Corinthians – Page 2

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

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

Match Photos by Scott W

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

EOFL – Saturday 17 September

Still from Rayleigh Town v Leigh Ramblers this weekend

EOFL Premier Division & Division One

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

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

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

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

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

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

EOFL Divisions Two & Three

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

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

EOFL Divisions Four & Five

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

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

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

Essex Premier Cup R1

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

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

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

Other Results in EPC:

Alresford Colne Rangers 5 – 0 Runwell Sports

Chingford Athletic EOFL 3 – 4 Wakering Sports Res

Clapton CFC H – W Corinthians Res (Home Walkover)

Colne Athletic 1 – 0 Sungate

Dagenham Utd 2 – 1 Catholic Utd Res

Epping Town 3 – 4 Stanway Rovers U23

Hashtag Utd Dev 2 – 3 Tiptree Heath

Wakebury A – W Kelvedon Hatch (Away Walkover)

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League (Sat 20 Aug) [EOFL 22/23 22.8.22]

Written by Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMHC14] – Non-League writer

Hello & welcome to the round-up from the second week of action in the Essex Olympian League for the 2022-23 season. This week, we look at the action in all six divisions, as some teams began their campaigns here.

EOFL Premier Division

As usual we begin with the top-tier, and Rayleigh Town got a fine 4 – 0 victory over Toby at Concord Rangers’ Thames Road. Harry Talbot got a fine treble with George Vile’s penalty securing the points. Leigh Ramblers began their 125th Anniversary season with a good 3 – 2 win in their local derby at Old Southendian. Tom Franks got a brace while stalwart Ryan Lowe got the other goal. Mattias Tonking and Jack Lelliott both notched for OS there.

The two other matches were narrow wins for the home side. Firstly, Catholic Utd defeated Canning Town 1 – 0 at Len Forge, with Louis Robinson the goal-getter. Also at Chadfields, Hutton had a goal from substitute Jude Keeling to thank for a 1 – 0 win against Kelvedon Hatch.

EOFL Division One

In Division One, Corinthians made it two wins from two as they hammered Leigh Town 9 – 0 at Stambridge. Bill Wilton got four goals for the hosts, with Jake Hodder, Max Jones, Bailey Moss and Connor Summerhill also on target, along with an OG. Beacon Hill Rovers edged to a 2 – 1 success over Wakering Sports, with Bertie Whymark and a penalty from Jack Walker enough to seal the three points. Elsewhere, Harold Wood Athletic made it two wins from two games with a 3 – 2 triumph over Herongate Athletic at Harold Wood Park. James Pottle, Zach Holding and Billy Gray’s penalty were enough to overhaul Ath goals from Matthew Keiller and Callum Palmer.

In the other action, Epping Town bagged a 4 – 2 win over Old Chelmsfordians, with Abdul Kamara scoring twice for Epping along with one goal each for Scout Bown and Chris Gormley. Also, Harold Hill drew 4 – 4 with Manford Way in their first meeting in this division. The scorers for Hill were lack by Jack Suters’ brace and one apiece for Connor Donnelly and Jack Stevenson.

EOFL Divisions Two & Three

Into Division Two now, and Harold Wood Athletic Res also won at home, with a 2 – 1 success over Wakebury. James Jenkins and Ollie Portway goals were enough for them. Harry Kateley got the goal for Matt Cardy’s team. Elsewhere, Hashtag Utd Development were held 1 – 1 at home to Catholic Utd Res. Substitute Chandler Wray netted for the hosts with Dominic O’Kane scoring for Utd’s second-side.

The other results in the division were AS Rawreth’s 3 – 1 triumph over Old Southendian Res, and Wakering Sports Res defeated Hutton Res 5 – 2 at Cupid’s.

Moving onto Division Three, Hullbridge Sports Res got a 4 – 2 win over local rivals Corinthians Res at Lower Road. There were doubles for Jay Knight and Joe Tuskin for the hosts to outdo strikes by Chevon Bryan and Agelos Alla for the visitors. Buckhurst Hill U23s had strikes by Cameron Lyttle and Louie Cooper to thank for a 2 – 1 win at Basildon Town Res. Tyler Fowles got the goal back for Town there.

Also, Pitsea Athletic edged to a 2 – 1 win over Leigh Town Res with Precious Aminu and replacement Reece Stone seeing Ath to victory. Springfield Res won 3 – 1 at Toby Res, with Liam England scoring all three goals for the Chelmsford-based side there.

EOFL Divisions Four & Five

There were two games each in Divisions Four and Five. Firstly, in Division Four there was a fine away win for Pitsea Athletic Res as they won 4 – 2 at Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res. Lewis Brown scored two, plus Rinor Zeqiri and substitute Jay Seeley-Hanson were also on target. Ewan Rockell and Lewis Wake got consolation goals for Swifts. Shenfield AFC Res also won away from home, winning 2 – 1 at Collier Row. Ross Riding and replacement Paul Constable Jr both netted for AFC there, with Jack Bird also scoring after coming off the bench.

Division Five there was a good start to Miki Hood’s tenure as Shoebury Town Res boss as his side won 3 – 2 at Collier Row Res, at the Forest Row Centre. Substitute Kyle McAlindon scored twice, with Chadrack Kisoka also netting. Charlie Quant and Harry Potts both struck for Row’s second team but they fell to defeat. Also, Runwell Sports Res were held 2 – 2 by Manford Way Res at St Luke’s Park.

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League (Sat 13 Aug) [EOFL 22/23 14.8.22]

Written by Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMHC14] – Non-League writer

Hello & welcome to the return of the Essex Olympian League round-up articles for the 2022-23 season. I will endeavour to compile these as often as I can during the season, though just as an advance notice that they may not be done weekly. This week, we look the action in all six divisions, as the new EOFL season began in earnest.

Match still from Corinthians 3 – 1 ACD Utd [Image by Scott W]

EOFL Premier Division

As usual we begin with the top-tier, and in a season of change which includes two new names to the division (Toby & Runwell Sports) and a few clubs moving into ground-shares at Senior grounds, we start with Hutton‘s 2 – 1 victory over Rayleigh Town at Tilbury’s Chadfields. Stalwarts Will Marlowe and Stephen Judge got the important goals there as Matt Singh’s side began their new era well. Catholic Utd also began their new season well with an impressive 5 – 1 success at newcomers Toby. Aaron Baldwin started his season with a treble, with substitutes Harrison Day and Liam Oliver also notching at Toby’s new venue – the Nursery Sports Ground in Ramsden Heath.

