Match Report: Southend Manor 0 – 1 Takeley (ESL)

Essex Senior League

Venue: Southchurch Park

Attendance: 80

2017-18 Season – Match 13

Date: Wednesday 16th August 2017 7.45pm KO

Southend Manor  : Yellow Shirts, Yellow Shorts, Black Socks

Takeley : Red Shirts, Red Shorts, Red Socks

The players just before KO

Scott W reporting (Twitter: @ScottMHC14)

On a pleasant evening at Southchurch Park, Southend Manor took on Takeley in an intriguing Essex Senior League encounter.

The visitors began the match marginally better, though forward Stuart Zanone and captain Jason Todd couldn’t get their strikes past Manor goalkeeper Klinton Makayabo. After a fair quiet spell in the match, with 25 minutes on the watch, Takeley winger George Wappett sent in a nice cross into the Manor box though it was just out of reach of Zanone, who couldn’t quite put in a telling header on goal from it.

Manor almost scored just past the half-hour as a Joe Skeels free-kick found fellow midfielder Lee Delf, though it appeared to hit his knee and the visiting goalkeeper Ronnie Yates had to be alert to stop the ball trickling over the line and in. To be fair, both defences were on top in the first period, though the visitors edged it, both on chances and attacking play.

Half-Time: Southend Manor  0 – 0  Takeley

The second half began at a more frenetic pace, as Manor started well. Manor forward Bayley Newell twice missed the target. Just before the hour, there was a goal-mouth scramble as Delf headed on into the six-yard area though the visitors were just able to clear there likes from a corner, from which Newell sent in a decent cross, just out of reach of winger Jack Adlington.

Only minutes later, Takeley full-back Andre Humphreys nearly caught out Makayabo with a blistering strike from a narrow angle that hit the woodwork. Manor responded on 65 minutes as another Skeels free-kick deceived the visiting defence and defender George Powell was in the ‘right place at the right time’ to clear off the goal-line.

Into the last ten minutes and Takeley forward Mitchell Das blasted his strike wide, in a good position from twenty yards out. With only moments remaining, Manor substitute Finlay Dobson fizzed in a cross from the left flank, though Delf couldn’t find the target. And with the match seemingly heading for a draw, Takeley substitute Will Green powered down the left wing and sent over a good cross and found Zanone who grabbed a tap-in after sneaking past the Manor back-line.

Full-Time: Southend Manor  0 – 1    Takeley

Zanone 90’

All in all, defeat was tough on Manor though in my opinion, it is another indication of the stronger back-line they have this term, compared to last season. Daniel Okah was superb at the back for Stuart Marshall’s side. Takeley will obviously be delighted with the points as they were not at their best in attack, though their defence and their ability to grind out results shows why they may well be ‘in the mix’ come season’s end. Full-back Andre Humphreys stood out for me, with his pace and energy levels.

I’d like to wish both sides well for the rest of the campaign.

Teams:
Southend Manor Manager: Stuart Marshall	Takeley Manager: Marc Das
1  Klinton Makayabo  (GK)	1  Ronnie Yates  (GK)
2  Robbie Norris  (C)	2  Nick Barrett
3  Lee Scott	3  Andre Humphreys
4  Lee Delf	4  Matt Gill
5  Daniel Okah	5  George Powell
6  Scott Keys	6  Matt Hurley       (Subbed 78’)
7  Jack Adlington      (Subbed 60’)	7  Bryn Thorpe
8  Callum Jex             (Subbed 68’)	8  Jason Todd  (C)    (Subbed 84’)
9  Michael Hopkins	9  Stuart Zanone
10  Bayley Newell     (Subbed 78’)	10  Mitchell Das
11  Joe Skeels	11  George Wappett    (Subbed 71’)
Substitutes:
12  Finlay Dobson   (On 60’)	14  Freddie Burrell         (On 84’)
14  Rhys Fatt             (On 68’)	15  Will Green                (On 71’)
15  Shay Kelly	16  Reece Barrett
16  Daryl Cooper      (On 78’)	17  Olakunmi Bossanya    (On 78’)
17  Ibrahim Kagbanda
Referee:	Kane Woods
Assistant Referees:	Joe Burgess Erwin Kegyes
Booked: Skeels, Delf, Norris	Booked: Todd, Das, Zanone

Match Report: Burnham Ramblers 3 – 2 Ilford (ESL)

Essex Senior League

Venue: Leslie Field

Attendance: 23

2017-18 Season – Match 12

Date: Tuesday 15th August 2017 7.45pm KO

Burnham Ramblers: Sky Blue & Navy Blue Striped Shirts, Navy Blue Shorts, Sky Blue Socks

Ilford: Red & White Shirts, Red Shorts, Red Socks

Burnham & Ilford players before kick-off

Scott W reporting (Follow me on Twitter: @ScottMHC14)

On a crisp but decent evening at Leslie Field, Burnham Ramblers took on Ilford in another intriguing Essex Senior League encounter.

Ilford showed their intentions early-on as forward James Peagram had a shot on-target, though it was saved by Burnham goalkeeper Adam French. The hosts took the lead after just seven minutes thanks to forward Bradley Morgan’s lob over Ilford goalkeeper Tom Jackson that nestled neatly into the right corner. Ilford responded though as Peagram had another opportunity, his header well-saved by French with ten minutes on the clock. Seven minutes later, Ilford had a good opportunity with a free-kick on the edge of the 18-yard box, after forward John Bricknell was fouled. Midfielder Chris Lockwood stepped up to take it, and curled it nicely into the left corner. Game on.

Both sides traded chances as the half-hour mark approached, Bricknell and winger Harry Watkins for Ilford and midfielder Ben Burgess & Morgan again for Burnham. The home side were awarded a spot-kick with 13 minutes remaining of the first period, as Charlee Hughes was brought down in the area. Bradley Morgan stepped up to take the penalty though cajoled his shot wide of the left-side post. Ilford then got a further let-off moments later when Billy Howard’s free-kick from the edge of the 18-yard box was blazed over the bar.

As the half drew to a close, Ilford had further chances though full-back Sam Buffour, Peagram and forward Khadean Campbell though their efforts on goal couldn’t get past French. In all honesty, I felt Ilford did struggle to settle at times during the half.

Half-Time: Burnham Ramblers 1 – 1 Ilford

The second half started in much the same vein, with both sides having chances. Only three minutes into the second period, Burnham defender Grant Webb did well to block Peagram from having a clear chance at goal in the area. Soon afterward, Buffour fizzed in a good right-wing cross for though Campbell couldn’t find the target for Ilford. Burnham responded in kind, first with Billy Howard’s shot being saved by Jackson and 13 minutes into the half, Burnham re-took the lead thanks to a fine Hughes header that went past Jackson sailing into the Ilford net.

Once again though, Allan Fenn’s side responded quickly as they levelled on-the-hour through Peagram’s tap-in. It didn’t stop there, as Burnham took the lead for the third time through Jed Bowman’s looping shot that found the left corner. In the next little period of the match, it became quite scrappy, getting bogged down by fouls & free-kicks. This was further endorsed by Burnham defender Scott Plom being sent off with four minutes remaining. The hosts did hang on a bit, as Ilford had two goals ruled out for offside. That said, Burnham did have late chances through Burgess and Hughes though they couldn’t get past Ilford goalkeeper Jackson.

Full-Time:     Burnham Ramblers  3 – 2  Ilford

Morgan 7′, Hughes 58′, Bowman 70′   |   Lockwood 17′, Peagram 60′

Plom Sent Off 88′

All in all, this was a compelling match which was also a hard-fought encounter. Ilford were not at their best in either penalty area, and Burnham’s Charlee Hughes gave their backline a headache all match. Yes, on another day Ilford may have got a different result though in my view, you couldn’t begrudge Burnham this win, their first league success of the campaign. I felt Chris Lockwood and Sam Buffour shone for the visitors tonight.

My thanks to Andrew Miller for passing over the team-sheets, keep up the good work Andrew. I send my best wishes to both sides for the rest of the ESL campaign.

