S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian Lge (Sat 13 May) [EOFL 22-23 15.5.23]

Max Shepherd (#7) pushes forward for Harold Wood in their game this weekend

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

Hello & welcome to the last edition of the Essex Olympian League column for the 2022-23 season, looking at the action in all divisions & Cups from the week to Saturday 13 May, at the end of the piece you’ll see the Champions from all six league divisions listed.

EOFL Premier Division

Two matches were played in the top-tier. Galleywood got a morale-boosting 2 – 1 win in their bottom-two clash with Bishop’s Stortford Swifts, held at Melbourne Park 3G. Freddie Bartram & Lee Judd got the goals for the relegated side to outdo Chris Gibbs’ reply for Swifts, who will finish second-bottom. Also, Runwell Sports‘ superb campaign goes on as they defeated Toby 4 – 3 at St Luke’s. Luca Frankis, Charlie Little, Riley Armstrong & James Dalton all netted here for Robert Hodgson’s side. Albert Perry’s brace & Ben Picton’s strike made it tight but Mark Jones’ side have still had a good season.

EOFL Divisions One, Two & Four

In Division One, Harold Wood Athletic battled to a narrow 1 – 0 win over a strong ACD Utd side to finally confirm elevation back to the Premier Division. Leroy Griffiths’ superb strike just before the break was enough to claim the points & start the celebrations. I watched this match & If you’d like more on this game, my report is here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2023/05/14/s22-23-match-report-harold-wood-athletic-1-0-acd-utd-sat-13-may-eofl/

In Division Two, AS Rawreth ended their season in the best possible way, as the relegated side won 3 – 2 at home to Catholic Utd Res at the Warren. Eamonn Kearney’s team have the Reserve Cup Final in midweek against Wakering Sports Res at Heybridge’s Scraley Road.

In Division Four, Herongate Athletic Res defeated Pitsea Athletic Res 3 – 1 at Basildon Sports Village to fortify fourth spot. Habeeb Apatira, Alex Newton & replacement Kai Redmond all netted to seal the win. Pitsea Res finished eighth.

One other thing to mention, the Senior Cup Final this week was postponed because of the one thing that may be remembered – hefty rain. It has be re-set for May 24th, again at Heybridge’s Scraley Road.

‘Roll of Honour’ champions by division

Hutton – EOFL Premier Division

Old Chelmsfordians – EOFL Division One

Shoebury Town – EOFL Division Two

Basildon Town Res – EOFL Division Three

Leigh Ramblers Res – EOFL Division Four

Manford Way Res – EOFL Division Five

Many thanks to all those who have read this column this term & to all who shared it as well. Have a good Summer.

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S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian Lge (Sat 6 May) [EOFL 22-23 8.5.23]

Action from Corinthians v Beacon Hill this weekend

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

Hello & welcome to the latest edition of the Essex Olympian League round-up, looking at the action in all divisions & Cups from the week to Saturday 6 May, in this penultimate edition of the column this season.

Midweek action

In the top-tier, we start on Monday where Catholic Utd endorsed their quest for second-placed finish with a 3 – 2 victory at Sungate. Aaron Baldwin, Liam Oliver and replacement Franklin Craik got the goals for the victors in that one. Onto Tuesday night and Shenfield AFC‘s last home game of the season saw a 3 – 1 success over Kelvedon Hatch. James Burt scored for Darren Hunt’s side but a welcome treble for Luke Williamson secured the points at St Martin’s. Moving onto Wednesday night, Hutton‘s march to the title continued with a 1 – 0 win at Sungate, with Lewis Scott the goal-scorer at the Wanderers Sports Ground. Toby also held Rayleigh Town 1 – 1 at the Nursery Sports Ground. Rhys Willson netted for the Brewers and Harry Talbot got the reply for the visitors.

Elsewhere, in Division Three on Wednesday, Basildon Town Res defeated Chingford Athletic Res 2 – 0 in a rare Reserve game played at Rookery Hill. Antony Aylett & Ashley Drury netted to seal the champions’ 14th league win of the term. Chingford will finish fourth.

EOFL Premier Division

We start the weekend action with Catholic Utd who secured second spot with a fine 5 – 1 victory over Shenfield AFC at the Len Forge. Harrison Day’s double plus goals for Aaron Baldwin, James Warder and Kofi Goodrum sealed the points, with Elliott Thompson notching for AFC, who have two games remaining. Rayleigh Town sealed third a 2 – 1 victory at Sungate which gives them something to shout about after a tough last month of the campaign. Hutton go in Step 6 on the back of four straight wins as they won 4 – 2 over Galleywood at New Lodge 3G (their home for next term). Lee Judd and replacement Max Orrin netted for the visitors who drop into Division One, would like to wish them well for next term.

Meanwhile, Springfield‘s terrific run continued as they defeated Toby 4 – 1 at Arun Park. Will Wheeler’s double, plus goalls by Harry Kateley & Reece Latimer ensured their fourth straight victory & Matt Cardy’s side will be optimistic of a stronger season next term, currently sitting in seventh. Toby have their Senior Cup Final with Catholic Utd in midweek & could still finish in top eight if they win one of their remaining two league matches. Also, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts can still finish outside the bottom two after a 4 – 2 success at home to Canning Town. Matthew Allen netted two goals here, with Joe Holt and replacement Ryan Whiteman also on target for Swifts, who will leapfrog Kelvedon if they win their last match.


EOFL Reserve League Trophy Final

It was another Final on Tuesday night at Woodside, with Manford Way Res earning more silverware on spot-kicks after a 2 – 2 draw with Runwell Sports Res. Alex Gray & Max Harrington scored for Runwell but Callum Thomas & Aaron Clements responded for Manford, before they won the shoot-out 8 – 7 & congrats to them on a fine season, which included the Division Five title.

EOFL Divisions One & Two

Into Division One now, and the match I attended saw Beacon Hill Rovers end their season with the three points, as they edged to a late 3 – 2 success at Corinthians. Karl Swanborough netted twice & skipper Charles Brewer added a close-range strike to seal the win. Connor Summerhill netted two goals for Chris Stoneham’s side but they will finish fourth. Rovers will end the term in sixth. If you’d like more on this game, my report is here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2023/05/07/s22-23-match-report-corinthians-2-3-beacon-hill-rovers-sat-6-may/

In Division Two, champions Shoebury Town ended their season unbeaten after a 4 – 0 triumph at Hutton Res.  Mechack-Kisoka Asuka netted another double here to reach 31 league goals himself, three goals ahead of ‘Golden Boot’ rival Connor Fardyga of Wakering Sports Res. Luke Jackson & replacement Alfie Fossett also netted to crown off a memorable campaign for Garry Johnson & John Galley’s side. The other match saw Hashtag Utd Development secured third spot after a 5 – 2 win at Harold Wood Athletic Res. Matthew Gauci, Tony Stevens, Thomas Matthew, Samuel Pratt & Chandler Wray’s tenth league goal this term was enough to overhaul strikes by Kieran Moynihan and James Pottle but ‘Wood will finish fourth.


