EOFL Senior League Cup

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League & Cups (Sat 4 Mar) [EOFL 22-23 6.3.23]

Action still from Catholic Utd v Toby in midweek

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 4 March, as the top three all won in the top-tier, plus Sungate & Toby progressed in the Senior Cup.

EOFL Cups

In the two Senior Cup ties this weekend, Toby sealed their progress with a 5 – 1 victory at Bishop’s Stortford Swifts. Albert Perry netted twice for Mark Jones’ side, with Rhys Willson, Harry Barham & Tom Roser also on target as they made the last four. They are joined by Sungate, who needed a spot-kicks to get past second-tier side Old Chelmsfordians after a 1 – 1 daw at Lawford Lane. Bobby Port’s team won the ensuing penalties 7 – 6 to go through. In the Denny King Cup, Shoebury Town showed no lack of determination as they had two late goals from Jack Woodham to thank for a 2 – 1 victory over Beacon Hill Rovers at Ekco Sports Club. Rounding out the Cup section this week is three games in the Reserve Trophy. Harold Wood Athletic Res went through, winning 4 – 3 on penalties after a 2 – 2 draw against Toby Res at Nursery Sports Ground. Substitutes Josh Portway & Derek Hawtin for Ath forced the resulting shoot-out. They are joined in the next round by Old Chelmsfordians Res, who won 3 – 2 at Sungate Res and Runwell Sports Res, who edged past Canning Town Res 1 – 0 at St Luke’s Park.

EOFL Premier Division

There was one midweek match this week, as Catholic Utd again caught up on their fixtures, as they defeated Toby 3 – 0 at Southchurch Park, in a match I attended. Liam Oliver’s first-half treble was enough to seal the points for Simon Thomas’ side. For more on this game, my report is here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2023/03/02/s22-23-match-report-catholic-utd-3-0-toby-tues-28-feb-eofl/

Onto the weekend Premier action now, and Hutton got back to winning ways with a slender 1 – 0 success at Leigh Ramblers. Connor Hammond got another important goal to keep Matt Singh’s side top by seven points. The chasing pack both won though, as Catholic Utd backed up their earlier midweek win with a 2 – 0 triumph at Springfield. James Warder & Liam Oliver both scored to keep the Essex Bhoys in second place, a point clear of Rayleigh Town, who in turn defeated Kelvedon Hatch 3 – 1 at Thames Road. James Nottage netted for Hatch, but goals from Harry Talbot, Ben Baxter & Lewis Robson secured the win for Paul Higgins’ side.

Meanwhile, Old Southendian remain fifth after an impressive 3 – 0 win at Shenfield AFC. Mattias Tonking’s brace of spot-kicks was added to by Callum Ludlaim’s goal to seal another win for Altan Ali’s team. Runwell Sports sit sixth with several matches in hand after their 3 – 0 victory at strugglers Galleywood. Charlie Little, Gianni Frankis & Oliver Williamson all netted for Robert Hodgson’s team, in what could still be a memorable season for them.

EOFL Divisions One & Two

There were two games in Division One this week, both games involving the chasing pack. Epping Town grabbed a much-needed three points with a 2 – 1 win at home to ACD Utd. Billy Wren netted for Utd here but two goals for Chris Gormley saw Stuart Hoskins’ team remain third and with a four-point lead over Manford Way, who claimed the points thanks to a 3 – 0 success over Herongate Athletic. David Alele, Siddy Clarkson & Charlie Parish all scored here for Manford.

Moving into Division Two now, and we begin with an important win for Rayleigh Town Res, who got past Hutton Res 2 – 1 at London Road to head out of the bottom two. Goals from Byron Down and Adam Wright were enough to seal the win for Dave Barker’s team. Hashtag Utd Development also bagged the points after a 1 – 0 success over May & Baker at Barleylands. Matthew Gauci’s goal was enough to see Denis Simpson’s team back up into third but they are five points adrift of Wakering Sports Res, who demolished Old Southendian Res 8 – 2 at Cupid’s. Connor Fardyga again led the scorers for the hosts, with four goals here & he was assisted by Adem Beji’s double plus strikes from Alex Jenkins & Oliver Greene to see Sports reduce the arrears to leaders Shoebury to four points.

Lastly, Catholic Utd Res defeated AS Rawreth 3 – 0, in a rare Ressie game played at the Len Forge. Daniel Williams, Finlay Grant & replacement Matt Creevy all scored to give Eamonn Kearney’s side a win which takes them up to sixth.

EOFL Divisions Three, Four & Five

In Division Three, Leigh Town Res moved into second place after a 1 – 0 win over Chingford Athletic Res. Chris Pope got the decisive goal in this one. They are now three points clear of Pitsea Athletic after they lost 1 – 2 at Hullbridge Sports Res. Paul Morris & Nicholas Sherlock got the goals to see Hullbridge level on points with their opponents. Springfield Res won 3 – 1 at Buckhurst Hill U23, with Tristan Ofori-Sampong & substitutes Liam England & Jacob Brewer all on target to give them a third consecutive win & helps them up to sixth. Olaobajuwon Olagbaju got the reply for Buckhurst there.

In Division Four, promotion-chasing Leigh Ramblers Res had two late goals to thank for a superb 2 – 0 win at leaders Roydon. Substitutes Ethan Nunn & Taylor Stewart both scored to keep the gap to second spot at three points, with several more matches to play. Roydon’s title charge took a dent and their lead drops to three points. Herongate Athletic Res reside in second spot now after they powered past Leytonstone Utd 6 – 1 at Billericay Road. Ryan Creed had a debut to remember as he struck four goals here. Byron Brackett & Habeeb Apatira also netted to more than secure the points. Ongar Town also bagged a terrific win, 5 – 0 at Pitsea Athletic Res. Tommy Smith netted twice, with Mason White, Ethan Hook & replacement Adoreke Oke all adding to the scoresheet in a win which keeps them sixth. The last game in this division saw Shenfield AFC Res defeated Galleywood Res 3 – 1, to take them eight points clear in seventh spot.

In Division Five, Wakebury Res got a superb 5 – 3 victory over leaders Manford Way Res at Shoebury Park. Connor Lane netted four goals for Joe Creak’s side & an OG sealed the win. George Green netted two for Manford & Callum Thomas added another but their lead stays at two points, wiith a match in hand. Basildon Town A have all but secured at least fifth spot after they won 3 – 1 at Shoebury Town Res. Donnel Kujinga, Shawn Banks & replacement Luke Soley all scored here, to give the Bas’ third side lingering hope of a top-two spot as they have two matches in hand on their closest rivals.

The other result this weekend saw Collier Row Res convincingly win 9 – 1 at AS Rawreth Res, to keep themselves in fourth.

End

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League & Cups (Sat 25 Feb) [EOFL 22-23 27.2.23]

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

Hello & welcome to the latest edition of the Essex Olympian League round-up. This week, we look at the action in all divisions & Cups from Saturday 25 February, as the weekend’s action in all six divisions was added to with a few Cup ties which is where we begin this week.

EOFL Cups

In the one EOFL Senior Cup tie this weekend, Catholic Utd added to their fixture list for the rest of the season, after a comeback 4 – 1 victory at Old Southendian. Neil MacLean netted early for OS but the cast of Franklin Craik, Joe O’Kane, Mike Sammut & Liam Oliver all netted to ensure Simon Thomas’ side made the last four of the competition. Moving into the Denny King Cup, and Hullbridge Sports Res got an upset, as they won 3 – 2 at Epping Town. Joe Tuskin, Liam Foster & Jay Knight all netted for the visitors as they went through. The other two ties were tighter, firstly there was a rare win for AS Rawreth, who defeated Wakering Sports 1 – 0, thanks to replacement Luqman Abdullah’s goal, which sent the Division Two side through. Also, ACD Utd had to work hard to bypass Division Four side Ongar Town at Westlands, with Warren Taylor’s goal in extra-time securing a 1 – 0 victory.

