FA Cup – survivor16b

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Senior Lge (Fri 16/Sat 17 Sept) [ESL 22-23 18.9.22]

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

Hello & welcome to the latest of an occasional blog series this term looking at the action in the Essex Senior League this weekend, plus the two representatives in the FA Cup Second Qualifying Round. This weekend saw eight League matches take place.

Still from behind Manor’s goal late on v Ensign on Fri night

Essex Senior – Friday 16 & Saturday 17 September

We begin with Friday night’s matches, as Redbridge failed to take their chance of reaching the summit as Woodford Town defeated them 3 – 2 at Ashton’s. Luke Parrott, Zivonimir Lopes and Samir Ali got the goals for Shane Baptiste’s side as they went up to fourth. The Motormen replied through goals from Solomon Ogunwomoju and replacement Loui Hazelwood but they are still three points clear in third. Also on Friday, there was a rare match at Southchurch Park as White Ensign won the derby match, defeating Southend Manor 3 – 1 in front of a crowd of over 140. Daniel Monk, Charlie Portway and an injury-time goal from substitute Jack Allen gave Aaron Bloxham’s side the points as they rose to mid-table. Kieran James topped off a good performance with the only goal for Manor. I was at this game & if you’d like more on it, my report can found here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2022/09/18/s22-23-match-report-southend-manor-1-3-white-ensign-fri-16-sept-esl/

On Saturday, West Essex got the result of the day as they grabbed a superb 6 – 2 win away at Halstead Town. David Bell gave Kwame Kwateng’s team a sixth-minute lead there, but Jordan Pavett’s strike from 12 yards levelled things up 11 minutes later. West were in a mood to score goals though as two spot-kicks from Callum Bloss put them 3 – 1 up at the break, with the Humbugs down to ten men following Matt Travell’s dismissal just before the break. Further goals for the Stags from Oliseh Okuguni [58′], experienced forward Cameron Gray [68′] and substitute Tyler Morgan added to a fine day out for them – they also went two points clear at the top. Stansted maintained their mini-revival with a narrow 1 – 0 win over Athletic Newham at Hargrave Park. Jack Mitchell’s penalty was enough to give Paul Pittuck & John Watters’ team the points there.

Elsewhere, Takeley got a fine 3 – 0 triumph over Stanway Rovers at Station Road. First-half goals by Alex Lambrou and Lewis Deamer were added to midway into the second half by Bryn Thorpe to give Marc Das’ side a convincing victory, which sent them a point adrift of mid-table. Clapton also got their first win of the season with a late flourish to give them a 3 – 2 success at Ilford. Saidu Salifu gave Ross Weare’s team an early advantage, only for Jake Chadwick and Josh Boxall goals to turn it round for Richard Ponsford’s side. However, there was another twist in the offing as late strikes by Ricky Shaw and Vieira Mandica meant the Tons prevailed.

Barking also got a important success as they held on to win 4 – 3 at Saffron Walden Town. Jason Hallett got all three goals for Walden by the hour mark, but strikes by Sa-Sean Lutumba, George Fairhead, Luke Hirst and Eljay Worrell meant Charlie MacDonald’s side prevailed. Finally, Buckhurst Hill got another victory, this time winning 3 – 1 at Sawbridgeworth Town. Goals from Tyler Dolan, Ezekiel Bademosi and Suleyman Zuhdu were enough to see them to the win and sets up their clash with Redbridge at home on Tuesday well.

Emirates FA Cup – Second Qualifying Round (Sat)

Romford pulled off a superb 2 – 1 win at Step 3 Potters Bar Town to make the third Quali Round. Goals from Charlie Morris and Emmanuel Robe were enough to complete a comeback win for Steve Butterworth’s team. They will find out their opposition in the draw on Tuesday. Enfield are out though after a 4 – 0 home loss to Step 3 team Billericay Town. Former Witham & Braintree player Alfie Cerulli scored a hat-trick and Bradley Stevenson got the other goal as the E’s played well but couldn’t muster a comeback.