EOFL Division Four

In the fifth-tier, Galleywood Res got the win they needed to avoid the bottom two after a 2 – 1 triumph over Leytonstone Utd. Lukas Rodlauer & replacement Sam Rawlinson both scored to see their side up to ninth in their last game. The news isn’t quite as good for Lytonstone who will finish bottom & drop to Division Five despite a commendable response in their last few matches. Leigh Ramblers Res made it to 50 points in their last game, following a 5 – 0 win at Pitsea Athletic Res. The ensemble cast of Jamie Lovell, Joe Howson, Max Pitts, Ethan Nunn & Michael Coffey all netted for the champions. And lastly, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res won 4 – 1 at home to Herongate Athletic Res at Silver Leys. Thomas O’Keefe netted for Ath but goals from Matt Kemp, substitutes Daniel Bunting & Ryan Stewart plus an OG confirmed the points & they can still finish fourth if they better Herongate’s result in their respective last games.

End

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian Lge (Sat 29 Apr) [EOFL 22-23 30.4.23]

Charlie Seaden’s acrobatic clearance denies a Runwell attack

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

Hello & welcome to the latest Essex Olympian League column, looking at the action in all divisions & Cups from Saturday 29 April, plus we have the midweek action across all divisions. Please note that the last article of the season will likely be on Monday 15 May.

Midweek action

We begin this week with the five matches across all divisions. On Tuesday night in the Premier, Leigh Ramblers defeated Rayleigh Town 1 – 0, with Andrew Webster’s 15th league goal of the season saw the Rams back up to fourth & put another dent in Rayleigh’s title hopes. In Division Four, Pitsea Athletic Res won 2 – 1 at bottom side Galleywood Res. Alfie Hooper netted for the hosts but ‘Wood have to win their last game to have any hope of avoiding relegation. Wednesday’s match in the Premier Division saw Toby defeat Kelvedon Hatch 3 – 1 at the Nursery Sports Ground. Ben Picton, Jake Jones & replacement Dominic Poulley got the goals which saw Toby up to eighth. Kelvedon’s goal came from James Nottage & they remain 11th. The Division Two game saw an emphatic win for Shoebury Town as they defeated Rayleigh Town  11 – 0 at London Road. There were trebles for Mechack-Kisoka Asuka & Jack Woodham here, plus two goals for Luke Jackson and strikes also from Callum Merenda & Izaih Antoine plus an OG took Garry Johnson & John Galley’s side to the brink of the Division 2 title at that point.

If you’d like more on this match, I attended this game & my report is here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2023/04/27/s22-23-match-report-rayleigh-town-res-0-11-shoebury-town-wed-26-apr-eofl/

Jack Woodham in possession for Shoebury v Rayleigh Res

The solitary Thursday match in the Premier saw me venture out to watch Runwell Sports‘ 5 – 1 win over Rayleigh Town, which all but ended the latter’s title hopes. A quick-fire treble by Luca Frankis & a double from Gianni Frankis outdid Phil Anunwa’s early goal for Town. If you’d like more on this one, my report is here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2023/04/28/s22-23-match-report-runwell-sports-5-1-rayleigh-town-thurs-27-apr-eofl/

Weekend action

EOFL Premier Division

In the top-tier, Hutton finally got the points to seal what has been a truly memorable season for Matt Singh’s side as they won 4 – 0 at Toby to be crowned as Premier Division champions, and with it promotion to Eastern Senior League South. Big congratulations to all the players, manager Matt Singh, assistants Bill Stratford & Dan Williams and all at the club. Springfield’s super end-of-season form continued with a 2 – 1 victory over Galleywood at Arun Park. Two goals from Lewis Chapman outdid a goal by Sean Barry to see Matt Cardy’s side up to seventh. Galleywood will be relegated to Division One next term, I’d like to wish them well for next term.

Bishop’s Stortford Swifts all but secured their spot in the division next term with a narrow 1 – 0 victory at Shenfield AFC. Matthew Allen got the crucial goal here. Runwell Sports are unbeaten in ten matches now following their 3 – 1 victory at home to Sungate. The points see them up to fifth, in what has been another fine season from Rob Hodgson’s team. Meanwhile, Rayleigh Town ended their frenetic week with a fine effort as they were held 3 – 3 by Catholic Utd at Thames Road. A double from Harry Talbot & one from Philip Anunwa gave Paul Higgins’ side a three-goal lead at the break, but a double for Aaron Baldwin & a late goal by Kofi Goodrum earned a point for Simon Thomas’ side, who are also set to play at Sungate on Monday.

EOFL Divisions One & Two

Moving into Division One now, and Old Chelmsfordians defeated promotion rivals Corinthians 3 – 0 at Lawford Lane. This win seals promotion & the Division One title and Scott Fleming’s side return to the top division after an absence of 17 years so big congratulations to all at the club. The Stambridge side now have to win both their remaining games to have any chance of overhauling Harold Wood, who have to defeat ACD Utd in their game on May 13th.  The other match this weekend saw Harold Hill draw 1 – 1 with ACD, with Samuel Payne the goal-scorer for Utd, but both teams will likely finish in the bottom half.

In Division Two, Shoebury Town secured the Division Two title with a 4 – 0 triumph over Harold Wood Athletic Res at Ekco Sports Club. Jack Woodham’s brace, compiled with goals for Mechack-Kisoka Asuka & Alfie Fossett meant that they return to the second-tier after two seasons away. Congratulations to Garry Johnson & John Galley’s team on their fine season.

No action in Division Three, Division Five has now been completed.


EOFL Division Four

In the fifth-tier, Leigh Ramblers Res defeated Pitsea Athletic Res 5 – 0 in the midday game at Chase Sch 3G to seal the Division Four title. Congrats to Terry Johnson’s team, as the Reserves have added to the First team’s fine season.

Roydon confirmed second place with a conclusive 6 – 0 victory at home to Wakering Sports A. Connor Presland netted twice here, with the support cast of Darren Brooker, Nader Benzid, Mike Hayes & Connor Riddoch all on target as well to seal another promotion for Nigel Jordon’s team, congratulations to them as well. Wakering’s third side are still not entirely safe from relegation, having ended their season here. Elsewhere, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res won 2 – 1 at Shenfield AFC Res to secure fifth spot at least. Henry Harnack & Jose Pinto got the goals for Swifts there. Ongar Town sealed sixth spot with a huge 7 – 0 win against relegation-threatened Leytonstone Utd. Finlay Cook netted four times himself here, with Matt Bovill, Ethan Hook & replacement Jude Collins added to a memorable last day of the league season for Town.

