Essex Premier Cup – survivor16b

S22-23 Match Report: Shenfield AFC 3 – 1 Wakering Sports Res (Wed 12 Apr) [EPC Final 22-23 13.4.23]

Essex County FA Premier Cup – Final

Venue: New Lodge 3G

2021-22 Season: Match 54

Attendance: 290 (Est)

Wednesday 12 April 2023 – 7.45pm KO

Shenfield AFC: White Shirts, Blue Shorts, Blue Socks

Wakering Res: Green Shirts, Shorts & Socks

Shenfield defeat spirited Wakering Res to claim Essex Premier Cup

Shenfield AFC 3 – 1 Wakering Sports Res

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

The first Cup Final of the season was held at New Lodge 3G, as Shenfield AFC and Wakering Sports Res contested an all-Essex Olympian Essex Premier Cup Final. Shenfield have had a fine run in the competition, defeating promotion-chasing Rayleigh Town in the last four and boss Kevin Williamson named Joe Durrant in goal here, with a defence of Tom Blackmur, Marlon Stratford, Elliott Thompson & Sam Bubb. Alfie MacKay, Marc Holland & Samuel Lock were the midfield ‘engine room’ with co-boss Luke Williamson the advanced midfielder, supporting forwards Ben Absolon and Alex Tredgett. Wakering Res have had some recent history just by reaching to this final after beating Essex Alliance Senior side Woodford East on penaties, following a pulsating 4-4 draw in their semi-final, and the third-tier side fielded Tom King as their custodian. The backline was comprised of Ashley Sexton, Charlie Smith, Alex Jenkins and George Penfold. The midfield featured Taner Dagyaran, Ciaran Sweeney, Liam Clifford and Eben Rowledge. Leading their attack was top-scorer Connor Fardyga and Dave Watson.

The early stages of this Final were a little tense, as both sides managed to get down the flanks to get beyond the opposition defences, Wakering forward Connor Fardyga showed his pace and movement in making a couple of good darting runs down the right side. Shenfield also pushed on, particularly down the left side and their nerves were lessened on fourteen minutes when they took the lead. A set-piece was angled towards the far post by Sam Bubb from the halfway-line, Wakering stopper Tom King advanced out to grab it but the flight of the ball decieved him, allowing centre-back Elliott Thompson to nip in at the back post to head in to an unguarded goal. All credit to the Blues here as their response was admirable, with Eben Rowledge firing not far wide & Fardyga having a tame strike which didn’t unduly trouble Durrant. Hard-working midfielder Liam Clifford’s fierce strike from 30 yards moments later whistled past the Shenfield goal and Kevin Williamson’s team had to graft at this point.

Soon afterward, Wakering Res did get the goal their pressure deserved, as on a congested 18-yard box, full-back George Penfold’s low drive crept into the net to level this increasingly interesting match. Shortly before the leveller, Shenfield forward Alex Tredgett made a good darting run down the left flank, which was blocked out for a corner & from that full-back Tom Blackmur headed off-target. Gary Hanger’s Sports side were holding their own and just before the interval, a superb strike by Clifford from distance thundered off the goal frame – that would’ve been some goal!

Half-Time: Shenfield AFC 1 – 1 Wakering Sports Res

The second half started very strongly, with both sides trading chances. Fardyga was well-placed in the penalty area but his low drive came back off the left-side post, while centre-back Alex Jenkins also headed over. Tredgett was also in the action again, as his strike was well-saved by King. Ben Absolon also broke free of the Sports backline and only a superb covering interception by Penfold denied him a one-on-one chance at goal against King. A key moment came on the hour though as Jenkins was dismissed by referee Joseph Gray for a hard tackle and Sports fell behind barely a minute later. In another busy set play, midfielder Sam Lock had the initial strike for AFC blocked but Tredgett was well-placed to strike low into left corner to give Shenfield a priceless lead.

Wakering still pressed on despite their numerical disadvantage, and were awarded a penalty on 72 minutes after a foul in the box. Ciaran Sweeney stepped up, but his left-sided strike was well-parried by Durrant, who also blocked Sweeney’s follow-up effort. The Blues gave it everything in the latter stages, and another good run by the impressive Dave Watson ended with the fall finding substitute Adem Beji but his effort sailed over the goal frame.

Shenfield had to stay alert but could finally celebrate deep in added time as they notched a third goal, as substitute Frankie Fealty bypassed both the Wakering defence & the advancing King before slotting home into an empty net. The final whistle blew soon afterward & both teams showed what they are about in this fine Final, watched by a healthy crowd with both sides well supported.

Full-Time: Shenfield AFC 3 – 1 Wakering Sports Res

To summarise this match, Shenfield struck at key moments and defended their advantage well, although the Wakering side showed a lot of spirit and had several chances to really alter the complexion of this Final. Ultimately though, defensive errors cost them but they played well overall on a memorable occasion for the Shoeburyness-based team.

The stand-out performances start with victors Shenfield. Forward Alex Tredgett continues to have a good season and showcased guile, good movement and cool finishing for his goal. Goalkeeper Joe Durrant made some good saves & denied Wakering from the penalty spot at a crucial time. Centre-back Elliott Thompson had a good game in defence, and pushed forward to good effect too, taking his goal well with decent movement. Lastly, a mention for full-back Sam Bubb who put in a good shift & was a threat from set-pieces as well.

For Wakering, forward Dave Watson was a good threat for his side, creating decent chances from the flanks and he also tested the Premier Division side’s backline well, and was unfortunate not to score. Liam Clifford put in a good performance in central midfield, showing good work rate and was inches away from scoring & showed decent passing. Finally, George Penfold and Eben Rowledge put in good performances to assist their side in defence and attack respectively.

Congrats to all at Shenfield for this memorable victory & best wishes to all at Wakering Sports going forward.

