the campaign. Michael Bryan and Kemar Bello both netted twice for Ryan here, with Mekhi Charles-Armstrong & Adam Sodimu also scoring. Skye Salmon got two goals for St Francis, with their other scorers being Omar Hafid, Peter Luvualu and Theo Jacobs-Aaron.

The goals were also flying in down at Roding Valley where hosts Royal Forest were in home action against Newbury East. While not yet mathematically certain of survival, Forest have all but done enough now you feel to stave off the drop as they won the game 4 – 0 to record win number eight for the season.

DIVISION FOUR

The penultimate game of the Division Four season took place over the weekend where Avondale Rangers were the hosts to a Dagenham United Reserves side in Loughton with Rangers holding a vital say in the title race. Chris Harper scored for Rangers with Josh Michaels netting for Dagenham in a 1 – 1 draw, with next week’s fixture between Rangers and Sporting Pillars deciding the destination of the league title.

Guest Blog: Essex Alliance League Round-up (Wk 30 – Sat 26 Mar) [EAL 21-22 28.3.22]

Hello and welcome to the latest action from the Essex Alliance League, which continues on this blog this season under the “Guest Blog” strand. This edition looks at the action across the League divisions and action in the respective Divisional Cups on Saturday 26 March. My thanks to the EAL’s Rob Parker. This round-up is posted with the author’s permission. Thanks for reading.

Guest Blog written by Rob Parker for EAL [EAL Twitter: @EssexAllianceFL]

With additional reporting by Scott W

Essex Alliance League Round-up- Saturday 26 March

PREMIER DIVISION CUP

The last weekend of GMT brought the first of the Premier Division Cup semi-finals as an east London derby saw Wapping taking on Crookz United at Victoria Park. Jordon Mills-Smith netted off the bench for Wapping but his efforts were not quite enough as Crookz scored three of their own in the game and record a 3 – 1 triumph to see them book their maiden cup final with the league.

DIVISION THREE CUP

In the day’s only other cup tie, in the Division Three Cup competition, hosts FC Baresi Under 23s were in action with a first round tie against Terin at the Britannia. The hosts continued their excellent form to book a last eight tie with a thumping 5 – 0 win as Joshua Adu and Maamoon Khan both scored twice, along with a Marco Perkola effort.

SENIOR DIVISION

Chadwell Heath Spartans have moved two points clear at the top of the Senior Division with four games to go as they came away with all three points from their trip to Hainault defeating Blue Marlin 4 – 0. Harry Payne was the difference between the sides, netting a hat-trick, along with an Elie Fanga goal which saw their side move top on the back of other results around them. That switch at the top came on the back of a draw between the sides placed second and third now as Lymore Gardens took a point as they drew 1 – 1 against DT FC at the County Ground. Tyrique Peters struck for Gardens with their goal but DTFC ensured they took a point which, with their game in hand still, retains their position as the favourites.

Woodford East are continuing to lurk in the background and with games in hand, could still present a huge threat for the silverware, aided by a terrific 5 – 2 victory at the Marshes against Tower United in the Hackney derby. Connor Brathwaite bagged a hat-trick for his side with Callum Maltese and Billy Barr also on the scoresheet with another crucial three point haul. Abdi Jama and Ousman Bangura replied for Tower in that game. At the other end of the table, what a fortnight it’s been for Chigwell Town who put in a huge performance at home to FC Baresi on Saturday to put the quest for safety in their own hands, moving level with eleventh placed Blue Marlin with a 2 – 1 victory. John Lye and Ellis Morgan both got on the score-sheet to keep their hopes of survival well and truly alive.

Over at Noak Hill, Rapid Chingford’s own quest for survival was all but assured at the weekend as they moved up to eighth, eight points clear of the drop zone with plenty still to play after they defeated London Cup finalists, FC Petrocub, in a 2 – 1 scoreline. Andrei Boga and Darwin Romero both scored for Rapid as they returned home with the points. The division’s remaining game was an East Ham derby fixture as Jolof Sports saw the visit of CSM London to their old stomping round of Flanders Playing Fields. A close game was settled by just the single goal and it was Jolof who took the accolades following the reappointment of Danny Brissett in the hot seat, Jolof winning 1 – 0 to maintain their hold of fifth spot.

