Round-up: Essex Senior League (Sat 23 Mar) [ESL 24.3.19]

Written by Scott W  [Twitter: @ScottMHC14]

Hello and welcome to this week’s Essex Senior League round-up with one match on Friday night and a Saturday of surprises in some quarters. Thanks for reading.

Fri 22 Mar

Woodford Town  0 – 2   Hullbridge Sports  | Harlow Arena | Att: 125

The action got underway with Hullbridge recorded a very respectable win at Woodford. Goals from recent signings Yemi Adelani [41’] and substitute Tim Monsheju five minutes from time saw off some nervy moments for interim boss James Wakeling though it’s all about those treasured three points to stay second. Woodford’s first loss in four saw them stay sixth.

 

Sat 23 Mar

Barkingside   2 – 3   Saffron Walden Town    |  Cricklefield  | Att:  48

‘Side managed to give Walden a tough afternoon before eventually suffering a morale-draining loss at Cricklefield. All the goal action happened after the break, with ex-‘Side forward Charlie Portway breaking the deadlock on 58 minutes. Another former ‘Side star in Lewis Francis made it two for Walden on the hour mark. The script was torn up though minutes later as Dan Jones got a quick-fire double, firstly from the penalty spot on 64 minutes and then again merely two minutes afterward. Portway has a stirring knack of getting important goals and he broke the hosts’ hearts with the winner with twenty minutes remaining.

This Result leaves ‘Side mired in trouble while Walden move to within five points of leaders Stansted and their promotion hopes a little renewed.

Enfield       1 – 0     Stansted     | Harlow Arena  | Att: 90

The twists & turns of the title race continued to beat as Enfield battled hard to claim a surprise win over in-form Stansted. Ex-Hullbridge forward Jimmy Cox did his old club a favour here by getting the only goal here on 49 minutes and gave his current side a much-needed win to send them up to 11th in the standings. Stansted’s first defeat in five saw their lead cut to a single point.

Southend Manor   2 – 0  Sawbridgeworth Town  | Southchurch Park | Att: 65

Manor continued their decent recent form by handing Sawbo another defeat at Southchurch Park. Michael Ogboin kept up his recent goal-scoring run with the opening goal with 57 minutes on the watch. Harry Rogers sealed the points with 12 minutes remaining as Manor got their third win in their last four to pass Tower Hamlets and rise to 17th. Sawbridgeworth’s struggles go on and they are one place and three points better off now than their opponents here.

St Margaretsbury   0 – 1   Hoddesdon Town   | The Rec  | Att: 79

A new era began at St Margs in this local derby with Hoddesdon. The Lilywhites got the win thanks to a Joss Lillis goal midway through the second half, which kept Simon Riddle’s side in 9th place. ’Bury saw a number of players depart this week, following Messrs Mitchell and Faulkner to Hertford Town, including skipper Charncey Dash and winger Connor Scully so a period of transition may follow.

Stanway Rovers    1 – 0    Leyton Athletic   | Hawthorns  | Att: 51

Stanway got a narrow though nonetheless important win over Leyton at the Hawthorns. Scott Kemp gave Terry Spillane’s side a great start with the only goal after ten minutes. Rovers held on to claim their first league win in five matches to rise to 14th. Leyton may see this as an opportunity missed and remain second-bottom, only a point clear of Barkingside in the relegation dogfight.

Takeley  2 – 0  Tower Hamlets    | Station Road  | Att: 72

Takeley all but secured fifth spot with this win over Hamlets at Station Road. Michael La Ronda opened the scoring on the quarter-hour and that lead persisted until half-time. Hamlets are a stronger side defensively these days and it took a Nicky Barrett spot-kick seven minutes after the restart to eventually claim the points and their 20th win this season. Hamlets’ campaign is rather stagnating with one win in their last six games now, falling to third-bottom though with healthy cushion of 12 points on Leyton.

Walthamstow     1 – 0    Clapton     | Wadham Lodge  | Att: 88

‘Stow keep churning out the wins of late and they did so again here with this important, if uninspiring win over the Tons. New signing Kieran Bishop ingratiated himself to the ‘Waltham Rabble’ with the only goal on 22 minutes. Ryan Maxwell’s side retained their recent defensive prowess to a sixth straight win and stay 4th, seven points adrift of the leaders with a game in hand.  Clapton’s second loss in their last five sees them drop to 12th though have at least one match in hand on their rivals in a congested mid-table.

West Essex    2 – 0     Redbridge     | Mayesbrook Park  | Att: 43

I attended this match as West defeated Redbridge. My report is here: survivor16b.wordpress.com/2019/03/23/match-report-west-essex-2-0-redbridge-sat-23-mar-esl/

 

Also, in the Peter Butcher Trophy, Barkingside Reserves defeated Ilford 3 – 1 on penalties (after it finished 1 – 1 after 90 minutes) to advance to the semi-finals. Well done to them.

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Match Report: Redbridge 2 – 2 Enfield (Tues 19 Feb) [ESL 20.2.19]

Essex Senior League

Venue: Oakside

Attendance: TBC

2018-19 Season – Match 51

Tuesday 19th February 2019  – 7.45pm KO

Redbridge: Blue Shirts, Blue Shorts, Blue Socks

Enfield: Green Shirts, Green Shorts, Green Socks

 

Redbridge club crest

Enfield logo

Enfield deny Redbridge a morale-boosting win with dramatic leveller at Oakside

Report by Scott W (Twitter: @ScottMHC14) with photo by Peter D (Twitter: @ped1980)

The middle of the midweek action saw us travel to Oakside for another fascinating battle between two sides who have shown ‘shoots of recovery’ recently in Redbridge and Enfield. The hosts have made a number of new signings of late and fielded Michael Gooch between the sticks with winger Kai Heather and Paul Peston supporting a front two of Daniel Gilchrist and Taylor Tombides, with experienced pair Connor Okus and Petrit Elbi on the bench. Enfield also named a strong side with Joe Johnson, Stephen Ellery and skipper Ben Bradbury in midfield with support forward Ernold Haxhiu and Jimmy Cox in attack.