Teams

Shenfield AFC | Co-Managers: Kevin Williamson & Luke Williamson | Coach: Ben Kent

Starting XI: 1 Joe Durrant (GK), 2 Tom Blackmur, 3 Sam Bubb, 5 Marlon Stratford, 15 Elliott Thompson, 6 Alfie MacKay, 8 Samuel Lock, 10 Marc Holland, 4 Luke Willismson (Capt), 9 Ben Absolon, 17 Alex Tredgett

Goal-scorers: Elliott Thompson [14′], Alex Tredgett [61′], Frankie Fealty [90’+7]

Subs On (Time): 7 Harvey Clarke [replaced Lock, 65′], 11 Frankie Fealty [replaced Williamson, 88′], 16 Aaron Lang [replaced Tredgett, 90’+2]

Booked: Stratford, Absolon, Blackmur, Mackay | Subs Not Used: Cadd, Kent (GK)

Wakering Spts Res | Manager: Gary Hanger | Assistant: Darryl Cross

Starting XI (Subs): 1 Tom King (GK), 12 Ashley Sexton, 5 Alex Jenkins, 6 Charlie Smith, 3 George Penfold (7 Jack Hanger 80′), 15 Taner Dagyaran (2 Billy Cottrill 80′), 10 Ciaran Sweeney, 4 Liam Clifford (11 Adem Beji 76′), 18 Dave Watson, 9 Connor Fardyga (8 Ollie Greene 76′), 17 Eben Rowledge (16 Steven Valente 76′)

Goal-scorer: George Penfold [26′]

Booked: Beji | Sent Off: Jenkins [60′] | Sub Not Used: None

Referee: Joseph Gray
Assistants: Kadir Nazif & John Caunt

Fourth Official: Andrew Wheaton

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

Image from Leigh Ramblers Res v Wakering Sports A this weekend

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

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

Cups

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

EOFL League Divisions

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

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

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

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

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

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

End

S22-23 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 Match Report: Woodford East 4 – 2 Hutton (Sat 21 Jan) [EPC QF 22/23 21.1.23]

Essex Premier Cup – Quarter-Final

Venue: Mabley Green 3G

2022-23 Season: Match 36

Attendance: 15 (Est)

Saturday 21 January 2023 – 1.45pm KO

Woodford E: Yellow Shirts, Yellow Shorts & Socks

Hutton: Red Shirts, Red Shorts & Socks

Superb comeback sees the Peacocks into the last four of the Essex Premier Cup

Woodford East 4 – 2 Hutton

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

The frosty weather again thwarted several matches in Steps 5, 6 & 7 so it was an oppurtunity to see two highly-rated sides face off in the Essex Premier Cup Quarter-Finals, as Essex Alliance League Senior side Woodford East welcomed the Essex Olympian leaders Hutton to Mabley Green 3G. Woodford East are fifth in the EAL Senior (Step 7) at present and named Alfie Watts in goal, with a backline of Billy Barr, Kai Law and centre-backs Matt Stacey & Joe Kemp. Eren Mehmet, Frank Glock, Callum Maltese were pushing on from midfield, with forward Harry Robinson supported by Lucio Uare and Ben Smith down the flanks. Hutton were unbeaten in the League coming into this tie, and had regular custodian Adrian Faherty in goal, with a defensive four of centre-backs Johnathon Hilliard & Lewis Scott plus Sean O’Callaghan and George Nash as full-backs. Kyle Linzell, Luke Ricketts & Stephen Judge were the central midfield three, while Jude Keeling, David Johnson & Joshua Seal were the forward line.

This match kicked into life with some verve from both sides. An early free-kick by East’s Callum Maltese needed the intervention of Hutton custodian Adrian Faherty. Hutton were also useful going forward from the early-going here, and took the lead after only seven minutes. A dangerous set-piece in by midfielder Steophen Judge evaded the home defence and picked out centre-back Lewis Scott who nodded the ball home past East stopper Alfie Watts. The visitors were in the ascendancy at this point in proceedings, although had a let-off of sorts as the Peacocks did have central defender Matt Stacey’s header dribble narrowly wide after going all the way across the face of goal. Matt Singh’s team had a goal chalked off also at the other end as another super corner by Judge evaded everyone and found the far corner, only for a foul that was detected by referee Kadir Nazif and he ruled it out.

As ever though, the Reds pushed on and did get the second goal, taking advantage of a little fortune as an initial effort cannoned off his own player & crucially stayed in play allowing forward David Johnson to power home a firm effort to double his side’s advantage. Both teams were engaging to watch in this high-tempo match, and Woodford were starting to find their rhythm past the half-hour mark, as a good effort by Peacocks skipper Frank Glock was well-denied by Faherty. The Reds kept their lead intact at the break, though I felt there was more to come in this Cup tie.

Half-Time: Woodford East 0 – 2 Hutton

That feeling materalised rather quickly, as only five minutes into the second half, Woodford East pulled a goal back, as a rapid counter was started by a long ball through to forward Harry Robinson who controlled it well and sent a cool, low finish into the far corner, with Faherty unable to deny him. This sparked a real sea change in fortunes for the Peacocks, as their threat going forward was morte palpable. Another good forward move ended with a Red defender heading against his own goalpost, but Glock could only fire off-target following-up. East forward Lucio Uare was finding more space since the interval & he made full use of it, sending several good crosses into the box. One such Uare cross evaded the Reds defence & found the run of Matt Stacey at the far post, who slotted home from a yard out to level the tie.

Woodford did get a crucial third goal to complete a stirring comeback on sixty-five minutes as a good strike by full-back Billy Barr made the most of a narrow opening to send the home dugout wild. Woodford East had struck at key moments and really looked to secure a memorable win as Robinson struck a fierce drive inches above the top right corner, with Faherty beaten. Halil Hassan’s side also had a goal chalked off on 83 minutes as substitute Andrew Rowe slotted home past Faherty, but hadn’t bypassed the off-side line. East did get a fourth goal moments later though as club stalwart Ben Smith netted an oppurtunist’s goal into the left corner to complete a fine win for the EAL side & seal some comeback.