EOFL Reserve League Cup

In the Ressie Cup semi-finals, Catholic Utd Res won 2 – 1 at Herongate Athletic Res to match their First team in reaching a Cup final this term. Zachary Wing & Finlay Grant got the goals for the Utd side there. Plus, defending champions Wakering Sports Res made the final once again after a superb 7 – 3 success over Basildon Town A at Cupid’s.

S22-23 Match Report: Runwell Sports 5 – 1 Rayleigh Town (Thurs 27 Apr) [EOFL Prem 28.4.23]

Essex Olympian League – Premier Division

Venue: St Luke’s Park

Attendance: 30 (Est)

2022-23 Season: Match 60

Thursday 27 April 2023 – 6.30pm KO

Runwell: Yellow Shirts, Blue Shorts, Yellow Socks

Rayleigh: Navy Blue Shirts, Shorts & Socks


Lewis Robson controls the ball for Town

Runwell’s fine comeback grabs victory over spirited Rayleigh

Runwell Sports  5 – 1   Rayleigh Town

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

The last month of the Non-League season continued with another Intermediate match, this time at Step 7’s Essex Olympian Premier Division as In-form Runwell Sports welcomed Rayleigh Town to St Luke’s Park. The hosts were looking for a victory to supplement their top-four ambitions while Rayleigh needed the points to bolster their fading hopes of promotion, in part due to injuries & their hefty recent fixture list. Rob Hodgson’s team named loanee custodian Tommy Woodcock behind a defence comprised of Charlie Buffin, Damian Siemienczuk and centre-backs Matteo Mgoma & Ollie Quick. In central midfield was Taylor Armstrong & Owen Barratt, while the creative Charlie Little and captain Joe Olley supported forwards Gianni Frankis and Luca Frankis. Rayleigh named regular stopper Mark Brown in goal, with their backline being Mitchell Allen, Alfie Larkin, captain Charlie Seaden and Joe Lovett. Ethan Deller and Matthew Oaten were in midfield, with Lewis Robson and Sonny Woodward the support duo to forwards Ebeneezer Djan and Philip Anunwa.

The early stages of this match saw the visitors start brightly, and they did make the breakthrough after nine minutes as a fine darting run by forward Philip Anunwa down the left side of the penalty area past his marker and firing a low drive past home stopper Tommy Woodcock into the net. Runwell couldn’t quite gather their passes at this point and debatably sat too deep which stifled them when they did push forward for the majority of the half. Rayleigh have further chances to put themselves clear though Lewis Robson headed off-target and soon afterward, Anunwa had two chances that didn’t require Woodcock’s intervention, but Anunwa’s third chance was a fine strike which did need a decent save by the Runwell goalkeeper. As we passed the half-hour mark, the weather started to make pitch conditions more tricky and home full-back Damian Suemienczuk made a good run down the left, with his cross being half-cleared, and the ball fell to midfielder Owen Barratt who powered a fierce drive which was blocked by a resolute Rayleigh backline.

Charlie Seaden’s acrobatic clearance denies a Runwell attack

Sometimes in games it matters when you score & that was certainly true here as Runwell levelled just before half-time. A decent cross by Charlie Little got past the visiting defence in a congested penalty area to find forward Gianni Frankis who got enough power on his header to take it over the goal-line before it was hacked away. Not only would this alter the team-talks at the interval for both sides but the depleted visitors (who really had put a lot into this half) faced a long forty-five minutes to come.

Half-Time:  Runwell 1 – 1 Rayleigh 

After the break, the rain intensified and had a further effect on playing conditions. The home side rallied in the the last half hour, and on the hour a good cross by Little tracked the run made by Siemienczuk at the far post but his close-range effort was denied well by Rayleigh goalkeeper Mark Brown, and replacement James Dalton reacted first but couldn’t find the net. However, the hosts did take the lead on sixty-two minutes, thanks to a good strike by Luca Frankis which found the right-side corner. Before Town had the chance to recover their composure, Runwell netted again two minutes later. Luca Frankis again the scorer as the savvy forward netted from close-range with a low finish, past Brown. At this point in proceedings, the torrent of forward moves came from Runwell and they made it four on seventy-one minutes as a neat aerial ball by Joe Olley found Luca Frankis who slotted home to complete a ten-minute treble.



Rayleigh brought on Calvin Armstrong and joint-lead goalscorer Harry Talbot for the latter stages and although Anunwa was still making good runs down the flank, the effects of three games in six days was showing on a still talented side. Runwell further endorsed their top-four credentials, as well as the fact they bossed the second half by adding a fifth goal on 81 minutes, as Gianni Frankis netted from close range to make it five goals for the Frankis brothers in this game, that will be a statistic noted for its rarity.

As the darkness was starting to descend, referee Jeff Stanley blew his whistle for the final time and Rayleigh were understandably gutted given that their promotion aspirations have most likely gone now, but they should be proud of their season all the same. They certainly gave Runwell a good test here, although Rod Hodgson’s team continue to accrue some excellent results this term, in their first season back at this level for two decades.


Full-Time: Runwell Sports 5 – 1 Rayleigh Town

Full credit to Runwell who responded well after a stuttering start to outpace an understandably tiring Rayleigh side after the interval and clinical finishing turned the tide of this match. Rayleigh edged the first half with a high-energy performance & had chances to extend their lead as well but conceding right on half-time proved detrimental. Rayleigh have to face Catholic Utd at home tomorrow (Sat 29th Apr) as the race for second spot heats up.

There were some fine performances by both teams in this match. For victors Runwell, forward Luca Frankis’ rapid treble proved his significance to his team and also battled well in the tricky conditions, making darting runs down the left side. Creative midfielder Charlie Little put in some telling crosses and also contrubuted well defensively too. Lastly, midfielder Owen Barratt and full-back Charlie Buffin put in good, hard-working displays to aid their side in grabbing the initative as the match went on.

For Rayleigh, we start with a deserved mention for forward Philip Anunwa who really tested the home defence to good effect, utilising clever movement to get round his marker on a number of occasions and took his goal well too. Next, young midfielder Ethan Deller also shone, using his pace, good passing and dribbling ability to unsettle the hosts and competed well also. Finally, a word for creative midfielder Sonny Woodward who made several important passes and also skipper Charlie Seaden who used his experience well to marshall the defence alongside Alfie Larkin and made it tough for Runwell to create notable chances in the first half.