Elsewhhere, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts grabbed a 2 – 0 triumph over Sungate at Silver Leys. Jamie Dicker and William Morris secured the points for the home team there. Old Southendian also started with a win as they defeated Springfield 2 – 1 at Garon Park 3G. Nico Dubouchet and Jack Lelliott scored one goal each for Altan Ali’s team to overturn Arinze Ossai’s goal for Francesco Zabotti’s team. Other results on the day were Runwell Sports’ 1 – 1 draw with Galleywood and Canning Town‘s 3 – 1 success over Shenfield AFC.

EOFL Division One

In Division One, Harold Wood Athletic began life in the second-tier with a fine 4 – 0 victory over Old Chelmsfordians. Matt Donovan, Billy Gray, Zach Holding and Max Shepherd were the ensemble cast of scorers to give John Field’s new side the points. Harold Hill also began their season under new management with a win, as they defeated Leigh Town 2 – 0 at Noak Hill. James Odhiamba and Troy Tizard-Cleghorn got the goals for Billy Cove’s new team.

In the match I watched live this weekend to mark the new Intermediate season, Corinthians were made to work hard before earning a 3 – 1 victory over divisional newcomers ACD Utd at Stambridge. Bailey Moss netted twice and Bill Wilton added the other goal for Chris Stoneham’s team, after Samuel Payne had earlier given ACD the advantage. If you’d like more on this game, my full report is available here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2022/08/13/s22-23-match-report-corinthians-3-1-acd-utd-sat-13-aug

Finally in this division, Epping Town started their campaign strongly with a 5 – 2 victory at Beacon Hill Rovers. Sacha Canning and Jack Walker got the goals for Rovers but ultimately, Stuart Hoskins’ side were too strong on the day.

EOFL Divisions Two & Three

Moving into Division Two now and in the two games that took place, both were won by the visiting side. Wakebury began their season with a gutsy 2 – 1 triumph at Wakering Sports Res at Cupid’s. Ben Rowe and Will Wheeler got the telling goals to give Matt Cardy’s side the points. Harold Wood Athletic Res got a narrow 1 – 0 success at newcomers Hashtag Utd Development, with Thomas Butler getting the only goal on the half-hour.

Only one match began the term in Division Three, and it ended in a draw. Basildon Town Res fought hard but were held 2 – 2 by Old Chelmsfordians Res at Basildon Sports Club. Rodney Wilson and Joshua Hales got the goals for the hosts there.

EOFL Divisions Four & Five

Roydon began their new season in Division Four with a superb 4 – 1 victory at Wakering Sports A on the second pitch at Cupid’s. Connor Riddoch scored twice here, with Max Pike and Connor Presland also netting for the visitors. In the other game, Collier Row began life in the fifth-tier with a comfortable 3 – 0 win against visitors Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res.

Just the one match in Division Five this week, which saw Collier Row Res launch their season with an excellent 7 – 1 win over newcomers Manford Way Res at Forest Row Centre.

End

S22-23 Match Report: Corinthians 3 – 1 ACD Utd (Sat 13 Aug) [EOFL D1 22/23 13.8.22]

Essex Olympian League – Division One

Venue: Stambridge Memorial Ground

Attendance: 10

2022-23 Season: Match 6

Saturday 13 August 2022 – 2pm KO

Corinthians: Sky Blue & White Shirts, Black Shorts & Black Socks

ACD: Purple Shirts, Purple Shorts, Purple Socks

Late comeback sees Corinthians to good win over ACD at Stambridge

Corinthians 3 – 1 ACD Utd

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

The new Intermediate season began this weekend and it ended up that to mark said opening, I went to Stambridge to see two attack-minded sides duel in Corinthians and ACD Utd. The visitors were last term’s Division Two champions while Chris Stoneham’s team were keen to improve on last season’s fourth place in the Division One. The home side had Nathan Warren in goal, with a three-man central defence of Connor Summerhill, Brad Read and new recruit Daniel Frimley, captain Matt Burrell in central midfield, with a forward line of Bailey Moss and Jake Hodder, supported by Leo Clarke and Jordan Stoneham. ACD have a new boss in former goal-scoring wizard Michael Wade and he fielded Danny Mulrooney between the posts, with Brad Falco and Billy Rungay in central defence, full-backs Ollie Williams and skipper Mason Oakley and a forward line of Samuel Payne, Shaun Goddard and Scott Perkins.

The game got underway in what felt like 30 degree heat, and understandably this took its toll on the pace of the game in the early stages. Even so though, it was quite open as both teams looked to get down the channels to evade each other’s defences. Forward Jake Hodder and full-back Billy Wilton made early threatening downs down the flanks for the hosts, while forward Scott Perkins made one good left-wing run early on for ACD, who also had the first real chance of note when fellow forward Shaun Goddard struck off-target.

Charlie Marden [#2] goes for the ball in first-half for Corinthians

As the half-hour approached, it was a tale of two big moments. First on 26 minutes, a fine cross by Hodder found forward Bailey Moss and his powerful header was superbly clawed over by an acrobatic save from ACD stopper Danny Mulrooney. Immediately afterward, ACD countered quickly and forward Samuel Payne was well-found and struck low to fine left corner, beyond the grasp of home custodian Nathan Warren. ACD were enjoying their best phase of the game thus far and on 31 minutes Payne played in Goddard who sent in a lofted effort which cannoned off Warren’s crossbar.

The hosts had two further chances with Mulrooney gathering Moss’ 25-yard low strike and Mulrooney also did well to deny Wilton’s strike from close range. ACD’s stubborn defending held out and the hosts’ pasing was not at its condusive best as ACD went into the interval with a slender advantage.

Half-Time: Corinthians 0 – 1 ACD Utd

ACD maintained that resolve as the second half began as four minutes into it, Payne’s struike from 20 yards was well parried away by Warren. Slowly though, Corinthians did start to go through the gears and find their passing and forward Leo Clarke started to get on the ball more and test the Utd backline. Hodder’s strike off-target around the hour did serve as a warning but his side were level with 75 minutes on the watch.

Again, Hodder was involved as his astute pass found forward Bailey Moss who took it well before firing a powerful curling strike into left side of the net, giving Mulrooney little chance. In fairness, it was what Corinthians deserved on chances created but they still need to find another gear to stave off an enterprising ACD counter-attacking side. Warren was needed moments later as ACD responded with a low strike at the near post, only for Warren to get down well and deny them.

This seemed to spur the hosts on again and they did break the stalemate with three minutes left, with Hodder’s good low ball going all the way across goal to find Wilton who struck it over the goal-line. That was a little tough on ACD but the third goal in added time really did hammer home their misfortune. Mulrooney couldn’t get his clearance away with Moss closing him down quickly after a scramble, Moss was there to prod the ball home from a yard out.