Full-Time: Woodford East 4 – 2 Hutton

To summarise this very good enterprising match, Hutton were decent value for their lead at the interval as the Peacocks looked vulnerable at times defensively and couldn’t get past a characteristically tough Hutton backline often enough. After the break, Woodford East showed exactly why they are well thought of with a stirring comeback & some good goals along with it. It was the Reds’ turn to look somewhat shaky and they couldn’t recover and put considerable pressure on the hosts as they suffered a rare loss this term.

The stand-out performances here for the victors Woodford East start with a superb performance from support forward Lucio Uare, who was very good, especially in the second half. Uare broke down the left flank at will and put in some fine passes as well, including for his side’s leveller as well as showcasing good energy levels. Hard-working Callum Maltese & Ben Smith both got some reward for their high work rate, with Maltese putting in good passes and Smith notching the fourth goal. These two players are so important to their team. Also, centre-back Matt Stacey typified the resolve of his team after the interval with some good interceptions.

For Hutton, Lewis Scott had a good game at centre-back, despite the eventual score-line, making good clearances, showing good positioning defensively & took his goal well early on. Midfielder Stephen Judge made several important passes and also from set-pieces like the opening goal for example, while support forward Joshua Seal was a handful for the East defence to cope with, laying the ball off smartly to forwards Keeling & Johnson. Lastly, a word for full-back Sean O’Callaghan who again had a decent game, making good runs down the right side as well as covering well at times.

Finally, Congratulations to Woodford East as they again make the last four & also I’d like to wish both teams a fine rest of the season.

Teams

Woodford East | Manager: Halil Hassan |

Starting XI: 1 Alfie Watts (GK), 9 Billy Barr, 4 Matt Stacey, 5 Joe Kemp, 2 Kai Law, 3 Eren Mehmet, 8 Frank Glock (Capt), 11 Callum Maltese, 10 Ben Smith, 19 Harry Robinson, 18 Lucio Uare

Goal-scorers: Harry Robinson [50′], Matt Stacey [61′], Billy Barr [65′], Ben Smith [85′]

Sub On (Time): 7 Connor Braithwaite [46′], 17 Andrew Rowe [80′], 26 Jordan Lema [86′]

Booked: Kemp, Mehmet, Maltese, Rowe | Subs Not Used: Morris, Martin

Hutton | Manager: Matt Singh | Assistants: Bill Stratford & Dan Williams

Starting XI: 1 Adrian Faherty (GK), 2 Sean O’Callaghan, , 6 Jonathon Hilliard, 4 Lewis Scott, 3 George Nash, 8 Kyle Linzell (Capt), 7 Stephen Judge, 11 Luke Ricketts, 9 Jude Keeling, 10 Joshua Seal, 17 David Johnson

Goal-scorers: Lewis Scott [7′], David Johnson [25′]

Sub On (Time): 12 Freddie Miller [72′], 16 Rodney Wilson [72′], 19 Will Marlowe [77′]

Booked: Seal & Judge | Subs Not Used: Carroll, Gardner

Referee: Kadir Nazif
Assistants: James Allaoui & Norman Miller

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian Lge & Cups (Sat 3 Dec) [EOFL 22-23 5.12.22]

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

Hello & welcome to the first edition in December of the Essex Olympian League round-up. This week, we look at the action in all divisions from Saturday 3 December, and we begin with the Cup competitions this weekend.

Essex Premier Cup – Round Four

This week we begin with the Essex Premier Cup fourth round. Premier Division side Toby defeated Essex Alliance League Senior side Kit Out London 3 – 0 at Nursery Sports Ground. Callum Mann, Jake Jones & Luis Ruiz all netted to seal progression to the last eight for Mark Jones’ side. Fellow top-tier side Rayleigh Town also went through after a 3 – 0 victory at Division One side Beacon Hill Rovers. Harry Talbot netted twice for Paul Higgins’ side here, with Jack Long again on target to seal the win. EOFL Prem leaders Hutton had a battle before winning 3 – 2 against Border League side Dunmow Town at Hannakins Farm, after extra time. Will Marlowe, Rodney Wilson & replacement David Johnson got the crucial goals there for the Reds. There was a win for Shenfield AFC in their local derby with Harold Wood Athletic, as another double for Ben Absolon secured a 2 – 1 win for AFC, with Zach Holding getting the solitary goal for the second-tier side.

Meanwhile, there was a real battle at Stambridge Memorial Ground which saw Division One side Corinthians narrowly defeat Premier side Leigh Ramblers 4 — 3. Bailey Moss’ treble & a goal for Bill Wilton secured an excellent victory for Chris Stoneham’s team, outdoing strikes for the Rams by Tom Franks, George Moxon and Matthew Brinklow. The lowest-ranked EOFL side in the competition – Division Two’s Wakering Sports Res , produced an excellent display to secure a 3 – 2 success against Essex Alliance League Senior Division side Chadwell Heath Spartans at Cupid’s. Connor Fardyga scored another two goals, and substitute Oliver Greene also netted for Sports. Joe Butcher & Jon Evans goals for the Spartans made it tight but it was a tough afternoon for Aaron Hunwicks’ side.

Finally, Catholic Utd put in a good performance to defeat Essex & Suffolk Border League Premier side Colne Athletic 5 – 2 at the Len Forge 3G, in the match I attended on Saturday. A brace for Aaron Baldwin added to goals by Louie Hay, Franklin Craik & a James Warder spot-kick to see the Super Hoops through & make it seven Olympian League sides in the quarter-finals this term, thus continuing the dominance by EOFL sides in recent years, in this competition.

If you’d like more on the win for Catholic Utd. my report is here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2022/12/04/s22-23-match-report-catholic-utd-5-2-colne-athletic-sat-3-dec-epc/

EOFL Reserve League Cup

Two matches to note in the Ressie League Cup. Firstly, Collier Row Res produced a fine performance to win 4 – 0 at Old Southendian Res, with Aloisio Dos Santos netting twice, along with goals from Charlie Quant & Ryan Costello to ensure the win for Mark Lee’s side. Leigh Ramblers Res joined them in the next round after a narrow 1 – 0 win in their derby with Leigh Town Res at Belfairs. Luis Bracci got the winning penalty with five minutes left to seal the tie.