PREMIER DIVISION

There was an exhilarating game between two of the promotion contenders in the Premier Division where Oakside hosted leaders, Frenford A, over at Fairlop Oak with ‘Side knowing the importance of getting something from the game. The match ended in a six-goal thriller, 3 – 3, with Joel Opara netting two and Isima Iguisi once for Frenford as the teams settled for a point each. In the other game, London Cranes have moved up a place to seventh in the standings after they came away 1 – 0 victors in their home clash against London Park City. Moses Kazibwe was the man to score with that only goal of the game, netting to give his Cranes side their seventh league success of the campaign.

DIVISION ONE

In Division One, Belfry made sure of at least a promotion place on Saturday with a double header success against Barkingside A over in Dagenham. A 4 – 0 victory in game one saw Kieron James net twice along with efforts from Gabriel and Solomon Ogunwomoju to net their first points. They then followed that up with a narrow 1 – 0 success in the second fixture with Gabriel Ogunwomoju once again on target with the only goal of that game. Success next weekend will see the title heading to Belfry. The goals were flying in over Newbury Park where Cowley Community’s last game before their huge county final saw them take part in a ten-goal thriller against Wanstead. An entertaining game saw Cowley goals from James Allen, George Anthony, Joel McEwan, Michael Taylor and Chris Wright account for their goals but the visitors were on form themselves with five goals to see this finish 5 – 5.

That results enabled Ilford Reserves to take their place in the top two as they came through a close game against fellow promotion hopefuls, RCXI, in their game in Hainault. Joseph Sulola scored twice for the Foxes with RCXI only able to respond with one goal of their own, going down 2 – 1 as Ilford racked up win number twelve. Forest Green have given themselves the best chance of avoiding the drop as they confirmed an important victory against bottom of the table Francis Luke. Green were 6 – 4 winners to move ninth, despite a Jahvarn Steward hat-trick and a Kennerly Cassius effort for the hosts for whom time is running out to beat the drop. The afternoon’s mid-table battle saw Kwanzas London Sport go into their game against Something From Nothing, two points behind their opponents in the race to finish in the top half. But by full-time they had leapt above SFN as they won 4 – 2 to pick up win number seven, moving to twenty-four points, a point clear of their rivals.

DIVISION TWO

In Division Two, Fairlop Rovers have returned to the top of the standings after a few weeks away as they made it a six point Saturday with a double header success against FHN Athletic in the Hainault Derby, They were 2 – 1 winners in game one with Jack Kibblewhite and Logan Simmonds scoring, cancelling out an Aldo Vani strike for the visitors. In game two, another close game was edged by the odd goal with Rovers winning 3 – 2, Kibblewhite scoring twice this time and Sam Beaman once. Terron Fordjoe and Kieran McKoy grabbed the FHN goals in consolation.

Emerson & Upminster Reserves stay in the promotion hunt, sitting second, after they took home three points on Saturday with a 4 – 2 win at Hall Lane against Loughton Lions. Owen McKelvey and Will Osmond both scored for Lions but two Billy Biggs efforts plus goals from Tobi Onafeko and Reece Martin ensured it was their Emerson side taking the spoils. Owen McKelvey and William Osmond got the goals in reply for Loughton in that one. Fifth placed Old Esthameians lost ground on the promotion chase a little as they were held to a 3 – 3 away draw against Newbury East as the two Newbury Park based sides met at Oaks Park High School. Habeeb Gayle scored a hat-trick for an improving East side who took their points tally to five as they will seek further improvement next season. Neil Robinson got two goals in reply for Old E’s plus Nelson Goncalves also netted.

It was a good afternoon for Redbridge Community who took their place in the top half of the table with a double header success in both fixtures against St Francis on Saturday. Redbridge were 3 – 1 winners in the first fixture before following that up with a 5 – 2 success in game two to take their wins tally to eight for the campaign.

DIVISION THREE

Old Barkabbeyans Reserves took their place once again at the top of the Division Three standings after an empathetic winning performance at home against ASA, winning 11 – 2. Jay Elliott scored four, Michael Ryder three and one each from Alex Donkor Junior, Josh Robinson, Jerome Morris and Simeon Peter completed a profitable day for them. It was also a good day for Lymore Gardens Reserves who moved up into fourth place in the table as they overtook opponents Melbourne Sports with a 3 – 1 win at Fairlop Oak. Kevin Monteiro, Warren Isoka and Omani Green were the men who found the back of the net with their efforts seeing Lymore record win number ten this season.