Full-Time: Corinthians 3 – 1 ACD Utd

To sum up this entertaining but bruising battle in the considerable heat, ACD really made it hard for their hosts to maintain momentum, making several good interceptions and also countering well, which gave the home defence little time to recoup their positioning. However, in the latter stages they couldn’t keep the ball as well as they had done earlier. Despite that, they didn’t deserve to lose in the manner that they did. All credit to Corinthians though, they stepped up the work rate in the second half and they got their rewards for it.

Leo Clarke on-the-ball, pushing forward late on for Corinthians

There were several very good performances today. First for victors Corinthians, a word for energetic forward Leo Clarke who really drove his side on in the second half, showing good pace and passing at times. Full-back Bill Wilton also played his part with some neat passes, good energy levels and added a goal late on too. Forward Bailey Moss scored a fine leveller and brought out two good saves from ACD stopper Mulrooney as well as his usual aerial presence. Lastly, a mention for Jake Hodder who put in two assists and generally looked a threat down the right-side channel. Centre-back Daniel Frimley put a good display also on his competitive debut.

For ACD, there was plenty of positives to take. Goalkeeper Danny Mulrooney will be disappointed by manner of the third goal conceded here but that should not detract from an otherwise superb performance, making three very good sabes to deny Moss & Wilton during the game. Full-back Ollie Williams was a good outlet as well, from the left side and from set-pieces too. Forward Sam Payne took his goal well and had a good all-round game whilst centre-backs Brad Falco & Billy Rungay really made it tough for the hosts’ forward line with good aerial clearances and interceptions for much of the game.

Best wishes to both teams and I have little doubt they will both have good campaigns.

Teams (Rolling Subs used in EOFL matches)

Corinthians | Manager: Chris Stoneham | Assistants: Graham Owen & Les Moss

Starting XI: 1 Nathan Warren (GK), 2 Charlie Marden, 3 Bill Wilton, 6 Daniel Frimley, 17 Brad Read, 5 Connor Summerhill , 8 Matt Burrell (Capt), 7 Jordan Stoneham, 9 Jake Hodder, 20 Bailey Moss, 10 Leo Clarke

Goal-scorers: Bailey Moss [75′ & 90′ +2], Bill Wilton [87′]

Subs ON : 19 Luke Owen [46′], 12 Maxwell Sharpe [46′], 16 John Bolton-Smith [71′], 18 Brad Smith [82′], 14 Ethan Lemmon [87′]

ACD Utd | Manager: Michael Wade |

Starting XI: 1 Danny Mulrooney (GK), 2 Mason Oakley (Capt), 6 Billy Rungay, 35 Brad Falco, 4 Jamie Alexandrou, 3 Ollie Williams, 14 Jake Noble, 19 Warren Taylor, 7 Samuel Payne, 17 Shaun Goddard, 12 Scott Perkins

Goal-scorer: Samuel Payne [27′]

Booked: Oakley

Subs ON: 21 Frank Markham [43′] | Sub Not Used: Knock

Referee: Robert Walker

S21-22 Match Report: Corinthians 2 – 1 Wakebury (Thurs 19 May) [SCC 21-22 20.5.22]

Southend Charity Cup A Final

Venue: Len Forge 3G

Attendance: 110 [Est]

2021-22 Season: Match 85

Thursday 19th May 2022 – 7.30pm KO

Corinthians: Blue & White Shirts, Black Shorts & Socks

Wakebury: Yellow Shirts, Blue Shorts, Yellow Socks

Corinthians battle hard to claim Southend Charity Cup

Corinthians 2 – 1 Wakebury

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

Additional photo by Daniel Mann/Corinthians FC [@_corinthiansf_c], used with thanks

There was a ‘bonus’ match which saw a return to the Len Forge Centre for this Southend Charity Cup Final between two local sides in EOFL Division One side Corinthians and another ambitious side in EOFL Division Two side Wakebury. It is a credit to both teams that they named near full-strength sides for this contest, and as you often see in a Cup Final, it was a slow-building start to the game as broth sides were keen not to hand the initiative to their opponents.

As it happened, the opening goal cropped up on the quarter-hour, as a good ball in from left side evaded the Corinthians backline and found Wakebury skipper Ben Perry at the back post and his strike fizzed low into the left corner past stopper Nathan Warren with a similar calmness to a goal-hungry striker. It added to the intrigue of the game & as you’d expect, Corinthians responded quickly. Forward Leo Clarke had two decent strikes denied by a well-drilled ‘Bury defence but Clarke was having an increasingly important part to play here.

Corinthians attack down the left flank, with Wilton (3) on the ball

Chris Stoneham’s side did find their rhythm as the half went on, and Wakebury’s spirited defending was holding them off well, until the ‘home’ side got an equalizer on 26 minutes. Matt Burrell’s well-placed corner into the back post found top scorer Bailey Moss who powered in a header into the right corner. Matt Cardy’s team were still well in the contest here, and their pace in attack was finding the gap between the opposition’s midfield and defence to good effect. Unfortunately though for them, after making a fine run down the left, Wheeler’s strike couldn’t bypass Warren.

The Berries had a let-off of their own three minutes before the interval as Corinthians recycled the ball well and Moss displayed good close control before having another low shot denied by the advancing ‘Bury custodian Lewis Catling. The ball trickled towards the goal-line before it was cleared by the well-positioned Liam Ellis.

Half-Time: Corinthians 1 – 1 Wakebury

The second half began with a higher tempo, Wakebury had the first effort on goal as Wheeler was again well-denied by Warren and although they had several decent chances, the Corinthians backline was also stifling their enterprising forward moves. Moments later, forward Harry Kateley got in behind the opposition defence utilizing his pace well but Warren again blocked his fierce shot with his legs.

Those two saves by Warren did prove important as Corinthians took the lead for the first time soon afterward as a deft set-piece by Clarke was slid through to substitute John Bolton-Smith who sent the ball on, but centre-back Connor Summerhill got the final tough to force the ball into the net. Wakebury midfielder Junior Lawrence also had a well-struck effort which was off-target.

Harry Kateley strikes a shot for Wakebury from edge of the 18-yard box

At the other end, Clarke was unfortunate to see his powerful, curling strike go narrowly wide of the top left corner, as the number of chances increased as the half went on. Wakebury kept going admirably, but the Corinthians backline was not as troubled by them as they were earlier in the game. The latter’s concern would have been that they had to recoup their tempo & rhythm a little.

