Archive Image – Halstead Tn v FC Clacton earlier this term
Written by Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMHC14] – Non-League & ESL Writer
Hello & welcome to the latest of my occasional series, rounding-up the full Essex Senior League programme that took place on the weekend of Saturday 26 November. We also include the Reserve Shield action & the solitary Ressie league match in Division Two.
ESL crest
Essex Senior League – Saturday 26 November
The weekend’s action starts with an important win for Barking as they powered past Stanway Rovers 5 – 1 at Mayesbrook Park 3G. Charlie Heatley’s first hat-trick inside the first hour led the way for Charlie MacDonald’s side, while Ahmed Abdulla and George Fairhead added further pain to Danny Slatter’s team, who replied through Will Crisell’s goal. At the Terry Mac, Clapton got another big three points as they fought back to defeat Romford 4 – 3. Khyreece Smith-Reid’s fifth league goal this term plus goals from Leon Wildman, Sharn Quinn’s spot-kick & an OG enabled Ross Weare’s side to move eight points clear of bottom side Southend Manor. Romford responded through strikes from Emmanuel Ogunrinde, Adalberto Pinto and Shomari Barnwell’s goal in stoppage time but they are now five points adrift of landlords Barking in tenth.
Takeley continued their recent good form, with a 4 – 0 victory at Southend Manor. Charlie Allum and George Frodsham goals inside the first ten minutes led the way for Marc Das’ side, then Jayden Gipson & Jordan Westcott goals added more anguish for Alex O’Leary’s side. At the summit, Enfield stay at the top on goal difference after a 3 – 0 victory at managerless Saffron Walden Town. Danny Norton, Louie Johnson’s penalty & a Usman Adeniji goal sealed the points for Jamie Cureton in front of 330 spectators at Catons Lane. Redbridge are second on the same points total (36) after a gritty 1 – 0 win at West Essex. Ibrahim Kehinde got the only goal there for George Christou’s side at Wadham Lodge. FC Clacton are now five points clear in third spot after a 2 – 1 success at White Ensign. Jake Clowsley & the league’s top scorer Mekhi McKenzie got the goals for Tom Austin’s side there, while Teddy Rumsby got the goal back for Aaron Bloxham’s team.
Elsewhere, Stansted remain in sixth after a 4 – 0 win at Halstead Town. The quartet of Ashaan Siddik, George O’Connor, Michael Mignot and Andre Embalo all netted for the Airportmen to add more concern for the Humbugs, who stay 16th. Buckhurst Hill got an important victory after the loss of two big players this week, as they won 4 – 1 over Sawbridgeworth Town at Roding Lane. Jake Knight had given Kieran Amos & Ben Taylor’s side an early lead, but Ezekiel Bademosi levelled the match just before the interval before a double from Hassan Nalbant and a late goal by replacement Jake Moss sealed the win for Mark Williams’ side, who reside in eighth. Athletic Newham are ninth after a 3 – 1 victory at Ilford, with Daniel Izekor notching another double and Abdul Shobowale also on target for Chris Davis’ team. Jack Zielinski got the reply for the Foxes there. Lastly in the top-tier, Woodford Town bagged a 1 – 0 away win at Little Oakley, thanks to Wale Odedoyin’s goal to spoil new manager James Good’s first league game in charge, after the resignation of Matt Carmichael this week – I’d like to pass on my best wishes to Matt & his family at this tough time.
Now into the Reserve Shield action, Barkingside Res edged through on Friday night, defeating White Ensgn Res 2 – 1 at Lakeside Sports Ground. Junior Mandeng-Fotabeng netted for the Ensign side, but strikes by Emmanuel Banahene & Kolade Oshun secured the hosts’ progression. Woodford Town Res joined them there after a 3 – 1 victory at Athletic Newham Res. David Avram, Albert James & replacement Izac Clarke all scored for Town in that game. The other two games needed spot-kicks to determine the victor and Billericay Town Res drew 1 – 1 with Frenford Res, before winning 4 – 3 on penalties. Redbridge Res also drew, 2 – 2 with West Essex Development but it was the Stags side who won 3 – 1 on penalties in that one.
Finally, there’s one result in Ressie League Division Two, which saw Barking U23 go back to the summit after a thumping 7 – 0 victory at May & Baker Res.
Redbridge outclass Clapton to pick up big win at Oakside
Redbridge 6 – 0 Clapton
Match Report & Photos by Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMHC14]
The first match of the weekend saw a welcome return to Oakside for an interesting Essex Senior League clash between second-placed Redbridge, against second-bottom Clapton. The visitors were looking to recover from a heavy loss at Buckhurst Hill last weekend in the League, whereas George Christou’s team were looking to continue their terrific start to the campaign. The Motormen have a pretty settled squad at present, but there were a few changes here. Connor Wheatley had the goalkeeper’s jersey, behind a defence comprised of Brad Bennett, Simon Bamidele and centre-back pairing Joe Elliott and Nathan Okoye. Jake Brocklebank skippered the side, with Jack Chawner alongside him in central midfield. The forward line was made up of Solomon Ogunwomoju, Miles Peterkin and Michael Pindy, with support from the creative Samraj Gill. Tayo Olukolu and Tony Martin were among the options on the bench.
Clapton fielded Alex Reed in goal, with a back four of Abel Yohannes, Ridwan Euba, Richard Kulschewski and Josh Hayward. James Walkinshaw was skipper and played in an anchor midfield role. Sharn Quinn and Daniel Enguru were also in the midfield, with Victor Ferrini, George Onwusonye and Khyreece Smith-Reid making up the forward line. The match began a little later than planned in terrible rainy conditions but we certainly got a lively start to it, and not one Ross Weare’s side would have wanted.
With barely 75 seconds on the watch, a set-piece arrowed in Samraj Gill was half-cleared to the edge of the 18-yard box, and centre-back Joe Elliott fizzed home a fine strike into the left corner, with all the poise of a centre forward. That was just the start George Christou’s team would have wanted and it got better on 13 minutes. A neat move among the rapid forward line involving Gill and forward Solomon Ogunwomoju ended with Michael Pindy being well-placed to pounce from close range after evading his marker.
Clapton did venture forward occasionally, and from a set-piece of their own, they did have a glimmer at goal. Centre-back Josh Hayward got in at the back post but could only strike wide in a crowded six-yard area. The hosts were sprinting forward with considerable purpose and the forwards were linking up well, and gave the Tons backline another nervy moment with 20 minutes gone. Forward Miles Peterkin glided past his defender well but could only fire wide of Reed’s goal frame.