The match certain began as it meant to go on with both sides dukeing it out in an open, attacking way with winger Kai Heather and proflic forward Daniel Gilchrist both having early sighters of goal that failed to duly stress E’s custodian Jamie Merralls. Enfield’s defence has shown a renewed sense of determination of late as this was centre-back Jacob Dixon was in the right place at the right time to deny Gilchrist’s ball that was heading for the back stick. Enfield did have the odd foray forward and most of it was set up through creative midfielder Ben Bradbury though the home defence was certainly alert to the danger. Forward Jimmy Cox and midfielder Stephen Ellery had efforts which kept home stopper Michael Gooch honest though lacked power.

Redbridge responded in the last ten minutes or so of the half as a super deep cross in from full-back Jon Watson was well punched out by Merralls before fellow full-back Billy Willis inadvertently denied his side the opener as he got the final touch, tapping home whilst in an off-side position. As is so often the case, that moment was a flash point as with five minutes to go until the break, Ernold Haxhiu had the freedom of the penalty area to round Gooch twice before unselfishly finding Cox who blasted home from close range. The hosts hit back at the other end though Gilchrist fired over before Heather’s free-kick was parried well by Merralls and centre-back Joe Maskell then blazed over.

Half-Time: Redbridge  0 – 1  Enfield

Midfield battle… (Image: Peter D)

Moments after the re-start, hesitant defending from the hosts nearly resulted in an OG. As it happened, the Motormen levelled two minutes into the half as Tombides’ well-directed header across into the far corner evaded Merralls’ grasp. Near the hour mark, a surging run by Tombides ended by neatly playing in strike partner Gilchrist though Merralls again did well to deny the former May & Baker man. Moments later, substitute Mark Frostick fired over the woodwork from a Bradbury corner and it was the visitors turn to suffer the consequences. With 63 minutes on the watch, Gilchrist cooly slotted low into the corner of the net to give Micky Wetherall’s men the impetus they so wanted.

The hosts piled forward seeking to ‘create daylight’ and secure the points though a combination of resolute defending and wasteful finishing meant they didn’t get the resounding lead they could’ve had at that point. E’s centre-back Lleweyn-Reid made two vital interceptions as well as substitutes Petrit Elbi and Connor Okus and Gilchrist all having chances but failed to beat Merrells, who had a good evening in the Es goal. With minutes to go of normal time, the visitors roared back as the home nerves intensified. Full-back Josh Flynn’s clever cut-back found substitute Akwasi Marfo who fired over.

That was a signal of the drama to follow as substitute Jordan William’s low strike found the corner to break the Motormen’s resolve in added-time. Due to players of both sides suffering knocks earlier, the added-time was substantial and both sides had chances to win it. Heather blazed wide when well-placed for the home side before William headed a good opening wide with almost the last action of the game.

All in all, it was a cracker of a match for the neutral (as to report on) though it was almost one of those games that will provoke diverse opinion. Redbridge certainly had enough chances to score at least four or five here though you know the adage about “If you don’t take your chances…..” and Enfield may have had a degree of fortune in that sense though in another they still contributed to a end-to-end battle as they were lively at times on the counter.

As far as ‘stand-outs’ go, in my view at least – the front two of Tombides and Gilchrist were a handful for the Motormen with tricky winger Kai Heather and playmaker Liam Burgess also showing how important they could be in their side’s progression in the coming months. For the E’s, centre-back Komal Lleweyn-Reid had a strong game with Ben Bradbury and ‘keeper Jamie Merrells also having a good influence on the game with their respective performances.

Finally, I’d like to say thank you to Redbridge for their hospitality and wish both sides well for the remainder of the season. Also, we have post-match Interviews with both managers on this week’s Grassroots Football Show on Thurs night. This match was yet another example (as if one were needed) that the division is getting tougher….

Full-Time: Redbridge 2 – 2 Enfield

Teams

Redbridge   | Manager: Micky Weatherall

Michael Gooch (GK), Jon Watson, Billy Willis, Joe Maskell, Dean Hall, Daniel Smith, Kai Heather, Liam Burgess (Capt), Daniel Gilchrist, Taylor Tombides, Paul Preston

Goal-scorers: Taylor Tombides [47′], Daniel Gilchrist [63′]

Booked: Willis, Okus | Subs Not Used: Miller, Asare

Enfield  | Manager: Matt Hanning

Jamie Merralls (GK), Josh Flynn, Tyler Fowles, Jacob Dixon, Komal Llewelyn-Reid, Joe Johnson, Amin Benyoucef (Akwasi Marfo 65′), Stephen Ellery, Jimmy Cox (Jordan William 76′), Ernold Haxhiu (Mark Frostick 56′), Ben Bradbury (Capt)

Goal-scorers: Jimmy Cox [40′], Jordan William [90′ +3]

Booked: Haxhiu, Dixon, William, Llewelyn-Reid  | Subs Not Used: Gormley, Thoma

Round-up: Essex Senior League & Cups (GBT & ECC) [ESL 17.2.19]

Written by Scott W (Twitter: @ScottMHC14)

Hello and welcome to my regular round-up of Essex Senior League (ESL) action. This week we saw a mixture of League & Cup action though we did see plenty of goals.

 

Friday 15th February

ESL

 

Tower Hamlets  2 – 1 Ilford   | Mile End Stadium  | Att: 29

The League action got underway on Friday night with Hamlets coming from behind to beat unpredictable Ilford at Mile End. Callum Maltese had put the Foxes ahead, though strikes from Flavio Jumo and Wale Odedoyin turned the game around and sent Hamlets to consecutive league wins to pull further away from the bottom three. Ilf’s third loss in their last seven sees them remain in 11th on goal difference as one of four sides on 35 points after the Saturday action.

 

Errington Challenge Cup – Quarter-Final

 

Barkingside  0 – 4  Saffron Walden Town | Cricklefield  | Att: 115

I attended this match, here is my report: survivor16b.wordpress.com/2019/02/16/match-report-barkingside-0-4-saffron-walden-town-fri-15-feb-ecc/ 

 

Saturday 16th February

ESL

 

Enfield  3 – 1 Southend Manor   | Harlow Arena  | Att: 58

An extraordinary game ended up with compounding both the E’s good week and Manor’s current predicament. The E’s took the lead after six minutes through skipper Ben Bradbury. Ernold Haxhiu [49’] made it 2 – 0 to Matt Hanning’s men. The hosts would have feared the worst after being reduced to nine men as Luke Thomas and centre-back Jacob Dixon were both dismissed. Manor couldn’t take full advantage of the situation despite Grant Francis pulling one back for Adam Peek’s side on 69 minutes. Jimmy Cox restored the E’s two-goal cushion though five minutes later and they held firm to extend their unbeaten run to three matches and rise to 13th. Manor’s winless stretch continues as they remain in 18th, six points clear of Barkingside.