EOFL Premier Division

There was one midweek match this week, as Catholic Utd were held 2 – 2 by fellow top five side Leigh Ramblers in a match held at Southchurch Park. Liam Oliver netted twice for Utd, with Andrew Webster & Owen Reynolds’ late goal securing a point for the Rams. For more on this game, check out Pete Dudley’s match report here: https://pedroslocalfootiefix.blogspot.com/2023/02/catholic-united-2-leigh-ramblers-2.html

In the weekend Premier action, Sungate ended leaders Hutton’s fine unbeaten league record as the visitors won 1 – 0 at Chadfields. Elton Tettey’s crucial goal secured the points for Bobby Port’s team, which saw them rise to eighth. Hutton’s lead at the summit is now down to nine points after Rayleigh Town‘s 2 – 0 victory at strugglers Galleywood. Harry Talbot & substitute Philip Anunwa both netted for Paul Higgins’ side as they did all they could to keep the pressure on & go back into second spot. Runwell Sports arguably got the result of the day, as they won 6 – 1 at Canning Town. Charlie Little & Gianni Frankis both netted doubles in Beckton, with James Dalton & Joe Olley also scoring for Rob Hodgson’s team, to keep them in sixth.

Shenfield AFC are right behind Runwell on goal difference though after they prevailed 3 – 0 at Bishop’s Stortford Swifts, who are now vulnerable to being caught by the bottom three. Alex Tredgett’s brace & one from replacement Frankie Fealty secured a needed three points for AFC. Manwhile, Leigh Ramblers are five points clear in fourth now after a fine 3 – 0 success at Kelvedon Hatch, who are also in the relegation battle. Andrew Webster’s superb treble saw Mark Hunter’s side to the victory. Finally in the top-tier, Toby battled hard to a 2 – 1 win at home to Springfield, with Jake Jones & Albert Perry goals sealing the win which keeps them tenth & out of immediate relegation danger. Finlay Dorrell netted again for the visitors, but they remain second-bottom.

EOFL Divisions One & Two

There were two games in Division One this week. In the crunch match at the summit, Harold Wood Athletic drew 1 – 1 with Corinthians, with Louis Bazely netting for the hosts and John Bolton-Smith levelling for Corinthians. The result does little for either side, but keeps the visitors in the promotion race. In-form Old Chelmsfordians are only a point adrift now in second after they comfortably won 3 – 1 at Lawford Lane. Troy Tizard-Cleghorn got the goal for Hill there, but a mid-table finish would seem to be the likely outcome for them now.

Into the third tier now, and leaders Shoebury Town needed a late equaliser to draw 1 – 1 at Wakering Sports Res. Connor Fardyga notched his 15th league goal this term for Wakering, but Alfie Fossett’s goal meant Town stay seven points clear & surely on course for a return to Divsion One. May & Baker‘s Olympian side are up to third after a 3 – 2 triumph at home to Rayleigh Town Res. Kane Messenger notched twice for M & B here, with Alfie Horan netting the other goal for the hosts. Lastly, Catholic Utd Res put in a fine performance to defeat Harold Wood Athletic Res 5 – 1 at St Thomas More Sch, which took them up to seventh. There were two goals apiece from Daniel Williams & substitute Zachary Wing, as well as one scored by Dominic O’Kane. Matthew Harris came off the bench to net for Ath here, but their chances of a top 3 finish took a dent here.

EOFL Divisions Three, Four & Five

In Division Three, Basildon Town Res are now 11 points clear at the summit after a 3 – 1 win at local rivals Pitsea Athletic. Anthony Aylett ‘s brace & a goal for replacement Ola Ogunjobi sealed the win for Bas in their top-two clash. Leigh Town Res won 2 – 0 at home to Old Chelmsfordians Res, with Steve Birnie & Callum Keys goals seeing them in third, level with Pitsea on goal difference. Springfield Res had a Josh Hubble goal to thank for a 1 – 0 win over Toby Res, which will likely relegate the visitors now.

Roydon‘s grip on the Division Four lead was heightened after they powered to a 5 – 0 win at home to Pitsea Athletic Res. Connor Presland & Connor Riddoch both netted twice, to which substitute Halcyon Griffith added a goal to increase their lead to four points, with games in hand on most of their immediate rivals. Collier Row’s hold on second spot has weakened after they were held 1 – 1 at Leigh Ramblers Res, with Cameron Jarvis netting for Rams at Belfairs, who dropped to fifth – but they have at least three games in hand on the sides above them so they are still well in contention for a top-two spot. Herongate Athletic Res are only two points behind Row in third now, as they comprehensively won 6 – 1 at home to Galleywood Res. There were hat-tricks for Habeeb Apatira and Kai Redmond, which sealed the win for Herongate. Ebenezer Fasoranti replied for ‘Wood here, who remain third-bottom after this loss.

Meanwhile, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res are also well-placed in fourth, as they netted an impressive 7 – 1 triumph at strugglers Wakering Sports A. Matthew Allen reached 15 league goals with a double here, and Archie Gerard also netted two goals for Swifts, with Henry Harnack, Archie Burrell & an OG completing their scorers. Nathan Winnard’s goal was little consolation for Sports, who are being caught (slowly) by Leytonstone Utd, who drew 0 – 0 with Shenfield AFC Res at Forest Row.

Lastly this week, in Division Five there were victories for all of the top three teams. Leaders Manford Way Res defeated mid-table side Canning Town Res 3 – 0 at the London Marathon Sports Ground. Luke Bennett netted two goals here to take his tally upward to 21 this term, with Charlie Ewing also on target here. Runwell Sports Res are two points adrift in second spot, after they got a important 3 – 1 victory at Basildon Town A. Benjamin See netted twice here for Ryan Stoker’s team, with Jimmy Cox also on target. Jamie Miller responded for Bas, but this loss means it is a tough ask for them to get into the top two now. Wakebury Res moved into third spot after they dismantled Shoebury Town Res 8 – 2 at Shoebury Park. Liam Dunne scored an impressive five goals here for Joe Creak’s side here, with Charlie Kernott, Ross Barnes & Connor Lane also on target here. Also, Sungate Res defeated AS Rawreth Res 7 – 1 in East London to gain ground on the sides above them.

There is a Midweek Fixture (Tues 28 Feb) this week: Catholic Utd v Toby (in EOFL Premier, held at Southchurch Park)

End

S22-23 Round-up’s: Essex Olympian Lge & Cups (Sat 11 Feb) [EOFL 22-23 13.2.23]

Image from Corinthians v Harold Hill in D1 this weekend

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

Hello & welcome to the latest edition of the Essex Olympian League round-up. This week, we look at the action in all divisions & Cups from Saturday 11 February, as the weekend’s action in all six divisions was bolstered by Cup ties. Also includes the midweek EOFL Premier game this week at the start of that section.

EOFL Premier Division

We begin with the first of what could be several midweek EOFL matches as the season comes to its run-in. Catholic Utd got a narrow 2 – 1 victory at Old Southendian on Wednesday night at Garon Park 3G. James Warder & Michael Sammut got the important goals to outdo replacement Nico Dubouchet’s reply for OS. The win took Utd up to second after the weekend’s action. For more on this match, check out Peter Dudley’s match report here: https://pedroslocalfootiefix.blogspot.com/2023/02/old-southendian-1-catholic-united-2.html

In the weekend’s top-tier action, there were some key results at the bottom of the table. None more so than Galleywood‘s narrow 1 – 0 victory over Toby at Slades Lane. Kaiyun Reeves got the decisive goal there to grab their second win this term & go level on points with rivals Springfield, who drew 1 – 1 with Sungate at Arun Park. Lewis Chapman got the hosts’ goal in the opening game of the new era there, under new boss Matt Cardy, formerly of Division Two side Wakebury. Bishop’s Stortford Swifts went up to fourth-bottom with a gritty 1 – 0 win at Kelvedon Hatch. Substitute Harley Merry’s strike saw Swifts go above Hatch in the table but both these sides & Toby are precariously close to the bottom two, which are likely to be the relegation spots in three months’ time.