EOFL Premier Division & Division One

In the top-tier this week, there was two vital wins for teams in the bottom three. Firstly, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts gained ground on the teams above them with a 5 – 0 triumph over Galleywood at Silver Leys. Mitchell Burr’s fine treble was added to by goals for Valter Simao & Edward Atkinson-Purse to ensure a fine win and leave ‘Wood three points adrift at the bottom. Springfield also got an important 2 – 1 victory at Runwell Sports, with Lewis Chapman & an OG ensuring Allan Fenn’s side got the win. Finally, Sungate had a Solomon Asomah strike to thank for a 1 – 0 win over Old Southendian which sees them rise to second spot.

In Division One, Epping Town cut the deficit to leaders Harold Wood Athletic to seven points after a 5 – 2 victory at home to Harold Hill. Chris Gormley let the way with a superb hat-trick, with goals from Abdul Kamara & Scout Bown adding to Hill’s pain. Old Chelmsfordians moved back up to third after a 6 – 1 win at home to ACD Utd, and Manford Way went up to seventh spot after a comprehensive 4 – 0 success at home to winless Wakering Sports. Daniel Demain, David Alele, James Dobson & an OG secured a good win for Colin Dobson’s team.

EOFL Divisions Two, Three, Four & Five

In Division Two, with leaders Shoebury Town not in action, the chasing pack all got important wins. Hashtag Utd Development remain second after a enthralling 8 – 1 victory at Rayleigh Town Res. Jay Knight got a fine treble, with an ensemble cast of Thomas Matthew, Josh Jarvis, Tony Stevens, Matthew Gauci & Tommy Green all grabbing a goal each for Denis Simpson’s team. Harold Wood Athletic Res are two points behind in third spot after a battling 3 – 2 win away at Hutton Res. Kieron Moynihan, Max London & Matthew Harris all scored for Steve Hubbard’s side there. Thomas Price & Ronnie Richardson-Cook both scored for the hosts there at Polo Fields.

Meanwhile, Wakebury are up to fourth after a 2 – 0 victory over third-bottom Catholic Utd Res at Cupid’s. Finlay Dorrell & Jordan Farrell both netted for Matt Cardy’s side there. And last but not least in this division, May & Baker EOFL secured another fine win with a 6 – 3 triumph over AS Rawreth. Jack O’Connor led the way for the hosts with a double, while Carl Patten, Kane Messenger, Darren Seymour & Alfie Horan all netted too to ensure they are eight points clear in sixth place. Billy Brown’s double & a goal from substitute Hamoud Salum accounted for the Rawreth goals here.

In Division Three, Basildon Town Res remain seven points clear at the summit after a fine 5 – 0 triumph at Springfield Res. Jamie Bradbourn’s double, allied with goals for Antony Aylett, Joe Fogarty & substitute Ashley Drury ensured the points went back with the visitors. Second-placed Pitsea Athletic look the most likely side to be able to catch the leaders, but had to settle for a narrow 1 – 0 home win against Buckhurst Hill U23. Hullbridge Sports Res lost ground on the top two after losing 1 – 3 to Old Chelmsfordians Res, who remain in seventh.

Moving into Division Four now, unbeaten leaders Roydon retained their three-point lead after a 4 – 0 win against Shenfield AFC Res at Roydon Rec. Nader Benzid, Connor Riddoch, Rene Pivarnik & Mike Hayes all scored for Nigel Jordon’s team in that game. Collier Row are eight points clear in second after a 3 – 1 victory over Leytonstone Utd in the ‘Forest Row derby’. Elsewhere, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res went three points clear in fifth spot after a 3 – 1 win at Herongate Athletic Res. Matthew Allen got a fine double here, with Archie Gerard also on target for the Swifts side. Finally, Galleywood Res defeated Ongar Town 2 – 0 at Slades Lane, with Ebenezer Fasoranti & Aryan Tathgar goals giving them only their second league win this term & also saw them rise out of the bottom two.

In Division Five, we have new leaders after Manford Way Res won 5 – 0 in their top-two clash at Basildon Town A. There were doubles for Luke Bennett & Callum Thomas, as well as a goal for George Green as Manford went two points clear at the summit. Wakebury Res also won as they defeated Sungate Res 5 – 1 at Shoebury Park.Liam Dunne & Riley Oliver both scored twice for Joe Creak’s side, with Charlie Canning’s goal sealing their fourth straight victory and a rise to third spot, three points behind Basildon Town A. In the other game, Canning Town Res got a comfortable 4 – 0 success over Runwell Sports Res to fortify their position in sixth.

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

Guest Blog 22/23: Essex Alliance Lge & Cups (Sat 8 Oct) [EAL 22-23 10.10.22]

Hello and welcome to the ninth week of the season in the Essex Alliance League, as well as action in the Essex Premier Cup in which EAL sides represent the League in the inter-divisional competition. My thanks in advance to the EAL’s Rob Parker. Thank you for reading.

Guest Blog written by Rob Parker for EAL [EAL Twitter: @EssexAllianceFL]

With Introduction & additional reporting by Scott W

Essex Alliance League Round-up- Saturday 10 October

FENTON CUP

The Fenton Cup action continued on Saturday and FC Baresi continued their excellent league form into the cup competition with a comprehensive 10 – 1 victory away at Premier Division side, Barkingside Under 23s. Tyreece Robinson scored a hat-trick for Baresi with Raymond Poku and Paul Benfield both scoring twice. Nicola Rapacchiani, Korede Da Silva and Umaru Kabia netted the others, Leo Gaspar scored the ‘Side consolation.