 

Leyton Athletic  2 – 6  Sporting Bengal Utd  | Wadham Lodge Stadium |

Sporting laid siege to the Leyton goal with this big win at Wadham Lodge. Curtley MacIntosh became the first Bengal player to score four goals in a ESL match, backed up by a brace by Reside Coxi-Sebastfao to send Sporting back up to 7th spot. Stanley Green and Okwute Izuchukwu got the Ath strikes though it was fairly scant consolation. Leyton remain in prime danger at the foot of the table though what could also be important is they now have the worst goal difference in the division with -40.

 

Errington Challenge Cup – Quarter-Final

Hoddesdon Town  2 – 4  Clapton  | Lowfield  | Att: 84

The Tons came back from an early setback to record a fine win at Lowfield. Connor Bolton opened the hosts’ account after two minutes and that lead did hold until the break. After the interval was an entirely different story as three goals in 15 minutes changed the course of the tie. Jacob Kromann’s brace [pen 46’ & 49’] and Bryan Kyungu’s strike on the hour brought that about before Oliver Gnandi brought the home side back into contention at 3 – 2 with 18 minutes left. Clapton roared back and rounded out the scoring through Giovanni Palmer on 75 minutes. Jon Fowell’s side take their place in the last four of the Errington Cup.

 

Gordon Brasted Memorial Trophy: Semi-Finals

Stansted  1 – 0  Walthamstow  | Hargrave Park  | Att: 88

The Airportmen got some measure of payback for their league loss last weekend by edging to the win over Walthamstow to make the Final of the Gordon Brasted Trophy. Callum Ibe got the only goal on 32 minutes and that ended up being enough to defeat a stubborn yet depleted ‘Stow side who could only name a solitary substitute on the bench.

 

Stanway Rovers  0 – 4  St Margaretsbury  | Hawthorns  |

St Margs stormed to a memorable victory to also take their place in the Gordon Brasted Trophy Final on Easter Monday when they face Stansted. Charncey Dash’s double further endorsed his stand-out campaign to keep tabs on the leading goal-scorers in all competitions. Phil Lowen and the in-form Connor Scully added further gloss to the score-line. Stanway fell to only their second loss in their last five in all competitions.

Round-up: Essex Senior League (Sat 9 Feb) [10.2.19]

Written by Scott W  (Twitter: @ScottMHC14)

Hello & welcome to my round-up of Essex Senior League action this weekend as six matches evaded the worst of the weather and we had some ‘upsets’ this weekend to say the least. Thanks for reading.

 

Saturday 9th February

Ilford  3 – 2  Sawbridgeworth Town   | Cricklefield  | Att: 55

Ilford edged this battle at Cricklefield. Sawbo took the lead though in this one after only two minutes thanks to the prolific Joe Wright. The Foxes only took six minutes to equalise as their own marksman Yemi Adelani struck. Lamarr Douglas gave Martin Haywood’s side the lead on 25 minutes. While that lead held until half-time, Sawbridgeworth levelled through Ollie Fortune on the hour mark.

The topsy-turvy nature of the game continued though Adelani grabbed his second of the afternoon [64’] as Sawbo continue their struggles defensively this term. Foxes ‘keeper Hugo Rossetti saved a late penalty to deny John Watters’ side a point. Ilford’s third win in their last four matches sees them up to 11th spot, above Sawbo on goal difference. Town drop to 13th after their fourth loss in their last six.

 

Southend Manor  0 – 3  Stanway Rovers   | Southchurch Park  | Att: 71

Fortune wasn’t smiling Manor’s way as after a decent showing in the opening 45, Stanway’s goal-blitz after the hour ensured they left with Southchurch Park with the points. Jay Nash broke the deadlock on 61 minutes, before further strikes by Scott Kemp ten minutes later and Fionn O’Reilly [82’] ended a good afternoon’s work for Terry Spillane’s side. Stanway’s fourth success in their last six sees them leap up to tenth place in the standings. Manor’s winless run extends to 11 matches now as they drop to third-bottom, six points clear of the bottom two.

 

 

Sporting Bengal Utd  2 – 4  Tower Hamlets| Mile End ‘derby’

These two rivals ‘locked horns’ again and Hamlets emerged with a fine victory to finally end a ten-match winless run. Club stalwarts Wale Odedoyin and Luke With starred here as Odedoyin got a brace while With added a penalty and Flavio Jumo added the other strike. Bengal couldn’t deal with the enterprising play of AJ Ashinike’s side though Charles Gregory’s penalty at the start of the 2nd half and a late Kamarl Duncan header gave them something to shout about.

Hamlets were ‘more than chuffed’ with this win as they showed post-match. Anyway, Hamlets rise to 17th after a vital win while Bengal stay 7th though only sit above St Margaretsbury on goal difference.

 

St Margaretsbury  3  – 1 Leyton Athletic    | The Rec | Att: 34

St Margs swept aside Leyton at the Rec to claim another three points. Dag & Red loanee Lanre Balogun got the opener for player-boss Max Mitchell’s side and Luke Marshall and Connor Scully got the other goals to outweigh Okwute Izuchukwu’s goal for Leyton who fell to their third straight defeat. The Bury’s fourth win in their last six sees them remain 8th, four points clear of Hoddesdon just below them.

 

Takeley  0 – 1  Enfield  | Station Road | Att: 81

I attended this match, here’s my report: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2019/02/09/match-report-takeley-0-1-enfield-sat-9-feb-esl/

 

Walthamstow  1 – 0  Stansted   |Wadham Lodge Stadium| Att: 73

‘Stow defied the odds to secure to a vital victory to keep their fledgling title hopes alive. Despite seeing Leon McKenzie dismissed early on for severe dissent, Ryan Maxwell’s team kept the free-scoring Airportmen at bay in a tight encounter before Marcus Bowers got the only goal seven minutes from time. Their fifth win in their last seven sees them remain 5th but they have cut the gap to Takeley in 4th to eight points. Stansted’s 15-match league unbeaten run ended here though they remain top, four points clear of Hullbridge although the latter have two matches in hand on the leaders.