Elsewhere, Rayleigh Town renewed their rivalry with Old Southendian before coming away with a 3 – 1 success at Thames Road. Nick Henesy netted for OS while Harry Talbot, George Vile’s penalty & an early OG accounted for the hosts’ goals, with the win taking them back up to third, albeit they are 14 points adrift of leaders Hutton. Catholic Utd & Leigh Ramblers look to be their nearest challengers for that coveted second-spot. Finally, Leigh Ramblers drew 1 – 1 with Shenfield AFC. Luke Williamson got AFC’s goal and Andrew Webster netted for the Rams at Belfairs Park

EOFL Divisions One & Two

Division One again saw some big results. We begin with Old Chelmsfordians‘ 4 – 0 victory at home to Wakering Sports. The ensemble cast of Shane Pritchard, Joe Murphy, Ryan Baxter & substitute Billy Duke got the goals which sees the OC’s retain third spot & reduce the deficit to Epping in second to only one point. Manford Way edged a truly marvellous match as they won 6 – 4 at Epping Town. The defeat leaves Town further vulnerable to being caught by both Old Chelms & Corinthians, who battled to an important 3 – 2 victory at home to Harold Hill at Stambridge. Brodie Horne netted two good goals & an early OG proved enough to outweigh goals from Harry Watkins & Troy Tizard-Cleghorn’s spot kick. For much more on this game, here’s my report: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2023/02/11/s22-23-match-report-corinthians-3-2-harold-hill-sat-11-feb-eofl/

Also, Harold Wood Athletic were held 1 – 1 at ACD Utd. Leroy Griffiths scoed for Wood, with Matthew Taylor levelling the match for Utd. Harold Wood’s lead at the summit inches further to five points now, with four wins likely to be enough to secure the title. ACD remain sixth & are not out of the running for a top-four spot yet.

Into Division Two now, and leaders Shoebury Town remain four points clear at the summit after a fine 3 – 1 victory at May & Baker. Lewis Hunt, Oliver Chew & Timi Tinubu goals sealed their 11th win this term. Wakering Sports Res remain their nearest challengers after a 3 – 0 win at home to Catholic Utd Res. Connor Fardyga again found the target, as did substitutes Eben Rowledge & David Watson to confirm the points.

Elsewhere, Harold Wood Athletic Res are back up to third spot after a good 3 – 0 triumph over out-of-form AS Rawreth at Harold Wood Rec. Matt Harris, Kieron Moynihan & an OG meant that the Wood side are still in the running for promotion.

EOFL Divisions Three, Four & Five

In Division Three, leaders Basildon Town Res extended their lead to ten points after a 4 – 1 win over Springfield Res at Basildon Sports Club. Anthony Aylett notched twice here for the hosts to reach seven league goals this term, while Louis Hill & replacement Ola Ogunjobi also scored to confirm the win. Pitsea Athletic are up to second, following an excellent 4 – 0 success at home to Hullbridge Res. Sean Devlin, Reece Stone, Jason Warner & Joe Berry all got goals there for Trevor Wickens’ side, who are now in prime position for that second promotion spot. In the other game this weekend, Chingford Athletic Res fortified sixth spot with a 6 – 1 triumph over Corinthians Res at Town Mead 3G. Luke Dimond netted a fine treble to reach 12 league goals this campaign thus far, allied with two for Sonny Clarke & one from Jack Smith confirmed the points for Carl Gregory’s side. Corinthians Res need a minimum of three wins from their last five matches to avoid a likely relegation to Division Four.

In Division Four, the top two were not in league action, which allowed Leigh Ramblers Res to retain third spot & reduce the gap to leaders Roydon to six points as they won 2 – 0 at Leytonstone Utd. Joe Howson & Jacob Meads got the goals at Forest Row. Also, Herongate Athletic Res are well-placed in fourth now, after a 4 – 0 success over Wakering Sports A at Billericay Road. Thomas Lambourne & Byron Brackett both scored to get the hosts going before further strikes by replacements Kieron Wilson-Fowler & Joe Coldham secured the points.

Lastly in this division, Ongar Town battled with Galleywood Res to a goal-less draw at Marks Hall Centre. the point sees Ongar rise to sixth and Galleywood remain third from bottom, still needing points to secure their place in this division next term.

In Division Five, Collier Row Res are back in second spot, following a impressive 7 – 3 victory at Wakebury Res. Harry Potts netted five goals himself to double his tally to ten goals this term for the Ressie side. Jake Griffin & Raheem Bravo’s penalty added further ache to the hosts. Joe Creak’s side replied through a brace from Ross Barnes & one from Arry Hardy. The other results saw Shoebury Town Res win 4 – 0 at AS Rawreth Res and Sungate Res triumph 3 – 1 at Canning Town Res.

Cups

We start the Cup action with mentions of the two Senior Cup games. First up, it was predictably tight in the all-Premier Division clash in Beckton as Hutton defeated Canning Town 3 – 2. Lewis Scott & substitutes Will Marlowe & Billy Chilcott got the decisive goals for Matt Singh’s side who may well mark this potentially pivotal season with a Cup Final appearance as well. Joining them in the next round will be Catholic Utd, who won 3 – 0 at Division Two side Hashtag Utd Development. Tom Elliott, Harrison Day and Tom Kearney got the goals for Simon Thomas’ side at Barleylands.

Moving on to the other Cup competitions now. Firstly in the Reserve Cup, and Basildon Town A got an upset on spot-kicks, after drawing 1 – 1 with Division Two side Hutton Res at Polo Fields. Donnel Kujinga again netted for the Division Five side, and they won 5 – 4 on penalties to see them through. There was nearly another upset in the Denny King Cup tie this weekend as Division One side Beacon Hill Rovers also needed penalties to progress, after a 1 – 1 draw at Division Four leaders Roydon. Nader Benzid got the hosts’ goal, with Charles Fitt’s late goal meaning a shoot-out was needed. Rovers won that 4 – 2 but credit does go to Roydon, who are continuing to show they may well be alright, should they complete the job & gain promotion for next term.

We end this week with two ties in the Reserve Trophy. Firstly, Manford Way Res narrowly got the better of Leigh Town Res, as Manford won 3 – 2 to send the Division Three team out. Luke Bennett’s double, allied with Charlie Ewing’s strike outdid strikes by Zack Walker & Spencer Izatt for Leigh to send the Division Five side through. Also, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res also prevailed, following a 2 – 0 victory at home to Shenfield AFC Res, with Matthew Allen & David Falzon strikes securing the win at Silver Leys.

End

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian Lge & Cups (Sat 4 Feb) [EOFL 22-23 6.2.23]

Archive Image – Shoebury Town v AS Rawreth earlier this term

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

Hello & welcome to another edition of the Essex Olympian League round-up. This week, we look at the action in all divisions & Cups from Saturday 4 February, as the weekend’s action in all six divisions was bolstered by Cup ties.

EOFL Premier Division

In the top-tier, Hutton continue to bolster their chances of the Premier title & promotion, as they defeated Toby 2 – 0 at Chadfields. Stephen Judge & substitute Kyle Linzell goals were enough to see the Reds to 40 points in just 14 matches. Old Southendian are up to second spot after a 3 – 0 win at Leigh Ramblers, securing their third straight League win. Catholic Utd are up third place after securing a comeback 3 – 1 victory over Runwell Sports at the Len Forge. Gianni Frankis’ goal had put Runwell ahead but strikes from Liam Oliver, Aaron Baldwin (on his 100th appearance for the club) & Tom Elliott sealled the win, ahead of a very hectic last three months of the campaign (which sees them still have 15 league games left, starting with a trip Old Southendian in midweek). Shenfield AFC’s decent season continues after they defeated Canning Town 1 – 0 at St Martins 3G. Sam Lock got the only goal there to send them up to eighth spot, while Galleywood battled to a 1 – 1 draw at Kelvedon Hatch. Freddie Bartram got the ‘Wood goal, with Charlie Nichols replying for Darren Hunt’s team. Galleywood still need at least two wins from their upcoming games to draw other teams into the relegation battle.