FENTON TROPHY

The Under 23s of FC Baresi followed the lead of their first team counterparts as they also ran in double figures in the Trophy competition, defeating Avondale Rangers in a 12 – 2 scoreline. Adam Friend and Jake Clarke both scored for Rangers but four Hamza Hafesji goals in reply for the hosts, plus goals from David Poirier (2), Zaahir Patel (2), Marco Perkola, Abbas Osman, Junior Ouattara and Adam Patel were plenty enough to secure their place in the next round. In the day’s other tie in the competition, it was an in-form Ilford Reserves side who played host to Division Four’s Collier Row Wheels, both sides having made decent starts in their respective competitions. But the Foxes avoided any kind of slip up with a 4 – 0 home win to put themselves through to the next round.

SENIOR DIVISION

With cup football top of the agenda for many this week, Sporting Hackney took full advantage to move to within two points of the leading sides as they returned home from Rapid Chingford with all three points in a 6 – 1 success. Tyler Springer and Percival Winter both bagged a brace with Joel Akuwudike and Richard Balogun goals rendering Andrei Boga’s effort as just consolation. FC Petrocub also took the chance to shut the gap on the sides above them as the fifth placed side put a 6 – 1 win of their own on the board with a terrific performance away at mid-table Walthamstow Reserves at Wadham Lodge. Ion Spinu came off the bench to score a hat-trick, adding to goals from Nicolai Gutu, Vasilica-Cristinel Ilie and Nicolai Cotruta.

It was a hat-trick of away wins in the division when Brimsdown ran out victors at Fairlop Oak against Blue Marlin, the Hertfordshire based side cruising to a 5 – 1 success to take maximum points back home with them. Cory Rose & Jason Rice both notched twice for Brimsdown with Sterlange Nzeza also scoring to secure the win which saw Brimsdown move up to sixth in the standings as they continue their quest for an immediate return to senior football.

PREMIER DIVISION EAST

Four sides remain with a perfect record at the top end of the Premier Division East standings with Fairlop Rovers top on goal difference following their 6-1 success on Saturday, beating Freetown 6 – 1 to make it three from three. Donald Adaakwah scored the ‘Town goal but his efforts proved in vain as his side remain in the hunt for their first points.

Chingford Athletic’s strong start has seen them make it three wins from three in the league also as they beat a struggling Wapping side 5-1 at Castle Green to stay in touch with the leaders. Harry Rouse scored a hat-trick with Mario-Angelino Lipetz and Dylan Scutt goals carrying them to victory, Juber Ahmed the scorer for the hosts with their consolation. Sitting third but only by the virtue of goal difference, RCXI are also on nine points and put their third league win on the board on Saturday with victory in the Newbury Park derby as they beat Cowley Community 3-1 with Ayo Matthews scoring twice and Daniel Williams once. Rajpal Bumbra scored the Cowley goal in reply, the visitors remaining in mid-table.

Waltham Abbey A bounced back well from defeat last time out to move fifth in the standings after recording a second win in three, beating London Park City 2 – 1 at Seven Kings School over the weekend. Alexandru Gheorghe scored for City but it was the Abbey who ran out winners by the odd goal in the end to extend their decent start.

PREMIER DIVISION WEST

There are new leaders in the West division as North East Lions took full advantage of results around them to move top by a point following an away victory against G7 in east London. A goal apiece from Jae Smith and Alex Zambrano off the bench done the damage as Lions were 2 – 0 winners on the day to put themselves top. That outcome was made possible after CSM London put their second successive league win on the board, defeating the previous leaders, AEK London, over at Mabley Green. Ali Jalo & Tay Chambers got the goals for CSM here. After three wins on the bounce last month, October has been tough for AEK so far with a draw last weekend followed by a 2 – 0 defeat to CSM this weekend.

Priory Park Rangers are another side to take full advantage of the matters around them as the Marshes based outfit recorded a third win to remain unbeaten, defeating Soul in a 6-2 scoreline to move second. Shepdherd Ndlovu has led the way so far for his side this season and he scored four more, adding to strikes from Ali Salama and Deri Fnu. Another side to make strong progress on Saturday were Wanstead who travelled to East Ham on Saturday to face Athletic Newham Under 23s and returned with their first maximum point haul in the league this season, winning 3 – 0. That result saw the visitors leap up to sixth place in the standings and just two points behind the side above them.

DIVISION ONE

There are some big battles ahead in Division One where at least two sides are making waves at the top, Unitey presently leading the way on goal difference after they put five goals past Atholl without reply on Saturday to record a 5 – 0 win. Devontae Young, Chris Tshimanga, Bubintende Masadi and Akhlad Miah all netted for their side to keep their top form going. Newham Wanderers are treading heel to heel with their rivals at the top and came through a stern test away at Forest Green to take home all three points. Wanderers were 3-0 winners, making it three wins from three with Addae Paponette, Robertson Morais and Manuel Sanuo all netting for the visitors.

Sitting three points further back, Redbridge Community’s first home game of the season saw the visit of Old Esthameians make the short journey to Mayfield but it was the hosts who made the most of their homecoming, earning themselves a 6 – 1 win on the day. Frankie Francis led the way with two goals for the victors, Jahsial Weekes, Michael Kiflezgji, Akiljo Balliu & Merrill Appiah also were on target. That was Redbridge’s second win of the season, moving third with six points.

DIVISION TWO

In Division Two, it’s as you were at the top end of the table with Snaresbrook making it four wins from four, returning home from Chadwell Heath Spartans Reserves with all three points in a 3 – 0 success at Hainault Rec. George Bacon, Ife Ogunbayo and Chris Huggins were the men on target to ensure the continuation of their perfect start. Rainham Phoenix have risen back up to second spot and trail the leaders by three points as they took maximum points from their trip to Old Barkabbeyans on Saturday. The Billys, Humphries and Broadbridge, were both on the scoresheet, Sean Tormey scoring the other as Rainham won the game 3 – 0.