 

Games OFF due to adverse weather this weekend:

Clapton  P – P Woodford Town | Hullbridge P – P Saffron Walden Town
Redbridge  P – P Hoddesdon Town  | West Essex P – P Barkingside

 

Thank you for reading, we’ll be back next week.

Match Report: Takeley 0 – 1 Enfield (Sat 9 Feb) [ESL 9.2.19]

Essex Senior League

Venue: Station Road

Attendance:  81

2018-19 Season – Match 46

Saturday 9th February 2019  – 3pm KO

Takeley: Blue Shirts, Blue Shorts, Blue Socks

Enfield: Green Shirts, Green Shorts, Green Socks

Takeley emblem

Enfield logo

Inspired Enfield battle to victory over Takeley at Station Road

Report & Photos by Scott W (Twitter: @ScottMHC14)

This weekend’s Essex Senior League action took us to Station Road to see promotion-chasing Takeley take on Enfield, who were looking nervously over their shoulders at the bottom four, after a poor run. Marc Das’ side were missing the likes of George Wappett and Will Green though did field Andre Humphrey at left-back, skipper Matt Hurley and George Powell in central defence, with forward Mosepe Oguntuga being supported by Jason Todd and Coby Miles in attack.

Enfield rung the changes somewhat themselves with Tyler Fowles joining Jacob Dixon in the heart of the defence as well as Joe Johnson and Nathan Cook in central midfield. Jimmy Cox, signed from Hullbridge this week, was supported by Ernold Haxhiu in their froward line.

The E’s started the match a little nervily as an errant back-header presented the hosts with an early corner, though midfielder Alex Martin’s delivery narrowly evaded his team-mates in the area. Matt Hanning’s side responded in kind on four minutes as creative midfielder Ben Bradbury’s cross found midfielder Nathan Cook in space, thoug after a turn his effort on goal lacked the power needed to beat home custodian Ronnie Yates, who gathered comfortably. Both sides traded half-chances in the early stages of the game though the visitors suffered a blow as recent signing & goalkeeper Lewis Hawley had to be assisted off the field after only 13 minutes, due to a quad injury. We wish him well in his recovery.

The visitors gradually pushed their way into proceedings in the mid-way point of the half. Stephen Ellery’s free-kick was met by centre-back Tyler Fowles’ header, which Yates punched half-clear before the rebound was fired over the woodwork. Yates was called into action again soon after as after a good passing move, Ellery’s right-wing cross found forward Jimmy Cox, whose looping header was denied by the ever-dependable Takeley ‘stopper. Attacking midfielder Ernold Haxhiu’s fierce drive stung the fingers of Yates before it dribbled out of play with five minutes left before the break.

The home side nearly profited from hesitant defending at the end of the first-half as Coby Miles’ sweet ball in from the left caused indecision from both the defence and substitute ‘keeper Jayden Hocking-Rising before it was cleared. All in all though, the home side didn’t quite ‘find their feet’ in the first half and some of that was due to the unrelenting nature of the Enfield midfield.

Half-Time: Takeley  0 – 0 Enfield

 

The decisive goal came four minutes into the second-half as a good ball into the area found Cook, who flicked it on to debutant Cox,  who lashed home past Yates from about eight yards out. The visitors had another half-chance just past the hour as another Ellery free-kick honed in on the six-yard line was met by Bradbury’s header which forced another good save by Yates.

To be fair to Takeley, they did ‘move up the gears’ with regards to tempo in the last twenty minutes or so, as substitute Ben Smith’s strike hit a post, in a move involving fellow substitute Mitchell Das. The E’s responded again though as another Ellery set-piece from 20 yards out was well-tipped over by Yates. Marc Das’ side poured forward in the latter stages of the match as their approach play was decent though they got very little change out of a energised Enfield defence, who continued to close them down effectively.

All in all, the effort in that latter part of the game from the hosts came to nothing, who will be disappointed by the intensity of their performance here I suspect. They will have better days though take nothing away from Enfield, who really put in a resolute display and deserved the victory. Led by the hard-working midfield of Nathan Cook (whose work rate was outstanding) and Joe Johnson, the E’s defence were in no mood to concede sloppy goals here. Ernold Haxhiu also had a good game, as did fellow midfielders Stephen Ellery and skipper Ben Bradbury.

For Takeley, goalkeeper Ronnie Yates shone again to keep them in the match, while midfield anchor Alex Martin put in a good shift as well.

Full-Time: Takeley  0 – 1  Enfield

Takeley   | Manager: Marc Das

Ronnie Yates (GK), Mike La Ronda, Andre Humphrey, Alex Martin (Nick Barrett 71′), Matt Hurley (Capt), George Powell, Bryn Thorpe, Freddie Burrell (Ben Smith 61′), Mosepe Oguntuga  (Mitchell Das 53′), Jason Todd, Coby Miles

Booked: Powell, Smith  | Subs Not Used: J Pullen, G Pullen

 

Enfield  | Manager: Matt Hanning

Lewis Hawley (GK) (Jayden Hocking-Rising (GK) 13′), Luke Thomas, Kevin Bondjanga (Komal Llewelyn-Reid 71′), Joe Johnson, Tyler Fowles, Jacob Dixon, Stephen Ellery, Nathan Cook, Jimmy Cox (Michael Odoku 60′), Ernold Haxhiu, Ben Bradbury (Capt)

Goal-scorer: Jimmy Cox [49′]

Booked: Odoku   | Subs Not Used: Benjoucef, Thoma

Match Report: West Essex 5 – 2 Enfield (Sat 26 Jan) [ESL 27.1.19]

Essex Senior League

Venue: Mayesbrook Park

Attendance: 36

2018-19 Season – Match 44

Saturday 26th January 2019  – 3pm KO

W Essex: Yellow & Black Shirts, Black Shorts, Yellow Socks

Enfield: Green Shirts, Green Shorts, Green Socks

 

 

 

West Essex crest

Enfield logo

 

 

 

West’s five-star showing overwhelms Enfield

 

Report & Photos by Scott W (Twitter: @ScottMHC14)

 

I returned to ESL ‘duties’ this weekend with this intriguing tie between two attack-minded sides in West Essex and Enfield at Mayesbrook Park. Neither side had won in their last three matches so both needed points. The hosts were missing the injured Izzy Ogedi-Uzokwe and forward Cameron Gray though still named Michael Mignot and Hakim Medfai in attack with Tom Macleod returning as skipper. The E’s were also somewhat depleted though named goal-hungry Reece Barrett and Amin Benyoucef up front with Luke Thomas on the right flank.