Teams:
Burnham Ramblers Manager: Lee Hughes	Ilford Manager: Allan Fenn
1  Adam French  (GK)	1  Tom Jackson  (GK)
2  Jed Bowman	2  Sam Buffour     (Subbed 74’)
3  Grant Webb	3  Luke McLeavy
4  Scott Plom	4  Paul Oshin
5  Luke Moloney (C)    (Subbed 65’)	5  Jonah Gregory
6  Bradley Smith	6  Stefan Szajewski  (C)
7  Billy Howard	7  Harry Watkins    (Subbed 58’)
8  Ben Burgess	8  Chris Lockwood
9  Bradley Morgan    (Subbed 88’)	9  John Bricknell     (Subbed 58’)
10  Ryan Stillwell	10  James Peagram
11  Charlee Hughes	11  Khadean Campbell
Substitutes:
12  Samuel Warwick	12  Sherwin Stanley    (On 58’)
14  Ben Timson        (On 65’)	14  Liam Burgess         (On 58’)
15  Danny Green     (On 88’)	15  Harry Matthews
16  Lewis Bond	16  Bill Rungay            (On 74’)
17  George Howard	17  Ashley Wackers
Referee:	Stephen Tate
Assistant Referees:	Sam Wigington Nicholas Hodges
Booked: Morgan, Bowman, Howard, Burgess, Hughes	Booked: Jackson, Gregory, Lockwood
Sent Off: Plom

Keep checking back on this blog for further match reports from the Essex Senior League this season. There’s also a fair few recent ones too.

ESL 2017/18 – Preview & Results (Matchday Round 4)

Written by Peter D & Scott W

Intro by Peter D

With the ESL now in full swing the games are now coming thick and fast and this week is no exception as there are Premier Division games as well as an FA Cup replay to boot, here are the thoughts of Scott W and myself as we look forward to those fixtures:-

Update: Results will be at the end of this article. Thank you.

Monday 14th August (7.45pm KO’s)

Barkingside v West Essex                                Venue: Cricklefield

Scott: Barkingside welcome West Essex to Cricklefield for their second home match in three days. Both sides won on Saturday, Barkingside narrowly did so over Stansted whilst West Essex continued their fine recent run by winning at Waltham Forest. To be fair, both sides are unbeaten thus far in the league though that record could well disappear after this one.

Scott’s Prediction: 0 – 1

Peter: Side have won two out of two in the league so far this season although they have had to work hard for both of those victories, whilst West Essex have won all their away games so far in all competitions and are looking like dark horses in the league this season early on.  I fancy an away win here.

Pete’s Prediction 0-2

 

Enfield 1893 v Redbridge                   Venue: The Harlow Arena

Scott: Matt Hanning’s side welcome the Motormen to the Harlow Arena. Both teams lost their respective encounters on Saturday, Enfield lost at home to Ilford while Redbridge were the latest victim of the Takeley ‘juggernaut’ at Station Road on Saturday. Ricky Eaton & Joey May’s team arguably haven’t found their best form just yet though their squad depth may be useful in this one.

Scott’s Prediction: 0 – 2

Peter:  Enfield welcome Redbridge to the Harlow Arena having lost all three competitive games so far this term, although their football has probably deserved better than that. Redbridge lost for the first time this campaign with defeat at Takeley so it will be interesting to see how they bounce back from this set back.  I am expecting a reaction from the Motormen though so going for an away win.

Pete’s Prediction: 1-3

 

Tuesday 15th August (all 7.45pm KO’s)

Basildon Utd v Hullbridge Sports                   Venue: The Hive

Scott: Basildon welcome Hullbridge to The Hive. Both sides triumphed on Saturday, with Marc Harrison’s side defeating Wadham Lodge at home, whilst Sports narrowly beat Sporting Bengal at Mile End in a nonetheless good win for Rob Hodsgon’s men. This could be a hard-fought encounter though I feel the hosts will edge it.

Scott’s Prediction: 2 – 1

Peter:  The Bees have begun life under Marc Harrison with two wins from two in the league and along with their cup win against Walsham le Willows too they are in good shape this time out.  Hullbridge started slowly but have won their last two games in all competitions so this proves to be a tough encounter for both sides.  Going to go for a score draw here.

Pete’s Prediction:  2-2

 

Burnham Ramblers v Ilford            Venue: Leslie Field

Scott: Ilford make the trip to Leslie Field to take on Lee Hughes’ Burnham Ramblers. The hosts here started well at the weekend though before falling away at FC Romania on Saturday. Ilford had goal-machine James Peagram’s hat-trick to thank for a win last weekend. The visitors will fancy their chances here as Burnham simply have to stop conceding goals to ‘put a lid’ on their recent form.

Scott’s Prediction: 1 – 3

Peter:  Ramblers come into this one having lost every competitive game this season and their latest defeat was an 8-2 thrashing at the hands of FC Romania.  Ilford have recorded two convincing away wins this campaign and will be looking to add another one at Leslie Field and I believe they will achieve this too.

Pete’s Prediction: 0-4

 

Sawbridgeworth Town v Stansted             Venue: Crofters End

Scott: Sawbridgeworth welcome the Airportmen to Crofters End, having got their first win of the campaign at the weekend. John Watters’ side will surely look to ‘keep the ball running’ here, though Stansted have lost two of three matches so far, they’ve proved to be a gritty outfit, conceding an average of one goal a game in that time. That said, I reckon Sawbo will have added confidence from the weekend’s win to take a narrow win here.

Scott’s Prediction: 1 – 0

Peter:  Local pride is at stake at Crofters as Sawbridgeworth Town host Stansted and the hosts come into this off the back of their first win of the season after defeating Hackney Wick 4-1 at home with ten men.  Stansted fell to a disappointing 1-0 loss at Barkingside at the weekend so will be looking to bounce back from that.  Feel the hosts may get the win here though.

Pete’s Prediction: 3-2

Waltham Forest v FC Romania (FA Cup EPR Replay)   Venue: Kitchener Road

Scott: Forest welcome FCR in this FA Cup Extra Prelim Round replay. Forest produced a good display to hold Ion Vintila’s side at Theobalds Lane that precipitated this replay. FCR showed they were ‘in the mood’ for goals by scoring eight in the league on Saturday and they will take some stopping here.

Scott’s Prediction: 1 – 3

Peter:  Following a 2-2 draw in the original tie back on August 5th, these two play again for a place in the Preliminary Round and an away tie at Long Melford.  Forest are the only side to prevent the Romanians from winning this season but have yet to win in three league outings themselves.  As mentioned FCR have won all three league games and the last one saw them hit eight past Burnham Ramblers and they have already won at the Matchday Centre this season with an opening day win against Wadham Lodge, and I believe they will repeat this feat again.

Pete’s Prediction: 2-3

Wednesday 16th August (all 7.45pm KO’s)

Hackney Wick v Sporting Bengal Utd             Venue: Old Spotted Dog

Scott: Hackney welcome Bengal to the OSD on Wednesday night. Both sides have shown glimpses of their talents so far though Bengal are still searching for their first win this term. Both sides lost last weekend, albeit in different manners. I think this will be hard-fought draw.

Scott’s Prediction: 1 – 1

Peter:  Wick come into this one in not ideal circumstances after they lost 4-1 at the weekend and then saw manager Chris Davis part company by mutual consent shortly afterwards.  The club have announced Tolga Dervish is the new head coach and his first job will be to bounce back from that defeat.  They take on a Sporting Bengal United side who have only picked up one point from their three games so far in the league although that point was against an impressive West Essex outfit.  Got a feeling this may end all square.

Pete’s Prediction: 1-1

Southend Manor v Takeley                 Venue: Southchurch Park

Scott: Manor welcome Marc Das’ side to Southchurch Park, looking to stop the so-far perfect Takeley record (3 wins from 3 matches) and breach the thus-far unbreached Takeley defence in the league. Manor had a battle in getting a point at Wakering on Saturday whilst Takeley dispatched Redbridge on the same day. I don’t think the visitors will find it easy here though Manor will need to counter-punch with their own firepower and do it well.

Scott’s Prediction: 1 – 2

Peter: A potentially cracking encounter awaits us at Southchurch Park as Southend Manor host Takeley, with the hosts having beaten Wroxham here in the Cup two weeks ago and are also unbeaten in two away games in the league.  Takeley along with FC Romania have been the most impressive starters to the season though and with four wins from four in all competitions this says it all.  However this is the visitors first away game of the campaign so it will be interesting to see how they do, personally I have this one down as a draw.

Pete’s Prediction: 1-1

Wadham Lodge v Great Wakering Rovers                 Venue: Kitchener Road

Scott: Wadham welcome Wakering to Kitchener Road. Wadham were edged out by Basildon on Saturday late-on while Wakering battled hard for a draw on the same day. Wadham are still waiting for their first win though their defence will have to play well as the visitors do have an energetic midfield and are a threat from set-pieces.