Tenth placed Flyers Under 23s made it three wins for the season in their penultimate game as they came from behind to take home the points with a terrific second half performance against Glendale. Josh Adeojo’s solo effort had given the Dales a 1-0 half time lead but capitulation in the second half, coupled with a vastly improved Flyers performance saw the visitors win the game 4 – 2, despite Attila Szabo also netting for the hosts.

On an adjacent pitch, promotion chasing Royal Forest Reserves saw their title hopes all but extinguished as they were held to a 1 – 1 draw against Together United. Together led through Fifi Banin’s strike but a Josh Trainor leveller in stoppage time rescued a point that, mathematically, does keep them in the race but now out of their hands.

DIVISION FOUR

Both of the leading sides in Division Four were in action over the weekend with Sporting Pillars travelling to Romford to face a Flyers Under 21s side who had ended their cup hopes earlier in the month. It was a league clash this time but, once again, there will be disappointment in the visitors camp as Max Wellard’s goal for Flyers meant they took a point, Rayan Allam striking the Sporting goal in a 1 – 1 draw. That result could have been terminal for their league hopes but Chingford Harriers, presently sitting top, had a battle of their own at Peter May with Emerson & Upminster A the visitors ahead of their own cup tie. Neither side was able to find the back of the net as a 0 – 0 draw was recorded at full-time, Harriers therefore maintaining a one point lead with one game to go for both of the top two sides.

Guest Blog: Essex Alliance League Round-up (Wk 28 – Sat 12 Mar) [EAL 21-22 15.3.22]

Hello and welcome to the latest action from the Essex Alliance League, which continues on this blog this season under the “Guest Blog” strand. This edition looks at the action across the League divisions and action in the respective Divisional Cups on Saturday 12 March. My thanks to the EAL’s Rob Parker. This round-up is posted with the author’s permission. Thanks for reading.

Guest Blog written by Rob Parker for EAL [EAL Twitter: @EssexAllianceFL]

With additional reporting by Scott W

Essex Alliance League Round-up- Saturday 12 March

FENTON CUP

The penultimate semi final place was up for grabs on Saturday as Division One’s RCXI made a tough looking trip to top flight Jolof Sports, the holders of the trophy. A seven-goal thriller was produced by the two sides with Jolof made to go all the way before coming out 4 – 3 victors as Abib Diop, Serigne Samb, Papa Ndiaye and Bogdan Ursica all netted to book a home semi final versus DTFC. Oluwaseun Koya scored all three RC XI goals in reply.

FENTON TROPHY

It was semi-finals day in the Fenton Trophy competition as the first ever finalists were confirmed following two tight games. Over in Hainault, Fairlop Rovers entertained Rainham Working Mens Club as the two sides battled to a 1 – 1 draw at full-time, Nick Tormey the Workies goalscorer. But it was Rovers who held their nerve in the shootout, winning 4 – 3 on spot-kicks to confirm their first final!

A couple of miles away in Newbury Park, there was another all-Division Two battle as Old Esthameians hosted Unitey in their own semi-final as both sides took their part in a five-goal thriller. Devontae Young and Ahmed Dousa scored for Unitey but two Neil Robinson strikes and a Nelson Goncalves goal were enough to secure a 3 – 2 win for Old E’s and through to their second cup final with the league.

DIVISION TWO CUP

In the Division Two Cup, it was quarter finals day for two clubs as an improving Loughton Lions side took to the field to face FHN Athletic. And despite Lions having an eleven league point deficit, they were comfortable winners in this tie, winning it 5 – 2 to book a home semi-final against either Redbridge Community or Rainham Working Mens Club.

DIVISION FOUR CUP

Another semi-final was completed in the Division Four Cup which saw Flyers Under 21s make the long trip to east London to take on title favourites Sporting Pillars at Ive Farm. An expectedly tight game was produced but it was fourth placed Flyers who took the accolades, with goals from Bradley Maycock and Alex Grant overcoming a goal from the experienced Chris Rowlatt to win 2 – 1.