Before the game, I had a feeling there would be goals in this one and that gut instinct bore fruit. The E’s started the game in a promising manner with full-back Josh Flynn and forward Reece Barrett giving the home defence a headache with their crossing and movement respectively. Fine margins did apply on seven minutes as creative midfielder Ben Bradbury was given space outside the box before crunching a 20-yard curling drive against a post with home stopper Jack Coker beaten. Minutes later, West midfielder Callum Bloss played in forward Michael Mignot, peeling away from the left flank though whilst one-on-one with Enfield ‘keeper Steven French, the ‘keeper did well to save with his feet.

On 13 minutes, Bloss was in the action again as he was adjudged to have been fouled in the area, with Joe Lefley converting the resultant spot-kick in the right corner. The visiting defence were not happy though four minutes later they really did make a mess of things as an under-hit back pass put French under pressure well ahead of his 18-yard box and he fumbled which lead to Mignot nipping in to rob him and gleefully passed into an empty net. Enfield responded strongly as Barrett had two chances but both went off-target. At the other end, Mignot’s pace was really troubling the visiting back-line and after French had denied him again after breaking through the back four, the talismanic forward had a hand in West’s third goal on 28 minutes.

Mignot did well to come off the left flank and with a low ball in, played in strike partner Hakim Medfai who ran on and drilled his strike past French into the far corner. Matt Hanning’s side did get a goal on the half-hour as they opened up the home defence to give Bradbury a tap-in from about six yards which to be fair their play deserved. West did look stubborn in defence in the main though with centre-backs Josh French and NIck Walk plus anchor midfielder Tom MacLeod powering away headers to clear their lines well. Six minutes before the break, the visitors pushed forward as Flynn played in winger Luke Thomas on the right though the latter’s drive sailed just wide of goal.

Half-Time: West Essex 3 – 1 Enfield

 

 

The second period began brightly for the hosts as on 50 minutes, as energetic midfielder Bloss played in a sublime weighted pass to play in Mignot who rounded substitute ‘keeper Jayden Hocking-Rising and slot home to make it 4 – 1. To their credit, Enfield continued to look handy in attack as around the hour mark, willing runner Amin Benyoucef blazed a half-chance wide plus Thomas and midfielder Ernold Haxhiou also slid efforts wide.

This in turn spurred the hosts who sensed they could further improve their goal difference. With 18 minutes remaining. substitute Symeon Taylor’s header was well-tipped over the bar by Hocking-Rising before Lefley’s effort hit a post. Moments later, Taylor sent another great ball in which fellow substitute Tom Woodbridge had a great chance though Hocking-Rising made another good save at full stretch to deny the hosts a fifth goal. Enfield did get a second with seven minutes to play as Haxhiou unleashed a powerful drive from 20-odd yards to beat Coker which gave them faint hope though that hope was extinguished in added-time as Taylor rifled home despite Hocking-Rising getting a hand on it. The E’s stopper had to be alert seconds later to deny Mignot a hat-trick though in the end there was no denying who deserved the points today.

The game also had a sour note to it in a sense as E’s substitute Jay Stavri was given a straight red for lashing out with a stray boot in the dying minutes.

Full-Time: West Essex 5 – 2 Enfield

 

All in all, this was a heck of a game and well-worth the trip, for the first-half alone. Undoubtedly, West boss Kwame Kwateng will be very happy with his side’s potency going forward as they did look sharp and could have easily got another two or three goals today. Add in the work rate to deny their opponents and they will consider it a job well done. Mignot and Bloss particularly stood out though the team performance was also strong from them here.

As for the E’s, like a few sides in the ESL this term, they are a contradiction (on this performance, anyway). They can certainly fashion chances well and be a threat with the quality they have, full-back Josh Flynn and forward Reece Barrett stood out for them today in my view, though you cannot ‘gift’ teams goals as they did here. Honestly, I sympathise with boss Hanning as I believe it is another indication of how the division (the ESL) is improving season-by-season and that hits teams hard at times.

Finally, I’d like to thank West Essex for the welcome they gave as usual and also I appreciate the hard work of both sides here in what was a pulsating match.

Check out my post-Match Interviews with both managers here (for WD Sportz & GFS): https://youtu.be/oAAhX4UFoek

 

Highlights of the match itself are here, courtesy of @Wdsportz

:  https://youtu.be/umP_7mOgZ1A

 

West Essex  | Manager: Kwame Kwateng

Jack Coker (GK), Emanuel Warzola, Sanchez Hardy, Nick Walk, Josh French (Symeon Taylor 57′), Tom MacLeod (Capt), Greg Frederick, Callum Bloss, Joe Lefley (Samraj Gill 80′), Michael Mignot, Hakim Medfai (Tom Woodbridge 70′)

Goal-scorers: Joe Lefley [pen 13′], Michael Miignot [17′ & 50′], Hakim Medfai [28′], Symeon Taylor [90′ 2]

Booked: Bloss  | Subs Not Used: Matthews

 

Enfield      | Manager: Matt Hanning

Steven French (GK) (Jayden Hocking-Rising (GK) 46′), Josh Flynn (Jay Stavri 64′), Kevin Bondjanga, Ernold Haxhiou, Chris Gormley, Jacob Dixon, Luke Thomas, Nathan Cook (Jordan William 64′), Amin Benyoucef, Reece Barrett, Ben Bradbury (Capt)

Goal-scorers: Ben Bradbury [30′], Ernold Haxhiou [83′]

Booked: Dixon  | Sent Off: Stavri  | Subs Not Used: Thoma

Round-up: Essex Senior League (Sat 12 Jan) [ESL 14.1.19]

Written by Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMHC14]

Hello and welcome to the returning ESL round-up of this week’s action. All 20 clubs were in action as there was movement in the table thanks to this weekend’s results. Thanks for reading.