As we got into the latter phase of the this game, Corinthians were getting a bit tense and were conceding several free-kicks did not help their cause. On the stroke of 70 minutes, Wakebury underlined that the main inhibitor for them was finishing as a decent corner by full-back Kofi Gyamfi was turned towards goal by substitute Ben Morley’s swiveling effort but it was straight at Warren, who gathered. Chris Stoneham’s side responded at the other end with 14 minutes of normal time left as forward Jake Hodder broke forward well, twisting and turning past his marker before his low strike was well-denied by Catling, who had to get down well to avoid the ball creeping in at left-side post.

The six minutes of added time did not help the Corinthians’ contingent’s understandable nerves and at the end of that stopage time, Wakebury thought they had levelled as Gyamfi had put stuck the ball into the net well from another set-piece, but was denied by an assistant’s flag. In the end, Corinthians did deserve the victory, mainly because of their more assured finishing but Wakebury really gave them a good match here and they certainly have positives to take, ahead of next season.

Full-Time: Corinthians 2 – 1 Wakebury

Corinthians celebrate their triumph with the Shield post-match [Image by Daniel Mann]

To sum up this one, Wakebury took a surprise lead and whilst Corinthians produced a stirring comeback to take the lead shortly after the interval, they were also made to battle hard because of an exuberant ‘Bury forward line that couldn’t quite find the required finishing. This was a good match, and credit to both teams for contributing heavily to it so late in the campaign.

There were several fine performances from both sides in this match. Firstly for winners Corinthians, I thought full-back Bill Wilton had a good game, showing characteristically high energy levels, and was an important player down the left side in both boxes. Forward Leo Clarke also had a strong match, making several important driving runs and made some astute passes as well. Captain Matt Burrell was a decent threat from set-pieces & put in a good shift in central midfield, while forward Jake Hodder also put in a good display

For Wakebury, tricky forward Will Wheeler once again put in a good display, showcasing his dribbling & passing ability. The only thing that denied him at least one goal was clinical finishing. Harry Kateley was also a threat in the forward line and was well-denied by the opposition backline, and showed good tracking back in defence when required. Skipper Ben Perry took his goal well & defensively was also robust too. Full-back Kofi Gyamfi had a good match too & in the second half was a threat from set-pieces and would have levelled, but for an off-side flag.

Best wishes to both sides for the forthcoming season & it was good to see them both in action once again. Finally, congratulations to the Southend Borough & District Combination Committee for holding a good event here, which was well supported by the local area.

Teams (up to 5 substitutes allowed)

Corinthians | Manager: Chris Stoneham | Assistant: Graham Owen

Starting XI (Subs): 1 Nathan Warren (GK), 2 Charlie Marden, 3 Bill Wilton, 5 Connor Summerhill, 6 Alfie Knight, 7 Jordan Stoneham, 8 Matt Burrell (Capt), 11 Damien Siemienczuk, 9 Jake Hodder, 18 Bailey Moss, 10 Leo Clarke

Goal-scorers: Bailey Moss [26’] , Connor Summerhill [51’]

Subs ON: 15 John Bolton-Smith [46’], 12 Ollie Brickwood [74’], 4 Sammy Ayres [81’], 14 Ethan Lemmon [89’]

Booked: Summerhill, Burrell, Brickwood, Warren | Sub Not Used: Peralta |

Wakebury | Manager: Matt Cardy | Assistants: Dan Blewett & Gareth Cleverly

Starting XI: 1 Lewis Catling (GK), 2 Elliott Hutchinson-Khupe, 3 Kofi Gyamfi, 5 Jack Smith, 6 Ben Perry (Capt), 4 Liam Ellis, 8 Junior Lawrence, 7 Will Wheeler, 10 Daley Grant, 9 Harry Kateley, 11 Ibrahim Kagbanda

Goal-scorer: Ben Perry [15’]

Subs ON: 16 Ben Morley [54’], 14 Jerry Nkoy [74’], 12 Alex Horey [84’]

| Booked: Wheeler | Subs Not Used: Butler

Referee: Connor Cornell

Assistants: Joe Wise & Keith Robinson

S21-22 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League (Sat 26 Feb) [EOFL 21/22 28.2.22]

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

Hello all and welcome to my round-up of the action in the Essex Olympian League, on Saturday 26 February. This weekend saw big results and with a number of different competitions being played (the EOFL Senior Cup, Reserve League Cup, Ressie Trophy, Denny King Memorial Cup & Essex Junior Cup), our focus remains on the League action. This week, in addition to the usual top three tiers, we have sections on the Senior Lge Cup & Division Four.

Main Image is by Peter Dudley [@ped1980], used with permission & thanks. Many thanks for reading.

Essex Olympian Lge – Saturday 26 February

EOFL Premier Division, Divisions One & Two

In the Premier Division, Kelvedon Hatch maintained their excellent campaign with a tough 3 – 2 win against improving Springfield at Arun Park. Max Bradford, James Burt and Tom Johnson got the important strikes for Darren Hunt’s side, with Garjay Thompson and Roland Oteniya responding for Francesco Zabotti’s side. Kelvedon are now up to second and face Hutton away next weekend (see fixtures at article’s end) which will be a tough one for Hutton as they look to stay in the top two. Springfield remain in tenth but are vulnerable to be caught by two sides just below them (Stortford Swifts & Galleywood) who have matches in hand.

Elsewhere, Shenfield AFC got another good win away from home with a 4 – 0 triumph over Harold Wood Athletic at Robert Clack Sch 3G. A double from substitute Ross Riding was added to by strikes from Samuel Lock and Elliott Thompson to put them three points clear in ninth. Athletic remain bottom, seven points adrift of exiting the bottom two with nine matches left. Catholic Utd also got a narrow 1 – 0 success at Leigh Ramblers, with Jay Nash getting the only goal to see his side back up to sixth. The Rams have eight games to retain their status as a Step 7 side arguably.

Rounding the top-tier action, Old Southendian got a memorable 2 – 0 win at Rayleigh Town to shore up their own mid-table ambitions and also dent Rayleigh’s chances of the title. On that note, Ongar Town went back up to the top after a hard-fought 2 – 1 victory at Bishop’s Stortford Swifts. Archie Gerard gave Swifts a surprise lead but Ongar displayed their spirit once again as goals from Joe Lilly and Jack Zielinski turned the game and gave Richard Ponsford’s side another important three points.

Division One saw two matches that did not go ahead. Firstly, Epping Town were the first beneficiaries of a Home Walkover in their match with Chingford Athletic, as the Town Mead side have withdrawn their first team only from their remaining matches, in the division (Source: EOFL website) after boss Declan Murphy departed the club this week. I understand their Reserve team is not affected, but let’s hope Chingford Firsts return next season.