Teams

Runwell Sports  |  Manager: Robert Hodgson | Assistants: Jason Davis & Ian Read

Starting XI: 1 Tommy Woodcock (GK), 2 Charlie Buffin, 3 Damian Siemienczuk, 5 Ollie Quick, 6 Matteo Mgoma, 4 Taylor Armstrong, 8 Owen Barratt, 10 Joe Olley (Capt), 7 Charlie LIttle, 9 Gianni Frankis, 11 Luca Frankis

Goal-scorers: Gianni Frankis [45′ & 81′], Luca Frankis [62′, 64′ & 71′]

Subs ON [Time]: 12 Jamie Philbrick [46′], 14 James Dalton [46′], 16 Arnola Acheampong [77′], 15 Matt Tapley [85′], 17 Nathan James [85′]

Booked: Armstrong |  Subs Not Used: None


Rayleigh Town | Manager: Paul Higgins | Assistant: Del Lamon

Starting XI: 1 Mark Brown (GK), 3 Mitchell Allen, 4 Alfie Larkin, 2 Charlie Seaden (Capt), 17 Joe Lovett, 6 Matthew Oaten, 10 Sonny Woodward, 8 Ethan Deller, 5 Ebeneezer Djan, 9 Philip Anunwa, 14 Lewis Robson

Goal-scorer: Philip Anunwa [9′]

Subs ON (Time): 15 Calvin Armstrong [53′, replaced Djan], 7 Harry Talbot [70′]

Booked: None   | Subs Not Used: None


Referee: Jeff Stanley
Assistant: Simon Brickwood & Guy Pell-Ilderton

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League & Cups (Sat 22 Apr) [EOFL 24.4.23]

Archive Image from Rayleigh Tn v Canning Tn

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

Hello & welcome to the latest Essex Olympian League column, looking at the action in all divisions & Cups from Saturday 22 April, as more key games influenced the respective promotion & relegation races in all divisions.

EOFL Premier Division

We start with the top-tier action in midweek, and Catholic Utd showed their credentials for next season as they won 1 – 0 at Hutton. Franklin Craik’s early goal was enough to see Utd to victory and Simon Thomas’ side are not out of the running for second spot. Also, Springfield notched a 2 – 1 victory at Galleywood on Wednesday night. Former Wakebury duo Will Wheeler & Harry Kateley got the goals for Matt Cardy’s team here. Freddie Bartram responded for ‘Wood but they ended the game with ten players & are now most likely to be the side to be playing in Division One in August. The other match saw a depleted Rayleigh Town side being held 1 – 1 by Sungate. Harry Talbot got the Town goal & Solomon Asomah replied for the resolute ‘Gate side.

At the weekend, Hutton pulled eight points clear at the summit after a 4 – 1 win at Kelvedon Hatch. Jude Keeling’s hat-trick saw him reach ten league goals for the Reds, plus David Johnson also netted. Charlie Bott netted for Kelvedon here but they also finished with ten men & remain third-bottom. Springfield got arguably the result of the day, with a 4 – 1 triumph over Rayleigh Town. Will Wheeler scored another brace here, with Flynn Monk & Harry Kateley also on target. Harry Talbot’s 14th league goal was scant consolation for Town, who have two games coming in midweek, which are must-win for them.

Elsewhere, Catholic Utd went into second spot after a 3 – 0 victory at Bishop’s Stortford Swifts. Franklin Craik scored two more goals alongside Liam Oliver’s strike. Old Southendian ended their campaign with a 3 – 1 success over Sungate at Garon Park. Nick Henesy scored two goals for Altan Ali’s side & Jack Lelliott also scored as OS went back up to fourth. ‘Gate remain seventh. Shenfield AFC are eighth after a 3 – 0 success over Galleywood. Harvey Clarke, Alfie MacKay & Harvey Cadd all scored for Kevin Williamson’s side. Runwell Sports held Leigh Ramblers 3 – 3 at St Luke’s, with over 100 spectators in attendance. Andrew Webster scored twice for Rams, with Matt Brinklow also scoring here. Leigh have two games left to graft for a fine top-four finish. Runwell have four matches remaining & are also in that race for top-four finish. Lastly, Toby are back up to tenth after a 1 – 0 win over Canning Town. Rhys Willson’s solitary goal saw Mark Jones’ side to the win.

EOFL Divisions One & Two & Three

Moving into Division One now, and Manford Way ended their season on the best possible note, after a fine 2 – 0 win at Corinthians. Siddy Clarkson netted both goals to see Manford up to second. In the other key game, Old Chelmsfordians wrestled the impetus away from Harold Wood Athletic in the promotion race after OC’s won 3 – 1 at Lawford Lane. James Pottle netted for Ath but substitute Liam Landers scored twice & fellow replacement Matthew Crick also netted. Old Chelmsfordians also face Corinthians next weekend at home, in a game both sides need to win.

In Division Two, Wakering Sports Res temporarily went top by two points after a comprehensive 8 – 2 victory at Hutton Res, in their second to last game. Connor Fardyga once again led the scorers with a a treble here, with replacement Leo Pearce netting twice, and there were also goals for Ashley Sexton, Charlie Smith & Oliver Greene. Rivals Shoebury still likely need to win of their three games left to seal the title.

In midweek in Division Three, Chingford Athletic Res battled to a 1 – 0 victory at Buckhurst Hill U23. Substitute Benson Osejindu nabbed the crucial goal which sent them up to fourth. Buckhurst ended their season here & will finish fifth, a creditable achievement for Darren Gosnell & his team.


In Division Four, Leigh Ramblers Res finally achieved promotion after a 1 – 1 draw with Herongate Athletic Res. Habeeb Apatira netted for Herongate, but substitute Alex Goodson’s strike sealed a significant point for Terry Johnson’s side. Roydon were held 3 – 3 at strugglers Galleywood Res  with Darren Brooker netting twice for the visitors & Nader Benzid’s 10th league goal this term being cancelled out by strikes by Alfie Hooper, Diogo Viveiros & Jodh Lapidus keeping their side in contention to avoid a bottom-two finish. Shenfield AFC Res won 4 – 0 at Wakering Sports A to fortify seventh spot. The cast of Ross Riding, Paul Constable, Elliott Fraser & Kyle Constable all netted for the visitors there. Finally, Leytonstone Utd battled to a 2 – 2 draw with Pitsea Athletic Res. Paul Gunn & replacement Owen Layzell netted for Ath’s second side here, as they remain in 8th.

Lastly this week, in Division Five, Basildon Town A secured a fine promotion after a 2 – 0 victory over Canning Town Res. Luke Soley and Donnel Kujinga’s 24th league goal of the campaign saw them to a top-two finish and pipped Runwell Res by a single point, in what was the final game of the Division Five season.


Cups

The midweek tie in the Reserve Cup saw Basildon Town A win 2 – 1 at Galleywood Res, to reach the last four. Oliver White and replacement Dylan Busby goals for Bas outdid Aryan Tathgar’s strike for the hosts to seal their progress. At the weekend in the Reserve Trophy, Runwell Sports Res made the Final on May 2nd against Manford Way Res, after the Runwell side defeated Harold Wood Athletic Res 4 – 2. Matt Harris & Thomas Butler scored for Ath but their opponents would not be denied here.

On Friday night, Manford Way Res gathered their first piece of silverware this term after sealing a 1 – 0 win over Felsted Rovers in the Essex Junior Trophy Final. Luke Bennett’s strike was crucial  at this side prevailed at Heybridge’s Scraley Road. Congrats to them.