Essex Senior League

Saturday 12th January 2019

Barkingside  2 – 2  Leyton Athletic   | Cricklefield | Att: 56

‘Side made a good comeback after a poor start to claim a point in this basement battle. Rujorn Tuitt put Leyton ahead on 20 minutes before Abdul Bangura [34’] struck. Joe Oates pulled one back just before the break for ‘Side and Harry Matthews’ goal [64′] ensured the home side are unbeaten in three games though they are still three points off their opponents here. Ath haven’t won in their last nine matches and are six points adrift of Hamlets and Manor above them.

Hoddesdon Town  1 – 3  Saffron Walden Town   | Lowfield | Att: 123

Walden showed their muscle again with a second-half flourish at Lowfield. Kane Lowe had put Hoddy ahead on 13 minutes though Lewis Francis levelled things up eight minutes into the second half. A quick-fire double by Charlie Portway [65′] and Matt Frew [69′] broke the hosts’ resistance as the Bloods won their third match in their last five to strengthen their position in 4th. Hoddesdon stay 9th.

Hulllbridge Sports 1 – 2  Redbridge  | Lower Road | Att: 47

The ‘Bridge boys six-match winning run as a revitalised Redbridge won at Lower Road. Two goals in just four minutes from ex-May & Baker pair Dan Gilchrist [29′] and Connor Okus [33’] put Micky Wetherall’s side in command. Although Adebola Sotoyinbo’s penalty six minutes before the break gave the hosts hope, the Motormen held on to end their own five-match losing run to rise to 16th. Hullbridge drop to 3rd though have three matches in hand on leaders Stansted.

Sawbridgeworth Town  2 – 1  Sporting Bengal Utd | Crofters End | Att: 29

Sawbo maintained their good home record with this win over Sporting at Crofters. Joe Wright continued his fine form this season with the opener after only two minutes. Charles Gregory’s spot-kick [20′] levelled matters for Bengal though they couldn’t get to half-time that way as Wright struck again ten minutes before said interval. John Watters’ men kept on top for the duration to claim their third win in their last five and stay 10th. Sporting are in 8th place.

Stansted  4 – 2   Clapton    |  Hargrave Park | Att: 62

The Airportmen won an extraordinary match over Clapton, though the penalty spot was crucial here. The Tons suffered a poor first half and were three goals down….all three coming from James Peagram’s boot and you guessed it… all three were penalties [17′, 19′ & 45′]. Jon Fowell’s side staged a mini-revival after the break as Giovanni Palmer struck on the hour mark before James Falaise added a second for the Tons three minutes. Peagram wasn’t done though as he got his and his side’s fourth on 64 minutes to seal their fourth win on-the-bounce. Paul Pittuck’s side still lead by three points at the summit. Clapton drop to 13th.

Stanway Rovers  1 – 2  Enfield   | the Hawthorns | Att: 68

Enfield had a brace of Reece Barrett penalties to thank for this success at the Hawthorns. Barrett broke the deadlock from the spot two minutes into the second half before Jay Nash levelled for Rovers on 63 minutes. Barrett’s sevond successful spot-kick [66′] was enough to give the E’s their third win in their last four matches to rise to 14th, just above Rovers on goal difference.

Takeley  2 – 2  Woodford Town   |  Station Road | Att: 74

Woodford denied Takeley the victory with a late leveller at Station Road. Ben Smith put the hoss ahead on 17 minutes though new signing Vlad Sighiartau restored parity for Town just past the hour mark. In a frenetic ending to the match, the returning hero Charlie Cole gave the hosts the lead with ten minutes left. Jayden Thompson-Brissett [88′] ensured Town left with a point though they haven’t won in four matches now. Takeley are unbeaten in three and sit 2nd, three points off leaders Stansted.

Tower Hamlets  1 – 2   St Margaretsbury    | Mile End Stadium | Att: 25

Hamlets fell to defeat at home once again as St Margaretsbury got their fourth straight win. Charncey Dash got on the scoresheet as well an OG that saw the visitors to the win. Ezekiel Kamara struck for Hamlets though they fell to their 3rd straight loss.

Walthamstow  1 – 2  Ilford    | Wadham Lodge | Att: 61

I attended this match, here’s my report: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2019/01/12/match-report-walthamstow-1-2-ilford-sat-12-jan-esl/

West Essex 1 – 1  Southend Manor   | Mayesbrook Park | Att: 28

West recovered to claim a point here. Yasseir Nazor put Manor ahead on 18 minutes as they edged the first half though the hosts’ levelled thanks to the returning Michael Mignot who struck on 67 minutes. The Stags haven’t won in four league games now, they sit 12th while Manor are in 17th.

Round-up: Essex Senior League (Sat 15 Dec) [ESL 16.12.18]

Written by Scott W  (Twitter: @ScottMHC14)

Hello and welcome to another of round-up articles, looking at this weekend’s weather-affected action in the Essex Senior League on Saturday 15th December.

Friday 14th December

Barkingside  P – P Walthamstow  (due to a frozen pitch)

Woodford Town  P – P  Southend Manor   (due to problems associated with the Harlow Arena)

 

Saturday 15th December

Clapton  P – P  Hullbridge Sports  (due to a unplayable surface)

 

Leyton Athletic   0 – 2  Hoddesdon Town | Kitchener Road  | Att: 12

Hoddy emerged with the points from this battle at Kichener Road. Jack Lee gave the visitors the lead after just five minutes and that lead doubled on 28 minutes as Oliver Gnandi struck to consign Ath to another defeat which keeps them second-bottom. Hoddesdon stay in 8th place.