End

S22-23 Match Report: Southend Manor 1 – 0 Cockfosters (Sat 6 Aug) (FAC EPR 7.8.22)

The Emirates FA Cup – Extra Prelim Round

Venue: Southchurch Park

Attendance: 110 (Est)

2022-23 Season: Match 5

Saturday 6 August 2022 – 3pm KO

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

Cockfosters: Red Shirts, Red Shorts, Red Socks

Last-gasp winner sends Manor through to the Prelim Round of FA Cup

Southend Manor 1 – 0 Cockfosters

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

The new season’s FA Cup roared back into being this weekend with former Essex Senior side Cockfosters (now part of the Spartan South Midlands Premier) travelling to face Southend Manor, who are still among the ESL ranks. This Extra Prelim Round tie had Manor field Luca Collins in goal, with a central defensive three of Montel Shonubi, skipper Daniel Okah and Ope Mosuro, with Josh Devlin and Finlay Gregory in central midfield. Ben Allen and Ayo Awosika were the chief support for forward Robbie Farrell. Cockfosters had Charlie Mann in goal, with a defence of Kenny Norbrega, Prince Madu, Nick Barrett and Aiden Read. Skipper Matt Thomson was alongside Joe Entwistle in central midfield. Recent signings Jervon Campbell and Chikosi Basden joined stalwart forward George Beattie in attack.

This match took a little while to get going, as it was quite cagey from the get-go. Manor had early chances as Robbie Farrell and Ben Allen had early glimmers at goal, while at the other end, ‘Fosters winger Jervon Campbell was a good outlet on the right flank, using his pace to get past the Manor defence. Campbell also sent in a good cross from the right channel which Manor skipper Daniel Okah did well to clear.

Both sides were competing well, although the visitors were slightly more adept at retaining possession, however they couldn’t quite create the chances they would have liked, and their threat mostly came from set-pieces throughout the first half. Midway through the half, there was a good bit of awareness by Manor centre-back Ope Mosuro who sent in a lob which only just cleared visiting custodian Charlie Mann’s crossbar.

With half-time rapidly approaching, Mann was called into action as a fierce strike by Farrell needed a superb save by the Cockfosters goalkeeper to claw the ball away from going in the top right corner of the net. The visitors responded as midfielder Joe Entwistle send in a deft lob which was narrowly off-target, with home stopper Luca Collins being watchful.

Half-Time: Manor 0 – 0 Cockfosters

The second half began with the level of tension rising, as it became increasingly likely that this was going to be one tight Cup tie. Manor had a setback just short of the hour mark, with Mosuro receiving his second booking for holding an opponent. Even though they had the numerical advantage, ‘Fosters still could not create the sheer number of chances to really put their hosts under sustained pressure.

There was a big moment for the visitors on 78 minutes. Visiting forward George Beattie did really well to get past his marker on the left side of the penalty area, but his low strike trickled agonizingly wide of Collins’ right-side post. Manor also had a chance with four minutes remaining, which saw Ben Allen send a header straight at Mann when well-placed to score.

Nick Barrett (6) clearing for Cockfosters

Added time was a tale of two big chances. Firstly on 92 minutes, a fine angled corner by Thomson found the head of full-back Prince Madu but his header was centimetres over Collins’ crossbar. Barely a minute later, the hosts delivered a powerful reply on the counter-attack as after a fine surging run through the middle by Farrell, he had the presence of mind to find substitute Kai Haysman who displayed composure to get past his marker and strike the ball into the right-side corner, past Mann and before the defenders could get back to the goal-line to block. Haysman’s goal was well-taken and the jubilation of his team-mates and the home crowd was palpable.

Visiting skipper Matt Thomson (4) about to strike a free-kick

Full-Time: Southend Manor 1 – 0 Cockfosters

In summary, this was a competitive match although the decent crowd in attendance did have to be patient for the chances to crop up, for either side. ‘Fosters will be disappointed that they couldn’t create enough chances, particularly when they had the numerical advantage for about half hour of this tie. Manor will play better than this but you also have to respect the steel & the feel-good factor they have and boss James Wakeling and his staff have to take their share of credit for that.

There were some good performances as ever. For Manor, forwards Ben Allen and Robbie Farrell were tenacious and full of running, with Allen doing well to give his team an option and also tracked back well defensively. Farrell brought a superb save out of vising stopper Charlie Mann, right on half-time before in added-time, making the fine surging run that led to Haysman’s winning goal. Centre-back Montel Shonubi had a good afternoon, making several important interceptions to stifle Cockfosters’ enterprising approach play at times while I thought Josh Devlin also put in an all-action performance to keep things tight too.

For Cockfosters, winger Jervon Campbell was their stand-out attacking threat for large parts of the game, getting space on the right flank and put in some good crosses as well. Nick Barrett did well at the centre of their defence too, making several good aerial clearances, while Joe Entwistle had another good game in central midfield. Finally, a word for Charlie Mann who made a few smart saves to deny most of the few chances that the hosts had.

Manor have won £1,125 in prize money with this win (Source: The FA website) and will entertain Shefford Town & Campton in the Prelim Round. Congrats to them and best wishes to Cockfosters for rest of their campaign.