On Saturday, the Denny King Cup Semi-Finals saw ACD Utd progress with a 3 – 2 win over Shoebury Town. Jacob Dingli, Shaun Goddard and Warren Taylor goals saw Michael Wade’s team through, despite goals from Mechack-Kisoka Asuka & Luke Jackson for Shoebury, who will now focus on the Division One title. In the other Semi-Final, Hullbridge Sports Res won 4 – 2 at AS Rawreth.

End

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian Lge (Sat 8 Apr) [EOFL 22/23 9.4.23]

Archive: Corinthians v Harold Hill earlier this term

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

Hello & welcome to the latest Essex Olympian League column, looking at the action in all divisions & Cups from Saturday 8 April, with important results coming in Premier, and Divisions One & Four.

EOFL Premier Division

In the top-tier, Kelvedon Hatch got the big result at the bottom, as they edged to a 1 – 0 win over Shenfield AFC, which sends them five points clear of the bottom two. Springfield were held 1 – 1 by Runwell Sports, as Jamie Philbrick came off the bench to score for Sports, but a corker from Harry Kateley levelled the match & means Matt Cardy’s team are also five points clear of second-bottom Bishop’s Stortford Swifts, who drew 4 – 4 with Toby in a fabulous match at Silvey Leys. Albert Perry’s double allied with strikes by Luke Jones & Jonathan Packer were cancelled out by goals from Lewis Piggott, Igor Sani, Billy Turner & Ryan Stewart but Swifts have five games left to preserve their Step 7 status. Other results saw Canning Town hold Old Southendian 1 – 1 in Beckton, plus Leigh Ramblers defeated Catholic Utd 2 – 0 to send them up to fifth. Sungate also added to Galleywood’s woes as they won 3 – 0 at Slades Lane, which puts them 7th.

The other game saw the top-two face off at Thames Road. Rayleigh Town drew 1 – 1 with Hutton, with Philip Anunwa netting for Town in that one. Hutton remain seven points clear at the summit, they have six games left while Town have eight games left to play in the next four weeks or so.

EOFL Divisions One & Two

Moving into Division One now, and Harold Wood Athletic grabbed a 2 – 1 win in their local derby at Harold Hill. James Pottle & Alfie Terry both scored to send Ath back to the summit by a point. Hill remain second-bottom. Old Chelmsfordians are up to second place following a 3 – 1 success at home to Epping Town. Chris Gormley scored for the visitors but a double for Liam Landers & one for Billy Duke send the OC’s up to 2nd on goal difference. Epping remain fourth but are effectively out of the promotion race now. Lastly in this division, Beacon Hill Rovers got a fine 3 – 1 victory at ACD Utd. Josh Jones, Jack Walker & Ben Prentice all scored for Rovers, outdoing Jamie Alexandrou’s reply for Utd, who drop to 7th as Rovers rise up to sixth.

Just one game in Division Two to note, which saw Harold Wood Athletic Res power to a 7 – 3 win over Old Southendian Res. There were doubles for Freddy Shepherd & Kieran Moynihan here, with James Jenkins, Nazarij Bilanovszkij & Jerry Nkoy also on target to send Wood back up to fourth spot. The OS side will end their term second-bottom as this was their last game here.

——-

EOFL Divisions Three, Four & Five

Division Three saw one game played, as the battle of two of the promotion rivals saw Leigh Town Res draw 2 – 2 with Pitsea Athletic at John Burrows Rec. Liam Wragg & replacement Zack Walker netted to keep them second, needing a point in their last game to seal that place. Pitsea are third & have to win both their remaining matches to try and deny their opposition here. Basildon Town Res will be the Champions, as their match at Hullbridge Res was an away walkover.

In Division Four, Roydon remain second, level on points with the leaders after a 3 – 2 victory at Herongate Athletic Res. Nader Benzid was the hat-trick hero for the visitors, outdoing goals from Habeeb Apatira & Jordan Lewis. Leigh Ramblers Res remain top after a 4 – 0 win over bottom side Leytonstone Utd, who need at least two wins to stay up. Wakering Sports A got a important 1 – 0 triumph at Galleywood Res to go four points clear of the bottom two. Also, Ongar Town got another good win, as they comfortably defeated Shenfield AFC Res 5 – 0 at Marks Hall. Finlay Cook & replacement Billy Welch both netted two goals here, with Max Galati getting the other goal, to give Ongar a six-point cushion in sixth.

Lastly this week, in Division Five, Basildon Town A maintained their hopes of promotion with a 4 – 1 victory at champions Manford Way Res. Aaron Clements netted for the hosts, but Donnel Kujinga’s brace here took him to 23 league goals in the race for the division’s top scorer, along with goals for Billy Falco & Luke Soley. A win for Bas in their last game in two weeks’ time will be enough to overhaul Runwell Res & claim second spot. Elsewhere, Canning Town Res won 3 – 1 at bottom side AS Rawreth Res to rise up to sixth place.

There is a game set for Easter Monday: Galleywood v Catholic Utd in Premier (1pm KO at Slades Lane) & there are two midweek games set (subject to change) for this week on Wednesday (12th Apr) night.

EOFL Prem: Toby v Rayleigh Town (6.15pm KO)

Essex Premier Cup Final: Wakering Sports Res v Shenfield AFC (at New Lodge 3G, 7.45pm KO)

I would recommend checking the clubs’ Twitter feeds for updates, particularly on the league matches.

End

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian Lge (Sat 1 Apr) [EOFL 22/23 3.423]

Archive Image of Corinthians v Harold Hill back in Feb ’23

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

Hello & welcome to the latest Essex Olympian League column, tracking the action in all divisions & Cups from Saturday 1 April, as the fixture programme was reduced because of – you guessed it, the heavy rain of late.

EOFL Premier Division & Division One

We start the column with a midweek match, which saw Rayleigh Town win 2 – 0 at Shenfield AFC on Wednesday night. Lewis Robson & Jack Long got the goals to see Town reduce the gap to leaders Hutton to seven points. Rayleigh have two matches in hand still & they are due to face Hutton next Saturday (8th Apr, at Thames Road). Shenfield remain eighth. Onto the weekend’s action now, and only two matches got the better of the inclement conditions. One of them saw Old Southendian grind out a 1 – 0 victory over Galleywood, as their match was reversed to Garon Park 3G. An unfortunate OG was decisive in this match, and the ‘Old Boys’ go level on points with Cathoilic Utd who are in third spot. ‘Wood are now eight points adrift of third-bottom & need wins sharpish. The other game saw Kelvedon Hatch play well but were ultimately held 1 – 1 by Springfield in their big game at New Hall. James Nottage got Hatch’s goal & they inch to three points ahead of the bottom two, although Bishop’s Stortford Swifts have a match in hand. Robbie Norris nabbed Springfield’s leveller here, they are two points clear of Kelvedon.