 

Redbridge  1 – 2  Sporting Bengal Utd  | Oakside  |  Att: 32

I attended this match, and you can find my report here: survivor16b.wordpress.com/2018/12/15/match-report-redbridge-1-2-sporting-bengal-esl-15-12-18/

 

Saffron Walden Town  3 – 5  Stansted  | Catons Lane  | Att: 251

Stansted won a pulsating encounter at Catons Lane. The Airportmen hit the ground running quickly as early goals from Callum Ibe [8′] and the returning Connor Hammond [17′] put them in a decent position. The Bloods are known for their own goal-scoring talents and club stalwart Spike Bell pulled a goal back on 20 minutes before an OG on 35 minutes brought the scores level. Ibe got his second of the afternoon two minutes into the second half though that lead barely lasted ten minutes before Lewis Francis smashed home a penalty on 58 minutes. Paul Pittuck & Marc Benterman’s team had the final say though as strikes by Jack Mitchell [65′] and debutant James Peagram [86′] saw the visitors back to the ESL summit.

For more on this match, check out my Non-League colleague Pete Dudley’s report here: pedroslocalfootiefix.blogspot.com/2018/12/saffron-walden-town-3-stansted-5.html

 

Sawbridgeworth Town  2 – 0  Stanway Rovers  | Crofters | Att: 41

Sawbo struck early in each half to claim the points over a out-of-form Stanway outfit. Recent signing Julien Lloyd broke the deadlock on six minutes before Lewis Deamer [49′]  made it two on his return from a long injury lay-off. John Watters’ side kept going to continue their upturn in form which sees them up to ninth spot now. Stanway’s woes away from home continue as they stay 14th.

 

St Margaretsbury  1 – 2  Enfield  | The Recreation Ground  | Att: 27

Enfield produced a fine second-half comeback to overcome St Margs at the Rec. Charncey Dash got his name on the score-sheet again on eight minutes and you may have thought this would be another grey day for the E’s. Not so as bang on the hour mark, Dan Chambers levelled things before a rare strike by Matt Thoma with three minutes left sealed all three points and end their three-match winless run and rise three places to 15th. St Margs drop to 10th spot.

 

Tower Hamlets  A – A llford  | Mile End

The remorseless rain had an impact on this match as it was called off at half-time, with a new date to be determined.

 

West Essex  2 – 5  Takeley  |  Mayesbrook Park  | Att: 18

Finally for this weekend, Takeley powered past the Stags to win their 9th match in their last ten. The hosts initially took the lead as Izzy Ogedu-Uzokwe struck on ten minutes. This stirred the visitors up and they were level eight minutes later through Mosope Oguntuga and ended the half well ahead thanks to a brace from Jason Todd [25′ & 40′[ with a strike by Alex Martin sandwiched in between with 35 on the watch. Cameron Gray made it 2 – 4 with seven minutes remaining though Todd completed his hat-trick from the spot with two minutes left. Marc Das’ side are now only a point behind leaders Stansted in 3rd, behind Hullbridge on goal difference. West drop to 11th.

For more on this match, you can catch fellow Non-League writer Scott Lanza’s report here: essexseniorleague.co.uk/takeley-make-it-ten-unbeaten/

That’s all from me, for more on all things ESL, check out essexseniorleague.co.uk

Round-up: Essex Senior League (Fri 5th/Sat 6th Oct) [ESL 7.10.18]

Written by Scott W

Hello and welcome to another of my round-up pieces for the weekend’s Essex Senior League action. How did your side get on?

Friday 5th October

Woodford Town  2 – 0  Takeley  |  Harlow Arena | Att: 95

Woodford started the action this weekend with a good win over out-of-form Takeley at the Harlow Arena. Second-half strikes from Ellis Routledge [57′] and Dejuane Taylor-Crossdale [90’+3] saw Dee Safer’s side to their fifth win of the season and up to 4th place after Saturday’s action.

Saturday 6th October

Clapton   2 – 5   Stansted    | Old Spotted Dog | Att: 48

Strikes either side of the half-time interval assisted Stansted to a big win at the OSD. Jordan’s Palmer’s quick-fire double [40′ & 42′] before the break gave the Airportmen a healthy cushion before Palmer completed his treble three minutes after the break. Ollie Bell made it four on 67 minutes before Steven Sardinha [70′] reduced the arrears. Callum Ibe added to his goal tally for the season with 15 minuts left though Timi Abiola rounded out the scoring for the hosts a minute later.

Enfield 1893  3 – 1   Stanway Rovers   | Harlow Arena  | Att: 75

Enfield returned to winnings ways in the league here over Stanway. Jayden Hocking-Rising struck on 14 minutes to give Enfield the lead. Ayo Odukoya [32′] doubled that advantage before Toby Blanche halved the deficit for Rovers. Odukoya restored the E’s two-goal cushion though on 75 minutes to give Matt Hanning’s side a boost.

Ilford  0 – 1    Walthamstow    | Cricklefield  | Att: 75

‘Stow edged to a narrow win over the Foxes with former Ilford striker James Peagram almost inveitably scoring the only goal of the game just before half-time.The Foxes are now without a win in three games while ‘Stow are unbeaten in seven league matches now.

Leyton Athletic  5 – 0  Barkingside  | Kitchener Road  | Att: 20

Leyton produced an excellent display to only add to ‘Side’s pain and extend their winless record. Emmanuel Oluwole broke the deadlock five minutes before the break and the visitors went into the interval two down as only a minute later, Francesco Cicconi struck for Glen Kendall’s new side. Cicconi pretty much secured the points only four minutes into the second half before a brace from Dwade James [62′ & 90’] rounded out the scoring here to give Leyton only their second win of the season.

 

Redbridge  0 – 1  Hullbridge Sports  | Oakside  | Att: 55

Hullbridge maintained their unbeaten league record with another good win away from from home at Oakside. Nathan Scarborough got the only goal on 64 minutes to ensure the ‘curse’ of ESL Manager of the Month for September didn’t strike Sports boss Darren Manning. For the Motormen, this was their third straight home league defeat.

 

Saffron Walden Town  1 – 1  Hoddesdon Town  | Catons Lane  | Att: 175

The Bloods struck late to deny Hoddesdon a fine win at Catons Lane. Connor Bolton broke the deadlock on 55 minutes to put the visitors ahead. Though the Essex Senior League’s leading marksman Charlie Portway levelled three minutes from time to salvage a point for new boss Jason Maher.