Scott’s Prediction: 1 – 2

Peter:  Lodge haven’t begun the season brilliantly, losing four of their five competitive fixtures so far.  Wakering have had a mixed start to their season themselves but will fancy their chances against a Wadham side struggling for confidence thus far and I feel the Burroughs Park side may sneak a win here.

Pete’s Prediction: 1-2

 

Update

Monday’s Results

Barkingside 0 – 3 West Essex  | Venue: Cricklefield  | Attendance: 85

Enfield 1893 1 – 0 Redbridge  | Venue: The Harlow Arena | Attendance: 59

Tuesday’s Results

Basildon Utd 1 – 0 Hullbridge Sports | Venue: The Hive | Attendance: 194

Burnham Ramblers 3 – 2 Ilford | Venue: Leslie Field | Attendance: 23

Sawbridgeworth Town 1 – 2 Stansted | Venue: Crofters End | Attendance: 42

Waltham Forest 1 – 2 FC Romania (FA Cup EPR Replay) | Venue: Kitchener Road | Attendance: 42

Wednesday’s Results

Hackney Wick 0 – 2 Sporting Bengal Utd | Venue: Old Spotted Dog | Attendance: 57

Southend Manor 0 – 1 Takeley | Venue: Southchurch Park | Attendance: 80

Wadham Lodge 0 – 5 Great Wakering Rovers | Venue: Kitchener Rd |Attendance: 33

 

You can follow Peter on Twitter: @ped1980 and on his website at http://www.leaguewebsite.co.uk/unofficialesl

You can follow Scott W on Twitter: @ScottMHC14

Also, you can follow the ‘umbrella’ that is the Grassroot Football Show on Twitter at @ELRFootball & also online at elrgfs.blogspot.co.uk

Match Report: Great Wakering Rovers 1 – 1 Southend Manor (ESL)

Essex Senior League

Venue: Burroughs Park

Attendance: 103

2017-18 Season – Match 11

Date: Saturday 12th August 2017 3pm KO

Great Wakering Rovers: Green & White Striped Shirts, Green Shorts, Green Socks

Southend Manor : Yellow Shirts, Yellow Shorts, Black Socks

The handshakes before kick-off 

Report by Scott W  (Twitter: @ScottMHC14)

On a bright afternoon at Burroughs Park, Great Wakering Rovers welcomed neighbours Southend Manor in another Essex Senior League encounter.

Wakering started marginally the brighter of the two sides, though the fact this was a local derby was further emphasised by a few strong challenges being made fairly early-doors. Wakering forward Neil Richmond got himself in some decent positions to have strikes on goal at times. Just before the quarter-hour mark, Richmond did have a strike on goal after receiving a good ball in, though his shot was saved by visiting ‘keeper Klinton Makayabo. It didn’t matter though as the assistant referee was flagging for an off-side.

Exactly on the quarter-hour, Manor took the lead as home goalkeeper Rees Hawkins was challenged in the air, firmly but fairly and in doing so, the ball fell to Manor forward Michael Hopkins, who tapped home into an unguarded net. Only five minutes later, Rovers forward Richmond showed his talent again as he sent a looping shot just over the bar from 20-yards out. As the first period continued, the match was fairly even as both sides only had fleeting chances to add to the scorers.

Five minutes before the break, Wakering were awarded a free-kick in a dangerous position, just outside the box. Richmond stepped up, and struck a sweet curling effort into the top-right corner of the net to level the match. The home side soon after lost forward Charlie Kirby to what looked a nasty injury just before the break.

Half-Time: Great Wakering Rovers 1 – 1 Southend Manor

The second half began with Manor boss Stuart Marshall sent to the stands. I’ll come back to the referee later. Wakering had to weather a mini-storm midway through the second half as ‘keeper Hawkins first saved well from Manor substitute Bayley Newell’s strike, then in the same attack pulled off two more good saves as well, one of them on the goal-line to deny the visitors the lead for the second time.

For the next little while after that, the match became quite low-key, partly because the booking count had risen by this point and would rise to nine in total by the conclusion of the match, so the tackles didn’t fly in as much. Anyway, in the last 15 minutes, the hosts did finish the stronger of the two sides, Wakering forward Jay Nash spurning a one-on-one opportunity which Makayabo saved. With moments remaining, Wakering substitute Michael Finneran fired wide of the left-side post.

Full-Time: Great Wakering Rovers 1 – 1 Southend Manor

Richmond 40’                          Hopkins 15’

In summary, this was a tightly-contested match, as expected. Aaron Russell and Neil Richmond stood out for me for Wakering today, Russell with an energetic performance and Richmond for his spark up top. For Manor, full-back Shay Kelly stood out in my opinion with his tackling and running all match. Both sides may well take a point, and though I really don’t like mentioning referees, it’s hard to argue that the man in black had an effect on today’s encounter. I say that as it wasn’t really a ‘dirty’ match, yet the card count… well I’ll let you draw your own conclusions on that. I’d also like to thank GWR secretary Mike Lee for his assistance with the teamsheets.

 

Teams:
Great Wakering Rovers Manager: Iain O’Connell	Southend Manor Manager: Stuart Marshall
1  Rees Hawkins  (GK)	1  Klinton Makayabo (GK)
2  Jason Ring	2  Robbie Norris  (C)
3  Jimmy Cook	3  Shay Kelly
4  Ollie Woodhouse	4  Lee Delf    (Subbed 61’)
5  Joe Nightingill (C)	5  Scott Keys
6  Scott Pethers	6  Daniel Okah
7  Aaron Russell	7  Jack Adlington
8  Sam Carter   (Subbed 54’)	8  Callum Jex
9  Neil Richmond	9  Michael Hopkins  (Subbed 76’)
10  Jay Nash	10  Alfie Lindfield    (Subbed 54’)
11  Charlie Kirby  (Subbed 46’)	11  Joe Skeels
Substitutes:
12  Nikki Beale	12  Bayley Newell  (On 54’)
14  Louis Robinson     (On 54’)	14  Finley Dopson  (On 76’)
15  Charlie Seaden	15  Harry Hatt
16  Michael Finneran  (On 46’)	16  Lee Scott
	17  Rhys Fatt  (On 61’)
Referee:	Jamie Pope
Assistant Referees:	Trevor Williams Dumitru Vasile
Booked: Cook, Nightingill, Ring	Booked: Keys, Okah, Jex, Norris, Skeels & Fatt

In their next ESL matches, Wakering travel to Wadham Lodge on Wednesday (16th August) while Southend Manor host Takeley, also on Wednesday (16th August).

Essex Senior League 2017/18 – Predictions (Matchday Round 3)

Written by Peter D & Scott W

Hello & welcome to our next round of predictions, as the Essex Senior League returns this weekend following the FA Cup Extra Prelim Round action last weekend. Once again, I’ll be (jokingly) pitting my wits against my good friend & Grassroot Football Show colleague Peter Dudley in predicting the results in the ESL this season on both our blogs. Do you agree with our thoughts of this weekends’ round of matches?

Saturday 12th August (all 3pm KO’s)

Barkingside v Stansted                        Venue: Cricklefield

Scott: Barkingside welcome Paul Pittuck’s side to Cricklefield. Both sides lost out in FA Cup action last week and both will be looking for a better result here. The fact that both sides also have virtually new squads this term makes this tricky to predict, though I’m going for a narrow home win.

Scott’s Prediction: 2 – 1

Peter:  Side will be looking to bounce back from a heavy home defeat at home to Stowmarket Town in their FA Cup tie last weekend whilst the visitors’ also exited the cup at Redbridge so both will have to put those disappointments behind them.  Both sides have played Great Wakering Rovers away and had differing fortunes, Side winning whilst Stansted were beaten, and looking at this one I feel the hosts may grab the points.

Pete’s Prediction:  2-1

Basildon Utd v Wadham Lodge            Venue: The Hive

Scott: Wadham are the next visitors to The Hive Stadium. Basildon are unbeaten in league & cup so far, whilst Wadham are winless in the league. This will be a tough test for James Falaise & Kevin Lucas’ side and I reckon the Bees will have ‘enough in the locker’ in this one to claim the points.

Scott’s Prediction: 2 – 0

Peter: The Bees have played two, won two in all competitions at home this season, a 2-0 win over Clapton in the League followed up by a 3-0 win over Walsham le Willows in the cup in midweek, whilst Wadham Lodge have lost both league games this season and exited the cup in midweek against Step Six side Framlingham Town so will be desperate for a win here.  Can’t see it though and expect the hosts to prevail.