SENIOR DIVISION

In the Senior Division, it remains tight at the top with just a three-point gap between the leaders as DT FC ensured they remained top with another high scoring victory on Saturday against Tower United. Alex Paraskeva bagged himself a hat-trick with Robbie Farrell and Harry Watkins goals giving the hosts a 5 – 1 win. Michael Brown was the Tower scorer for their consolation effort. Second placed Chadwell Heath Spartans maintained the pressure on the leaders with a victory of their own, taking home all three points from their trip to Chigwell Town in a 2-0 scoreline. Elie Fanga and Harry Payne both got on the scoresheet to keep Spartans within three points reach and with that all important battle between the top two to come.

Woodford East are still well within reach themselves but will need to convert games in hand to victories as they continue their quest on multiple fronts. They were able to pick up another three points with a tight 2 – 1 win against Blue Marlin as Frank Glock and Billy Barr both netted to secure a tenth league win of the season. Ronaldo Lleshi got the goal for Marlin. In the big Noak Hill derby, Kit Out London were in action as the hosts, taking on their co-tenants London Cup semi-finalists FC Petrocub. Ahead of that big match next weekend, it was FC Petrocub who walked away with the points on Saturday, winning the game 3 – 1 to earn an eighth league win and keeping them comfortably placed in sixth.

At the other end of the table, a crucial battle between two sides eager to stay in the division saw Rapid Chingford in town to take on CSM London, both needing the points. An entertaining game finished 3 – 2 to Rapid as Andrei Boga’s brace and a Vlad Bucur goal were enough to overcome CSM goals from Plamedi Kinkela and Abdi Karim.

PREMIER DIVISION

Frenford A have moved a step closer to confirming their place in the Senior Division following a solid 3 – 0 win at the weekend against fellow promotion contenders Crookz United at The Drive. Daniel Francis, Damilola Olaiya and Joel Opara all netted in a win means they are now one victory away from completing at least a top three finish and three further victories will be enough for the title outright. The closer contenders for the title appear to be Oakside presently who are catching up on games and moved to within twelve points of the top of the table with three games in hand after they picked up a terrific home win, beating Dagenham United 5 – 1 in Hainault. Charlie Fiander got on the Dagenham scoresheet but his efforts proved in vain.

Wapping remain just two points off the lead but from two games more than their rivals, having picked up their tenth league win of the season on Saturday, beating London Cranes 3 – 1 in East Ham. Muhammad Mikaeel, Jordon Mills-Smith and Shamsun Noor were the Wapping scorers as they kept their hopes alive. In the bottom half, London Park City kept their slim hopes alive of remaining in the second tier as they picked up a valuable point against North East Lions in a 1 – 1 draw. Nester Boansi struck the Lions goal but City also struck to ensure they shared the points. City will know that other results will have to go their way to avoid the drop this season.

DIVISION ONE

In Division One, Belfry are now just a couple of wins away from confirming at least promotion after they racked up win number fourteen with a big 7 – 1 home victory against Something From Nothing at May & Bakers. Kieran James’ fine form continued with a hat-trick for his side with Ryan O’Connell netting two, the scoresheet completed by goals from Gabriel Ogunwomoju and Daniel Osborne. Khai Bailey struck the SFN consolation goal in reply.

The two are set to meet next weekend with Cowley Community warming up for that clash with a strong performance of their own on Saturday, defeating Renegade 3 – 0 at Hackney Marshes. Elias Tackie, Michael Taylor and Chris Wright all found the back of the net for the county cup finalists to ensure they remain in touch with their rivals at the top. Ilford Reserves have been in a good vain of form in recent weeks and are now up to third in the standings after they defeated Forest Green 4 – 0 in their home clash on Saturday. A pair of braces from Rhys Clements and Serghei Scupoi were the difference between the sides as the Foxes maintained their outside hopes of promotion with five games to go.

Fifth placed Wanstead will still have a say in that battle after they returned to winning ways over the weekend with a 5 – 3 home win against Francis Luke at the Flats. Jahvarn Steward scored twice and Kennerly Cassius once for Luke but two Edson Lami goals and efforts from Jake Nicolas, Mohamed Solaimani and Zoltan Balogh proved enough to earn their team some valuable points.

Also at the Flats, a local derby game saw Barkingside A making the short trip to face Newham Wanderers with the teams starting the game ten points apart. That was extended to thirteen as Wanderers won 4 – 0 though two goals from Mahein Zaman and singles from Robertson Morais and Michael Sarpong, leaving ‘Side still in danger of relegation.