 

Southend Manor   0 – 1   West Essex   | Southchurch Park  | Att: 40

I was at this match and my full report is here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2018/10/06/match-report-southend-manor-0-1-west-essex-esl-6-10-18/

 

Sporting Bengal Utd  5 – 2  Sawbridgeworth Town  | Mile End Stadium | Att: 27

Bengal powered to an impressive win over Sawbridgeworth at Mile End. Inside 25 minutes, the hosts were three goals to the good thanks to Charles Gregory [10′], Kamarl Duncan [15′] and the ever-prolific Jay Knight’s first of the afternoon on 23 minutes. Knight completed his hat-trick [44′ & 60′] either side of the interval though Danny Wickenden’s brace ensured the visitors had something to take from the game.

 

St Margaretsbury  6 – 0  Tower Hamlets    | The Recreation Ground  | Att: 11

St Margs powered to victory over Hamlets, who had another howler away from Mile End. The hosts only led by the odd goal at the break through Michael Morgan’s 36th-minute strike though it was a rather different tale after the break. Firstly, on the hour mark Luke Marshall netted before a 15-minute hat-trick by Charncey Dash [65′, 75′ & 80′] plus a late sixth by David Greene [81′] to seal the hosts first win in six matches.

That is all for this week. Thank you for reading.

Round-up: Essex Senior League (Fri 21st/Sat 22nd Sept) [ESL 23.9.18]

Written by Scott W  (Twitter: @ScottMHC14)

Hello and welcome to another of my Essex Senior League round-up pieces, here on the blog. This weekend’s action saw a huge 35 goals scored across nine matches. How did your side do?

 
Essex Senior League

 

Friday 21st September

 

Barkingside club logo

Clapton logo

Barkingside  0 – 3  Clapton   | Cricklefield  | Att: 135

The Tons started the action off with a good win at Cricklefield. Jay Morris put the visitors ahead just shy of the half-hour. Jon Fowell’s side came out strongly after the break and Ryan Reed notched a quick-fire brace [47′ & 49′] to seal Clapton’s fourth win in seven matches more or less there and then.’Side fell to their fourth straight defeat and sit third-bottom.

 

Saturday 22nd September

 

Enfield logo

Enfield 1893  6 – 1  Leyton Athletic    | Harlow Arena | Att: 51

The E’s crowned off a memorable eight days with a huge win over Leyton at the Harlow Arena. They laid the groundwork in the first half as ex-Takeley forward Reece Barrett struck on 28 minutes to give Matt Hanning’s side the lead. Billy Haspinall made it two on the stroke of half-time. Barrett struck again three minutes after the re-start to put his side in a commanding position. Prolific scorer Dwade James pulled one back on 67 minutes for the visitors though a goal-blitz in the last twenty minutes more than sealed the points for the hosts as Ben Bradbury [73′] netted, followed by Barrett’s third [77′] and a late spot-kick from Ayo Odukoya. The E’s now have three wins from their last four league outings while Leyton have one win from their last four.

 

Woodford Town Badge

 

Hoddesdon Town  4 – 1  Woodford Town   | Lowfield  |

The hosts  grabbed the points as they led from virtually start-to-finish at Lowfield. Ciaran Doherty’s 3rd-minute goal put them ahead which Connor Bolton added to with 21 minutes on the watch. Samir Ali put the visitors on the score-sheet ten minutes before the break though two goals late on sealed the win for Hoddesdon as Doherty got his second [81′] and Courtney Clay struck two minutes afterward. Woodford have now suffered four defeats in-a-row after a promising start.

 

Saffron Walden Logo

Saffron Walden Town  5 – 0  Tower Hamlets    | Catons Lane  | Att: 170

The Bloods put a torrid week behind them by dispatching struggling Hamlets at Catons Lane. James Crane’s goal in the first minute set them on their way and Charlie Portway [20′] struck again to give them a two-goal lead at the break. Spike Bell netted on the hour before a late brace from Lewis Francis [75′ & 90′] handed ten-man Hamlets another bruising afternoon. Walden are unbeaten in five league matches now while Hamlets have manaaged a single point from their five matches.

 
Southend Manor  2 – 3  Redbridge   | Southchurch Park  | Att: 38

I attended this match and my report is here: survivor16b.wordpress.com/2018/09/22/match-report-southend-manor-2-3-redbridge-esl-22-9-18/

 

St Margaretsbury club logo

St Margaretsbury  0 – 3  Ilford   | The Recreation Ground  | Att: 29

The Foxes maintained their impressive recent form wiith victory at St Margs. Dan Haigh put them ahead on the quarter-hour, a lead they held at the interval. Nine minutes after the re-start, Seye Okunlola doubled that lead for Martin Haywood’s men. Callum Maltese’s goal on the cusp of the 90 secured Ilf’s third win in their last four matches to rise to 2nd spot and inflict their hosts’ third defeat in six outings.

 

Stansted club badge

West Essex crest

Stansted  1 – 0  West Essex   | Hargrave Park  | Att: 35

The Airportmen battled to a narrow win at Hargrave Park. In-form winger Callum Ibe’s strike two minutes after the break ended up being the difference though Stags goalkeeper Jack Coker denied the hosts from the spot later on. Paul Pittuck & Marc Benterman’s side have now notched up three straight wins while West’s mini-revival is over for now.

 

 

Takeley emblem

Hullbridge badge

Takeley  0 – 1  Hullbridge Sports |  Station Road  | Att: 83

Hullbridge produced a good display to pick up a surprise win at Station Road. Luke Hornsley got the only goal seven minutes before half-time to give Darren Manning’s team their 5th win in seven league matches, maintain their unbeaten run and stay at the summit. Takeley’s second 1 – 0 loss this week sees them drop to 4th, five points behind their opponents here.

 

Sawbridgeworth club badge

Walthamstow   4 – 1  Sawbridgeworth Town  | Kitchener Road  | Att: 50

‘Stow went through the gears to overwhelm Sawbo at Kitchener Road. The damage was done in the first 45 as Billy Jones [18′] and Jake Giddings [28’] both struck to give Ryan Maxwell’s side a handy cushion, in between a successful spot-kick from Joe Wright for the visitors. Ageless defender Lee Flynn made it 3 – 1 five minutes before the interval and James Peagram rounded off the day’s scoring, also from the spot on 76 minutes to give the hosts their first league win in three outings though they have only lost one of seven.

That is all for this week. Thank you for reading.