Moving into Division One now, and Manford Way did exactly what they needed to do to stay in the promotion race as they defeated ACD Utd 4 – 1 at the London Marathon Sports Ground. Dawid Potoczek struck twice here for Manford, with Jordan Rock & Siddy Clarkson also on target which saw them go to the summit, two points clear of Harold Wood but they only have one match remaining, whereas all their rivals have at least two matches left, with Harold Wood, Old Chelmsfordians & Corinthians still in the running. James Bell got the solitary goal for ACD, who remain in mid-table. Elsewhere, Harold Hill got back to winning ways as they won 2 – 0 at Wakering Sports, to keep their hopes of mid-table finish going. Bottom side Sports ended their season here & it’s certainly been a tough one, with one win from their 18 games, but points deductions have seen them end on -1.


Into Division Two, and Catholic Utd Res got a fabulous 7 – 1 victory over Rayleigh Town Res at the Len Forge 3G to seal a seventh-placed finish at least. Patrick Mills got a consolation goal for Town but they finished with nine men after two red cards. With there being no action in Division Three because of postponements, we move to the one match in Division Four. It saw Ongar Town get a terrific 5 – 1 victory at Wakering Sports A, held at Cupid’s. Matt Bovill scored twice here for Town, with Ethan Hook, Zak Norfolk & an OG also contributing to the scoresheet. Ongar went three points clear in sixth after this win, and have three matches left this term.


Lastly for the league action, in Division Five there was one match, which saw Shoebury Town Res complete a fine 5 – 2 win at home to Canning Town Res. Mechack-Kisoka Asuka scored another treble here, with Luke Jackson & Alfie Noakes also on target. The win saw them all but complete a seventh-placed finish for the hosts. There was one Cup tie also, in the Reserve Trophy. Manford Way Res went through on penalties, after a 1 – 1 draw with Old Chelmsfordians Res. Charlie Harper scored for Manford here, but Old Chelms’ Martin Mixture forced a leveller before Manford won 5 – 4 on spot-kicks to progress.

End

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League & Cups (Sat 25 Mar) [EOFL 22-23 27.3.23]

Image from Leigh Ramblers v Springfield last week

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

Hello & welcome to the latest Essex Olympian League column, tracking the action in all divisions & Cups from Saturday 25 March, as the fixture programme made it through well despite ongoing unfavourable weather.


EOFL Cups

The two EOFL Senior Cup Semi-Final ties did take place this weekend. First, Catholic Utd made yet another final after an excellent 3 – 1 triumph at promotion-chasing Hutton. The trio of Aaron Baldwin, Liam Oliver & James Warder all netted here at Chadfields to send Simon Thomas’ side through. They will face Toby after they came through 4 – 2 on penalties after a 1 – 1 draw at home to Sungate. Harry Barham scored for the Brewers, but substitute Petrit Elbi levelled for the ‘Gate to force the lottery of a penalty shoot-out.

One other Cup tie to note this week, which saw ACD Utd progess with a 4 – 2 win over Ongar Town in the Denny King Cup. Jacob Dingli struck a fine treble, along with a goal for Scott Perkins saw Michael Wade’s win. Finlay Cook got both goals for Town but their focus in back on Division Four which is approaching its final weeks.


EOFL Premier Division & Division One

The top-tier saw the focus move to the chasing pack this weekend. Rayleigh Town reduced the gap to leaders Hutton to ten points after a 4 – 1 victory over Galleywood at Thames Road. Harry Talbot, William Vile, Charlie Seaden & substitute Philip Anunwa all scored for the Town side, with Ben Smith getting the visitors’ reply, but they are now five points adrift at the bottom of the table, with nine matches left. Springfield leapt out of the bottom three after a superb 4 – 2 success at Shenfield AFC. Finlay Dorrell’s goal tally got even better, scoring a treble here which was added to by recent signing Harry Kateley. Matt Cardy’s side have 18 points now, rising above Kelvedon Hatch, who drew 1 – 1 at rivals Bishop’s Stortford Swifts. William Norris netted for Swifts, who slipped to second-bottom, two points adrift of Hatch – both teams have six matches left to avoid finishing in the bottom two.

Meanwhile, Runwell Sports continued their good form with a 3 – 0 victory at home to Old Southendian, which saw them reduce the gap to OS in fourth to a single point. Leigh Ramblers are also on 34 points in sixth, after a good 3 – 2 victory at Canning Town, who are now ninth.

In Division One, Beacon Hill Rovers ended leaders Harold Wood Athletic’s unbeaten league run, as Rovers won 2 – 0, with Bertie Whymark and replacement George Etheridge goals sealing the win that sees them stay eighth but are level on points with Herongate just above them.The loss for Harold Wood leaves them vulnerable to being caught in the title race by Old Chelmsfordians, Manford Way, Epping Town and Corinthians, who got a important tonic with a 2 – 1 win at Herongate Athletic to reduce the deficit to the leaders Harold Wood to only four points, with five matches left – the most to play in this very tightly packed top-five. Manford Way are also in the mix, as a 2 – 0 win over Harold Hill was achieved, with Joshua Owoaje notching twice to see them up to third spot, with two matches left.


EOFL Divisions Two, Three, Four & Five

In Division Two this week, promoted Shoebury Town maintained their four-point lead at the summit in the race for title, as they won 6 – 1 at AS Rawreth. Mechack-Kisoka Asuka took his tally to 24 league goals with another fine hat-trick for Town. Luke Jackson also got two goals & replacement Timi Tinubu got the other for Garry Johnson & John Galley’s side here. Rivals Wakering Sports Res also got a good win, 5 – 0 at Hashtag Utd Dev, with Connor Fardyga scoring all five goals for Jason Doyle’s team here, to also get to 24 league goals. Shoebury are in prime position for said title, and three more wins will be enough to be absolutely sure of silverware. Hashtag’s chances of a third-placed finish are also lessened by this result, as Harold Wood Athletic Res won 4 – 2 at Rayleigh Town Res, to go within four points of Utd, with four matches left. Max London, Jerry Nkoy, Cohen Hubbard & Matt Harris all scored to give Wood the points.

Finally in this division, Hutton Res won 2 – 1 against Catholic Utd Res at Polo Fields. Jake Smith & Lewis Hall scored for the Reds as they went four points clear in to sixth. Utd’s second side responded through John Nutman’s goal, they remain seventh.


Moving into Division Three, and Leigh Town Res gained ground on leaders Basildon Town Res as Leigh won 3 – 2 away at Hullbridge Res. Jay Knight & Harry Mole struck for the hosts, but a brace from substitute Callum Stone and one from Tommy Clayton meant that Leigh got the win and means that four points from their last two games will make ensure a top-two finish. Hullbridge remain fifth, ahead of Chingford Athletic Res on goal difference after Chingford won 2 – 1 at Springfield Res. Samuel May-Parrott & Bilel Benyoucef goals outdid replacement Henry Payne’s reply at Arun Park. Lastly, two of the bottom three sides faced each other at Lawford Lane, with Old Chelmsfordians Res conclusively defeating second-bottom Corinthians Res 11 – 0. There were trebles for Emmanuel Mukuka, George Prentice and Thomas Ellis, with returnee Martin Mixture grabbing a double as well.