Also, Toby’s match with Old Chelmsfordians also ended up in a walkover in favour of the hosts. That result sends them into second spot on their own but with Wakering Sports having one more match to play, Mark Jones’ side will need to amass as many points as they can from their remaining three matches.

There was also one match in Division Two, and it was an important one. ACD Utd continued their leap towards Division One with a hard-fought 2 – 1 success over rivals Wakebury at Westlands. Michael Wade and Mason Oakley got the crucial goals for Greg Knock’s team to outweigh Jamie Bradbourn’s strike for the Berries. ACD go back to the summit, three points clear of rivals Harold Hill, with Wakebury’s destiny now not entirely in their own hands given they are four points behind Hill in second and Manford Way are five points behind them but with two further matches to play.

EOFL Divisions Four & Five

In Division Four, the top two did battle at Town Mead as Chingford Athletic Res drew 3 – 3 with Roydon. Luke Dimond, Cane Sullivan and replacement Benson Osejindu got the goals for the hosts but the visitors are having a good run and strikes by Nader Benzid, Halcyon Griffith and Rene Pivarnik claimed a point which means the gap between the two teams remains at four points, with both teams having five matches left.

Division Five Results

AS Rawreth Res 1 – 2 Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res | The Warren

Runwell Sports Res 1 – 1 Epping Town Res | St Luke’s Park

Wakebury Res A – W Collier Row Res | Away Walkover

EOFL Senior League Cup

Three matches were played in the Senior League Cup and two of them were surprises. Corinthians showed how strong they are at their best as late goals assisted them to a superb 5 – 0 win at Premier side Hutton. There were doubles for Bailey Moss and Jake Hodder for Chris Stoneham’s side, with Leo Clarke also on target. They face a trip to Sungate next, while Hutton will have ten league matches to focus on. Sungate went through 5 – 4 on penalties, after a 0 – 0 draw with Basildon Town. Both sides will have hectic conclusions to the season, including midweek league matches in April and May.

Finally for this part, Harold Hill also issued a reminder of their talents as they won 4 – 2 at Galleywood. Craig Skipper and Oliver Sadler got the goals for ‘Wood but Hill still progressed.

Essex Junior Cup Semi-Finals:

Belle View SC 3 – 2 Hashtag Utd Development

And Wormingford Wanderers 0 – 3 Catholic Utd Res

EJC Final: Belle View SC v Catholic Utd Res (set for Wednesday April 6th, at Concord Rangers FC)

EOFL Reserve League Cup Results

Buckhurst Hill U23 6 – 0 Galleywood Res | Roding Lane

Old Southendian Res 3 – 5 Wakering Sports Res | Garon Park 3G

EOFL Reserve Lge Trophy: Ongar Town Res 2 – 1 Leigh Ramblers Res

EOFL Denny King Memorial Cup

Old Barkabbeyans 2 – 4 Beacon Hill Rovers | Barking Abbey Sch 3G

Pitsea Athletic 2 – 6 Runwell Sports | Basildon Sports Village

Shoebury Town 2 – 2p Manford Way | Cupid’s (Pitch 2) | Manford won 4 – 3 on pens

For more on this game, fellow Non-League writer Pete Dudley was watching & his report Is here: http://pedroslocalfootiefix.blogspot.com/2022/02/shoebury-town-2-manford-way-2-manford.html

Season Run- in: Fixtures for March 5th (top two tiers only, stc)

EOFL Premier Division (2pm KO unless stated)

Hutton v Kelvedon Hatch | Polo Fields

Leigh Ramblers v Springfield | Belfairs Park

Rayleigh Town v Galleywood | London Road

Old Southendian v Basildon Town | Garon Park 3G (2.30pm KO)

Shenfield AFC v Bishop’s Stortford Swifts | St Martins Sch 3G (2.30pm KO)

One game in EOFL Division One:

Beacon Hill Rovers v Herongate Athletic | Wickham Bishops Sports Ground

Thanks again for reading.

S21-22 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League & Cups (Sat 5 Feb) [EOFL 21/22 7.1.22]

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

Hello all and welcome to my round-up of the action in the Essex Olympian League, on Saturday 5 February. This week, the league action takes the central focus, with a few matches also in several Cup competitions. This week’s round-up includes a section looking at EOFL Division Four & Five, with results from the Cup competitions.

Essex Olympian League Round-up – Saturday 5 February

EOFL Premier Division & Division One

In the Premier Division, with Basildon Town in Cup action, the focus turned to the chasing pack. Hutton went to the summit after a comprehensive 5 – 1 win over Harold Wood Athletic at Polo Fields. Luke Ricketts got a double, with Brad Freeman, Stephen Judge and substitute Jack Shaw all joined him on the score0-sheet as Matt Singh’s team made it five straight wins in the league. Rayleigh Town are two points behind them as they got a decisive 4 – 0 success at Sungate. Liam Oliver, Harry Talbot, Charlie Seaden and replacement Ben Baxter all scored for Paul Higgins’ side.

Meanwhile, Shenfield AFC got a fine 3 – 1 victory at Catholic Utd to move up to eighth in the table. A double from Luke Williamson and one from Ben Carroll overhauled Michael Sammut’s reply for Utd and give the visitors another good three points. Also, Canning Town leapt off the bottom of the standings with a 2 – 1 win over Leigh Ramblers in Beckton and Ongar Town were again held at home to a goalless draw by Old Southendian.

In Division One, leaders Runwell Sports were not in action but would have been reasonably happy with their rivals’ results. Toby were held to a 3 – 3 draw by fellow top six side Chingford Athletic, Albert Perry notched two goals for Mark Jones’ side, with Dean Maguchu getting the other goal but a brace of his own from Eren Muti and a goal from Airon Paul was enough to claim a point for Declan Murphy’s side. Wakering Sports were held 1 – 1 at Cupid’s by Epping Town, with Alfie Fossett scoring for Mitchell Gleeson’s side there and Old Chelmsfordians slipped up, as they were beaten 2 – 1 by improving Beacon Hill Rovers, with Charles Brewer and Jack Walker on target for Hill there.

Also, Corinthians got a vital win as they triumphed 6 – 2 at Herongate Athletic to go back up to fourth, just a point adrift of Toby in second.