Redbridge did unsurprisingly make it three-nil just short of the half-hour as another fine move ended with Pindy unselfishly playing in Gill who curled home a super finish past the unfortunate Reed into the left corner. It could have been worse for the Tons as Peterkin could’ve had a hat-trick by this point, but Hayward did well with a fine tackle to deny the forward a likely goal. That being said, Peterkin did get on the score-sheet four minutes before the interval to effectively close out the contest.
Peterkin got in behind his marker, evaded another defender and fired home without any hesitation utilising fine technique in the conditions to make it four for the hosts and you had to feel for Clapton stopper Alex Reed, who didn’t really have a chance at stopping any of the goals thus far.
Half-Time: Redbridge 4 – 0 Clapton
Michael Pindy surging forward again in 2nd half for Redbridge
As you might have surmised, the second half did drop off a bit in terms of tempo but the continuing inclement weather was also making the pitch somewhat slippery. Clapton did more time on the ball, and midfielder Sharn Quinn did look to get the ball forward to substitute forwards Djazton Vieira Mandica & Jermaine Baptiste, as well as Victor Ferrini. Midway into the second half, winger Max Murariu did well to break down the right flank and his fine cross found Ferrini but he couldn’t get in the right position to connect his header and test home stopper Connor Wheatley.
Again, Redbridge surged up the other end and made it five on 67 minutes. Substitute Tony Martin benefitted from more good build-up play and was in the right position at the right time to slot home confidently past Reed. The Clapton goalkeeper made one of several good saves with 14 minutes left as Gill sent in another good strike, which Reed dived full-length to sprawl over and parry away well.
Ultimately though, there was another goal that came in the closing moments as Martin again got past his marker and rounded Reed before coolly sliding the ball into the net to round off a good evening’s work for George Christou’s side and perhaps also showing the task that the Tons have to gather enough points to stay out of the bottom two.
Full-Time: Redbridge 6 – 0 Clapton
In summary, Redbridge were too strong in possession and made the most of it to score some classy goals and make this an unusually one-sided match. The Tons did have more ball time in the second half but they could only create a few half-chances which did not unduly trouble home stopper Connor Wheatley.
There were a number of great performances in this match. For Redbridge, forward Michael Pindy led the attack well and personified the difference between the sides, getting a good goal & an assist too. Creative midfielder Samraj Gill also had a really good game, with astute passing and a fine goal as well to add to his good evening’s work. Jake Brocklebank did well also in central midfield to build attacks well while forward Solomon Ogunwomoju remains an important part of the forward line for Redbridge, making several good runs down the left-side channel.
For Clapton, there were some good performances despite the scoreline. Centre-back Josh Hayward made several important clearances whilst under pressure and could have pinched a goal early on as well. Goalkeeper Alex Reed also made several good saves to keep his team in the match for longer while central midfielder Sharn Quinn also made some good forward passes and blasted a couple of decent strikes past the goal frame.
I’d like to wish both teams a good remainder of the season.
Teams:
Redbridge | Manager: George Christou | Assistant: Jack Toghli
Starting XI (Subs): 1 Connor Wheatley (GK), 2 Brad Bennett, 16 Simon Bamidele (3 Tayo Olukolu 56′), 4 Jake Brocklebank (Capt), 5 Joe Elliott, 6 Nathan Okoye, 8 Jack Chawner (15 Daniel Okah 65′), 20 Samraj Gill, 7 Michael Pindy (18 Reuben Campbell 65′), 9 Miles Peterkin (11 Tony Martin 56′) 10 Solomon Ogunwomoju (19 James Barlow 80′)
Goal-scorers: Joe Elliott [1′], Michael Pindy [13′], Samraj Gill [29′], Miles Peterkin [41′], Tony Martin [67′ & 88′]
Booked: None | Subs Not Used: None
Clapton | Manager: Ross Weare | Assistant: Jack Caten
Starting XI (Subs): 1 Alex Reed (GK), 12 Abel Yohannes (2 Clinton Shodiya 29′), 4 Josh Hayward 5 Richard Kulschewski (6 Sheldon Dight 75′), 3 Ridwan Euba, 13 James Walkinshaw (Capt), 8 Sharn Quinn, 11 Daniel Enguru (19 Djazton Vieira Mandica 46′), 9 George Onwusonye (15 Jermaine Baptiste 46′), 10 Victor Ferrini, 7 Khyreece Smith-Reid (14 Max Murariu 46′)
Booked: Vieira Mandica, Ferrini | Sub Not Used: None
Referee: Adekola Adeyemi Assistants: Olabisi Omotosho & Martin Quinn
Written by Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMHC14] – Non-League Writer
Hello & welcome to the latest of an occasional blog series this term looking at the action in the Essex Senior League this weekend, plus the two representatives in the FA Cup Second Qualifying Round. This weekend saw eight League matches take place.
Still from behind Manor’s goal late on v Ensign on Fri night
Essex Senior – Friday 16 & Saturday 17 September
We begin with Friday night’s matches, as Redbridge failed to take their chance of reaching the summit as Woodford Town defeated them 3 – 2 at Ashton’s. Luke Parrott, Zivonimir Lopes and Samir Ali got the goals for Shane Baptiste’s side as they went up to fourth. The Motormen replied through goals from Solomon Ogunwomoju and replacement Loui Hazelwood but they are still three points clear in third. Also on Friday, there was a rare match at Southchurch Park as White Ensign won the derby match, defeating Southend Manor 3 – 1 in front of a crowd of over 140. Daniel Monk, Charlie Portway and an injury-time goal from substitute Jack Allen gave Aaron Bloxham’s side the points as they rose to mid-table. Kieran James topped off a good performance with the only goal for Manor. I was at this game & if you’d like more on it, my report can found here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2022/09/18/s22-23-match-report-southend-manor-1-3-white-ensign-fri-16-sept-esl/
On Saturday, West Essex got the result of the day as they grabbed a superb 6 – 2 win away at Halstead Town. David Bell gave Kwame Kwateng’s team a sixth-minute lead there, but Jordan Pavett’s strike from 12 yards levelled things up 11 minutes later. West were in a mood to score goals though as two spot-kicks from Callum Bloss put them 3 – 1 up at the break, with the Humbugs down to ten men following Matt Travell’s dismissal just before the break. Further goals for the Stags from Oliseh Okuguni [58′], experienced forward Cameron Gray [68′] and substitute Tyler Morgan added to a fine day out for them – they also went two points clear at the top. Stansted maintained their mini-revival with a narrow 1 – 0 win over Athletic Newham at Hargrave Park. Jack Mitchell’s penalty was enough to give Paul Pittuck & John Watters’ team the points there.