EOFL Divisions One & Two

Division One saw some potentially big results. First, a mention for strugglers Wakering Sports who battled to their maiden victory this term, as they defeated Manford Way 1- 0, with Nathan Roche scoring the only goal there. Epping Town held promotion rivals Harold Wood Athletic 1 – 1 at home, with Joe Rickett netting for Town & Ben Woolven doing so for Ath, who remain four points clear at the top. Beacon Hill Rovers got an important 2 – 0 success over Corinthians, which sends Hill up to 8th, and dampens the Stambridge-based side’s promotion aspirations, as they stay fourth. Finally, Herongate Athletic are only two points adrift of fourth spot, following a 3 – 0 win at home to Harold Hill. Alfie Yeend, Thomas Lambourne & George Godfrey goals made the most of their chances & notch a fine three points.

Into Division Two, Wakering Sports Res reduced the deficit to leaders Shoebury to four points after a 5 – 2 triumph at Rayleigh Town Res. Substitute Ciaran Sweeney netted twice, with Connor Fardyga, Charlie Smith & Steven Valente also on target for the enterprising Sports side. May & Baker are up to third after a fine 5 – 0 win at AS Rawreth, with Alfie Horan & Kane Messenger notching doubles each, with Jack O’Connor’s fine strike confirming the points. Hutton Res got a battling 1 – 0 victory at Hashtag Utd Development, with Jack Greenwood’s goal enough to push them up to ninth place, a point clear of the bottom two. Lastly, Old Southendian Res drew 1 – 1 with Catholic Utd Res. Both teams are some way off the top six, following that result.

EOFL Divisions Three, Four & Five

Moving now to Division Three, the top two were not in action but Buckhurst Hill U23 gained ground on them with a superb 7 – 1 success over Corinthians Res at Roding Lane. Ayomide Ademokun netted a treble, with Harvey Woods adding a brace, plus Jacob Richards & replacement Bailey Allen also netted for Darren Gosnell’s side, who are well-set in third. Pitsea Athletic are only a point below them in fourth after they defeated Chingford Athletic Res 5 – 0. Both of these teams have the most matches to play in the division remaining, at eight each.

In Division Four, Roydon put themselves back in pole position for the title with a 2 – 1 victory over rivals Collier Row. Connor Presland & Ross Bourke both scored for the hosts who went a point clear at the summit, with three matches in hand on nearest rivals Row. Leigh Ramblers Res are also in the promotion shake-up after a fine 4 – 0 win at Shenfield AFC Res. Jacob Meads netted twice for the Rams, with Dominic North & substitute Taylor Stewart also on target at Warley Fields in a win which keeps them third. Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res had a real battle before coming away with a 4 – 3 victory at Galleywood Res. The hosts got goals through Ebenezer Fasoranti, Aryan Tathgar and Ashley Merritt but they were outdone by Matthew Allen’s brace for Swifts, compiled with strikes from Archie Gerard & Jordan Trott to give the visitors another three points and they remain fourth.

Lastly in this division, a big day for Leytonstone Utd as they notched their first win of a tough campaign, winning 3 – 2 against Ongar Town at Forest Row. The trio of James Medlock, Billy Wallace & George Welsh got the crucial Leytonstone goals. Ongar got goals from Jude Collins, and replacement James McLean but it wasn’t enough to prevent Utd from finally savouring a win – they are only four points behind Wakering Sports A & Galleywood Res directly above them.

In Division Five, Basildon Town A edged to a 3 – 2 victory over Collier Row Res at Basildon Sports Club. Donnel Kujinga netted yet another double to further endorse his good season, while Alex Smith got the other goal, the win takes them up to fourth place. Also, Runwell Sports Res are into second place after a resounding 8 – 0 victory at home to AS Rawreth Res.

Cups

We start the Cup action with mentions of the two Senior Cup games. First, Sungate ended Rayleigh Town’s run in the competition as the ‘Gate had a Arif Mustapha goal to thank in their 1 – 0 win. Also, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts were given a stern test before coming through 4 – 3 on spot-kicks, after a 0 – 0 draw at Silver Leys, In the Denny King Cup, ACD Utd progressed with a narrow 1 – 0 victory over Basildon Town Res, with Jamie Alexandrou getting the only goal there.

Moving on into the Reserve Cup, and Herongate Athletic Res triumphed with a 5 – 1 win at Springfield Res. Kemston Allen got a super treble, added to very well by Habeeb Apatira’s double to see the visitors through. Finally, in the Reserve Trophy, Old Chelmsfordians Res progressed with a 3 – 0 victory at home to Pitsea Athletic Res and Harold Wood Athletic Res sailed through with a 4 – 1 success at Wakering Sports A. Max London netted twice for Wood, with Thomas Butler & Kieron Moynihan also on target for them. Carl Sutton replied for Wakering, but their attention focuses now on remaining in Division Four.

End

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian Lge & Cups (Sat 21 Jan) [EOFL 22-23 23.1.23]

Woodford East v Hutton image from this weekend [Image by Scott W]

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

Hello & welcome to the another edition of the Essex Olympian League round-up. This week, we look at the action in all divisions & Cups from Saturday 21 January, as the weekend’s action was again reduced because of the frosty weather.

EOFL Premier Division & Division Three action was postponed this week.

EOFL Divisions One and Two

Division One only saw one match as Harold Wood Athletic got a important 5 – 0 victory over bottom side Wakering Sports. James Pottle netted twice here for John Field’s team, with Zach Holding, Perry Robinson & Louis Bazely’s spot-kick accounting for the other goals. The win takes Ath seven points clear at the top, with Corinthians the most likely rivals once they have played the four games they have in hand on Ath.

Into Division Two now and the only match here saw May & Baker draw 2 – 2 with Harold Wood Athletic Res at home. Matthew Harris & replacement Josh Portway netted for the visitors but they lost the chance to go back up to third here.

EOFL Divisions Four & Five

It’s straight into Division Four now, and Herongate Athletic Res are three points clear in third after a narrow 1 – 0 victory over Leigh Ramblers Res. John Hanrahan’s penalty proved decisive as Ath retained their chances of overhauling second-placed Collier Row, given they have three extra games to play, compared to Row. Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res rose to fourth after a conclusive 4 – 0 triumph at strugglers Leytonstone Utd. The cast of Archie Gerard, Henry Harnack, Matthew Allen & Jordan Trott were all on target for Swifts there. Finally in this division, Shenfield AFC Res defeated Wakering Sports A 4 – 0 at St Martin’s 3G. Mason Everitt, Kyle Constable, Lewis Dalley & Alec Roeper all scored to fortify AFC’s sixth place.

In Division Five, Collier Row Res are up to second after a 2 – 1 win at Sungate Res, with Raheem Bravo and Nicholas George the scorers for Row there. In the other match, Runwell Sports Res are five points clear in fourth after a 2 – 0 success at Wakebury Res. Harry Ford and Daniel Hobbs scored for Sports as they secured their sixth win this term.

Cups

Starting the Cup round-up with the Essex Premier Cup Quarter-Finals, and Wakering Sports Res‘ dream run continues after a superb 5 – 1 victory over Toby at Cupid’s. Connor Fardyga once again contributed hugely in big games with a hat-trick here, and Eben Rowledge & Charlie Smith also scoring. Jamie Simpkins replied for Toby but they bowed out – their focus is now on EOFL Premier survival. Rayleigh Town renewed their rivalry with Catholic Utd and Town prevailed 3 – 2 at Len Forge 3G. Harry Talbot scored twice for Paul Higgins’ side here, with Jack Long also scoring. Joe O’Kane had earlier given Utd the lead, and Aaron Baldwin netted a late second but they exited the Premier Cup.