DIVISION TWO

In Division Two, Redbridge Community put a serious dent in Emerson & Upminster Reserves’ promotion push as the eighth placed side defeated their visitors in a 2 – 1 scoreline. Reece Stringer got himself on the Emerson scoresheet but his effort wasn’t enough as the hosts completed their sixth league win of the season.

It was the battle of the bottom two in the division’s other contest and what a game it was as St Francis and Newbury East both led at various stages of their game at the Flats. Eventually, the two had to settle on a point apiece in a 4 – 4 draw. Francesco Di Giovanni scored twice while Aenayat Nesari and Lewis Goulbourne scored the others to give Saints a point.

DIVISION THREE

The big game of the day in Division Three came from Hainault where it was first versus second as Old Barkabbeyans Reserves strived to hold onto top spot in their game against Royal Forest Reserves. And it was the league leaders who walked away the happier of the sides as goals from Daniel Margiotta, Mitchell Day and Mehdi Ahorbi were enough to take a 3 – 0 win home with them. That result enabled FC Baresi Under 23s to move into second spot as they made the trip to Hackney to face ASA at the Marshes. A close game saw the promotion favourites secure a 2 – 1 victory, a goal apiece from Daniel Adutwum and Harrez Aliane the difference between the sides to confirm a vital three points in their quest for the title. Atif Haider got the solitary reply for ASA.

Two of the sides in mid-table, Together United and Lymore Gardens Reserves, met in Leyton with the sides starting the game level on points. And that was exactly the way it ended with the sides finishing level at 2 – 2 to share the spoils. Richie Dorcas and Warren Isoka were the scorers for the hosts while Together remain one position higher on goal difference. Buckhurst Way have moved to within four points of that mid-table cluster of clubs, albeit from two games more, after they earned win number seven on Saturday with a 3 – 1 away victory at Glendale over in Hainault. They led 1-0 at the break and extended that to three early in the second half before Matt King’s first goal for Glendale made it interesting but Way held firm to take home the points.

The game between bottom of the table Terin and Flyers Under 23s saw the latter go into the game knowing they had to secure at least a point to remain, mathematically, in the race to avoid the drop. Neither side were able to make a breakthrough in ninety minutes as the game ended in a goalless draw. Flyers must now win all of their remaining games and hope for a sizeable goal difference swing.

DIVISION FOUR

The sole game in Division Four came from Rainham where Newham & Havering Borough were in action with a home game against West Essex Under 23s, the latter’s final game of their debut campaign. West ended the season in fine style, winning the game 5 – 1 to record a fifth league win. George Sadler-Stephens scored twice while Aytan Cohen, Javen Cole and Joel Hart all netted too.

Guest Blog: Essex Alliance League Round-up (Wk 26 – Sat 26 Feb) [EAL 21-22 28.2.22]

Hello and welcome to the latest action from the Essex Alliance League, which continues on this blog this season under the “Guest Blog” strand. This edition looks at the action across the League divisions and action in the respective Divisional Cups on Saturday 26 February. My thanks to the EAL’s Rob Parker. This round-up is posted with the author’s permission. Thanks for reading.

Guest Blog written by Rob Parker for EAL [EAL Twitter: @EssexAllianceFL]

With additional reporting by Scott W

Essex Alliance League Round-up- Saturday 26 February

COUNTY CUP

As the winter months of the season came to a close, it was a memorable afternoon under brighter skies for Cowley Community, who dramatically came from behind in their semi-final to defeat Brentwood Athletic Reserves once again, repeating their feats of exactly two years ago and reaching the final of this season’s Essex Junior Trophy. Elias Tackie and Inarhu Rodriguez Martin both struck to send their team into another county final which they hope, this time, will finally see them kick a ball. They now face former EAL side Haver Town Reserves at Heybridge Swifts on Friday 1^st April. Many congratulations to all involved at Cowley on reaching this stage of the competition!

It was also a good afternoon’s work in the London Junior Cup competition as last year’s finalists, FC Petrocub, put themselves just one performance away from a return to that same stage, returning home from their epic trip south of the river with another win under their belts, defeating Old Plymouthians 2 – 0. They now head to Wimbledon-based Yorxeter in three weeks time for their semi-final clash.