In Division Four, Leigh Ramblers Res continued their good run with a 5 – 2 win over Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res to send them top on goal difference. Jacob Mead scored twice with goals for Luis Bracci, Matthew Pooley & Stuart Greaves ensuring Terry Johnson’s side are in pole position for another promotion. Samuel Brown & Fraser Bush netted for Swifts but their own promotion aspirations took a dent here. Collier Row grabbed a 2 – 0 win at Galleywood Res, which gives them a chance of a top four finish but they have played more games than all their rivals. Lastly, Leytonstone Utd got another point in their relegation six-pointer as they held Wakering Sports A to a 3 – 3 draw at Forest Row. Carl Sutton, Charlie Cottrill & Jason Lewin all scored for Sports in that game.

Finally, in Division Five there was a big win for Basildon Town A as they defeated bottom side AS Rawreth Res 6 – 1. Donnel Kujinga grabbed another three goals, to add to strikes by Billy Falco, Alex Smith & Shaun Watkins and confirm the points which sees Town still well in with a shot at a top-three finish. Justin Burrell got the solitary goal for Rawreth there. Manford Way Res went back to the summit after a 5 – 0 success at Shoebury Town Res, which means they will be champions & promoted to Div Four with a match to spare. Many congrats to them.

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian Lge & Cups (Sat 18 Mar) [EOFL 22-23 20.3.23]

Image from Leigh Ramblers Res v Wakering Sports A this weekend

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

Hello & welcome to the latest Essex Olympian League column, tracking the action in all divisions & Cups from Saturday 18 March, as the fixture programme was again blighted by the recent weather.

Cups

The two Essex Premier Cup ties did reach a conclusion to set up the Final at New Lodge on April 12th. Wakering Sports Res‘ dream run through the competition continued after a superb match ended in a 4 – 4 draw with EAL Senior side Woodford East at Cupid’s. Connor Fardyga & substitute Adem Beji both scored twice here for the hosts, and they held their nerve in the shoot-out, winning 5 – 4 to shatter East’s quest of making a second successive final. Sports will play Shenfield AFC after they came from behind to defeat Rayleigh Town at St Martins’. Jack Chatterway had given Town the lead but goals from Luke Williamson & Ben Absolon meant that it would be the hosts competing in an all-EOFL showpiece next month.


EOFL League Divisions

As mentioned, the fixtures were hit by weather. We start as ever in the top-tier, as leaders Hutton were held to a 1 – 1 draw at Runwell Sports. Two substitutes were crucial in this game, with David Johnson netting for the Reds and Luca Frankis responded for Rob Hodgson’s team. The result meant that Matt Singh’s team remain ten points clear of second-placed Catholic Utd, who were also held, 2 – 2 by Sungate at the Len Forge 3G. Ben Burrows & Aaron Baldwin scored for Utd to give them the lead, but goals from Solomon Asomah & replacement Petrit Elbi meant that the ‘Gate left with a point, and they are up to seventh now.

Elsewhere, Old Southendian are back into fourth place after a 2 – 1 victory at Toby. Mattias Tonking & Jordan Faulkner both netted for OS, with substitute Jake Jones replying for the Brewers, who remain 10th. There were also two key results for teams at the bottom. Firstly, Kelvedon Hatch got a vital 3 – 2 victory over Canning Town at New Hall. Drew Klessa-Smith, Luke Winter & David Hamblett got the goals for Darren Hunt’s team, as they stayed out of the bottom two. Springfield also grabbed a hugely important three points as they had a 2 – 1 success at Belfairs Park. Two goals from Finlay Dorrell outdid a late spot-kick from Ole Hunter for the Rams to give Matt Cardy’s side the win. I attended this match & if you’d like more on it, my report is available here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2023/03/19/s22-23-match-report-leigh-ramblers-1-2-springfield-sat-18-mar-eofl/

There were two matches in Division One this week. First, Manford Way grabbed an important 2 – 0 victory over promotion rivals Epping Town at the London Marathon Sports Ground to go three points clear in fourth, with three games left. The other game saw ACD Utd obtain a good 4 – 1 success at Wakering Sports. Jacob Dingli scored twice for Michael Wade’s team, with Shaun Farrow & Ollie Williams also netting to see Utd gain ground on the top five.

There was one match apiece in Divisions Two & Three as well. In Division Two, Shoebury Town confirmed promotion to the second-tier after they conclusively won 7 – 0 over Old Southendian Res, in a match held at Garon Park 3G. Mechack-Kisoka Asuka netted another four goals here, with Jack Woodham’s double & one from substitute Enoch Gyimah securing the points which led to celebrations for Garry Johnson’s & John Galley’s team. Congrats to them. In Division Three, Buckhurst Hill U23 are up to third spot, after a 7 – 1 win over Old Chelmsfordians Res at Roding Lane. Louie Cooper & replacement Daniel Muela both scored twice for Darren Gosnell’s team here, with Jack Barnes, Jacob Richards & Harvey Woods also on the score-sheet in Hill’s penultimate league match this term. Old Chelms will finish eighth now.

In Division Four, the solitary game saw Leigh Ramblers Res produce a fine second-half showing to defeat Wakering Sports A 4 – 0 at Belfairs, in the second game of the double-header of matches which I attended. The ensemble of Luis Bracci, Cameron Jarvis, Taylor Stewart & Jacob Mead were all on target for Terry Johnson’s team, as they went up to second spot, three points behind leaders Roydon with two further games than them to play. The Sports side remain second bottom, with five matches left.

Finally, there was only one match in Division Five, Runwell Sports Res secured a very important 6 – 1 victory at Collier Row Res. The win takes them into top spot, two points clear of Manford Way Res and the pressure is on their rivals as the Runwell second-side have completed their league campaign. Row’s Ressie side also ended their term here, and reside in fourth but can still be caught by Basildon Town A, currently in fifth.