Elsewhere, Shenfield AFC were made to battle hard for a 2 – 1 win at EOFL Division One side Corinthians. John Bolton-Smith’s spot-kick gave the hosts the lead but Ben Carroll & Elliott Thompson strikes turned the tide and saw AFC progress to the last four. Also, in the match I attended this week, Woodford East produced a superb comeback to defeat Hutton 4 – 2 at Mabley Green 3G. The Reds led by two goals at the break, through Lewis Scott & David Johnson. But a roaring response by East saw strikes by Harry Robinson, Matt Stacey, Billy Barr & Ben Smith saw the Essex Alliance side prevail. If you’d like more on this game, my report is here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2023/01/21/s22-23-match-report-woodford-east-4-2-hutton-sat-21-jan-epcqf/

Now into the EOFL Senior Cup games, Old Southendian progressed with a 4 – 1 success over Leigh Ramblers at Belfairs Park. Mattias Tonking netted two goals for Altan Ali’s team, while Mitchell Ali & Connor Burrows strikes secured a fine win. Canning Town also went through as they won another penalty shoot-out 5 – 4 after a 1 – 1 stalemate at Runwell Sports. Oliver Williamson netted for Runwell there.

The solitary Reserve Cup match this weekend saw Galleywood Res go through after a 3 – 1 victory at Shoebury Town Res. Alfie Hooper’s fine treble secured a good win for the visitors at the Ekco Sports Club.

Lastly this week, in the EOFL Denny King Cup, Epping Town had a Conor Corrigan goal to thank for a 1 – 0 win at home to Chingford Athletic Res. Shoebury Town also went through after a 4 – 1 win at home to Buckhurst Hill U23. Mechack-Kisoka Asuka scored another two goals here, with Aaron Marshall & an OG accounting for the other goals.

End

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian Lge & Cups (Sat 14 Jan) [EOFL 22-23 16.1.23]

Archive Image – Leigh Ramblers v Galleywood earlier this term

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

Hello & welcome to the another edition of the Essex Olympian League round-up. This week, we look at the action in all divisions & Cups from Saturday 14 January, as the weekend’s action was again affected by the wintry weather.

EOFL Premier Division

In the top-tier, Leigh Ramblers have gone up to second spot after an incredible 7 – 2 victory at Bishop’s Stortford Swifts. Doubles for Andrew Webster and Tom Franks set Mark Hunter’s side on their way here, with further strikes by Justin Hazell, Matthew Brinklow & Jack Gardner securing a handsome win. Daryl Doolan & replacement Charlie Gilbert replied for Swifts but they are vulnerable having played several more games than the bottom two clubs currently (Springfield & Galleywood). The other result saw Canning Town rise to third after a 4 – 1 win at home to Springfield. Lewis Chapman netted for the visitors but Town got their 7th win this term.

EOFL Divisions One, Two & Four

Division One only saw one match beat the weather, as ACD Utd grabbed a 5 – 3 victory over Wakering Sports at Westlands. Shaun Goddard’s treble saw Michael Wade’s side in command, but goals from Harry Payne & substitute Jacob Dingli were needed to overhaul Paul Wines’ brace for Sports & one goal for Nathan Roche as well. ACD rose to fifth after this win.

Into Division Two now and the only match here saw Old Southendian Res edge to a 3 – 2 triumph over May & Baker at Garon Park 3G. Carl Patten & Darren Seymour netted for the visitors but goals for Nico Dubouchet, Oliver Tatton-Bennett & substitute Callum Ludlaim ensured the points went to Josh Bambury’s side – they now sit 7th in the table, seven points adrift of their opponents here.

It’s straight into Division Four, and Ongar Town got a valuable 2 – 1 success over Collier Row at Marks Hall Centre. Jude Collins nabbed both goals for the hosts here to send up to seventh spot. Row had a setback here, and they will need to amass as many points as possible from their six remaining games to stay in the promotion race. Herongate Athletic Res also drew 0 – 0 with Shenfield AFC Res, which temporarily lifts them up to third.

There was no action in Divisions Three & Five this week, due to postponements.

Cups

Now into the EOFL Senior Cup games, and Hutton breezed through into the next round thanks to a 5 – 1 win over Shenfield AFC, in this tie moved to New Lodge 3G. Connor Hammond struck two goals here for Matt Singh’s side, added to by Luke Ricketts, Joshua Seal & Kyle Linzell strikes. Co-manager Luke Williamson got the Shenfield reply but the Reds went through. Elsewhere, Toby progressed after defeating Harold Wood Athletic 2 – 1 on spot-kicks, following a battling 1 – 1 draw at the Nursery Sports Ground. Chris Rowland netted for Toby, with James Pottle scoring for Ath there.

The other tie saw Old Chelmsfordians overcome a scare at Division Two Wakebury. The OC’s won 4 – 1 on penalties, following a 3 – 3 draw at Cupid’s. Harry Kateley netted twice for the Berries here, with Will Wheeler notching the other goal for them.

One game in the Reserve Cup saw Wakrering Sports Res progress with a terrific 6 – 1 triumph over Collier Row Res on the Main pitch at Cupid’s. Adem Beji & Connor Fardyga both scored twice here for the hosts, with Steven Valente and Substitute Charlie Smith also finding the net for Sports.

In the Essex Junior Trophy, Manford Way Res went through after a 5 – 0 victory at Silver End Utd Res. George Green’s fine hat-trick was added to by two goals for prolific scorer Luke Bennett. But Basildon Town A are out after a 4 – 1 loss to Snaresbrook, leaders of Essex Alliance League Division Two.

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League & Cups (Sat 7 Jan) [EOFL 22-23 9.1.23]

Archive Image – OS v Rayleigh Town from last month

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

Hello & Happy New Year to the readers of this column. Welcome to the first edition of the Essex Olympian League round-up series in 2023. This week, we look at the action in all divisions from Saturday 7 January, plus the Cup ties this week.

EOFL Premier Division

Firstly in the top-tier, Hutton extended their seemingly unassailable lead at the top to 14 points after a 5 – 0 victory at Springfield. David Johnson netted twice here for Matt Singh’s side, with Jude Keeling, Tom Stephens and substitute Connor Hammond also netting here. The hosts remain second bottom, two points adrift of Toby. Sungate are in third on goal difference, despite being held to a goal-less draw by Bishop’s Stortford Swifts. Leigh Ramblers are up to fourth after a gritty 1 – 0 victory at home to Runwell Sports at Belfairs. Scott Clark again got a crucial goal for Mark Hunter’s team.

Meanwhile, Catholic Utd started the calendar year with a 4 – 1 triumph at home to Kelvedon Hatch at the Len Forge 3G. James Burt scored for Hatch, but a team effort turned the tide as Franklin Craik, Aaron Baldwin, Tom Kearney and replacement Harrison Day all scored to keep Simon Thomas’ side in sixth, but are only two points adrift of Sungate in third. Shenfield AFC also picked up a big home win, as they triumphed 4 – 0 over Galleywood at St Martin’s Sch 3G. Jack Maleary, Ben Absolon, Jack Panons & Ben Carroll all netted here to send them three points clear in ninth, with matches in hand over most of the teams around them. ‘Wood’s tough season continues, as they are five points adrift of exiting the bottom two. Finally, Old Southendian got back to winning ways in some style as they won 6 – 0 at home to Toby at Garon Park, which sent them up to fifth on goal difference in what is a very tight chasing pack.

EOFL Divisions One & Two

Division One only saw three matches this week because of the weather but Epping Town got a huge 6 – 1 victory over strugglers Wakering Sports. Scout Bown netted four goals here for Stuart Hoskins’ team, to take his season’s league goal tally to 16. Edirin Eghwrudje and Abdul Kamara also scored here to add to the visitors’ pain and reduce leaders Harold Wood Athletic’s lead at the summit to four points. Beacon Hill Rovers also got a cucial victory, defeating Herongate Athletic 3 – 2 at Wickham Bishops. Bertie Whymark took his goal tally to seven this term with a double here, with William Strutt also netting for the hosts. Manford Way also drew 1 – 1 with Old Chelmsfordians, with Daniel Demain coming off the bench to score for the hosts there, with the point gained seeing them up to seventh in the table.