Pete’s Prediction:  3-0

Clapton v Woodford Town (2017)             Venue: Old Spotted Dog

Scott: Clapton welcome Tony Ievoli’s Woodford to the Old Spotted Dog Stadium. Even though it’s very early on in the season, there’s been a degree of contradictions for both sides in terms of results. Clapton will undoubtedly be looking to triumph in what is their first home match of the campaign, while Woodford will seek to take advantage of their week off having not been in FA Cup action last weekend. I think this one could be an entertaining goal-fest, though it’s hard to look past the Tons, despite Woodford’s ability to score goals of late.

Scott’s Prediction: 4 – 2

Peter: The Tons come into this one off the back of two wins, one in the league against Ilford and one in the FA Cup at FC Clacton last weekend.  Woodford themselves didn’t play last weekend as they did not enter the FA Cup this season but their league form so far is a 0-5 home defeat to Ilford and then a 5-2 win at Wadham Lodge, so a mixed start it has to be said.  Feel the Tons may be too strong here and will take the win.

Pete’s Prediction: 2-0

Enfield 1893 v Ilford                                        Venue: The Harlow Arena

Scott: Enfield welcome Allan Fenn’s Foxes to the Harlow Arena. Both sides were involved in tight FA Cup matches last weekend, Enfield narrowly losing out to Haverhill Borough and Ilford pulling through against Woodbridge Town. It’s arguable that both sides haven’t quite settled and found their rhythm yet following quite large squad overhauls in the summer, albeit for differing reasons. It’s hard to separate these two, so I’m plumping for a draw.

Scott’s Prediction: 1 – 1

Peter: Enfield have lost both their competitive games this season although have probably been unlucky in both, whilst Ilford kept free-scoring Woodbridge Town at bay last weekend in the cup so will take some heart from that.  Think this one could end all square.

Pete’s Prediction: 2-2

FC Romania v Burnham Ramblers                          Venue: Theobalds Lane

Scott: FC Romania, unbeaten in league and cup thus far, welcome winless Burnham to Theobalds Lane. The visitors have a daunting task here to get past an FCR defence that hasn’t yet conceded a goal in two league matches. If anything, the pressure is off Burnham and there were ‘shoots of recovery’ last weekend in the FA Cup as they battled hard in a narrow loss. I reckon it’ll be a home win though not a massive one.

Scott’s Prediction: 2 – 0

Peter: FCR have won both league games without conceding but will admit they haven’t been at their best so far, which is a worry for everyone else.  They were held to a 2-2 draw in the Cup by Waltham Forest last time out whilst for Burnham it’s been a difficult start to the season as many had predicted it would be.  However, despite losing all three competitive games so far they have showed battling qualities in all three which should be an encouragement for the club.  However I can’t see anything other than a home win here.

Pete’s Prediction: 3-0

Great Wakering Rovers v Southend Manor             Venue: Burroughs Park

Scott: Wakering welcome neighbours Manor to Burroughs Park. The ‘form book’ sometimes ‘goes out the window’ in derby matches and this could be the case here. Manor’s defence does look stronger than last term; though I can’t help thinking Wakering will want to roar back from a disappointing loss last weekend at Newmarket in the FA Cup, buoyed on by the home crowd in this one. With that in mind I’m going to ‘make hay’ and go for a score draw.

Scott’s Prediction: 1 – 1

Peter: The eagerly awaited derby between GWR and Manor comes only three weeks into the season and with the sides only four miles apart, local pride is always at stake here. Rovers were thrashed at Newmarket Town last weekend in the Cup whilst Manor recorded a very impressive win over Wroxham at Southchurch Park, also in the cup, last weekend.  Tough one to call this one so I reckon it will end all square.

Pete’s Prediction: 1-1

Sawbridgeworth Town v Hackney Wick           Venue: Crofters End

Scott: Sawbridgeworth welcome the Wickers to Crofters End. This could be a compelling match with the home side announcing a slight alteration to their management team on Thursday. Although Wick are unbeaten in the league thus far, I reckon the home side’s fortunes will change and they could do so here. I reckon we’ll see a narrow home win.

Scott’s Prediction: 2 – 1

Peter: The Robins have endured a difficult start to the season, suffering two home defeats to West Essex, one in the league and one in the Cup, although they did grab an encouraging draw at Redbridge in their other league outing so far.  Wick are unbeaten in two league games after beginning their first senior season impressively, although they suffered a disappointing home defeat to Long Melford at the weekend in what was a frustrating afternoon for them.  I have a feeling the Robins may sneak this one though and grab their first win of the campaign.

Pete’s Prediction: 3-1

Sporting Bengal Utd v Hullbridge Sports         Venue: Mile End Stadium

Scott: Bengal welcome Hullbridge to Mile End with both clubs looking for their first league win of the campaign. Last time out in the league, Bengal held West Essex at Mayesbrook Park so for them it could be about maintaining level of performance, whilst in FA Cup action last week, Hullbridge picked up a morale-boosting home win against Ipswich Wanderers. This is Bengal’s first home match and Hullbridge’s first match away from Lower Road, though I still think Bengal may edge a hard-fought contest.

Scott’s Prediction: 2 – 1

Peter: Both sides have drawn one and lost one in the league so far although they had differing fortunes in the FA Cup, with Sporting going down 3-2 at Hadleigh United whilst Hullbridge recorded their biggest victory in the competition with a 5-1 drubbing of Ipswich Wanderers, which was mightily impressive indeed.  I feel the confidence this has almost certainly given the visitors will take them to victory here.

Pete’s Prediction: 0-2

Takeley v Redbridge                                      Venue: Station Road

Scott: Takeley, among the early ESL pace-setters, welcome Redbridge to Station Road. The home side are unbeaten in league & cup so far this term, whilst the Motormen perhaps haven’t quite found their best form as of yet, though they did pick up an important win in the FA Cup last weekend. The visitors will still have to have a good day in defence though as Takeley have been scoring well in the opening weeks of the campaign. If the visitors rise to the occasion, then we could see a heck of an encounter here.

Scott’s Prediction: 3 – 2

Peter: A potentially huge clash already this season takes place at Station Road as two of the pre-season favourites clash and Takeley have certainly had a fine start to the campaign with three straight wins, all at home, in all competitions whilst Redbridge have also played three home games and won two of them which included an FA Cup victory over Stansted last time out.  Almost impossible to call this one however gonna go for a narrow home win.

Pete’s Prediction: 1-0

Waltham Forest v West Essex                    Venue: Kitchener Road

Scott: Waltham Forest welcome West Essex to Kitchener Road. Forest are searching for their first league win, though have started the season OK. West Essex have started well, and are unbeaten in the league thus far and picked up a memorable away-day win in the FA Cup last weekend. The visitors will have to be on their guard here though as Forest can move the ball well going forward.

Scott’s Prediction: 1 – 2

Peter: Forest are yet to win in two league outings so far however they did hold FC Romania to a draw last weekend in the FA Cup.  Both of West Essex’s wins have come at Crofters against Sawbridgeworth Town, one in the league and one in the cup, and they look more than useful this term.  Got a feeling the visitors may grab another impressive victory in Walthamstow as well.

Pete’s Prediction: 1-3

You can follow Scott W on Twitter: @ScottMHC14

You can follow Peter on Twitter: @ped1980 and on his website at http://www.leaguewebsite.co.uk/unofficialesl/LeagueNews

Also, you can follow the ‘umbrella’ that is the Grassroot Football Show on Twitter at @ELRFootball & also online at elrgfs.blogspot.co.uk

Match Report: Barkingside 0 – 4 Stowmarket Town (FAC EPR)

The FA Cup – Extra Preliminary Round

Venue: Cricklefield

Attendance: 215

2017-18 Season – Match 10

Date: Sunday 6th August 2017 2pm KO

 Barkingside : Sky Blue Shirts, Navy Blue Shorts, Navy Blue Socks

Stowmarket Town : Gold & Black Shirts, Black Shorts, Black Socks

 

Scott W reporting (Follow me on Twitter: @ScottMHC14)

On a pleasant Sunday afternoon, Essex Senior League side Barkingside welcomed Thurlow Nunn Premier side Stowmarket Town to Cricklefield on the final day of this season’s FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round ties.

The hosts had what proved to be one of their best chances with only two minutes on the clock as forward Michael Ogboin was one-on-one with Stowmarket ‘keeper Craig Brand though his strike was just over the bar. The visitors soon responded. In the following twenty minutes, Town had numerous chances to open their account though efforts on goal from midfielder Jack Baker, winger Dan Cunningham and forwards Andrew Wood & George Bugg were all well-saved by the over-worked home goalkeeper Will Hunt.