EOFL Senior League Cup

Bishop’s Stortford Swifts 9 – 0 Snaresbrook | Silver Leys

Springfield 2 – 3 Basildon Town | Arun Park

EOFL Reserve Lge Cup

Epping Town Res 0 – 7 Wakering Sports Res | Epping UC Rugby Club

Galleywood Res 1 – 1 Leigh Ramblers Res (Galleywood won 5 – 4 on pens) | Slades Lane

EOFL Divisions Two & Three

Into the League action with the three games played in Division Two. With leaders ACD Utd not in action, Harold Hill got a fine 5 – 0 win over Rochford Town, with Peter Tyler and George Shelvey both scoring twice there. Manford Way also won 3 – 0 at home to Harold Wood Athletic Res, with David Alele, Dominic Esty-Wilkinson and substitute Samuel Oramadike all netted for Manford to take them up to fourth, above Old Southendian Res. Also, Shoebury Town won 2 – 1 at Rayleigh Town Res, with Tyler Boosey and Steven Valente scoring for Town. William Vile got Rayleigh’s reply but they are six points behind Shoebury in seventh.

In Division Three, Basildon Town Res extended their lead in fourth spot to ten points after a 3 – 0 victory over leaders Catholic Utd Res. Keith King scored twice for Town, with Sam Marsh also on target here. Utd lost their unbeaten league record which had held since August. Pitsea Athletic remain in fifth place after a 3 – 2 victory at Leigh Town Res. Sean Devlin, Jason Stanhope and Reece Stone were the goalscorers there for Pitsea. Lastly, Buckhurst Hill U23 also won 3 – 1 against Collier Row at Roding Lane.

EOFL Divisions Four & Five

In Division Four, Roydon once again got a good three points to remain second in the table, after a 3 – 0 victory against Canning Town Res. Nader Benzid, Connor Presland and Ross Bourke all netted for the hosts here. Old Chelmsfordians Res are still third after winning 2 – 0 at Leytonstone Utd, with Martin Mixture on target for the visitors at the Forest Row Centre. Southend Manor Development are now up to fourth spot after a fine 3 – 1 triumph at local rivals Wakering Sports A. Max Franzosi netted twice for the visitors, with Marly Gunn also scoring for Carlos Codinha’s team.

Elsewhere, Sungate Development got their first league win in several weeks with a 4 – 3 success at mid-table Ongar Town Res. Finally, leaders Chingford Athletic Res are four points clear at the top after a 3 – 1 win at Shenfield AFC Res at Warley Playing Fields. Luke Dimond got another two goals here to reach 33 league goals this term, which is some achievement. Billy Calder’s eighth goal of the campaign for Shenfield wasn’t enough to prevent defeat for them.

In Division Five, AS Rawreth Res got another important victory with a 2 – 1 success over Wakebury Res at the Warren. Substitute Justin Burrell got both goals for the hosts, with Ben Morley getting the reply for the Berries’ second-side. In the other game in the division, Old Barkabbeyans went up to seventh spot following a 2 – 1 win at top four side Pitsea Athletic Res. Jay Elliott and Tyler Turner both got on the scoresheet for the East London side. Replacement Vishnu Panikkar responded for Ath at the Basildon Sports Village.

End

S21-22 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League & Cups (Sat 22 Jan) [EOFL 21/22 24.1.22]

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

Hello all and welcome to my round-up of the action in the Essex Olympian League, on Saturday 22 January. This week, the league action was the mainstay, with several matches also taking place in Cup competitions, mainly the EOFL Senior League Cup which we round-up later in the article.

Essex Olympian League Round-up – Saturday 22 January

EOFL Premier Division

In the top-tier, Rayleigh Town sit second after a 3 – 0 success at Harold Wood Athletic. Harry Talbot, George Vile and substitute George Aston got the goals for Paul Higgins side, as they stayed a point clear of Ongar Town, who gained ground on leaders Basildon Town but winning 4 – 1 at Bas. Meanwhile, Catholic Utd strengthened their position in seventh following a 2 – 1 win at Galleywood. Aaron Baldwin’s brace secured the points for Simon Thomas’ side, outdoing the reply from Ben Smith for the hosts.

Elsewhere, Springfield got an excellent 5 – 2 triumph at home to Old Southendian. Replacement Garjay Thompson netted twice for Francesco Zabotti’s team, with Adam Cole, Ryan Kelland and Mohammed Raza also on target for the hosts as they went up to tenth. Finally, Sungate stay sixth after a 1 – 0 win over Bishop’s Stortford Swifts.

EOFL Divisions One, Two & Three

In Division One, the one League match what took place saw a big win for promotion-chasing Wakering Sports, who won 2 – 0 at Leigh Town. Ben Rowe and Joseph Burton got the goals for Mitchell Gleeson’s side at John Burrows Recreation Ground, which took Sports back up to second spot. Leigh remain eighth, four points clear of the bottom two.

In Division Two, in the two matches that were played, Manford Way got a 2 – 0 triumph at home to strugglers Hutton Res. Josh Sykes and Josh Owoaje both netted to send their side up to fourth. The other match saw a surprise 2 – 1 success for Rochford Town at Old Southendian Res. Substitutes Bobby Anderson and Max Harrington both scored for James Cooper’s team to lift them up to tenth. OS Ressies lost further ground on the top three and drop to fifth after this loss.

While in Division Three, Basildon Town Res are now ten points clear in fourth after a 2 – 1 win against Leigh Town Res. Rhys Willson grabbed both goals in this one for Bas as they got their ninth win this term. Also, Buckhurst Hill U23 got a big 5 – 3 victory at home to Toby Res at Roding Lane. Oliver Dingli’s double & Justin Clarke’s goal was not enough for the visitors as Hill U23’s ensemble cast of scorers were Joseph Strange, Jack Barnes, Philip Kumi, Ayomide Ademokun & replacement Harry Maslin to ensure their side went six points clear of the bottom two.

EOFL Senior League Cup

In the seven matches that were played in the EOFL Senior Cup, Hutton edged through to the next round on spot-kicks, following a goalless draw at Kelvedon Hatch. Matt Singh’s side won the resulting shoot-put 9 – 8 to progress. Also, Epping Town went through following a 3 – 0 triumph at Pitsea Athletic. Conor Corrigan netted twice, while Joe Rickett added the other goal for Town at the Basildon Sporting Village. Toby also won 2 – 1 at home to Shoebury Town, with Dean Maguchu and Jamie Simpkins on target for Mark Jones’ side. Bradley Samaroo got the goal for Town there.

Elsewhere, Chingford Athletic pulled off an excellent 3 – 2 success at Leigh Ramblers, with Eren Muti, Timothy Dennis and replacement Scout Bown netting for Declan Murphy’s side. The Rams responded through goals from Nathan Dewberry and Ryan Lowe but exited here. Roydon also got a 4 – 2 triumph over Hullbridge Sports Res, with a treble from substitute Mohamed Benzid being added to by fellow replacement Jack Bagley-Etheridge to outweigh strikes for Hullbridge by Michal Clark and Joseph Darby and get through to the next round.