Into Division Two, there were some big results for the top four sides. Leaders Shoebury Town are four points clear at the top after an important 3 – 0 victory over Hashtag Utd Development, who dropped to third. Mechack-Kisoka Asuka scored another two goals to take his league goal tally to 13 this term. Substitute Enoch Gyimah added the other goal for Garry Johnson & John Galley’s side here. Wakering Sports Res are up to second spot after a 5 – 0 win against AS Rawreth at Cupid’s. May & Baker‘s Olympian side had to battle hard before completing a 4 – 3 victory at Catholic Utd Res, in a match moved to Waterside Farm Centre on Canvey. Carl Patten struck twice for Josh Lowbridge & Antony McDonald’s side, with Darren Seymour and Alfie Horan also scoring for the visitors there, who stay sixth but are only four points behind Wakering Sports Res in second, which endorses how tight the top half of the table is.

Elsewhere, Hutton Res moved up to eighth following a big 3 – 2 win at Wakebury. Thomas Price, Billy Chilcott and Ronnie Richardson-Cook all netted here for the visitors. Finlay Dorrell & Ben Perry responded for Matt Cardy’s team here but they lost ground on the top two. The other result saw Old Southendian Res win 4 – 2 at Rayleigh Town Res.

EOFL Divisions Three, Four & Five

In Division Three, Basildon Town Res are eight points clear at the summit after a 2 – 1 victory over local rivals Pitsea Athletic Res. Jamie Bradbourn’s brace sealed the points for the hosts, overturning Ath’s goal by substitute Carlos Dias. Ath fell to their first defeat this term & dropped to fourth. Hullbridge Sports Res are up to second after a comprehensive 8 – 0 victory at strugglers Corinthians Res. Jay Knight, Harry Mole and substitute George Mole all got doubles here, with Joe Tuskin and Joseph Gray strikes adding further gloss to the score-line.

Leigh Town Res are now third after a 5 – 2 success at home to Springfield Res at John Burrows Rec. Chris Pope netted twice here for Town, with Jack Pearman, Steve Birnie and Joshua Dalton all on target to render Liam England & William Roe goals for Springfield as consolation goals. Chingford Athletic Res grabbed a 4 – 1 victory at Old Chelmsfordians Res, with the ensemble cast of Luke Dimond, Bilel Benyoucef, George Miller and replacement Conor Medhurst all scoring for Ath.

Moving into Division Four, and Leigh Ramblers Res gained ground on second-placed Collier Row with a 1 – 0 victory at Forest Row. Luis Bracci got the decisive goal there, to raise his side up to third in the table. In the only other game in the division, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res were held 1 – 1 by Ongar Town at Silver Leys. Matthew Allen scored for Swifts, with Benjamin Adams responding for Ongar. Swifts drop to fifth, while Ongar are in eighth.

Finally for the League action this week, In Division Five the leaders are Manford Way Res, who won 4 – 1 at AS Rawreth Res. Callum Thomas, Luke Bennett, Charlie Ewing & Rakim Janneh all netted to extend their lead at the top to five points. Justin Burrell got the solitary goal back for the Rawreth team, who are three points adrift at the bottom. Wakebury Res moved into second spot following a 3 – 1 triumph over Basildon Town A at Shoebury Park. Ross Barnes’ treble saw Joe Creak’s side to their seventh win this term. Jamie Miller got the reply for Bas, who are now in sixth.

Elsewhere, Runwell Sports Res are up to fourth after they won 1 – 0 at home to Sungate Res. Daniel Hobbs got the only goal there at St Luke’s Park. The other result saw Shoebury Town Res draw 1 – 1 with Collier Row A at the Ekco Sports Club (Pitch 2).

In the Cup action this weekend, Canning Town emerged with a 4 – 3 win on penalties in the Senior League Cup after drawing 1 – 1 with Division One side Harold Hill in the early kick-off at Noak Hill 3G.

In the one match in the Reserve League Cup, Herongate Athletic Res got a morale-boosting 2 – 1 victory over Harold Wood Athletic Res, thanks to goals from Kemston Allen and replacement Jasper Stuckey. Josh Portway got the reply for Harold Wood’s Ressie side there but they exited the Cup here.

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian Lge & Cups (Sat 19 Nov) [EOFL 22-23 21.11.22]

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

Hello & welcome to this weekend’s round-up from the action in the Essex Olympian League. This week on Saturday 19 November, we look at the action in all divisions, plus an extra section on the various Cup competitions this weekend.

EOFL Senior Cup

This week we’ll start with the League Senior Cup, where we saw two games. Toby progressed afterr a hard-fought 2 – 1 success at Corinthians, with Jamie Simpkins notching both goals for Mark Jones’ side. Bailey Moss was as ever on the score-sheet for the hosts at Stambridge. Catholic Utd also went through after a 6 – 2 win at home to Manford Way at the Len Forge.

Action still from first half of Leigh Rams v Galleywood this weekend

EOFL Premier Division

In the top-tier this week, Hutton remain nine points clear at the summit after a 3 – 0 win at local rivals Shenfield AFC. Brad Freeman, Will Marlowe & Luke Ricketts all scored for Matt Singh’s team at St Martin’s 3G. The Reds have only conceded four league goals in their undefeated ten games thus far, some statistic that is. Runwell Sports also got a much-needed win, as they won 4 – 2 at Kelvedon Hatch. James Dalton netted twice for Rob Hodgson’s side who move up to sixth, with Joe Olley & Gianni Frankis also finding the net to counteract goals for Hatch by Drew Klessa-Smith & Joe Newson. Canning Town are still second after a 1 – 0 win over Bishop’s Stortford Swifts in Beckton.

Lastly in the Prem, Leigh Ramblers defeated Galleywood 4 – 0 in the driving rain at Belfairs. Callum Morris, Scott Clark, Andrew Webster & George Moxon all netted for Mark Hunter’s team here and I attended this match, my report is available here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2022/11/20/s22-23-match-report-leigh-ramblers-4-0-galleywood-sat-19-nov-eofl/

EOFL Divisions One & Two

Division One saw seventeen goals in the three games played. Firstly, leaders Harold Wood Athletic had an enthralling match in their top-two contest with Epping Town, before eventually prevailing 5 – 4 at Harold Wood Rec. James Pottle led the way for the hosts with a treble, added to by goals from Daniel Spittle & Louis Bazely. Epping responded with Scout Bown netting another double, plus strikes by Chris Gormley & replacemement Joe Rickett but Epping are now ten points adrift of Ath. Harold Hill are up to fourth after a 2 – 1 victory over Beacon Hill Rovers at Henderson’s. Jack Sutters got both goals for Billy Cove’s side, with Bradley Morgan replying for Rovers in that game.

The other game saw Old Chelmsfordians maintain their top-four challenge with a 3 – 2 victory against Herongate Athletic at Lawfiord Lane. Adam Cole & George Godfrey both netting for Kurt Smith’s side there.

Into Division Two now, Rayleigh Town Res picked up a huge 4 – 1 win at AS Rawreth to leapfrog them off the bottom & up to seventh spot. Ebeneezer Djan once again led the scorers with a double here, with Matthew Oaten and Samuel Barker also netting here. Leaders Shoebury Town are now six points clear at the top after getting through a hugely-entertaining game at local rivals Old Southendian Res, before emerging with a 7 – 3 victory. Mechack-Kisoka Asuka and Jack Woodham both netted trebles for John Galley & Garry Johnson’s side here, with Luke Jackson also getting the other goal to more than confirm the win. OS’ second side fall to the foot of the table after this result.