End

S22-23 Match Report: Leigh Ramblers 1 – 2 Springfield (Sat 18 Mar) [EOFL 22-23 19.3.23]

Springfield have a set-piece in first half

Essex Olympian League – Premier Division

Venue: Belfairs Park

Attendance: 40 (Est)

2022-23 Season: Match 47

Saturday 18th March 2022 – 1pm KO

Leigh Rams:  Navy Blue & Black Shirts, Black Shorts & Socks

Springfield: Red Shirts, Red Shorts, Red Socks


Springfield show grit to edge to vital win at Belfairs

Leigh Ramblers 1 – 2 Springfield

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

This weekend’s foray into Non-League was a rare pair of matches with the focus of the day being an well-poised battle between top-five side Leigh Ramblers and relegation-battlers Springfield in the Essex Olympian League’s Premier Division. The visitors have have started to gain important points under the new management team of Matt Cardy & Daniel Blewett and they knew that a win here could well take them out of the bottom two. The Rams were also seeking to fortify their position in the top five to crown off a fine season for Mark Hunter’s team. The hosts were somewhat depleted but fielded Oscar Baines in goal, with a defence comprised of centre-backs George Moxon and Owen Reynolds, with the full-backs being Kevin Mustali & Patrick Cannon. The midfield had stalwart Ole Hunter, Chido Mutsvairo & Abraham Eze in a hard-working three. The forward line featured Kevin Matthew, Charlie Batchelor and captain Matt Brinklow. Springfield named a strong starting team, with Joshua Woodrow as their goalkeeper, with a backline of full-backs Lewis Chapman & Joe Gurie plus centre-backs Ben Perry and skipper Reece Latimer. Robbie Norris, Yaw Danso & Ben Morley were the experienced central midfield, with the forward line led by promising forward Finlay Dorrell, Harry Kateley and Will Wheeler.

Joe Gurie on the ball for Springfield

Both teams needed time in the early stages to gauge the opposition threat and the slippery conditions, not helped by further rain showers which began shortly before kick-off. There were a few chances in the first half hour, as the visitors showed their neat forward play, with Will Wheeler’s effort on 15 minutes not being powerful enough to bypass home custodian Oscar Baines, who gathered. At the other end, Leigh Ramblers were a threat from set-pieces and midfielder Abraham Eze made good runs from deep, but his strike was comfortably stopped by visiting stopper Joshua Woodrow. The visitors responded almost immediately as a good turn by forward Harry Kateley ended with a well-struck effort which narrowly went over the woodwork. The Rams were finding it tricky to breach the visitors’ solid central midfield, but tricky midfielder Chido Mutsviaro did well to create space to have two chances at goal, which were off-target.

The crucial period in the half came right on the half-hour mark as from a good set-piece by Robbie Norris, forward Finlay Dorrell was found at the far post and the in-form Dorrell headed in from about four yards, with Baines beaten. Matt Cardy’s side then really made the most of this period by doubling their lead only two minutes later, with Dorrell’s fine, low strike sailing into the left corner, giving Baines little chance to deny him. The frustration of the hosts were starting to show, given they were conceding possession too often, though enterprising forward Kevin Matthew also had a decent chance denied by the visiting backline.


Half-Time:  Leigh Rams 0 – 2 Springfield

After the break, the tempo was raised as the hosts commendably sought to get back on terms, having brought on forward Tony Da Silva shortly before half-time. Matthew was in the action again after doing well to find an angle to get his strike away, but the ball cannoned off a post and away. At the other end, Springfield were still looking lively, from a set-piece the ball arrowed in to find centre-back Reece Latimer and his decent header needed the intervention of Baines, who pushed the ball away well, under pressure in a congested penalty area. The hosts brought on their substitutes in the last 25 minutes, with the direct running of Scott Clark adding a different threat for the visiting defence to deal with.

One of Clark’s good runs into the 18-yard area was abruptly halted with sixteen minutes left, and referee Stuart Nixon pointed to the penalty spot. Ole Hunter duly stepped up and blasted the ball home past Woodrow, to add to the nerves of the Springfield side as they knew how important this potential win was. Ramblers gave it their all in the latter stages, with replacement Harry DaCosta’s strike only finding the side-netting and then Clark headed not far over in added-time. When the final whistle came, the relief was palpable for Springfield, but they came here and performed well in tough conditions.


Full-Time: Leigh Ramblers 1 – 2 Springfield

To sum up then, Springfield showed their desire to get out of their precarious situation well, showcasing their skill going forward and being tough in midfield and defence. It was scrappy at times in the first half, but the Rams couldn’t find the final ball as much as they would’ve liked and two quick-fire goals altered the momentum in the favour of Matt Cardy’s team. Despite the hosts finding more rhythm after the break & making it a nervy last ten minutes for Springfield, they held on well to claim the points which sends them out of the bottom two.

We start the stand-out mentions with victors Springfield. Forward Finlay Dorrell got both goals and linked-up well with forward partners Wheeler & Kateley, as well as showing good pace and work rate. Full-back Joe Gurie also made a good contribution, making good runs down the channel & put in a number of good passes too. Central midfielder Robbie Norris also put in a good shift and was a threat with his set-pieces too. Lastly, a mention for commanding defender Reece Latimer, who led his defence well & made several important clearances too.

For the Rams, George Moxon did very well playing in central defence here, showing good positioning & tackling throughout. Forward Kevin Matthew contributed well after being drafted into the starting side late on, and Matthew got into good positions, passing well & had a few decent chances. Midfielder Chido Mutsvairo also worked very hard and competed well with a fired-up visiting midfield, showing good movement and passing. Finally, full-back Kevin Mustali deserves a mention for in a hard-working shift, in defence and supporting the attack, also showing good alertness.

Before we end this report, the second game of this double saw the Leigh Ramblers Ressie side defeat Wakering Sports A 4 – 0, with Luis Bracci, Cameron Jarvis, Taylor Stewart & Jacob Mead goals sealing a fine second-half showing to keep them in the promotion reeckoning in Division Four. Thanks for reading.


Teams

Leigh Ramblers  | Manager: Mark Hunter |  Assistants: Nathan Dewberry & Josh Snell

Starting XI: 1 Oscar Baines (GK), 2 Patrick Cannon, 4 Owen Reynolds, 5 George Moxon, 3 Kevin Mustali, 6 Ole Hunter, 7 Chido Mutsviaro, 10 Charlie Batchelor, 8 Abraham Eze, 12 Kevin Matthew, 11 Matt Brinklow (Capt)

Goal-scorer: Ole Hunter [pen 74′]

Subs On (Time): 9 Tony Da Silva [37′, replaced Batchelor], 20 Scott Clark [62′, replaced Eze], 14 George Unwin [64′, replaced Cannon], 16 Harry DaCosta [69′, replaced Matthew], 15 Thomas Franks [79′, replaced Brinklow]

Booked: Mutsviaro  | Subs Not Used: None


Springfield | Manager: Matt Cardy | Assistant: Dan Blewett

Starting XI: 1 Joshua Woodrow (GK), 2 Lewis Chapman, 5 Reece Latimer (Capt), 6 Ben Perry, 3 Joe Gurie, 4 Robbie Norris, 7 Yaw Danso, 8 Ben Morley, 9 Finlay Dorrell, 10 Harry Kateley, 11 Will Wheeler

Goal-scorers: Finlay Dorrell [30′ & 32′]

Subs On (Time): 14 Jonnie Gurie [62′, replaced Wheeler], 17 Elliott Hutchinson-Khupe [76′, replaced Joe Gurie], 15 Sam Loomes [85′, replaced Jonnie Gurie]

Booked: Kateley | Subs Not Used: Kassanda, Denyer


Referee: Stuart Nixon