FENTON CUP

Back on the domestic cup front, it was quarter final action facing two of our clubs as Division One’s Barkingside A were looking to repeat their efforts of the previous stage, facing another Senior Division opponent this time around in the form of Rapid Chingford. It was the higher placed side who walked away with a spot in the semis as Sorin Tudose struck twice, adding to efforts from Federico Ardei and Andrei Boga as Rapid won it 4 – 0.

SENIOR DIVISION CUP

The quarter final action extended down into the Senior Division Cup competition also where the first of the last eight ties saw FC Baresi make the trip to the Marshes to face Woodford East. And it was East who warmed up in positive fashion for their county cup semi final by winning this tie 3 – 0. Adam Tabbani, Frank Glock and Liam Adams were all on the scoresheet to send their team through.

DIVISION TWO CUP

There were two first round clashes in the Division Two Cup competition where struggling St Francis found themselves in a terrific position early in their tie against title challengers Fairlop Rovers. The Saints were 2 – 0 up thanks to goals from Lewis Goulbourne and Theo Jacobs-Aaron before a Rovers fightback saw them level and then go into the lead themselves, eventually winning the tie narrowly 3 – 2. They now host Unitey in the last eight shortly.

The goals were flying in over in the Rainham where Royal Forest were the visitors to face Rainham Working Mens Club. Cameron Shakes scored a hat-trick for the Workies with Tyrell Phillips, Charlie Perry and Odo Osei-Tutu goals wrapping up a 6 – 1 home win to send their side to Redbridge Community in the quarter finals.

SENIOR DIVISION

There were some big results in the Senior Division action over the weekend too as the title race was opened right up following a terrific victory for Jolof Sports in their home game against DTFC in East Ham. The hosts were 2 – 1 winners on the day as Abib Diop and Joshua Kweifio-Okai goals cancelled out an Alex Paraskeva effort to give their side a ninth win of the campaign. Over in Chigwell, that result was equally as big for Chadwell Heath Spartans but only if they could convert their efforts into three points against a struggling Tower United side. In a tight affair, it was finally decided by a single goals as Tom Callagher’s effort earned Spartans a vitally important 1 – 0 win to see them move level on points at the top of the standings.

The highest scorers of the day in the division were Kit Out London who came from behind at half time against CSM London to earn themselves a 7 – 3 victory at Noak Hill. Goals from Prince Esanbor, Zakaria Ahmed and Kamran Khan had put CSM into a 3-2 lead at the break but a Kit Out hat-trick from Marlon Ortiz plus goals from Aourid Ismael, Marios Lazaris, Yasin Zougui and debutant Salim won it. Over at Leyton County Ground, Lymore Gardens remain third in the table as they came through their home clash against bottom of the table Chigwell Town in a 2 – 0 scoreline, picking up an eleventh league win in the process. Tyrique Peters and Dylan Roberts were the Gardens scorers, eventually prevailing against a Town side desperate for points in their bid to stay in the division.

PREMIER DIVISION

Frenford A are now just a couple of wins away from confirming a promotion place in the Premier Division and took a big leap towards that following a hugely important 2 – 1 win on Saturday against local rivals Oakside at the Jack Carter. Wisley Baltazar found the back of the net for the leaders as they moved to eleven wins for the campaign.

One of the other big challengers for honours are Crookz United and their game on Saturday saw them visit London Cranes in East Ham, a game which turned into a five-goal thriller. Two Abdouaziz Jeng goals and an Anthony Folkes effort proved vital for United as they edged the contest 3 – 2 to keep themselves well in the mix. A key battle down at the bottom end of the table on Saturday saw London Park City in action at home against Athletic Newham Under 23s with the hosts knowing they need to expand their points tally to avoid the dreaded drop. But Athletic Newham won this key battle 3 – 2, thanks to a double from Bryan Henry and an additional goal from Rodney Botuli, moving themselves up a place to sixth in the process.

DIVISION ONE

There were exhilarating contests in Division One this weekend where we start the round-up from the game between a struggling Francis Luke side and Kwanzas London Sport at the Marshes. The sides combined to produce a very rare fifteen goal thriller with Kwanzas ultimately edging the game 8 – 7. Francis Luke’s Jahvarn Steward, who incredibly scored all seven goals for his side, will wonder how he ended up on the losing side. The league leaders were involved in an epic battle of their own, part of a twelve-goal contest against fifth-placed Wanstead in their clash at May & Bakers. The sides went toe-to-toe in trading blows before Belfry eventually pulled away to win this classic contest 8 – 4. Solomon Ogunwomoju struck a hat-trick, Jamie Redington and Kieran James scoring twice, and Gabriel Ogunwomoju once to maintain their position as the highest ranked unbeaten side in the county.