Elsewhere, Takeley got a fine 3 – 0 triumph over Stanway Rovers at Station Road. First-half goals by Alex Lambrou and Lewis Deamer were added to midway into the second half by Bryn Thorpe to give Marc Das’ side a convincing victory, which sent them a point adrift of mid-table. Clapton also got their first win of the season with a late flourish to give them a 3 – 2 success at Ilford. Saidu Salifu gave Ross Weare’s team an early advantage, only for Jake Chadwick and Josh Boxall goals to turn it round for Richard Ponsford’s side. However, there was another twist in the offing as late strikes by Ricky Shaw and Vieira Mandica meant the Tons prevailed.
Barking also got a important success as they held on to win 4 – 3 at Saffron Walden Town. Jason Hallett got all three goals for Walden by the hour mark, but strikes by Sa-Sean Lutumba, George Fairhead, Luke Hirst and Eljay Worrell meant Charlie MacDonald’s side prevailed. Finally, Buckhurst Hill got another victory, this time winning 3 – 1 at Sawbridgeworth Town. Goals from Tyler Dolan, Ezekiel Bademosi and Suleyman Zuhdu were enough to see them to the win and sets up their clash with Redbridge at home on Tuesday well.
Emirates FA Cup – Second Qualifying Round (Sat)
Romford pulled off a superb 2 – 1 win at Step 3 Potters Bar Town to make the third Quali Round. Goals from Charlie Morris and Emmanuel Robe were enough to complete a comeback win for Steve Butterworth’s team. They will find out their opposition in the draw on Tuesday. Enfield are out though after a 4 – 0 home loss to Step 3 team Billericay Town. Former Witham & Braintree player Alfie Cerulli scored a hat-trick and Bradley Stevenson got the other goal as the E’s played well but couldn’t muster a comeback.
Hello and welcome to a bonus blog on the full Essex Senior programme that took place on Saturday 22nd January, as big results affected both ends of the table. The lead image above is from St Margaretsbury v Little Oakley yesterday, the match I attended. Thanks for reading this round-up.
Written by Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMHC14] – Non-League Writer
ESL crest
Essex Senior League Round-up- Sat 22 January
We begin with the showdown at the top of the table, as Walthamstow got a added-time winner in a 2 – 1 success against Enfield at Wadham Lodge. Tim Ogunrinde put his new club ahead just past the half hour, though David Cowley levelled from twelve yards three minutes after the interval. Callum Ibe sent the majority of the three hundred fans attending wild with a late winner to fortify ‘Stow’s position at the summit as they kept their ten-point lead over Stansted. The Airportmen now have a five-point cushion in second after a 3 – 1 home win against Cockfosters. Brad Russell gave Paul Pittuck & John Watters’ side an early lead, but a crucially timed leveller from ‘Fosters stalwart George Beattie came two minutes before the break. However, second half goals from Michael Salako [66’] & Connor Hammond [84’] made sure that the ‘Blue Brazil’ made the most of other sides faltering around them.
One of those sides who debatably dropped points were Stanway Rovers, who were held to a goalless draw with West Essex at Hawthorns. The Stags are now only four points adrift of the top ten. Redbridge got a narrow 2 – 1 triumph over Takeley at Oakside with two goals in three minutes from Michael Pindy and Robbie Norris enough to give them the points. Charlie Allum got the solitary reply for Marc Das’ side but they fell to twelfth spot. The Motormen remain in fourth but are now seven points clear of Athletic Newham after Newham lost the ‘Terry Mac’ derby 0 – 2 to Clapton, who are now five points clear of the bottom three.
Meanwhile, Little Oakley are a point off the top ten after a 3 – 1 victory at St Margaretsbury, with Danny Garrad giving Matt Carmichael’s side the lead on eleven minutes. Two penalties from the influential Harry Mann and Daniel Rowe completed the win, with Rodney Clements late spot-kick denying the Acorns a clean sheet. I attended this match, if you’d like more on it, my report is here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2022/01/22/s21-22-match-report-st-margaretsbury-1-3-little-oakley-sat-22nd-jan-esl/
Elsewhere, Saffron Walden Town were denied a morale-boosting win as they drew 3 – 3 with White Ensign at Catons Lane. Scott Piggott struck twice for Jason Maher’s team, with Gavin Cockman adding their other goal. However, the crowd of around 250 got their share of goals here as Luke Woodward’s fine treble ensured Carl Conway & Jack Maleary’s side got a point, which lifts them up to eighth and stay only a point off Walden in sixth. Hoddesdon Town got a vital win in their battle of the bottom seven sides, as they edged to a 4 – 3 success over bottom side Sporting Bengal Utd at Lowfield. Harrison Cage struck twice for the hosts, with Jack Lee and Josh Stevens goals also proving decisive. Bengal gave it everything and had strikes by Yaha Djau , Quincy Roberts and Gianfranco Mici to thank staying in the match but ultimately they fell to another loss and their need to win matches gets that bit higher.
Two more matches this weekend and Woodford Town got a narrow 1 – 0 win at Southend Manor, with ex-Redbridge winger Ayub Kadiri getting the only goal there for Shane Baptiste’s side, who remain 14th. Also, FC Clacton set aside a bad loss in midweek as they won 4 – 0 at Sawbridgeworth Town. Kyle Ferguson and Mekhi McKenzie gave the Seasiders a comfortable lead at the interval, with late strikes by Harry McDonald and substitute Jordan Lartey adding further pain to the Sawbo side. This result meant that Clacton stay in the top ten, a point clear of fellow North East Essex side Oakley.
Still from Great Wakering Rovers v White Ensign [Group Stages, Cordell Cup – Image by Scott W]
Written By Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMHC14]
Hello and welcome a to a special one-off article looking at the Cordell Cup competitions (in advance of Cordell Finals Weekend), which were invitational tournaments run by the Essex Senior, ahead of the full resumption of League action In August 2021.
I’m really pleased to add that Jack Newman (JN) from the Non-League Chronicles Team, Essex Senior Media official Scott Lanza (SL) and respected Non-League writer Peter Dudley (PD) join me (SW) in giving our views on the competitions, from the writer’s perspective. Thank you for reading.
Firstly, thank you all for your time. Despite the majority of the tournaments being played ‘behind closed doors’ to spectators, what has it been like to get back to watching Non-League Football again (as Media)?