Stowmarket did eventually take the lead seven minutes from the break, as the impressive full-back Ethan Clarke fizzed across a left-wing cross which was met by Wood, who slotted home past Hunt into the left corner. The visitors pushed for a second goal though Barkingside managed to keep the arrears to one at the break.

Half-Time: Barkingside 0 – 1 Stowmarket Town

The second half began in a similarly frenetic way, with Stowmarket forward Wood having another strike on goal saved by Hunt. The hosts then had a chance to level though forward Jerome Martelli blazed over the bar after being played in by Ogboin. Town spurned two more chances as the hour mark approached, though on 61 minutes they extended their lead as Bugg prodded home from a corner.

‘Side had one of their more decent spells in the match just after that goal though Ex-Southend Manor & Clapton winger Aundre Spencer’s shot went side of the right-side post whilst in a good position. Stowmarket did recover and pushed hard though in the last 15 minutes. The home side had a warning with twelve minutes left as they were indebted to a combination of their defence and Hunt as they cleared off the goal-line. Town did eventually wrap up the win though in the last six minutes as first, Ethan Clarke scored with a good deep looping header into the right corner, after being fed by a good ball in by full-back Ollie Brown. Wood then grabbed his second from the spot, blasted into the top-right corner.

Full-Time:  Barkingside 0 – 4  Stowmarket Town

Wood 38’, 87 (pen)’

Bugg 61’, E Clarke 84’

To be fair, Stowmarket more than deserved the win and played very well, they were good on-the-ball & were a hard-working outfit. As for Barkingside, it’s hard not to mention that this is a virtually new squad so it will take time for consistency to come, though today they didn’t really have the ball enough to create the chances that the likes of Ogboin would make the most of. I must also mention goalkeeper Will Hunt, who made numerous saves to keep his side in the match at times.

Best wishes to Stowmarket who host Romford in the next round. Commiserations to Barkingside, who will now focus elsewhere, starting with a home ESL match against Stansted on Saturday (12th August).

Teams:
Barkingside Manager: Michael Walther	Stowmarket Town Manager: Rick Andrews
1  Will Hunt  (GK)	1  Craig Brand  (GK)
2  Michael Bottone	2  Ollie Brown
3  Mike Sherwood	3  Anton Clarke
4  Euan Taylor-Reid	4  Ethan Clarke
5  Paul Shaves (C)	5  Phil Weavers
6  Jamie Pooley   (Subbed 53’)	6  Jemel Fox
7  Aundre Spencer	7  Dan Cunningham  (C)
8  Bradley Joseph	8  Jack Baker      (Subbed 62’)
9  Michael Ogboin     (Subbed 72’)	9  Andrew Wood
10  Jerome Martelli   (Subbed 53’)	10  George Bugg      (Subbed 79’)
11  Joe Newbold	11  Remi Garrett    (Subbed 72’)
Substitutes:
12  Jason Fontaine  (On 72’)	14  Angelo Harrop   (On 62’)
14  Mendez Gomez Formoso	15  Jon Carver
15  Eamon Payne	16  Ryan Yallop        (On 79’)
16 Tony Cookey	17  Billy Clark           (On 72’)
18  Matteus Santos    (On 53’)	18  Paul Mosgrove
19  Reece Hewitt       (On 53’)
20  Jayden Mitchell-Brown
Referee:	Michael Mackey
Assistant Referees:	David Behling Grant Mathias
Booked: None	Booked: Garrett

 

Match Report: Southend Manor 1 – 0 Wroxham (FA Cup EPR)

The FA Cup – Extra Preliminary Round

Venue: Southchurch Park

2017-18 Season – Match 9

Date: Saturday 5th August 2017 3pm KO

Southend Manor : Yellow Shirts, Yellow Shorts, Black Socks

Wroxham : White Shirts, White Shorts, White Socks

Scott W reporting (Follow me on Twitter: @ScottMHC14)

The FA Cup. It is many things to many people. It is the oldest domestic cup competition. It is arguably a lifeline to those ‘smaller’ clubs up & down the country. And perhaps it is a beacon that multi-million pound player transfers don’t really matter.

So, on the first day of this season’s FA Cup, Southend Manor welcomed Thurlow Nunn Premier side Wroxham to Southchurch Park. The match began well with both sides having early opportunities to strike first. The Yachtsmen’s midfielder Harley Black sent a free-kick just wide of the top corner in the first minute. For Manor, forward Bayley Newell had an effort tipped wide for a corner by visiting ‘keeper Will Viner.

Manor had another good chance on 20 minutes when midfielder Callum Jex shot from point-blank range though Viner pulled off a good save. The visitors had two more decent chances soon after as winger Adam Smith struck an effort over the bar, before on the on the half-hour, forward Ross Gilfedder somehow contrived to nod a free-header over the bar from Robbie Sweeney’s left-wing cross.

Half-Time: Southend Manor 0 – 0 Wroxham

Wroxham did edge the first half in my view, though the second half began in quite a low-key way. Mid-way into the second half, Sweeney had a header saved by the dependable Manor ‘stopper Klinton Makayabo.

Manor then had two further chances to open the scoring on the 70 minute mark though winger Alfie Lindfield and Newell both couldn’t find the target. Moments later, the visitors had two really good chances. First, substitute Pete Wilshire found himself one-on-one with Makayabo but the ‘keeper stood tall and saved well. Then defender Shaun Taylor’s shot trickled across the face of goal and hit the bar before two further blocks on the line prevented the scorers being troubled.

With 15 minutes remaining, Wroxham winger Black powered a great strike from 25-yards in at goal, it struck a post. At this point, the visitors may have been thinking that the goal was coming.

It wasn’t to be though as just as we were thinking that a replay at Trafford Park would be needed, with two minutes or regulation time remaining, Newell popped up in the area after a good cross from the left by winger Finley Dopson and blasted a low effort past Viner into the left corner for his first FA Cup goal.

Full-Time: Southend Manor 1 – 0 Wroxham

Newell 88’

The result was tough on Wroxham who certainly had their moments in the match. I wish them well as they look to recover from last season’s struggles. As for Manor, they too had decent spells though perhaps were not at their best today, with ‘keeper Klinton Makayabo & the back four in front of him defending stoutly at times though the Yachtsmen forwards’ pace and trickery did give them a headache or two.

Southend Manor host Gorleston in the next round on Saturday August 19th.

Teams:
Southend Manor Manager: Stuart Marshall	Wroxham Joint-Managers: Ross Potter & Tom Parke
1  Klinton Makayabo  (GK)	1  Will Viner  (GK)
2  Robbie Norris  (C)	2  Shaun Taylor
3  Shay Kelly	3  Sam Bryant      (Subbed 65’)
4  Joe Skeels	4  Mark Shadrack
5  Daniel Okah	5  Michael Sommerfield
6  Scott Keys	6  Tom Matthews  (C)
7  Daryl Cooper   (Subbed 35’)	7  Adam Smith      (Subbed 57’)
8  Callum Jex	8  Joe Manning     (Subbed 50’)
9  Michael Hopkins     (Subbed 85’)	9  Ross Gilfedder
10  Bayley Newell	10  Robbie Sweeney
11  Alfie Lindfield      (Subbed 78’)	11  Harley Black
Substitutes:
12  Lee Scott	12  Myron Abodunde   (On 65’)
14  Mitchell Keen	14  Ben Fowkes     (On 50’)
15  Ryan Kelland       (On 85’)	15  Pete Wiltshire        (On 57’)
16  Finley Dopson    (On 78’)	16  George MacRae (GK)
17  Harry Hatt           (On 35’)	17  Dayton Swatman
18  Dominic Locke
21  James Good
Referee:	David Moreno-Rojas
Booked: Lindfield	Booked: Shadrack, Sommerfield, Matthews

2017- 18 Season Predictions: FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round

Written by Peter D & Scott W

FA Cup fever returns as Essex Senior League sides are in action this weekend. The winners of each tie are awarded £1,500 which could make some difference in itself, below is a preview of each tie involving those sides in the Extra Preliminary Round of the competition:-

Saturday 5th August (3pm KO’s)

Enfield 1893 v Haverhill Borough       Venue: The Harlow Arena

Peter: Hosts Enfield will want to bounce back from their 3-0 loss at FC Romania in their first competitive outing although the score-line was harsh on the Harlow-based side.  Visitors Haverhill Borough have yet to start their league season so this will be their first competitive game of the campaign.  Gonna go for a home win in this one.