It was a good afternoon for St Francis who got their first win of the season over the weekend as they took three points in their clash with Barking Potters at Castle Green, moving up to fifth with an 8 – 2 win. Teyon Weston was the hero scoring four while Ahmed Zaghloul scored twice and one each from Godwill Kumpana and Aley Khaled finished things off for the Saints.

DIVISION THREE

Newbury East remain the leaders at the top of Division Three, staying a point clear following the weekend’s efforts as they defeated Melbourne Sports at Oaks Park in a 6-2 scoreline. That saw East record a fourth league success of the season, along with their draw, to remain as one of two unbeaten sides in the division. The other unbeaten side are Chingford Harriers who trail by a point but have a game in hand on the leaders following their strong win against another top half side, Jolof Sports Reserves. Andrew Bowring and Grant Coy were the scorers for Harriers as they overcame their east London rivals to win the game 2 – 1.

Promoted Dagenham United Reserves are up into third spot as they leapt above their weekend opponents, Flyers Under 21s, in a heavily congested middle area of the table. Lewis Bennett and Isa Khan both scored twice with Peter Runham accredited with the other as their United side won 5 – 0 at King Georges. Just behind Dagenham sit Frenford A who are now up to fourth after a successful home performance against Romford Under 21s at The Drive which saw them win 5 – 1. Two Kyran Chiedozie goals plus efforts from James Rowlatt, Adam Andrade and Kishawn James done the damage with Eugenio Balde netting the Romford reply.

Buckhurst Way returned to winning league form on Saturday with a solid home performance in a home victory against Football Club of Riverside. Way were 4 – 0 winners at Bancrofts as George Martin, Tom Richardson, Dolapo Gbadamosi and Myles Croxford all struck with goals to see their side move up to sixth in the standings.

DIVISION FOUR

Inter London have closed the gap at the top to just three points following the weekend’s results as they made a successful trip to league leaders, West Essex Under 23s, returning home with all three points in a 3 – 1 success. Ace Soyemi, Nasser Salum and Fahad Abdallah scored the Inter goals to overcome a Ciaran Farrell-Christian strike for West. Results around them also allowed Romford Under 19s to move in touch with the sides above them, recording a 3-1 away win of their own, defeating Fairlop Rovers Reserves at Fairlop Oak. Abel Woldergiorgis scored twice with Oskar Plusa also on the scoresheet to make it two wins from three for Romford.

There was a ten goal thriller in the six-pointer affecting the bottom end of the table where two winless sides, Newham & Havering Borough and Old Esthameians Reserves, met in Rainham. An incredible game eventually saw Old E’s walk away with the points as they won 6 – 4 on the day to pick up their first win of the season, moving off the bottom of the table in the process. The division’s remaining game saw second placed London APSA Under 23s at home to their Flyers Under 23 counterparts in Barkingside, the sides going into the game with three points between them. That gap remained by full-time as neither side could trouble the scorers, the game ending in a 0-0 scoreless draw to take a point each.

COUNTY CUP

There was tremendous success for the league in the county cup competitions, starting with the London Senior Trophy where Jolof Sports faced a difficult first round tie against higher league opposition, facing Thurlow Nunn League side Tower Hamlets at Mile End Stadium. With the game ending level 1 – 1, it was Jolof who took the honours, winning the shootout 4-3 to go through.

It was also a winning start in the competition for Crookz United who were also on the road with a trip to Redbridge Reserves of the Essex Senior League Reserve Division Two. But Crookz were in fine goal scoring form and recorded a thumping 6 – 0 away win to book a spot in round two.

In the BBC Essex Premier Cup, all bar one tie went the way Essex Alliance League sides with last season’s finalists, Woodford East, overcoming a tricky first round trip to the coast, coming away 3 – 2 winners at Old Southendian to ensure their safe passage to round two. The longest trip was made by Chadwell Heath Spartans who travelled up the A12 to Essex & Suffolk Border League opponents, Tiptree Heath. A seven goal thriller went the way of Spartans as they edged through 4 – 3 and now face an even longer trip to West Bergholt next month!

There was more away day success for Frenford Development who made the trip down the A406 to Beckton to face Essex Olympian League side, Canning Town. A close game ensued between two sides similarly placed in their respective leagues but it was Frenford who went through, winning 3-2 on the day.

Completing a quarter of away wins for EAL sides, Dagenham United had a fruitful trip to West Thurrock where they took an Essex Senior League side Grays Athletic Reserves in a later kick-off. The Dagenham side came through by the odd goal, winning 2 – 1 to book a place in round three.

Extra-time was needed at May & Baker EC Reserves where the hosts were facing up to Thurlow Nunn visitors in the form of Halstead Town Reserves. With the game level at full-time, the extra thirty minutes saw Jimmy Donald’s side to win 4 – 2 and secure passage into the next round.

The only loss of the round came in the game at Fairlop Oak where it took an extra thirty minutes to eventually separate Oakside from Harold Wood Athletic, the visitors winning the game 2 – 1 in extra time to progress on.

In the AFA Intermediate Cup, the league had representation in the form of Lymore Gardens Reserves who faced a trip to south east London to face West Wickham 3rds. In a game of five goals, Lymore returned empty handed as their interest in the competition ended following a 3-2 defeat.

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian Lge & Cups (Sat 8 Oct) [EOFL 22-23 10.10.22]

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 8 October, we look at the action in all League divisions from Two to Five, plus an extra section on the Essex Premier Cup & the EOFL Reserve League Cup. Thanks as ever to all the regular readers of this column & to all the clubs.

No EOFL Premier Division & Division One action this week

EOFL Divisions Two & Three

We begin this week in Division Two, with a handsome win for Hashtag Utd Dev as they prevailed 12 – 1 at AS Rawreth. Samuel Pratt struck four goals here, with Matthew Gauci notching twice. There was a hefty ensemble of Josh Jarvis, Thomas Matthew, Jay Knight, Chandler Wray, Tommy Green & replacement Jake Smith who all scored as well. Wakebury also got a morale-boosting win, 5 – 2 at Catholic Utd Res. Will Wheeler, Mark Frostick, Ben Morley, Junior Lawrence & substitute Isaac Bello all netted for Matt Cardy’s side in that game. The other result saw Old Southendian Res draw 3 – 3 at May & Baker EOFL.