Peter: It was such a relief to get back to covering football once again, watching it on TV had become rather mundane, boring and it cannot replicate the atmosphere of a live game, and I also feel blessed I was given the chance to cover games that the normal public could not, so I was very thankful for that. It was also a big help with my well-being too and was another step to some sort of normality, which certainly helps.
Scott L: It’s been great as non-league football is part of my life, and so getting a chance to get back watching games live has been wonderful. The ‘behind closed doors’ part of the experience hasn’t been so good, as the lockdown made me realise that part of the reason I like lower league football is because of the many friends I have there. It was good to see some of them at the games, but others were not allowed to enter, which was a shame but inevitable considering the government restrictions.
Jack (NLC): I think it’s fair to say that all the contributors to The Non-League Chronicles have loved the opportunity that we’ve been afforded by the competition organisers (the Essex Senior – Ed). It’s been magnificent to be back watching live football.
What have been your favourite matches to watch in the Cordell Cup or Cordell Trophy?
JN: Certainly in terms of favourite matches the games we’ve seen involving Athletic Newham & Woodford Town have all been enjoyable high scoring end-to-end affairs which is always good. Woodford’s big win at Aveley over Great Wakering Rovers being of particular note.
PD: The first one of the tournament between Hackney Wick and West Essex was one of the best games I have seen for some time, eight goals, high tempo, and two sides who went for it, so that was very entertaining. I also would say the derby between Holland and FC Clacton which had just about everything, five goals, feisty clashes, red card, a missed penalty which was retaken, and then we almost saw a comeback, so that was an enjoyable day on a sunny day on the North Essex coast.
SL: I didn’t cover too many games due to the restrictions in place regarding who could attend. However, the opening game I saw was Woodford Town v Barkingside which was a very good game, and if I am honest better than I thought I would be seeing bearing in mind the lockdown has played havoc with teams with match fitness being lost due to the enforced break. This was not in evidence here, and the West Essex v Stansted game was another one which saw 90 minutes of flowing end-to-end football being served up.
Still from White Ensign v Barkingside [Cordell Cup Last 16 – Image by Scott W]
Which teams have impressed you (That you’ve watched live)?
PD: Was quite impressed with Clapton and their organisation at the back, bar their two defeats to Redbridge they did not concede a goal and put in some impressive displays, also impressed with Hackney Wick too who have a side where all but two of the squad were U23, they look very dangerous and will cause teams problems next season if they can keep them together. Those two sides would be the ones I’d pick out mainly because I didn’t expect or didn’t know what to expect from them, and they surprised me slightly at how well they played.
SW: For me, White Ensign do deserve credit for the way they have approached the competition and for their form, particularly in the group stages where they won three out of three. It will be fascinating to see if they bring players in to improve the squad or keep faith with this group of players as they take on the Essex Senior League for the first time in their history from August.
Also, I do feel honourable mentions have to go to Barkingside, who really gave Ensign a scare in their Quarter-Final and also to Athletic Newham who deserve a lot of praise for their attacking style of play and could also be one to watch next term in the Essex Senior.
JN: We’ve really been impressed with the quality shown by the teams throughout and White Ensign, Redbridge & Cockfosters have all looked in good nick – especially the former who we all think will be an excellent addition to the Essex Senior League next season.
SL: Redbridge impressed me as they seemed to be taking the tournament seriously straight from the off. I was also impressed with Stansted, and Athletic Newham certainly looked a strong outfit when I saw them in the Quarter Final at Redbridge. They were strong, physical, and fast going forward. And although I didn’t get to see them play live, you have to be impressed with Step 6 outfits White Ensign and Holland, who got some very good results in the bag against teams higher up the pyramid, with Holland of course going all the way to the Len Cordell Memorial Cup Final.
Peter, you’ve been one of the lead commentators on the Live-streamed matches. How has that been as an experience?
PD: I have always wanted to try my hand at commentary and after getting over the first match nerves I really enjoyed it, and led the commentary at all the games I did after the first one, ended up doing four games in total and it was a very good experience, even if two of those games we had to share one microphone between two people, but we muddled through as they say!
Still from Redbridge v Athletic Newham {Cordell Cup QF – Image by Scott W]
All in all, do you feel these competitions (Cordell Cup/Trophy & Plate) have truly honoured the late Len Cordell’s contribution to Redbridge FC (formerly Ford Utd) and Non-League Football as a whole?
SL: The fact a number of teams outside the ESL entered shows you how well Len was thought of in Essex Non-League circles. The fact that so many of the teams took the competition seriously shows you again how well Len was respected. The ESL have honoured Len Cordell by naming a cup competition after him, but the clubs also honoured him by taking part and then playing their games in a competitive spirit – which is what Len would have wanted as this man truly lived and breathed non-league football.
PD: I am sure Len would have appreciated the Essex Senior organising such a brilliant competition and all the teams that have taken part deserve praise for entering and helping to honour the great man, there have been some terrific games and plenty of goals and drama along the way, I am sure Len is looking down on us all and smiling at what he has seen.
SW: I agree that Len would have enjoyed some of the fast, flowing Football that we have seen in the competitions, which have rightly honoured someone who has contributed so much to Non-League during his time.
In your neutral opinion, which teams have endorsed their reputations in these competitions?
SL: Holland without question, alongside White Ensign and Barkingside – all Step 6 clubs that mixed it with clubs higher up the football pyramid. Clapton for me have in a way redeemed themselves. Struggling at the foot of the table when the League season was curtailed, the Tons went on to have a very good Len Cordell Cup campaign which could launch them onto a better time next season when league football resumes. I have to mention Barking, who really took the tournament seriously, and made it to the Semi-Finals before exiting at the hands of Holland, in what was shock result.
PD: White Ensign put in some decent performances, especially in the group stages by winning all three of their group games, Cockfosters too put in some decent performances to back up their decent league campaign up until the shutdown, I think Barking’s youngsters deserve some praise in reaching the Quarter Finals, and I think it’s marvellous that Redbridge, the team Len did so much work for, have ended up in the final and have a chance of winning it, that would certainly be some story indeed.
SW: With regards to the Cordell Trophy, both Harlow Town Reserves & Barkingside Res have had excellent competitions and this will aid them going on to next season and crucially for Reserve sides, have aided player development having being involved in tournament Football. Talking about the Cordell Cup, I will have to add the two sides in the North East side of the county in FC Clacton and Holland. Both sides have had their moments in the competition and for Holland to make the Final is a great achievement in itself.