Peter’s Prediction: 3-1

Scott: Enfield welcome Haverhill to the 3G pitch of the Harlow Arena. The hosts will no doubt look to re-group following their loss in midweek. They may well have better fortune at home this time around though Haverhill will look to start their season well after promotion last term.

Scott’s Prediction: 2 – 1

FC Broxbourne Borough v Tower Hamlets       Venue: Goffs Lane

Peter: Tower Hamlets visit SSML One side FC Broxbourne Borough looking for their first competitive win of the season after a narrow loss and draw in their first two league outings.  Hosts Broxbourne are a step below the ESL and haven’t played a competitive game as yet and I fancy the Mile End side to take a win here.

Peter’s Prediction:  0-2

Scott: Tower Hamlets travel to Broxbourne Borough in this intriguing cup-tie. The hosts finished bottom of SSML Premier last term and with this being Hamlets third match in league & cup this week, I can see this one being a tight contest. Hamlets though have been ‘knocking on the door’ of a win though in those previous two matches and they may get that win here.

Scott’s Prediction: 0 – 1

FC Clacton v Clapton                                          Venue: Rush Green Bowl

Peter: Hosts FC Clacton have drawn one and lost one in the league so far his campaign, the loss being a 6-0 home defeat, whilst The Tons lost on the opening day of their season; however they thumped Ilford at Cricklefield in midweek to get their campaign back on track.  I feel the ESL will prevail here too.

Peter’s Prediction: 0-3

Scott: Clapton travel to north-east Essex on the back of that win in midweek. I have no doubt that the visitors here will be looking to progress in the competition here and in doing so banishing the result in their last away match last weekend.

Scott’s Prediction: 0 – 2

FC Romania v Waltham Forest                    Venue: Theobalds Lane

Peter: The hosts have won their opening two games without conceding whilst visitors Forest have drawn one and lost one so far this season.  Should be a decent game this one but I’m gonna plump for an entertaining home win.

Peter’s Prediction:  4-2

Scott:  FCR have started the season well though Forest are not a side that you’d discount easily given how they play. If the visitors have a good day at the back, then I can see Romania being made to work hard for the result here.

Scott’s Prediction: 2 – 1

Framlingham Town v Wadham Lodge       Venue: Badlingham Road

Peter: Hosts Framlingham ply their trade in the Thurlow Nunn Division One, a step below the ESL, although they are yet to begin their league season.  Lodge have played two league games so far, both at home, and lost them both so may see this cup game as a welcome break from league football, and this is also Lodge’s first ever FA Cup contest.  I reckon this could end a draw and a replay back in Walthamstow.

Peter’s Prediction: 1-1

Scott: Lodge make their FA Cup bow with a long trip to Framlingham, just west of Saxmundham in Suffolk. Although they lost in midweek, James Falaise & Kevin Lucas’ side did score twice in that match and if they keep that up, they may get that priceless first win of the campaign. Mel Aldis’s side have seen the cup ‘in the flesh’ this week and will also want to put in a good performance in what could be another tight contest.

Scott’s Prediction: 0 – 1

Hackney Wick v Long Melford      Venue: Old Spotted Dog Stadium

Peter: Wick enter the FA Cup for the very first time and welcome Thurlow Nunn Premier side Long Melford to the Old Spotted Dog.  Wick have begun their first ESL campaign with a win and a draw whilst Long Melford have drawn their opening game in the league.  Feel Wick may just edge this one.

Peter’s Prediction: 2-1

Scott: Hackney Wick make their debut in the competition on what could be an emotional day for the club. Long Melford make the trip from Suffolk and I believe this will be tight match which could well end honours even.

Scott’s Prediction: 1 – 1

Hadleigh Utd v Sporting Bengal Utd          Venue: Mill Field, Duke St

Peter: A 2-0 opening day loss at Takeley was followed by an impressive 2-2 draw at West Essex for Sporting Bengal United and they travel to Suffolk to take on Hadleigh United who are yet to play a competitive game this campaign.  Sporting made history in reaching the 1st Qualifying Round last season and I feel they may grab a draw in this one and take the Thurlow Nunn Premier side back to Mile End for a replay.

Peter’s Prediction: 2-2

Scott: Bengal travel to Suffolk looking to maintain some form following that draw in midweek. Hadleigh will be a tough side to beat and with this being the visitors’ third match in a week, I can see this being a keenly-contested draw.

Scott’s Prediction: 1 – 1

Hullbridge Sports v Ipswich Wanderers                  Venue: Lower Road

Peter: Sports haven’t had the best of starts to this campaign, taking just one point from their opening two games, and they come up against Ipswich Wanderers who drew their opening game in the Thurlow Nunn Premier. Wanderers have good cup pedigree over recent years, as do Hullbridge, however I have a feeling that the Suffolk side will prevail.

Peter’s Prediction:  1-2

Scott: Hullbridge have their third home match in a week here as they welcome Ipswich Wanderers to Lower Road. The hosts are a difficult side to beat, though having had two tough league matches in quick succession, I feel the visitors will have the edge here.

Scott’s Prediction: 0 – 1

Ilford v Woodbridge Town                            Venue: Cricklefield

Peter: The Foxes have had a mixed start to their season, winning 5-0 on the opening day before falling to a 4-1 home defeat in midweek.  Suffolk side Woodbridge have begun their season in the Thurlow Nunn One with two wins from two, and 6-1 home win followed by a 7-3 away win, so they will come to Cricklefield full of confidence.  However with Ilford being at home and being a step above I feel they will take the win.

Peter’s Prediction: 3-2

Scott: Ilford welcome Woodbridge to Cricklefield. Both sides have been involved in high-scoring matches recently though Ilford might well be fired-up after their loss in midweek. Allan Fenn’s side are still in a transition phase of sorts though if they start this tie well, I can see them advancing to the next round.

Scott’s Prediction: 3 – 1

Newmarket Town v Great Wakering Rovers       Venue: Cricket Field Road

Peter: Wakering face a tough away trip to Newmarket Town off the back of a 2-1 home loss in midweek.  They did however win their opening fixture 2-0 last weekend so will look to find that form when they take on Newmarket Town who themselves are yet to play a league game this season.  Feel the ESL side will be knocked out here though.

Peter’s Prediction: 2-0

Scott: Iain O’Connell’s side make the long trip to Newmarket searching for some impetus to take back into the ESL. Though with their hosts yet to get their league campaign underway, I reckon Rovers could battle hard to earn a replay at Burroughs Park.

Scott’s Prediction: 1 – 1

Redbridge v Stansted                                         Venue: Oakside

Peter: The Motormen have had two entertaining encounters at Oakside so far this season and they welcome another ESL side to their home in the shape of Stansted in the FA Cup.  Stansted have won one lost one so far this campaign although this will be a tough assignment for the Airportmen and I think the hosts will progress.

Peter’s Prediction: 3-1

Scott: Stansted travel to Oakside to take on Ricky Eaton’s Redbridge. You do get the feeling that the new-look Redbridge side will gel at some point and this may be the day. If Stansted start well though, this could be some match.

Scott’s Prediction: 2 – 1 

Sawbridgeworth Town v West Essex              Venue: Crofters End

Peter: This is a repeat of the opening day fixture of the season and saw the visitors win 3-1.  Both sides have drawn their second games and come into this one with hope they can progress to the next round.  However you rarely get the same result again when two sides play each other so quickly afterwards so therefore home win is the call.

Peter’s Prediction:  3-2

Scott: Both sides have their third match in a week here though they will also revved-up be as Sawbridgeworth will look to progress into the next round. West Essex make their debut in the FA Cup so regardless of the result it will be a special day for Kwame Kwateng’s team. I reckon this one will come down to purely who plays the better ‘on the day’ and can see this tie needing a replay.

Scott’s Prediction: 2 – 2

Southend Manor v Wroxham                         Venue: Southchurch Park

Peter: Manor welcome Wroxham to Southchurch Park having battled to a hard earned win at local rivals Hullbridge in midweek.  Wroxham, relegated from the Isthmian League last season, have drawn their opening encounter in the Thurlow Nunn Premier. Reckon this could end a draw and a replay in Norfolk.

Peter’s Prediction: 1-1

Scott: This is a fascinating tie at Southchurch Park. Manor showed glimpses of their potential in their battling win at Hullbridge in midweek and will be looking to progress here in front of what could be a decent crowd. Wroxham will undoubtedly be looking to move on from last season’s struggles and a cup run would certainly aid that. Stuart Marshall’s side will be searching for consistency and I think bearing in mind it’s a long trip for the visitors, Manor may edge it.