A relatively quiet game in the scoring stakes saw Something From Nothing make the trip to Hainault at the weekend to face an in-form Ilford Reserves side, jostling for league points in the mid-table mix. SFN started the day four points adrift of their opponents but two Temi Alaka goals cancelled out an Adam Motara effort for the Foxes as they won 2 – 1 to move to within a single point. A similarly close game saw two of the sides battling it out to steer clear of relegation difficulties go head-to-head with ninth placed Renegades playing host to tenth placed Forest Green. Praise The Lord Masasu grabbed a goal for the hosts but Green were able to level it up at 1 – 1 to ensure the teams took a share of the spoils.

DIVISION TWO

Emerson & Upminster Reserves have put themselves in with a big shout of promotion this season in Division Two after they took on and defeated fellow promotion chasing Old Esthameians on Saturday, winning the game 4-1 at Hall Lane. Reece Stringer scored twice with Ben Lamb and Jamie Fox goals completing an important win for the hosts. There was a big result for Ryan Under 23s who reversed their fortunes against Loughton Lions in the space of one week, bouncing back from last week’s defeat to see off the Lions in a 5 – 1 scoreline in Debden. That saw Ryan scoop a sixth league win of the season and move up a place to seventh in the standings, giving themselves a nice buffer on the teams below.

Bottom of the table Newbury East have certainly not given up on their chances of staying up but are running out of time to do so as they picked up another league point on Saturday with a 1 – 1 draw against Redbridge Community at Hainault Rec. Habeeb Gayle scored his side’s goal but Redbridge scored one of their own to ensure they moved up a place to ninth.

DIVISION THREE

It’s all change once again at the top of Division Three after Old Barkabbeyans Reserves returned to the summit, for the time being at least, following a hard fought 5 – 3 win against Flyers Under 23s. Fabio Balde netted a hat-trick with Mitchell Day and Geovany Cruz goals taking the visitors over the line ahead of a big game next week against their closest rivals. Third placed Royal Forest Reserves will be hoping for a draw in that top of the table game next weekend to bring them back into the frame and they ensured they will be there or thereabouts with a bounceback win on Saturday, defeating ASA 1 – 0 at Fairlop Oak. Will Asenso scored that only goal of the game to net his team a crucial win in the promotion race.

One pitch further over at Fairlop Oak, there was a real game of two halves involving two mid-table outfits as Lymore Gardens Reserves raced into an early 3 – 0 lead against Glendale through goals from Ryan Sylvester, Omani Green and Warren Isoka. But the Dales stepped it up in the second period with Zack Clark’s long distance effort finding the top corner and Joshua Adeojo striking too but it proved not enough as Lymore won 3-2 to confirm an eighth league win. In the division’s final game, two further sides locked in mid-table saw Together United make the trip to Bancroft Rugby Club to take on Buckhurst Way, the sides starting just three points apart. But by full-time, Together had extended that lead to six points as they walked away with a 2 – 1 win on the day, despite a Tom Richardson goal for Way.

DIVISION FOUR

In day’s sole Division Four action came from Rainham where Newham & Havering Borough were in home action with a clash against Avondale Rangers, starting the day level on points in mid-table. Borough goals from Andrew Elie and Reece Victory were equalled by goals from Mark Hayden and James Whitbread in an eventual 2 – 2 draw, ending the day back where they had started, level on points once again.

Fixtures – Saturday 5th March (Season Run-in begins)

EAL Senior Division

Blue Marlin v FC Petrocub | Fairlop Oak Playing Fields

FC Baresi v DT FC | at Lakeside Sports Ground (2.30pm KO)

Lymore Gardens v CSM London | Leyton County Ground

EAL Premier Division

Crookz Utd v North East Lions | Peter May Centre, Walthamstow

Dagenham Utd v Athletic Newham U23 | Castle Green Leisure Centre, Dagenham

Oakside v London Cranes | Fairlop Oak

Wapping v London Park City | Victoria Park, E9

and in Essex Premier Cup Semi-Final: Clapton CFC v Woodford East | Wadham Lodge (2pm KO)