Moving now into the solitary match in Division Three, as Basildon Town Res got another big win, 7 – 0 at home to Corinthians Res. Harry Payne came off the bench to score a treble, with the supporting cast of Louis Hill, Antony Aylett, Jamie Miller & Billy Hutchinson all scoring too.

EOFL Divisions Four & Five

In Division Four, Roydon got a big 5 – 0 victory over Galleywood Res. Substitute Mike Hayes netted twice for the hosts, with Connor Presland, Lucas Riddoch & fellow replacement Lee Wicks secured the points. Herongate Athletic Res also got the points with a 2 – 0 success at Leytonstone Utd. Kieron Wilson-Fowler & substitute Kai Redmond got the goals there. The other result in the division was Ongar Town’s 3 – 1 victory against Pitsea Athletic Res at Marks Hall.

In Division Five, the top four sides all won. Basildon Town A are still top after a 4 – 0 victory at Canning Town Res. Daniel Kujinga got all four goals for the visitors as they stayed a point clear. Runwell Sports Res are in second place after a 9 – 1 victory over Shoebury Town Res at St Luke’s. Gianni Frankis scored four goals here, with Harry Ford scoring two goals as well as Luke Smith and substitutes James Clarke & Bryce Comer. Manford Way Res are in third after a 5 – 3 success at Sungate Res. Callum Thomas scored two goals for them, with Charlie Webb, Charlie Thomas & Bradley Wilkins all also on target.

Lastly for the League action, Collier Row Res are in fourth spot after a terrific 11 – 1 win over AS Rawreth Res. Jordan Lee & Raheem Bravo both scored trebles for the Romford-based side, with Eric Eze & George Coker netting twice each also, with Ryan Costello also on target.

Essex Premier Cup

In our additional section on the EPC this week, we start with ACD Utd progressing with a 6 – 1 victory over Springfield Res. Alex Bessent netted twice for Michael Wade’s side, with Jacob Dingli, Samuel Payne, Scott Perkins & substitute Connor Lambert all netting on a good day for them. Catholic Utd had a scare before joining ACD as they had extra time to deal with before winning 4 – 2 at Buckhurst Hill U23. Aaron Baldwin & Ben Burrows scored for Utd, with Harry Maslin & Harvey Woods scoring for Hill. Extra-time strikes by Tom Elliott & Adrian Maponga sealed the win for Simon Thomas’ side.

Frenford Development got a fine 3 – 2 win at fellow Step 7 side Canning Town. Edem Tetteh, Isima Iguisi & substitute Sebastian Ramirez goals saw the EAL Senior side through. EOFL Division One side Beacon Hill Rovers made a superb comeback as they won 4 – 3 at Middlesex County Premier side Clapton CFC. Greg Moorse, Fred Taylor & Reggie Nelson goals saw the Tons take the lead, but a treble from Karl Swanborough turned the tables & Bertie Whymark also netted for Rovers. Galleywood also got the win as they defeated Leigh Town Res 4 – 0 at John Burrows Rec. Ben Smith scored a treble with Jamie Lockwood getting the other goal.

Elsewhere, Rayleigh Town also went through following a 3 – 0 victory at Manford Way. George Vile, Jack Long & William Vile got the goals for Paul Higgins’ team. Harold Wood Athletic also won, as Jacob Roberts & Matty Donovan goals saw them to a 2 – 1 win at EAL team Oakside, after extra-time. Old Chelmsfordians defeated fellow EOFL Division One side Harold Hill 3 – 1 , thanks to a brace from Joe Kemp and one goal from Max Johnson. Troy Tizard-Cleghorn responded for Billy Cove’s team.

Meanwhile, Pitsea Athletic won with a 3 – 2 triumph over Hullbridge Sports Res. Kwadwo Asante, Reece Stone & Josh Ledger all netted there at Basildon Sports Club. Toby also booked their place in the next round withh a 2 – 1 success over Shoebury Town. Jamie Simpkins & replacement Oliver Dingli both scored for Mark Jones’ side. Leigh Ramblers also won through after a 3 – 1 triumph at Wakering Sports. Ryan Wyatt scored for Wakering, but goals from Scott Clark, Jack Gardner & an OG secured the win.

Our final two matches start with a excellent game which Alresford Colne Rangers progress with a 5 – 4 victory at Springfield. Josh Gray scored two goals for Rangers, but further goals from Finley Hughes, Sam Hume & Ryan Lewis sealed the win. Strikes by Mason Sprott, Harrison Elles, Cameron Brown & substitute Olle Gentry made it close but interim boss Cameron Scorer’s side went out. Lastly, there was a rare scoreline at St Martins Sch as Shenfield AFC trounced May & Baker Res 21 – 0. Substitute Alex Tredgett led the way with five goals, Jack Shaw & Luke Williamson also scored four goals each. Frankie Fealty & Ben Absolon netted two more goals apiece and the scorers were rounded out by Elliott Thompson, Ben Carroll, Samuel Lock & an OG.

Other Results

Harold Wood Athletic Res 2 – 3 Dedham Old Boys

Hashtag Utd Res 4 – 0 Hutton Res

Herongate Athletic 1 – 4 Barnston

Hutton 1 – 0 Rayleigh Town Res

Oakside 1 – 2 Harold Wood Athletic (AET)

Old Chelmsfordians Res 1 – 4 Colne Athletic

Old Southendian 2 – 3 Woodford East

Wakering Sports Res 2 – 1 Frenford Res

West Bergholt 6 – 1 Toby Res

EOFL Reserve League Cup

In the Ressie League Cup, Leigh Ramblers Res went through after a 3 – 0 victory over Wakering Sports A. Jacob Meads scored twice & Charlie Batchelor got the other goal at Belfairs Park. Also, Wakebury Res also won, getting a surprise 4 – 1 win over EOFL Div Four side Shenfield AFC at Shoebury Park, Ross Barnes netted twice for the hosts, with Luke Abbott and Jamie Oates also on target for Joe Creak’s team. Jack Panons got the solitary reply for AFC’s second team.