JN: In terms of teams to watch going forwards Redbridge will certainly worth keeping an eye on – they’ve been very strong throughout and look like real contenders for the title next season if they can keep their momentum going.
END
Who’s Who?
Jack is a member of the Non-League Chronicles, a growing team of writers covering Non-League matches across London & Essex. You can find them on Facebook at “The Non League Chronicles” or via Twitter – @NLChronicles
Scott Lanza is the current Media official of the Essex Senior League, where he also edits the CentreSpot bulletin every week including links, match reports & more on Essex Senior & related news. To view Centrespot editions, head here: https://essexseniorleague.co.uk/centrespot/
Pete Dudley hardly needs any introduction, but the prolific writer has seen matches in the Essex Senior, Eastern Senior League South, Essex Olympian League & more this season and also was former Fixtures Secretary at local side Southend Manor. You can find him on Twitter at @ped1980 or on his blog: http://pedroslocalfootiefix.blogspot.com/
As for me, I’m Scott W and I’m also a Non-League writer on Essex Senior League & Essex Olympian League divisions. I also mostly write reports on matches I head out and watch.
Written by Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMHC14] – ESL & Non-League Writer
Hello and welcome to my round-up of the weekend’s Quarter-Final ties in the Len Cordell Cup, plus a look at the second semi-final of the Len Cordell Trophy which took place on Friday night.
After the round-up, we’ll have a look at the updated draw for the Cordell Cup Semi-Finals and a run through of the matches that will also be played on Finals weekend on Saturday 29 May & Sunday 30 May. Thanks for reading.
Still from Redbridge v Athletic Newham this weekend [Image: Scott W]
Len Cordell Cup – Quarter-Finals
Redbridge 1 – 1 Athletic Newham | Oakside | Sat 15 May – 2pm KO
The Motormen edged through to the last four by way of defeating Athletic Newham 5 – 4 in a the necessary penalty shoot-out. Josh Sykes had put the hosts ahead on 21 minutes from twelve yards, before Jeff Idemudia levelled for Newham on 56 minutes as they finally made their growing rhythm in the game pay. The visitors couldn’t take the chances they had soon after the equaliser and found Redbridge stopper George Martin in good form in the shoot-out as he made three penalty saves.
I was at this match & my report is here: survivor16b.wordpress.com/2021/05/15/s-20-21-match-report-redbridge-1-1-athletic-newham-sat-15-may/
Stansted 0 – 1 Clapton | Mayesbrook Park [3G] | Sat 15 May – 3pm KO
The Tons booked their place in the last four by edging this battle with the Airportmen at Mayesbrook Park, in the live-streamed match this weekend. Eleftherios Metso got the only goal of the game just the quarter-hour. The visitors held on despite seeing skipper Hussein Jaffa dismissed with about an hour left to play. Fellow Non-League writer Peter Dudley was at this match on co-commentary duties & here’s his report: http://pedroslocalfootiefix.blogspot.com/2021/05/stansted-0-clapton-1.html
These results mean that Redbridge will again face the Tons in the Semi-Finals, after beating their fellow East London side in the group stages. But their next meeting has rather more hanging on it – a place in the final in a fortnight’s time.
Len Cordell Trophy – Semi-Final
Barkingside Res 2 – 0 Grays Athletic U23 | Lakeside Sports Ground | Fri 14 May
Barkingside Reserves saw off a decent Grays Under-23 side to make the Cordell Trophy Final on Friday night. Goals from Robert Adams [66’] and Manraj Phagura two minutes later were enough to defeat Michael Walther’s side and secure a tangible reward for a fine competition so far. They will face Harlow Town Res in the final (see below)
Updated Draw for the Cordell Cup Semi-Finals:
Clapton v Redbridge | Date & Venue TBC
Barking/Holland (Match played on Tuesday 18 May) v FC Clacton
Cordell Trophy Final:
Harlow Town Res v Barkingside Res | at Oakside | Sunday 30 May 4pm KO
Other competition Finals
Cordell Cup – Plate Final
Hoddesdon Town v Woodford Town | Oakside | Saturday 29 May 12pm KO
Cordell Trophy – Plate Final
Walthamstow Res v Sawbridgeworth Town | Oakside | Sunday 30 May 12pm KO
Image from Ensign 1 – B’side on Fri 30 Apr (Image: Scott W)
Written by Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMHC14] – ESL & Non-League Writer
Hello and welcome to my round-up of the six of the eight ties in the Last 16 round of the Cordell Cup which took place this week. The Semi-Finals of the Cordell Cup Plate competition is also looked at towards the end of this article as the two sides who will contest the Final of the subsidiary competition.
After the round-up, we’ll have a gander at the draw for the Quarter-Finals, ahead of the remainder of the last 16 matches which take place in midweek as some of the sides involved are also taking part in other Cups.
ESL crest
The Len Cordell Cup – Last 16
St Margaretsbury 2 – 2 FC Clacton (Clacton won 3 – 2 on pens) | The Rec | Friday 30 Apr
St Mags held Clacton after the ninety minutes but exited on spot-kicks in this tie played on Friday night, which was also live-streamed on the night. Charlie Thompson struck both goals for the Seasiders, though their lead was nullified by goals from Chris Manangu and Kirk McPherson for Ray Bartlett and James Falaise’s side. It needed spot-kicks to decide the tie and it went the way of the visitors.
West Essex 1 – 3 Stansted | Mayesbrook Park [3G] | Friday 30 Apr
Stansted continued their improving form with a fine win at West Essex. Jordan Palmer put the Airportmen ahead after eleven minutes. Greg Frederick levelled the tie nine minutes after the interval for Kwame Kwateng’s side but two goals in the last quarter of the game sealed the match. Michael Salako [68’] struck to once again give the visitors the lead, before Harry Bushell [82’] ended the hopes of the Stags and confirm Stansted’s place in the last eight.
White Ensign 1 – 1 Barkingside (Ensign won 3 – 1 on pens)| Held at Lower Road | Fri 30 Apr
Barkingside gave Ensign a scare before ultimately bowing out in the dreaded shoot-out at Lower Road. Ensign led nine minutes before the break through a calm finish by Dominic Locke. However, the hosts couldn’t convert the chances they did create and were pegged back just four minutes from time by Reece Simpson’s powerful header for Steven Le Sage’s spirited ‘Side. Ensign did get through a twitchy shoot-out to advance though to the quarter-finals. I was at this match & my report is available here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2021/05/02/s-20-21-match-report-white-ensign-1-1-barkingside-30-april/
Billericay Town U23 0 – 1 Athletic Newham | New Lodge [3G] | Sat 1 May
In the last tie of the weekend in the Cordell Cup, Athletic Newham withstood the pressure to complete a narrow win over Billericay’s impressive development side at New Lodge. Joel Appiah got the only goal on 24 minutes to give Chris Davis’ side the win and see them through to the last eight.