Scott’s Prediction: 2 – 1

Takeley v Wivenhoe Town                                    Venue: Station Road

Peter: Hosts Takeley have begun the season with two wins from two and are full of confidence going into this encounter with Thurlow Nunn Premier side Wivenhoe Town, who are yet to begin their season.  The hosts have won two at home already this season and I feel they will make it three from three in this one.

Peter’s Prediction: 3-0

Scott: Takeley have started the season well with new signing Stuart Zanone already among the goals. Marc Das’ side will look to continue the ‘winning habit’ at Station Road as they welcome Wivenhoe Town. I can see the ‘Takeley juggernaut’ continuing here.

Scott’s Prediction: 2 – 0

Walsham-le-Willows v Basildon Utd

Peter: The Bees face a tough challenge as they travel to take on Walsham-le-Willows and with the Thurlow Nunn Premier side having won 6-0 away on the opening day and then getting a 1-1 draw against Ipswich Wanderers in midweek they will fancy their chances here.  However Basildon began their season with a 2-0 win over Clapton so will take confidence from this no doubt.  Got a feeling the hosts will prevail though.

Peter’s Prediction:  1-0

Scott: Basildon make the trip to Walsham-le-Willows, just north of Stowmarket, Suffolk. Walsham will be a stern test for Marc Harrison’s side though the fact that Basildon have had a week to prepare for this match might be in their favour.

Scott’s Prediction: 2 – 1

Sunday 6th August

Barkingside v Stowmarket Town  (2pm KO)     Venue: Cricklefield

Peter: ‘Side’s only competitive match this season saw them record a magnificent victory at Great Wakering Rovers in midweek, whilst Stowmarket Town have yet to get their Thurlow Nunn Premier campaign underway.  Gonna plump for a home win here.

Peter’s Prediction: 2-0

Scott: Barkingside welcome Stowmarket to Cricklefield in what is the hosts’ second Sunday match at this stage of the competition in successive seasons. ‘Side laid down a marker with a good win at Wakering in midweek and will look to add to that here. It might be a hard-fought contest though I reckon it’ll be a win for Michael Walther’s side.

Scott’s Prediction: 2 – 1

St Margaretsbury v Burnham Ramblers   (3pm KO)

Peter: Both sides will want to put recent defeats behind them and progress in the FA Cup, the hosts’ only competitive outing saw them lose 8-2 at Colney Heath in the Herts Charity Shield whilst Ramblers have lost their opening two league games after a poor pre-season.  I think the hosts will probably prevail here.

Peter’s Prediction: 2-0

Scott: Burnham travel to St Margaretsbury after a tough week in the league. I reckon both sides will keep it tight for long periods. The visitors may grab a draw which may be the nudge they need going forward.

Scott’s Prediction: 1 – 1

 

We wish all clubs well as they begin their FA Cup campaign.

You can follow Peter on Twitter: @ped1980 and on his website featuring results round-ups & match reports at http://www.leaguewebsite.co.uk/unofficialesl/

Also, you can follow Scott W on Twitter: @ScottMHC14 

Also, you can follow the ‘umbrella’ that is the Grassroots Football Show on Twitter at @ELRFootball & also online at elrgfs.blogspot.co.uk

 

Match Report: Hullbridge Sports 0 – 1 Southend Manor (ESL)

Essex Senior League

Venue: Lower Road

Attendance: 86

2017-18 Season – Match 8

Date: Tuesday 1st August 2017 7.45pm KO

Hullbridge Sports: Blue & White Striped Shirts, Blue Shorts, Blue Socks

Southend Manor: Yellow & Black Striped Shirts, Black Shorts, Black Socks

Hullbridge & Manor players exchange pleasantries before kick-off

Scott W reporting (Follow me on Twitter: @ScottMHC14)

On an evening with a chill in the air, Hullbridge Sports welcomed neighbours Southend Manor to Lower Road in what was the visitors’ first match of the new campaign, sporting a new-look side. For Hullbridge, captain Jimmy Cox returned to the side.

Manor had the better of the early exchanges, coming up against a resolute home defence at times. In all fairness, the referee decided quite early on that he wasn’t going to mess about dealing with strong tackles & the like in this local derby, dishing out a couple of early bookings. Hullbridge had to deal with an added blow when striker Luka Frankis was forced off after just 16 minutes, with what appeared to be a back problem.

Southend Manor gave league debuts to a few new signings, and it was one of those, midfielder Lee Delf who showed that he was a threat in the air, nodding wide on two occasions mid-way into the first half, after good crosses in by full-back Shay Kelly.

Hullbridge struggled to push into the visitors’ half at times with midfielder Sam Dulieu blasting his strike over the bar on the half-hour mark. For all of their possession though, Manor didn’t quite create the chances they probably should have done. That said, four minutes before the break, Manor did take the lead with a good looping header from Delf that squeezed into the top-right corner, despite the defender on the goal-line’s best efforts to clear.

Half-Time: Hullbridge Sports 0 – 1 Southend Manor

The second half started rather differently as Manor couldn’t retain possession as well as they did earlier. Hullbridge did have strikes on goal from range from winger Michael Edgar and Delieu though visiting ‘stopper Klinton Makayabo wasn’t really troubled. The hosts still had chances midway into the half as defender Rob Hodsgon’s 25-yard drive fizzed wide of the post then forward Ashley Pibworth’s header was well-gathered by Makayabo, from Sam Taylor’s free-kick.

From Manor’s perspective, their attacks promised more than they actually delivered though as the game wore on to its latter stages, and it was nearly their undoing. With eight minutes of normal time left, Hullbridge captain Jimmy Cox headed wide from close range, the frustration evident on his face. Only two minutes later, Manor forward Mickey Hopkins also missed a similarly clear-cut chance to put the game safe for the visitors. Hullbridge were reduced to ten men with three minutes of normal time left as Ashley Pibworth got what appeared to be a straight red card, even though he had already been booked. I believe the reasoning was for was kicking out, in an off-the-ball incident.

The five minutes of added time must’ve seemed longer for Manor as it did get rather fraught at times as Hullbridge chased a last-gasp leveller, but they held on to record a hard-fought victory. To be fair, Taylor and Hodgson did impress for the hosts. Similarly, Delf, winger Jack Adlington and centre-backs Scott Keys & Daniel Okah did impress for Manor, in my view.

Full-Time: Hullbridge Sports 0 – 1  Southend Manor

Delf 41’

In summary, the frustration for the home side at the final whistle was palpable and understandable. To be fair, they’ve had two very tough matches in a matter of days.  For Manor, they will know that they’ll probably need to be more clinical at times as they could have won this match more convincingly than they ended up doing. That said, it was still a battling win with what looked like a stronger outfit than last season, with more know-how, particularly at the back and with Delf as the ‘anchor’ midfielder just in-front of the back four at times.

I wish both sides well for the remainder of the campaign. Thank you to Hullbridge as well for their assistance with the team-sheets. Both sides are in FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round action this Saturday (5th August), Sports welcome Ipswich Wanderers to Lower Road while Manor welcome Wroxham to Southchurch Park.

Teams:
Hullbridge Sports Player-Manager: Rob Hodgson	Southend Manor  Assistant Manager: Adam Peek (Manager Stuart Marshall was away)
1  Ryan Emery (GK)	1  Klinton Makayabo  (GK)
2  Charlie Buffin	2  Robbie Norris  (C)
3  Sam Taylor	3  Shay Kelly     (Subbed 61’)
4  Aaron Hunwicks	4  Lee Delf
5  Rob Hodgson	5  Daniel Okah
6  Ollie Quick	6  Scott Keys
7  Michael Edgar	7  Jack Adlington
8  Ashley Pibworth	8  Callum Jex
9  Luca Frankis   (Subbed 16’)	9  Mickey Hopkins
10  Jimmy Cox  (C)	10  Harry Hatt     (Subbed 72’)
11  Sam Dulieu   (Subbed 66’)	11  Alfie Lindfield    (Subbed 83’)
Substitutes:
12  Ronnie Pallett  (On 16’)	12  Mitchell Keen      (On 72’)
14  Charlie Gerada  (On 66’)	14  Finley Dopson
15  Jamie Buffin	15  Ryan Kellland
16  Ben Perry	16  Lee Scott              (On 61’)
17  Angus Poole	17  Bayley Newell     (On 83’)
Referee:	Peter Newman
Assistant Referees:	Trevor Williams Karl Dunnage
Booked: C Buffin	Booked: Jex
Sent Off: Pibworth

ESL 2017/18 – Predictions (Matchday Round 2)

By Peter D & Scott W

Hello one and all to the predictions for the first midweek matches of the new ESL season. On both our blogs, Non-League enthusiast, Barry White ‘impressionist’ and all-round good bloke Peter Dudley and myself give our thoughts on what could transpire in the following matches.