Elsewhere, Wakebury picked up a very good 2 – 1 win again Harold Wood Athletic Res at Cupid’s. Will Wheeler netted both goals for Matt Cardy’s side, overhauling Kieron Moynihan’s goal for Ath here. The Berries remain in fourth but other results mean there are three sides on 18 points. May & Baker EOFL won 3 – 1 at home against high-flyers Wakering Sports Res to lift themselves up to sixth. Carl Patten, George Stanbrook & Frankie Warboyes all scored for Josh Lowbridge’s side. Connor Fardyga’s goal was not enough this time to prevent his side losing ground on the leaders Shoebury. Hashtag Utd Dev also got an important win, 5 – 4 at Hutton Res. Chandler Wray scored twice for the Tags side, with Jay Knight, Adam De Cruz and Samuel Pratt goals securing the win which adds to the grip they have on fifth spot currently. Thomas Price’s treble & a Lewis Hall goal were not enough to stop Hutton’s second side from dropping down to third-bottom.

EOFL Divisions Three, Four & Five

In the fourth-tier, Hullbridge Sports Res are in second place on goal difference after a 5 – 3 win at Chingford Athletic Res. Luke Dimond, Leighton Hughes-Franklin & Bilel Benyoucef all netted for Chingford but a treble for Lewis Foster plus goals for Harry Boswell and Jay Knight secured a good win for the visitors. Leigh Town Res are in third after a 4 – 0 win at home to Corinthians Res at John Burrows Rec. Zack Walker, Steve Birnie, Callum Stone & substitute Tommy Clayton all scored for Josh Burrage’s side in that one. Also, Old Chelmsfordians Res won 4 – 1 at Toby Res to go up to third bottom.

Into Division Four now, and Roydon extended their lead at the top to three points after a 2 – 0 victory at Ongar Town. Nader Benzid and substitute Zachary Ogundipe both netted to strengthen the promotion hopefuls’ chances on remaining in the top three. Elsewhere, Collier Row remain second after a goal-less draw with Herongate Athletic Res at Fotest Row, while at Basildon Sporting Village, Pitsea Athletic Res were held 1 – 1 by Leytonstone Utd, who got their first point of the campaign.

In Division Five, Basildon Town A had to overcome a stern test at St Luke’s Park before defeating Runwell Sports Res 3 – 2. Nathan Fisher scored twice for Bas, with Luke Soley also on target to give the visitors a one-point lead at the summit. Manford Way Res are up to second after a 4 – 1 triumph over Shoebury Town Res. The ensemble cast of Luke Bennett, Aaron Clements, George Green & replacement Harvey Brown all netted to ensure the win. Collier Row Res are five points further back in fourth spot after a 3 – 1 success at Canning Town Res. Celso Da Silva, Raheem Bravo & Harry Potts were all on target to secure the points.

Essex Premier Cup Replay (Last week’s result is void) – May & Baker Res (EAL) 3 – 1 ACD Utd (AET)

EOFL Reserve Lge Cup Results

Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res 0 – 2 Springfield Res

Galleywood Res 9 – 0 AS Rawreth Res

Wakebury 1 – 1p Catholic Utd Res (1-4 on pens)

and Essex Junior Cup R: Ilford Res 1 – 2 Shenfield AFC Res

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian Lge & Cups (Sat 12 Nov) [EOFL 22-23 14.11.22]

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

Hello & welcome to the round-up from the action in the Essex Olympian League. This week on this Rememberance Weekend or Saturday 12 November, we look at the action in all divisions, plus an extra section on the various Cup competitions this weekend. Lest we forget.

AS Rawreth’s Sonny Newcombe (13) jostling for the ball v Shoebury this weekend

EOFL Premier Division

Firstly in the top-tier, Runwell Sports flew up into seventh spot with a 4 – 1 victory over visitors Bishops Stortford Swifts. Charlie Little & Gianni Frankis both notched doubles to see Rob Hodgson’s side to a big win. Alex Scott-Bell got an eventual consolation for Swifts, who remain a point clear of the bottom. Old Southendian got an good 2 – 0 win at Springfield, with Nico Dubouchet & Jack Lelliott both on target for Altan Ali’s side who for the moment go into sixth spot. Finally, Canning Town missed the chance to gain ground on the top two (who were in Cup action) as they lost 4 – 3 at Sungate, who rose to fourth, behind Canning by virtue of the latter scoring more goals.

Shoebury & Rawreth observe minute’s silence before KO

EOFL Divisions One & Two

In the only game in Division One this week owing to Cup action, second-placed Epping Town are seven points adrift of leaders Harold Wood Athletic after drawing 2 – 2 with mid-table Harold Hill. Scout Bown got both goals for player-boss Stuart Hoskins’ team there.

Moving into Division Two, Harold Wood Athletic Res kept up the pressure on the top two with a 5 – 1 triumph at Old Southendian Res. Chay Saggers scored for the OS side but Ath went three points clear in third, thanks to braces for Matt Harris & Thomas Butler, with Nazarij Bilanovszkij also on target. The bottom six clubs are seperated by only three points after Catholic Utd Res defeated Hutton Res 2 – 1 and Rayleigh Town Res held May & Baker EOFL 1 – 1, with Byron Down netting for the home side at London Road.

In the match I attended this week, Shoebury Town were given a test initially before powering to a 6 – 2 victory over AS Rawreth at Ekco Sports Club. Mechack-Kisoka Asuka netted a fine treble to lead the scorers, with captain Callum Merenda, Suhail Yasin & Ryan Galley all also scoring for John Galley & Garry Johnson’s side, who are now three points clear at the summit. Sonny Newcombe & captain Muntizir Hussain netted for Shane Bird’s side. If you’d like more on this match, my report can be viewed here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2022/11/12/s22-23-match-report-shoebury-town-6-2-as-rawreth-sat-12-nov-eofl/

EOFL Divisions Three, Four & Five

Into Division Three now, Basildon Town Res are five points clear at the top after a 4 – 1 success at Old Chelmsfordians Res. Keith King netted a fine treble, with Antony Aylett also on target to make it 35 league goals already this term (at an average of 3.88 goals per game) for Bas. Buckhurst Hill U23 are also well-placed, moving up to third after a 2 – 0 victory at Hullbridge Sports Res. Jacob Sember Richards & Olaobajuwan Olagbaju both scored for Darren Gosnell’s side. Finally, Springfield Res are up to fifth after a 3 – 2 win at Corinthians Res. Billy Headland, Edward Coggins & replacement Michael Loannou all scoring for ‘Field there.

In Division Four, Leigh Ramblers Res strengthened their fourth position with a 3 – 1 victory at Ongar Town. Alex Goodson, Dominic North & Ethan Nunn all netted at Marks Hall to leave Town in eighth. Galleywood Res got their first win this term, winning 3 – 2 at strugglers Leytonstone Utd. An OG, Alfie Hooper & Joshua Lapidus goals saw them to a vital win. Elsewhere, Roydon were held 1 – 1 by Herongate Athletic Res, with Nader Benzid getting the goal for the leaders. Collier Row are up to a second spot, a point behind Roydon after a 2 – 0 win at Shenfield AFC Res. Jake Skeet’s seventh league goal this term & substitute Freddie Donkor’s goal confirmed the points for Row. Finally, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res celebrated a big 6 – 1 triumph over Wakering Sports A at Silver Leys. Matthew Allen’s treble plus strikes by David Falzon, Ewan Rockell & Huey Reid saw them to victory & up to fifth. James Clark hot the solitary reply for the Sports’ third-side.

In Division Five, Wakebury Res became the first league side to beat leaders Basildon Town A & they did so in some style, winning 6 – 2 at Basildon Sports Club. Ross Barnes netted a hat-trick here for Joe Creak’s side, with Tommy Wolfe netting two more & Luke Abbott also ontarget. Luke Soley & substitute Alex Shields got replies for Bas but they now only lead the table on goal difference. That is because Runwell Sports Res got a 2 – 2 draw at Manford Way Res. Max Harrington & Benjamin See got the goals for Sports, while Manford’s goals came from Luke Bennett’s double. The other game in the division saw a huge win for Sungate Res as they won 8 – 2 at AS Rawreth Res, which earned them their first win this term.