Brimsdown 0 – 0 Clapton (Clapton won 7 – 6 on pens) | New River Sta | Mon 3 May
A tense match in awful conditions (is it really the start of May you sometimes wonder) saw the Tons held by Step 6 side Brimsdown in this match held at the New River Stadium. Despite having the better of the play in normal time, the gritty ‘home’ side held on for spot-kicks, which the Tons got through in ‘sudden death’. Fellow Non-League writer Pete Dudley was at this match & here’s his report: http://pedroslocalfootiefix.blogspot.com/2021/05/brimsdown-0-clapton-0-clapton-won-7-6.html
Image from Cockfosters 1 – 1 Barking (Tues 4 May – Image by Peter D)
Cockfosters 1 – 1 Barking (Barking won 7 – 6 on pens) | Chalk Lane | Tues 4 May
The Blues made it through on spot-kicks at Chalk Lane. Kieran Jones gave the visitors the lead on 31 minutes though Charlie Morgan levelled things up for Cockfoster just shy of the seventy minute mark. With no further goals forthcoming, it was left to the shoot-out from twelve yards to decide the tie, and after a nervy battle Barking emerged with the win 7 – 6 on penalty kicks. The Blues will face either Holland or tenants for this competition Hackney Wick in the Quarter-Finals.
Written by Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMHC14] – ESL & Non-League Writer
Hello and welcome to my round-up of third & final weekend of the Group Stages of the Len Cordell Cup, a competition run by the Essex Senior to remember a pillar of the Non-League Family in Len Cordell, who was associated with Redbridge FC for many years. Thanks to Pete Dudley (@ped1980) for the main image above (from Holland v FC Clacton)
All the results from this week’s action are below, they took place on Saturday 24th April unless stated in the Result line. The sides highlighted in bold progress to the next round. After each group, we have a final table and at the end of the article we have the draw for the last 16 of the Len Cordell Cup and the eight sides that will face each other in the Len Cordell Plate.
Len Cordell Cup – Saturday 24 April
Cockfosters 3 – 2 Hoddesdon Town | Chalk Lane | Group A
The ‘Fosters went through from Group A in second spot after a good win over Essex Senior rivals Hoddesdon at Chalk Lane. James Verney put his side ahead early on, which was added to by Marcus Crowther five minutes before the break and Jo Wilkinson late on. Harrison Rookard and Alfie Little responded for the Lilywhites but they finish bottom and go into the Plate mini-competition.
DT FC 0 – 2 St Margaretsbury | the Harlow Arena [3G] | Group A
St Margs did enough to inflict the first defeat on newcomers DT at the Harlow Arena. Strikes from Aiden Read [35’] and Jermaine Nicholson in added time secured a place in the last 16 for Ray Bartlett and James Falaise’s side. DT’s loss means they slip down to third but they still make it to the next round.
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Clapton 2 – 0 Barkingside | Played at J. Carter Cen. [3G], Frenford | Group B | Fri 23 Apr
The Tons sealed their progress to the knockout stages of the competition with a decent win over Barkingside in this match played at Frenford on Friday night . Second-half goals from Melos Ajvasi and Bayemore Ndiaye were enough to claim the win which sent the home side to their second win in three games. Both sides go through, with Clapton in second spot.
Woodford Town 2 – 3 Redbridge | Coles Park [3G] | Group B | Sat 24 April
In the match on Saturday, Redbridge recovered from a poor start to complete their third win in succession. Tariq Alexander had given Dee Safer & Julian Charles’ side a first-minute lead but Tony Martin erased that lead two minutes later. Further strikes by tricky winger Ayub Kadiri [21’] and Sonny Fish [61’] turned the tide of the match. Josh Steele pulled one back on the stroke of the 90 minutes but it is the Motormen who advance as group winners in this competition that they dearly want to get to the latter stages at least. Woodford finish bottom and therefore head into the Plate mini-competition.
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Saturday 24 April – Group C
Billericay U23s 2 – 3 Stansted | New Lodge [3G]| Group C
Stansted made a heroic comeback after their interval to defeat Billericay’s development side at New Lodge. The hosts were two goals to the good at the break thanks to strikes by Gabriel Ipanga Mbambo [25’] and Nyan Msuria five minutes later. But Paul Pittuck & John Watters’ side once again showed the “Stansted resolve” and goals from John Clarke, Michael Salako and Jack Mitchell’s winner later on sealed their first win and progression into the last 16 as the ‘best’ of the fourth-placed sides.
Holland 3 – 2 FC Clacton | Dulwich Road| Group C
These two local rivals met for the first time in a competitive match and it was the Step 6 hosts who prevailed. It was some match for Louis Olymbios who not only netted a treble but was also later dismissed for persistent fouling. Kevin Coyle’s spot-kick and an OG saw Clacton close but ultimately both sides progressed with Holland topping the group.
Barking 2 – 1 West Essex | Mayesbrook Park [3G] | Group D | Friday 23rd April
West Essex faced their landlords Barking for the last time whilst being tenants in this local derby on Friday night. It was to be the Blues who won and progressed as Group winners. Strikes from Louis Dillion six minutes before the break & Johnny Ashman midway through the second half cancelled out a thunderbolt from the returning James Jewers early on. West still head into the knockout phase as they finished in second spot.
Frenford 0 – 2 Hackney Wick | Jack Carter Centre [3G] | Group D | Sat 24th April
The Saturday game saw Wick grab their first win & with it progression to the knockout phase with victory at Frenford. Mohamed Raza and Jermain Lachoo provided the goals to ensure they leapfrogged Dave Forbes’ side into third spot and sent the hosts out of the Cup and into the Plate mini-competition.
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Athletic Newham 6 – 2 Great Wakering Rovers | Terry Mac | Group E
Finally in Group E, Athletic Newham sealed a hugely morale-boosting win over Great Wakering at the Terry Mac. Anderson Baro put the hosts head just past the 20-minute mark, with Richard Kone and Joel Appiah both adding doubles to add to Stephen Butterworth’s team’s pain. Babs Sonupe added further gloss to the score-line late on and render strikes by Jake Gordon and Louie Hay to be mere consolation. Newham go through in second while Wakering exit and will compete in the Plate next weekend.