Tuesday 1st August fixtures (7.45pm KO’s)

Burnham Ramblers Vs Stansted             Venue: Leslie Field

Peter: Both sides lost their opening games of the season at the weekend, Ramblers letting a one-goal lead slip whilst Stansted eventually succumbed to Great Wakering Rovers, so both will want to bounce back. I fancy the visitors to get the points here.

Peter’s Prediction: 0-2

Scott:  Burnham welcome Paul Pittuck’s side to Leslie Field. With both sides falling to defeat on Saturday, it is arguable that this match is more important for the hosts. I reckon that this will be a tight contest that will end with honours even.

Scott’s Prediction: 1 – 1

Great Wakering Rovers Vs Barkingside      Venue: Burroughs Park

Peter: Rovers got their season off to a winning start with victory against Stansted at Burroughs Park whilst for Barkingside this is their first game of the new season after no game at the weekend. Should be a good one this but one I feel GWR will sneak.

Peter’s Prediction: 2-1

Scott: Rovers welcome a new-look Barkingside outfit to Burroughs Park. The hosts will be looking to get another home win under their belts though new ‘Side boss Michael Walther will certainly be looking for a good performance in his first league match in charge. I reckon Rovers will edge this one though and come away with all three points.

Scott’s Prediction: 3 -2

Hackney Wick Vs Tower Hamlets       Venue: Old Spotted Dog Stadium

Peter: Wick began life as a senior team with a come-from-behind win against Burnham Ramblers at Leslie Field and they now welcome local rivals Tower Hamlets for another tough assignment after the visitors pushed Redbridge all the way at the weekend. I feel this one may end all-square.

Peter’s Prediction:  1-1

Scott:  Hackney Wick welcome neighbours Tower Hamlets to the Old Spotted Dog. Hamlets impressed in a battling effort on Saturday though the new-look side will certainly look for greater consistency this term, starting here. Wick picked up a decent win at Burnham though I reckon the visitors here will give them a stern test in what could be a good game for the neutral. I believe this will end in a spirited draw.

Scott’s Prediction: 2 – 2

Hullbridge Sports Vs Southend Manor      Venue: Lower Road

Peter: Sports played out a 2-2 draw with Waltham Forest at Lower Road at the weekend and now welcome local South Essex rivals Southend Manor to Lower Road for which this is Manor’s first league game of the season. Manor held Witham Town and Grays Athletic to respectable draws in their final two warm up games and I feel they may get the win here too.

Peter’s Prediction: 0-2

Scott: Hullbridge welcome Southend Manor to Lower Road in what is the visitors’ first league match of the campaign. Manor have added some decent players to their squad and the latter half of their pre-season has gone quite well. Hullbridge may need to be on-form to stop the visitors if they find there verve going forward. I reckon Manor will prevail here.

Scott’s Prediction: 1 – 2

Redbridge Vs Sawbridgeworth Town       Venue: Oakside

Peter: The hosts left it very late to turn around their match against Tower Hamlets at the weekend but it was a very well-earned three points whilst Sawbridgeworth Town began the season disappointingly after falling to a home loss to West Essex. The Robins could have done without this difficult fixture and I feel Redbridge will take another three points in this one.

Peter’s Prediction: 3-1

Scott: Redbridge welcome Sawbridgeworth to Oakside. Both sides had contrasting fortunes at the weekend, and the Watters brothers will definitely be seeking some improvement from their side. Redbridge will also seek to avoid a last-gasp win which they managed last weekend, though the art of ‘winning ugly’ is a trait they’ll want to keep if they are to challenge for promotion this term. It is hard to see past the hosts in this one though they may well have to work for it.

Scott’s Prediction: 2 – 1

Takeley Vs Waltham Forest                  Venue: Station Road

Peter: The hosts began their season with a win against Sporting Bengal United at the weekend and they welcome another East London side in Waltham Forest to Station Road looking to make it two from two. Forest were held by Hullbridge Sports at the weekend so will look to go one better here but I feel the hosts will take the points.

Peter’s Prediction: 2-1

Scott:  Marc Das’ side welcome Waltham Forest to Station Road. The hosts started well in dispatching Sporting Bengal at the weekend; though if Forest keep the intensity they showed v Hullbridge on Saturday then they may give Takeley a bit of a headache. I still expect the hosts to be too strong though and take the points.

Scott’s Prediction: 3 – 1

West Essex Vs Sporting Bengal United        Venue: Mayesbrook Park

Peter: Barking-based West Essex grabbed a fantastic win at Crofters against Sawbridgeworth Town at the weekend whilst Sporting Bengal were beaten at Takeley. I’m expecting another good win for the hosts here though.

Peter’s Prediction: 3-0

Scott: West Essex welcome Bengal to Mayesbrook Park, on the back of an excellent win on Saturday. Again, if the hosts keep up their energy levels and good play, then they could well pick up another victory here. That said, I also think Imrul Gazi will want an improved performance from his Bengal side.

Scott’s Prediction: 3 – 1

Wednesday 2nd August fixtures (7.45pm KO’s)

FC Romania Vs Enfield 1893      Venue: Theobalds Lane

Peter: The Romanians got their season up and running with a 2-0 win at Wadham Lodge on Saturday and they welcome Harlow-based Enfield to Cheshunt in what is the visitors’ first game of the campaign. I think the hosts will probably take the points here though.

Peter’s Prediction: 2-0

Scott: FC Romania welcome Enfield to Theobalds Lane. The hosts started their season well with a win on Saturday, while the visitors start their campaign here. Romania will want to make it two wins from two matches though Enfield have recruited well and in numbers during the summer and I have a gut feeling that they may pull off a surprise win here, if they find their rhythm in what I reckon will be a hard-fought encounter.

Scott’s Prediction: 1-2

Ilford Vs Clapton                        Venue: Cricklefield

Peter: Cricklefield hosts a mouth-watering clash between Ilford and Clapton on Wednesday and both teams experienced differing fortunes at the weekend. The Foxes thumped nine-man Woodford Town 5-0 at Goffs Lane whilst Clapton fell to a disappointing 2-0 loss at Basildon United. This should be a decent game though and one I feel will end in a point each.

Peter’s Prediction: 2-2

Scott: Ilford welcome Clapton to Cricklefield. Allan Fenn’s side will be buoyed by their goal-scoring prowess on Saturday and will surely look to capitalise against a Clapton side surprisingly beaten at Basildon at the weekend. If the hosts are on-form, then they could well pull off an important win in this one.

Scott’s Prediction: 2 – 1

Wadham Lodge Vs Woodford Town (2017)    Venue: Match Day Centre, Kitchener Road

Peter: Both sides lost their opening games at the weekend so will want to bounce-back no doubt from those disappointments. And with visiting management Tony Ievoli and Neil Day ex-Lodge it added an extra dimension to this one considering there are ex-Lodge players in Ievoli’s squad too. Draw I feel in this one.

Peter’s Prediction:  1-1

Scott: Wadham welcome Woodford to Kitchener Road, in a match which sees ex-Lodge manager Tony Ievoli come up against his former club. I have no doubt that both sides will be up for this one and Woodford will certainly look to banish the memory of Saturday’s loss at home to Ilford. This one may well be an entertaining clash though I reckon it’ll be honours even.

Scott’s Prediction: 2 – 2

For more thoughts previewing the midweek action, check out ‘GFS Xtra’ with Adam R & Scott W at http://www.mixcloud.com/EastLondonRadio/grassroots-football-xtra-esl-monday-midweek-preview/

Also, you can follow me, Scott W on Twitter: @ScottMHC14

You can follow Peter on Twitter: @ped1980 and on his website at http://www.leaguewebsite.co.uk/unofficialesl/LeagueNews & also on www.realfootytalk.com/category/peter-dudley

Also, you can follow the ‘umbrella’ that is the Grassroots Football Show on Twitter at @ELRFootball & also online at elrgfs.blogspot.co.uk where myself & Peter take on a different third ‘contestant’ with our predictions every week. This time it is Non-League enthusiast & Ilford fan Richard Brock (Twitter: @beckton86).