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian Lge (Sat 24 Sept) [EOFL 22-23 26.9.22]

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 24 September, we look at the action in all six divisions, plus an extra section featuring the various Cup competitions.

Image from Rayleigh Town v Leigh Rams last weekend

EOFL – Saturday 24 September

EOFL Premier Division & Division One

In the top-tier, Catholic Utd remain in second after a 4 – 1 win at Kelvedon Hatch. Liam Oliver grabbed a fine treble to lead the way for Simon Thomas’ side, with Harrison Day also notching at New Hall. Sungate also got a super win, 5 – 1 at home to Springfield with Josh Addinall and Solomon Asomah both netting twice here, alongside substitute Jake Willis’ strike. Rayleigh Town remain in the early promotion race after a 2 – 0 win at Canning Town. Sonny Woodward and Philip Anunwa strikes were enough to see Paul Higgins’ side to the win, despite goalkeeper Mark Brown being sent off.

In the other results this week, Runwell Sports won 4 – 0 at Bishop’s Stortford Swifts and Leigh Ramblers were held 1 – 1 at home by Toby. Scott Clark’s goal for the Rams were cancelled out by another goal for Oliver Dingli.

In Division One, Harold Wood Athletic‘s fine start continued as they powered past Harold Hill 6 – 1 in their local derby. James Pottle netted twice, with the supporting cast of Ben Woolven, Billy Gray, Max Shepherd & Dan Spittle all also on target for John Field’s team. Herongate Athletic were held 3 – 3 by Old Chelmsfordians at St Clere’s Sch 3G. Matthew Keiller, George Godfrey and Benjamin Clarke’s spot-kick accounted for the hosts’ goals, but a brace from Joe Murphy and one from Shane Pritchardmean the OC’s left with a point. The other result this week was ACD Utd’s 1 – 1 draw with Manford Way.

EOFL Divisions Two & Three

In the Division Two matches of the week, Shoebury Town got their second consecutive victory with a hard-fought 4 – 3 win at Catholic Utd Res. Enoch Gyimah scored twice for Town, with Aaron Marshall & Takondwa Maosa also on the score-sheet. Hutton Res stayed third after a 2 – 2 draw with Rayleigh Town Res at Polo Fields. David Johnson scored both goals for the hosts, with John Hanrahan & substitute Jack Taylor levelling things up for Dave Barker’s side. May & Baker‘s EOFL side got their first win with a 3 – 0 victory at Wakebury. Darren Seymour, Jack O’Connor & an OG were enough to deny the Berries a chance to climb into the top three.

The other results were leaders Wakering Sports Res winning 2 – 0 at home to Hashtag Utd Dev at Cupid’s and AS Rawreth’s 3 – 2 success over Harold Wood Athletic Res, which sent the hosts into mid-table.

In Division Three, Buckhurst Hill U23 emerged with a 4 – 3 victory at Chingford Athletic Res at Town Mead. Bradley Croft scored a fine treble for the visitors there, with Enis Demirbala adding the other Buckhurst goal. Despite having Jack Barnes sent off and Luke Dimond bagging yet anotyer hat-trick for the hosts, the Hill development side held on to stay third in the table. Leigh Town Res also kept up their decent start with a 3 – 2 success at Corinthians Res. Tehm Vapiwala, Callum Keys and Steve Birnie all netted for Josh Burrage’s side, who ended the game with ten men after Patrick Szabo’s dismissal.

Elsewhere, Hullbridge Sports Res were denied going joint-top on goal difference as they were held 1 – 1 at strugglers Old Chelmsfordians Res. George Prentice got the important goal for the hosts at Lawford Lane, while Joe Ives replied for Hullbridge, who stay second. The other game saw Toby Res held 0 – 0 by leaders Pitsea Athletic. Both of the top two sides are still unbeaten.

EOFL Divisions Four & Five

In the solitary Division Four match, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res got a decent 2 – 0 victory at Ongar Town. Goals from Lewis Wake and David Falzon meant the visitors leapt into mid-table.

In Division Five, Manford Way Res went up to fourth spot after a 2 – 1 home victory over Wakebury Res. Luke Bennett notched two goals here to outdo Luke Abbott’s reply for Joe Creak’s side. Epping Town Res got their first win of the season afs they defeated AS Rawreth Res 3 – 2 at Roding Valley Sch 3G. Joe Bothwell scored twice for the hosts, which Paranveer Sethi added a third for Epping. Lucas Winzar kept up his decent scoring record by scoring both goals for the Rawreth second-side. The other result saw Canning Town Res win 3 – 0 at home against Shoebury Town Res.

Essex Premier Cup R1

So the EPC had one more fixture this week with Shenfield AFC winning 3 – 1 at Basildon Town Res. Jack Shaw, Aaron Lang and Alfie MacKay all netted here for the visitors as they progressed.

Essex Junior Cup

In the Junior Cup, Roydon put up a strong fight but are out after a 4 – 3 loss at Sheering after extra time. Connor Presland scored twice for the EOFL side, with Nicholas Costagliola adding the other strike but a double for Matt Coe, plus goals from Jordan King & Dan Bryant saw the hosts through. Galleywood Res are also through after a 2 – 0 triumph at South Woodham Ferrers Utd. Diogo Viveiros & Ashley Merritt both netting there.

Other Results in EJC:

Barkingside A 0 – 6 Collier Row

Harold Wood Athletic A 0 – 1 Leytonstone Utd

Pitsea Athletic Res 0 – 4 BKS Sports

In the Essex Junior Trophy,

Glendale 0 – 4 Collier Row Res

Harold Hill Res 5 – 1 Sungate Res