Brimsdown 0 – 3 White Ensign | Moved to Lower Road | Group E
Ensign ended a superb group stage for them with a fine win over Brimsdown at Lower Road. Luke Skinner, Dominic Locke and Luke Woodward all struck to complete a decent three weeks for Brett Munyard & Mark Healy’s team and they march on to the next round as group winners. Brimsdown’s defensive record has assisted them to the last sixteen as they ended up third.
As promised earlier, here is the draw for the knockout round of the Len Cordell Cup. Fixtures in both competitions will be played on weekend of April 30/May 1.
Draw for Len Cordell Cup Last 16
Billericay U23 v Athletic Newham
Brimsdown v Clapton
Cockfosters v Barking
DT FC v Redbridge
Holland v Hackney Wick
St Margaretsbury v FC Clacton
West Essex v Stansted
White Ensign v Barkingside
Here is the draw for the Cordell Cup Plate competition as well:
Hello and welcome to the second of a two-part blog looking back at the Essex Senior League 2019-20 season, as part of my Non-League ‘Season Review’ series.
In this concluding part, I look back at the sides in the bottom half of the division from the dry statistics perspective and my own thoughts on seeing them in action during the campaign, followed by the stats on Top Goal-scorers this season.
Essex Senior League (as of season cut-off point of March 14th 2020)
As with most Football at or below Step 3 (Isthmian Premier Division in the local area), the season was halted in mid-March 2020 before eventually being curtailed several weeks later.
West Essex crest
Image from Sawbo v W Essex (ESL 12.10.19)
Beginning the bottom half in 11th are West Essex. The Stags had a season of transition with thirty-one points being gathered in their 24 matches. Their campaign was also blighted by weather-affected postponements though they still struck fifty-one goals (a goals per game average (GpG) of 2.125) and also shelled fifty-one in defence. They won five of their 12 matches away from their Mayesbrook Park home and their strong team ethos spread to their goal-scorers with Michael Mignot (10 league goals), Brad Russell (8) and Hakim Medfai (6) leading the way on that front. It is also notable that they have continued to encourage young talent into the first team this term. I saw them in action defeat Woodford in September, win well at Sawbridgeworth Town and narrowly lose at Cockfosters, the latter two matches both in October. Their attacking pace has continued from last term though I think for most of the season they have been that bit stronger defensively, despite suffering a few heavy losses this term. It may be that their counter-attacking style favours playing away from home, but I believe it is also about longer-term brick-building you feel for the club as they seek to strengthen the youth side of the club to build pathways through to Senior football.
Still from Stansted v Clapton (ESL 23.11.19)
Still from Stansted v Clapton ESL 23.11.19
Clapton logo
In 12th place were Clapton. The Tons had a very strong ‘end’ to the campaign to record thirty-one points also from their 27 matches. Five of their nine wins this term came in their last eight matches and Julian Charles’ side were nomads, playing at Parkside before finishing the campaign at Southchurch Park. They scored forty goals and conceded 59 in total, though their ten losses from seventeen away matches also impeded them. I saw them twice back in November where they lost at Stansted after a decent start and then gave Saffron Walden Town a test before falling to a loss at home to the Bloods. They struck me as a decent side on-the-pitch though their concentration did let down at times. Deimar Queni led the goal-scoring charts with six league goals so well done Deimar.
Ilford club crest
Still from Ilford v W’stow (ESL 29.1.20)
In 13th place are Ilford, with Jonny Fowell’s side gaining thirty points from their twenty-eight games. Stats will show that they scored only 31 league goals (a GpG of 1.11) which is the third-lowest in the division this term, though they did concede fifty times at the other end, which on balance is second-best of all the bottom-half sides. Cricklefield was their ‘fortress’ with all league eight wins this season coming from their 15 home games, with only five points coming away from home. Being positive, I have little doubt that Fowell and his strong coaching team will be aiming for a better season next time out. I saw them narrowly best Tower Hamlets at home back in August before giving it their all in a draw with Walthamstow in late January. I found them to be a determined outfit with some talented players who will improve with coaching & experience.
St Margaretsbury club logo
Still from S Manor v St Margaretsbury (ESL 4.1.20)
Still from S Manor v St Mags (ESL 4.1.20)
St Margaretsbury ended up in 14th spot with twenty-six points from their 28 games, after a tough end to the season which saw them gain one win in their last ten matches. Tony Wild & Ray Bartlett’s team had issues finding the net, as they scored 36 goals (a GpG of 1.28) whilst shelling forty-eight goals at the other end. Forward Kyle Roberts snared eleven league goals to lessen the threat of being caught in the bottom four. In one of those quirks, I saw them twice against Southend Manor this term. Firstly, in early September where they just edged to a win at home in a real helter-skelter high-scoring battle before Manor returned the favour at Southchurch Park in early January. When I saw them they played quite an open, attacking style and benefitted by having the likes of Ryan Reed on set-pieces too. But in defence, they could be got at, much the same as their rivals in that bottom half. It was announced post-season that Tony Wild has moved across to lead the Youth section next term, with Bartlett taking sole charge of the first team, I’d like to wish both well in their respective roles next season.
Sporting Bengal crest
Still from S Bengal v Redbridge (ESL 28.9.19)
Still from S Bengal v Redbridge ESL 28.9.19)
A point behind St Mags were Sporting Bengal Utd in 15th, having gathered twenty-five points from their 26 matches, after being deducted three points early on in the campaign. Imrul Gazi’s side have played a attractive style of football for several seasons now, though this term they were that bit more vulnerable defensively, having conceded 62 goals (a GpG of 2.38) this term. Curtley McIntosh led the way in attack with a very respectable twelve league goals, with support from Bobby Redwood who got seven. As mentioned in the previous part of this article, Bengal contributed hugely to a fine match in their draw with Redbridge at Mile End in late September and reminds us that they have a very capable side, even if the consistency isn’t quite there.
Into the bottom four now, starting with Enfield in 16th spot. Matt Hanning’s side had twenty-four points on the board from their 26 matches, thanks in part to a decent run of two wins and three draws in their last eight matches. Defensively they conceded sixty-six goals – the second-worst in the division but to their credit, in the last few matches they did tighten up at the back and had the season continued, they may have ended the season in a better position. One plus for them as well was their new home of Woodside (Bishop’s Stortford) and they got some fine results there, winning five of their 14 matches there this season. In 17th spot was Southend Manor who endured a tough season it has to be said. They gained twenty-three points from their 26 matches, with four of their six league wins coming at Southchurch Park. The principal issue for them was scoring goals, as they scored twenty-eight times during the entire season – the lowest in the division (a GpG of 1.07). When I saw them live though, they did have their moments (particularly in the midway point of the season as they held Sawbridgeworth in November and edged to victory of St Margaretsbury in early January) but earlier in the campaign, lapses of concentration & confidence showed in home losses to Redbridge and Cockfosters.