Essex Premier Cup – Round Three

In the first of our ‘in-focus’ matches in the EPC, Shenfield AFC got back to winning ways with a hard-fought 3 – 2 victory over Essex Senior Reserve side White Ensign Res at St Martins’ 3G. Marlon Stratford, Luke Williamson & Courtney Justin got the goals for the home side in that tie as AFC went through. Catholic Utd also made the fourth round with a 2 – 0 victory over Heybridge Swifts Res at the Len Forge. Aaron Baldwin getting both goals for Utd with gives them a much-need confidence boost ahead of their other Cup fixtures this month. At Belfairs, Leigh Ramblers powered to a terrific 5 – 2 victory over Border League side Dedham Old Boys. Scott Clark continued his good season with a double here, while Callum Morris, Billy Field & an OG rounded out the scorers for the hosts.

Ellsewhere, Toby put in a clinical display to defeat Chelmsford City Res 5 – 0 at the Nursery Sports Ground. Jamie Simpkins & Oliver Dingli both got doubles, with Ben Picton getting the opener there for Mark Jones’ side. Harold Wood Athletic put in another excellent display to defeat Essex Alliance Senior side Frenford Development 4 – 3 at the Rec. Billy Gray, Billy Spencer, Mitchell Prue & Max Shepherd all notched as Ath progressed.

Rayleigh Town also progessed with a 6 – 0 trouncing of Galleywood at Slades Lane. Sonny Woodward netted a treble here to lead the way, with George Vile, George Aston & substitute Harry Talbot also netting. Wakering Sports Res also got a big 5 – 1 win ag home to Alresford Colne Rangers at Cupid’s, with Connor Fardyga again leading the scorers with a double here, with Billy Cottrill, Charlie Smith and a thunderbolt from David Watson adding more pain to the visitors. Finally for this section, Corinthians won 3 – 2 at Hashtag Utd Res, with a brace for Bailey Moss & one for Max Jones proving enough to win at Barleylands.

Other Results In EPC:

Colne Athletic 2 – 1 Old Chelmsfordians

Hutton 2 – 1 Kelvedon Hatch

May & Baker Res (EAL side) 1 – 1p ACD Utd (3 – 5 on pens)

Pitsea Athletic 1 – 2 Beacon Hill Rovers

EOFL Senior & Reserve Cups

In the single match in the EOFL Senior Cup, Wakebury progressed with a very good 4 – 1 victory over goal-hungry Chinford Athletic Res at Cupid’s. Finlay Dorrell again netted twice for Matt Cardy’s team, with Junior Lawrence & Isaac Bello also on target for the hosts. Leighton Hughes-Franklin got the reply for Ath but they exited the competition here.

In RLC: Shoebury Town Res 1 – 0 Toby Res

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian Lge (Sat 5 Nov) [EOFL 22-23 7.11.22]

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

Hello & welcome to the round-up from the action in the Essex Olympian League. This week on Saturday 5 November, we look at the action in all divisions, plus an extra section on Senior League Cup games this weekend. Image below taken by Peter D, used with thanks.

Image from Harold Hill v Waering Sports [Image by Peter D]

EOFL Premier Division

Firstly in the top-tier, Kelvedon Hatch got a good 2 – 0 victory at Leigh Ramblers, with Drew Klessa-Smith and Reece Simpson the scorers for Darren Hunt’s side. Other results in the division were Canning Town’s 5 – 0 win over Galleywood, Old Southendian’s fine 3 – 1 success at Catholic Utd and Sungate getting another way win with a 2 – 0 victory at Shenfield AFC.

EOFL Divisions One & Two

The second tier saw plenty of goals & a few surprises. First up there was no shock at Henderson’s though but Harold Hill did have to come from behind to defeat Wakering Sports 4 – 1. Ryan Curtis had given Sports an early lead, but a double from Jack Suters, plus goals from Ashley Blackburn and Joel Sampson swiveled the match in Hill’s favour, which sees Billy Cove’s team rise up to sixth spot. If you’d like more on this match, my erstwhile Non-League colleague Peter D was there & his report is viewable here: http://pedroslocalfootiefix.blogspot.com/2022/11/harold-hill-4-wakering-sports-1.html

Elsewhere, Epping Town got an important 4 – 2 victory over Beacon Hill Rovers to leap yp to second. Substitute Scout Bown nabbed a fine treble along with a Chris Gormley goal to see Stuart Hoskins’ side to the points. ACD Utd were also triumphant following a 2 – 1 win at home to Herongate Athletic at Westlands. Harry Payne & Jacob Dingli both netted for Michael Wade’s side, with this win taking them up to third. Old Chelmsfordians got a big 4 – 1 success at fellow top five side Corinthians while Manford Way drew 2 – 2 with leaders Harold Wood Athletic, with James Pottle & Leroy Griffiths both netting for Ath there.

In Division Two this week, Shoebury Town went top of the table with six wins from six after a 3 – 2 win at Hashtag Utd Development at Barleylands. Kian Bradshaw, Luke Jackson & Aaron Marshall got the goals for Garry Johnson & John Galley’s side as they kept up their terrific start to the season. Harold Wood Athletic Res are third after a 4 – 0 home win over Rayleigh Town Res. Joe Eldridge’s brace allied with strikes by Chris Dixon & Freddy Shepherd secured the points there while Wakebury are now fourth after a 3 – 1 victory at Hutton Res. Will Wheeler, Finlay Dorrell & Mark Frostick all netted for Matt Cardy’s team there as they notched their fifth win this term. David Johnson replied for the Reds’ second-side. In the other game, AS Rawreth got a rare away win, prevailing 1 – 0 at Old Southendian Res at Garon Park 3G to lift them into mid-table.

EOFL Divisions Three, Four & Five

Into Division Three now, Buckhurst Hill U23 got back on form with a 2 – 0 victory at Old Chelmsfordians Res, thanks largely to a double from Jacob Samber Richards for Darren Gosnell’s side. Hill stay fifth after this win. Hullbridge‘s Ressie side won 3 – 1 at Toby Res thanks to a Jay Knight double & one from Joe Tuskin, which takes them up to second. Basildon Town Res are still two points clear after a big win in a fantastic game, 7 – 4 at Chingford Athletic Res, while Springfield Res also won, 3 – 1 at home to Leigh Town Res.

In Division Four, Roydon are now three points clear at the summit following a 6 – 0 success at home to struggling Leytonstone Utd. Nader Benzid scored twice here, with the supporting cast of Mike Hayes, Connor Riddoch, Connor Presland & OG rounding out the scorers as Roydon remain unbeaten this term. Leigh Ramblers Res won 1 – 0 at Galleywood Res to go up to fourth, while in the other game, Pitsea Athletic Res drew 4 – 4 with Shenfield AFC Res.

Finally in the only match in Division Five, Runwell Sports Res got back to winning ways with a 3 – 1 triumph at Sungate Res in East London. The result puts Runwell’s second side back to second while the Sungate side are winless so far this term.

EOFL Senior League Cup

There were just the two matches in the Senior League Cup this weekend. Firstly, Rayleigh Town went through uin a rare first-team game this term back at London Road. Town defeated May & Baker EOFL 5 – 2, with George Vile and Phil Anunwa both netting two goals each, with other goal coming from Sonny Woodward. Alfie Horan and Frankie Worboyes got the goals for M & B there. In the other tie, top-tier Hutton had a scare before overcoming Division Four side Collier Row 3 – 2 at Forest Row.

Essex Junior Trophy Results

Ashingdon Res 2 – 3 Basildon Town A

Collier Row A 0 – 1 Manford Way Res

and Collier Row Res 4 – 0 Harold Hill Res