Meanwhile, Corinthians also progressed with a 4 – 0 triumph against Shenfield AFC in Stambridge. Bailey Moss netted another treble, with Leo Clarke also finding the net for Chris Stoneham’s side. Canning Town also edged through after a 1 – 0 victory over Runwell Sports in Beckton.

EOFL Reserve League Cup – Shenfield AFC Res 0 – 2 Harold Wood Athletic Res

Essex Junior Cup Results

Burnham Ramblers Res 2 – 4 Catholic Utd Res | Leslie Field

Wakering Sports Res 1 – 2 Hashtag Utd Dev | Cupid’s (Pitch 1)

EOFL Divisions Four & Five Results

Div Four

Canning Town Res 0 – 0 Sungate Dev

Old Chelmsfordians Res 3 – 0 Springfield Res

Ongar Town Res 2 – 3 Galleywood Res

Wakering Sports A 3 – 4 Chingford Athletic Res

Div Five

Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res 0 – 3 Leigh Ramblers Res

Collier Row Res 3 – 0 Runwell Sports Res

Epping Town Res 1 – 2 AS Rawreth Res

Wakebury Res 1 – 2 Herongate Athletic Res

S21-22 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League & Cups (Sat 15 Jan) [EOFL 21/22 17.1.22]

Image from Basildon Town v Hutton in Essex Premier Cup [Image by Peter D]

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

Hello all and welcome to my round-up of the action in the Essex Olympian League, on Saturday 15 January. This week, the league action returned for the majority of teams, in addition to a smattering of matches in several Cup competitions. This week’s round-up includes a section on the Senior League Cup & EOFL Division Four. Main image supplied courtesy of Pete Dudley [Twitter: @ped1980]

Essex Olympian League Round-up – Saturday 15 January

EOFL Premier Division & Division One

In the top-tier, with most of the top seven sides in Cup action, Rayleigh Town went back up to third spot with a 2 – 1 success at home to Shenfield AFC. Liam Oliver’s strike and a spot-kick from Harry Talbot was enough to overpower Perry Robinson’s goal for AFC and get the points. Kelvedon Hatch narrowly defeated Springfield 1 – 0 at New Hall, with Chris Denham’s solitary strike enough to send Darren Hunt’s team up to fourth spot.

Also in the Premier Division, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts went up to eighth in the table with a 3 – 1 home win against strugglers Canning Town at Silver Leys. Lawrence Healey’s double and Sam Chaney’s 12th league goal this term was enough for Craig Glashan’s side here. In Division One, Runwell Sports increased their lead tat the top to six points with a 2 – 0 win at fellow top four side Toby. Oliver Quick and substitute Luca Frankis got the goals to give Rob Hodgson’s side their tenth win of the season.

Meanwhile, Corinthians rose to third spot after a hugely important 5 – 3 triumph at Epping Town. Bailey Moss netted four goals here to take his tally to 21 in the league this term, with Cameron Glover also finding the net. Snaresbrook gained ground on Epping in the bottom four after a 2 – 1 win at home to Herongate Athletic.

EOFL Senior League Cup

There was another six matches in the Senior Cup this week, with ACD Utd more than securing their spot in the next round with a 14 – 0 triumph over Rochford Town at Westlands. There were no less than three hat-tricks for the hosts, from Shaun Goddard, Warren Taylor and from substitute Jacob Dingli. Samuel Payne added a pair, with strikes by Charlie Munns, Shaun Farrow & an OG completing a crushing victory for Greg Knock’s side. Galleywood also progressed with a 4 – 2 success at local rivals Old Chelmsfordians, with the ensemble cast of Freddie Bartram, Thomas Watling, Ben Smith and replacement Matthew Buckingham all on target in a good win at Lawford Lane.

Elsewhere, Wakering Sports prevailed with a 3 – 1 win against Manford Way at Cupid’s. Joseph Barton and substitutes Alfie Fossett & Mohammed Sesay all netted for Mitchell Gleeson’s team, outweighing a strike in response for Manford by David Alele. Catholic Utd won the battle of the Premier Division sides at the Len Forge, as they narrowly defeated Ongar Town 3 – 2. The other two matches played went all the way to spot-kicks. First, Sungate edged an epic penalty shoot-out after they drew 3 – 3 with Old Southendian. The East London side won the shoot-out 13 – 12 to get through to the next stage. At John Burrows Recreation Ground, Leigh Town won the 12-yard contest 4 – 3 after a goalless draw with Harold Wood Athletic. And Chingford Athletic went through via a walkover as Beacon Hill Rovers were unable to contest their fixture.

Essex Premier Cup – Last 16

The last remaining match in the EPC Last 16 saw Basildon Town launch another stirring comeback to win 2 – 1 at home to Hutton at Basildon Sports Club. An OG gave Matt Singh’s side the advantage, though a brace from the ever goal-hungry player-boss Marcus Bowers meant that Town made the quarter-finals. If you’d like more on this match, Pete Dudley’s report is available here: http://pedroslocalfootiefix.blogspot.com/2022/01/basildon-town-2-hutton-1.html

EOFL Divisions Two & Three

Moving back into the League action in Division Two, Old Southendian Res moved up to fourth place with a 3 – 1 win over May & Baker A in the late kick-off at Garon Park. Thomas Margerison, Oliver Tatton-Bennett and Sean Simmonett all scored for Josh Bambury’s team here. Also, Shoebury Town got a 2 – 1 success at Harold Wood Athletic Res, with player-boss Garry Johnson and replacement Kyle McAlindon netting at the Robert Clack Sch 3G. This win keeps them in sixth spot.

In Division Three, Wakering Sports Res strengthened their hold on third place with a 5 – 1 triumph at Collier Row. Connor Fardyga got another double to reach 18 league goals this term, with David Watson reaching 15 league goals thanks to a brace as well, with substitute Eben Rowledge also notching. Leigh Town Res also got a 5 – 1 win away from home, as they defeated Corinthians Res at Stambridge. Lewis Brooks, Zack Walker, Chris Pope, Jack Pearman & replacement Callum Stone all scored for Josh Burrage’s new side.

Elsewhere, Hashtag Utd Development remain four points clear in second spot as they won 1 – 0 at improving Buckhurst Hill U23, with Shaun Warren getting the only goal in that game. Finally, Catholic Utd Res retained their three point lead at the summit as they won 7 – 2 against Pitsea Athletic at Basildon Sports Village.