Image from S Manor v Cockfosters ESL 9.11.19
Still from S Manor v St Mags (ESL 4.1.20)
Hamlets logo
Still from T Hamlets v Cockfosters ESL 2.12.19
Moving into the bottom two, and in 18th place were Tower Hamlets. They were a point adrift of Manor on 22 points from their 27 games played. I wouldn’t be too surprised if Hamlets had one of the youngest squads to play in the division, certainly this season if not going further back into the league’s history. One for the historians that is. On their day, their pace and exuberance was tough to stifle, but on the other end of that scale is that their inexperience cost them, defensively in particular. They shipped sixty-five goals (a GpG of 2.41) and they didn’t win any of their last ten league matches which did put them in the position that they finished, but ran the top-of-the-table sides close which did earn John Jatto’s side respect. Finally, bottom of the standings were Sawbridgeworth Town who won eight points from their 28 matches. Two league wins all season kind of sets the tone though what really leaps off the page was the unfortunate defensive record, conceding ninety-nine goals this term (a GpG of 3.53). Their league wins came against Cockfosters at home in mid-November and at Sporting Bengal in mid-February. I saw them lose out at home to West Essex in mid-October where they had promising parts of the game but not enough end product. When I saw next saw them battle hard for a point at Manor at the end of November, there were signs they were tightening up and their attacking promise was evident too. Ultimately though, you’re forced to concede that it was a very harsh campaign for Sawbo and one they can scarcely afford to see again.
Sawbridgeworth club badge
Still from S Manor v Sawbo ESL 30.11.19
Finally, here’s the Leading Goal-scorers in the Essex Senior League 2019/20
Hello and welcome to another of my semi-regular round-up pieces looking at this weekend’s Essex Senior League action & one Peter Butcher Trophy tie, from Friday 7th February & Saturday 8th February.
Clapton continued their recent good form to advance to the next round of the Peter Butcher Trophy with victory at Woodford. Asher Modeste got a brace, which was added to by Nana Boakye-Yiadom and Abdus Salami as Julian Charles’ team got another good win. Kieran Hughes-Mason got the solitary response for Joe Gadsdon & Roy Darbo’s side though their focus will be on the league for the remainder of the season.
Saturday 8 February – Essex Senior
Cockfosters 0 – 0 Takeley | Chalk Lane | Att: 63
Takeley’s efforts to keep pace with the four were stifled by a Cockfosters who could have pinched all three points in this stalemate at Chalk Lane. Marc Das’ side remain in fifth, unbeaten in their last four matches though other results mean they are being caught by neighbours Stansted just behind them. The ‘Fosters drop to eighth after this result and despite only losing one of their last six outings, they are vulnerable to being caught up by Hoddesdon and West Essex just behind them.
Enfield 0 – 2 Hadley | Woodside | Att: 77
The Bricks produced a good display to attain their second win in their last five with victory at Woodside. Goals by Emmanuel Hammond [43’] and Yemi Buraimoh on 63 minutes were enough for Anthony Clark’s side to get the points at go four points clear in fourth spot. The E’s brought in Hullbridge forward Luke Hornsley on dual terms this week as they remain second-bottom.
Hoddesdon Town 3 – 3 West Essex | Lowfield | Att: 89
The Lilywhites were held by a youthful West Essex side that fielded four of their Under-18 side in this contest. It was the Stags who took a two-goal lead early-doors as Cameron Gray [9’] and Joel Lamb on the quarter-hour put them in a strong position. Hoddesdon, who saw forward Isaac Marfo-Jacobs depart for Isthmian North side Witham Town this week, responded through recent signing Harry Bushell on 16 minutes. Aaron Ramthor made the score level at 2 – 2 just four minutes later. Harry Andic turned the game in the hosts’ favour eight minutes before the break.
After weathering the storm, West did pick up a point in a terrific encounter as target-man Izzy Ogedi-Uzokwe netted ten minutes from time to ensure they’ve only lost one of their last five matches as they remain tenth. Simon Riddle’s side remain a place and fur points above them in ninth.
The Foxes got the points to move further clear of the bottom four with victory over Manor at Cricklefield. Larry Akanbi got the opener against his former club on 25 minutes. It was another ex-Manor player who ended up sealing the contest as Jordon Fisher netted 15 minutes from time to rise up to 12th spot. Manor remain in 16th spot, just three points ahead of the bottom two.
St Margaretsbury 0 – 2 Redbridge | The Rec | Att: 29
Redbridge got their second straight clean sheet in all competitions with a decent win at struggling St Margaretsbury. Hassan Nalbant put the visitors ahead on 20 minutes, to which Charlie Portway got a second goal [64’] which gave Micky Wetherall’s side the impetus to rise to seventh spot after their seventh win in their last ten league matches. St Mags’ winless stretch now sits at eleven matches as they remain 15th.
Stansted 2 – 1 Saffron Walden Town | Hargrave Park | Att: 268
The Airportmen made it 11 straight league wins with a fine victory over leaders Saffron Walden Town in the Uttlesford derby. John Clarke put the hosts ahead right on half-time, before Ryan Ramsay made it two just four minutes after the restart. Substitute Nathan Scarborough halved the deficit for the Bloods with 57 minutes played though the ‘Blue Brazil’ held on for a famous win, in front of over 250 fans at Hargrave Park, which sees them reduce the gap to Takeley in fifth to three points with a game in hand. Walden’s impressive 13-match unbeaten run is over as they conceded ground to rivals Walthamstow and Hashtag Utd in the title race.
Finally for this weekend, Walthamstow produced a professional display to outmatch Sawbridgeworth at Wadham Lodge. Lewis Francis got the ball rolling with another brace [23’ & 36’] and as ever, Dwade James also got on the score-sheet on 38 minutes for his 25th league goal this season. New signing Michael Toner added a powerful strike for the fourth goal ten minutes from time as ‘Stow got their fifth win in their last six to leapfrog Hashtag Utd into second place, just two points behind leaders Saffron Walden with two matches in hand on the Bloods. The hard run goes on for Sawbo, as they remain bottom after nine straight defeats.
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