EOFL Reserve League Cup Results

Herongate Athletic Res 2 – 2 Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res | Billericay Road (Swifts won 4 – 2 on penalty kicks)

Hutton Res 1 – 3 Rayleigh Town Res | Polo Fields

EOFL Divisions Four & Five

In Division Four, Galleywood Res got a fine 4 – 0 victory over Leytonstone Utd at Slades Lane. Replacement Oliver Sadler netted twice for the hosts here, with Bradley Taylor and Clarke Green also adding a goal each. Roydon were held 1 – 1 at home to Old Chelmsfordians Res, with Connor Riddoch once again on the score-sheet for Roydon. And Wakering Sports A came away with a big 6 – 1 triumph over strugglers Canning Town Res, who now haven’t won since the opening match of the campaign. Lewis Brooks fired in a treble here for the Sports development side, with Harry Groves, Danny Pallett and Adam Smith also scoring.

Division Five Results

Collier Row Res 4 – 3 Pitsea Athletic Res | Forest Row Centre (Pitch 2)

Leigh Ramblers Res H – W Epping Town Res | Home Walkover

Runwell Sports Res 3 – 1 Old Barkabbeyans | St Luke’s Park

End

S21-22 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League & Cups (Sat 8 Jan) [EOFL 21/22 10.1.22]

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

Hello all and welcome to my round-up of the action in the Essex Olympian League, on Saturday 8 January. This week, the league action was rather gazumped by a huge number of Cup matches, in no less than three Cup competitions, two of them being EOFL competitions – we’ll have round-ups of those. The League action centres on the two matches that were played in the Premier Division. Happy New Year to all the readers of this column, thank you for your support.

Essex Olympian League Round-up – Saturday 27 November

EOFL Premier Division

In the top-tier, Springfield continued their quest to get themselves out of the danger zone, as they won 4 – 1 at bottom side Canning Town. Adam Cole netted twice, with Jack Gibbons and Jack French also on target for Francesco Zabotti’s side here. In the other match, Shenfield AFC held Kelvedon Hatch to a 3 – 3 draw at St Martin’s Sch 3G. Joseph Newson, Lewis Young and Wayne Semanshia all scored for Darren Hunt’s side but the point means they are in fifth spot, behind Rayleigh Town on goal difference.

Before we move on to the Cup action, here’s a quick reminder of the top of the table ahead of the second half of the season. Basildon Town lead the standings with 38 points from their 15 matches, four points clear of Hutton who continue to prosper under Matt Singh & his staff. Ongar Town are also well placed in third, with 31 points from 15 matches. It is sure to be a dramatic end to the campaign.

EOFL Senior League Cup

Moving into the five matches played in the EOFL Senior League Cup, and Toby progressed with an impressive 7 – 1 success at Leytonstone Utd in their game which was moved to Robert Clack Sch 3G. Albert Perry continued his fabulous goal-scoring campaign with four goals here, with Jake Jones, Jamie Simpkins and Marc Porter-Brown on target for Mark Jones’ side here. Shoebury Town also made it into the next round after a 5 – 3 victory against high-scoring Old Barkabbeyans at Cupid’s. Player-boss Garry Johnson and Steven Sharpe netted twice for the hosts, with Oliver Jenkins getting the other goal. Josh Robinson responded for Barkabbeayans with a fine treble but they exited here. Runwell Sports also went through with a 2 – 0 win against Collier Row at St Luke’s Park. Charlie Little and Isaac Pascal got the goals for Rob Hodgson’s team there.

Meanwhile, Corinthians progressed with a 5 – 0 victory over Wakebury at Stambridge Memorial Ground. Bailey Moss netted another two goals, with Leo Clarke, Cameron Glover and Connor Summerhill adding to the visitors’ pain as they can now focus on the League. Finally, Herongate Athletic got a fine 4 – 1 win over Southend Manor Development at Billericay Road. Benjamin Clarke netted a great treble, with Carey Wallace adding the other strike for Kurt Smith’s new side.

Essex Premier Cup – Last 16

The EPC reached the last 16 stage and the story goes on for Clapton CFC as they defeated Leigh Ramblers 4 – 2 at Wadham Lodge 3G. Josh Adejokun, Jake Stevens, Julian Austin and Noah Adejokun all scored for the hosts as the Middlesex County League Premier Division side knocked out the EOFL Premier side, and also can say they’ve knocked out both Leigh-on-Sea clubs in this competition this term, having beaten Leigh Town in a previous round. Catholic Utd will play in the Quarter-Finals though after a 5 – 3 success at Essex & Suffolk Border League Premier side Colne Athletic. James Warder scored a brace here, supplanted by strikes from Aaron Baldwin, Alfie Whiteaker and Jay Nash as Simon Thomas’ team took a fine win.

In other action, Manford Way edged to a 2 – 1 win over Chingford Athletic, with James Dobson and David Hornsby scoring for Manford. Old Southendian exited the competition as they lost 3 – 1 to the Border League Premier leaders Stanway Pegasus and Sungate got a 5 – 1 win over Harold Hill at Ilford Wanderers RFC.

EOFL Reserve League Cup

Finally this week, in the Reserve Cup there were goals aplenty. Collier Row Res got a fine 5 – 1 victory at Canning Town Res with Raheem Bravo and Anton Ostrii both notching twice here, with Jordan Adesanya also netting for the Row second side. Toby Res had a superb five-goal haul from Ollie Dingli to thank for a 5 – 0 home win over Corinthians Res at Ford’s Newbury Park. Hashtag Utd Development got one over on their divisional rivals as they defeated Catholic Utd Res 6 – 1 at Barleylands. Jay Knight and Matthew Gauci both scored twice for Denis Simpson’s team. That was allied with goals for Kai Warren and Samuel Pratt and the solitary reply for Utd came from Thomas Elliott.

Elsewhere, PItsea Athletic Res went through to the next round with a 4 – 1 win at AS Rawreth Res, thanks to trikes by Rinor Zeqiri, Vishnu Panikkar, Joe Shulver and replacement Sean Devlin. Old Southendian Res joined them with a 4 – 2 win at local rivals Leigh Town Res. Jack Cripps, Thomas Magerison, Daniel Frimley and Sean Simmonett netted for Josh Bambury’s side, outweighing goals in reply by Chris Pope and Danial Roberts for Town. Wakering Sports A safely negotiated a tricky match at Hackney Marshes with a 4 – 3 win at Snaresbrook Res. Tom Vine struck a fine treble, with Chay Saggers also scoring for Sports’ third-team. Also, Springfield Res went through after a 2 – 1 win over Basildon Town Res. Rhys Willson netted for Town but goals from Harrison Elles and substitute Owen Stewart saw the hosts make the next round.

In other action, Buckhurst Hill U23 continue to impress under boss Darren Gosnell as they won 5 – 2 at Ongar Town Res in Chelmsford. Chingford Athletic Res went through 5 – 3 on spot-kicks after a 1 – 1 draw with May & Baker A at Town Mead.