Lastly, thanks to our sporting pal Martyn, who watched his former club prevail along with me today.

Teams

Southend Manor | Manager: James Wakeling | Assistant: Ryan Frost

Starting XI (Subs): 1 Luca Collins (GK), 2 Ben Sargent, 18 Montel Shonubi, 17 Opeoluwa Mosuro, 4 Daniel Okah (Capt), 12 Josh Devlin, 7 Jonathan Evans (5 Keanu Hill 58′), 8 Finley Gregory, 9 Ayodele Awosika (23 Kai Haysman 58′), 10 Ben Allen, 22 Robbie Farrell

Goal-scorer: Kai Haysman [90’+3]

Booked: Farrell, Okah, Shonubi | Sent Off: Mosuro (two bookings)

Subs Not Used: Ferris, Johnson

Cockfosters | Manager: Gavin Kelsey | Assistant: Glenn Draper

Starting XI (Subs): 1 Charlie Mann (GK), 2 Kenny Norbrega, 3 Prince Madu, 5 Aiden Read, 6 Nick Barrett, 4 Matthew Thomson (Capt), 7 Daniel Ferrigno (15 Craig Arnott 65′), 8 Joe Entwistle (14 Archie Jolly 85′), 10 George Beattie, 11 Chikosi Basden, 19 Jervon Campbell (18 Denzil Effah 80′)

Booked: Campbell, Barrett

Subs Not Used: Finch, Donaghue (GK), Ugbomah, Constanti

Referee: Matthew Charles

S2020-21 Fixtures: Across the Divisions (FAC/ESL/EaSL,EOFL & EAL) [Fri 2nd – Sun 4th Oct] [20-21 All 1.10.20]

Compiled by Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMHC14]

Hello and welcome to this week’s fixture list, looking at the fixtures in the Essex Senior & FA Cup 2RQ involving ESL sides, Eastern Senior League South, Essex Olympian League & Cups, Essex Alliance League & Essex & Suffolk Border League Premier divisions this weekend – Friday – Sunday 2nd – 4th October.

The FA Cup – 2nd Qualifying Round (Essex Senior sides)

Saturday 3rd October

Hashtag Utd v Braintree Town | Len Salmon Stadium [3G]

Peterborough Sports v Stansted | Lincoln Road

Walthamstow v Hornchurch | Wadham Lodge

Essex Senior League

Friday 2nd October

West Essex v Southend Manor | Mayesbrook Park [3G]

Saturday 3rd October

Clapton v Woodford Town | Terry Mac

Hoddesdon Town v Hadley | Lowfield

Sawbridgeworth Town v Saffron Walden Town | Crofters

St Margaretsbury v Cockfosters | The Rec

Sun 4th Oct – Enfield v Ilford | Woodside

Eastern Senior League South Fixtures

Friday 2nd October – Barkingside v May & Baker | Cricklefield

Saturday 3rd October

Burnham Ramblers v Athletic Newham | Leslie Field

Coggeshall Utd v Benfleet | West Street

Halstead Town v White Ensign | Millbank Stadium

Harwich & Parkeston v Newbury Forest | Royal Oak

Holland v Wormley Rovers | Dulwich Road

Little Oakley v Hackney Wick | Memorial Stadium

Wivenhoe Town v Frenford | MEC Stadium

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Essex Olympian League Fixtures

Saturday 3rd October (2.30pm KO unless stated)

EOFL Premier Division

Catholic Utd v Leigh Ramblers | Len Forge Centre [3G]

EOFL Senior League Cup (2.15pm KOs unless stated)

ACD Utd v Sungate | Westlands Playing Fields

Beacon Hill Rovers v Wakebury | Wickham Bishops Sports Grd

Bishop’s Stortford Swifts v Old Southendian | Silver Leys

Buckhurst Hill v Leigh Town | Roding Lane

Collier Row v Roydon | Forest Row Centre (Pitch 1)

Epping Town v Old Chelmsfordians | Epping UC Rugby Club

Galleywood v Basildon Town | Clarkes Field

Harold Wood Athletic v Kelvedon Hatch | Harold Wood Park (Pitch 1)

Herongate Athletic v Runwell Sports | St Clere’s Sch [3G] (3pm KO)

Hutton v Springfield | Polo Fields

Lakeside Utd v Rayleigh Town | Lakeside Sports Ground [3G] (2.30pm KO)

Manford Way v Shenfield AFC | London Marathon Sports Ground

EOFL Reserve League Cup (2.15pm KOs)

Chingford Athletic Res v Manford Way Res | Town Mead [3G]

Old Southendian Res v Wakering Sports Dev | Garon Park [3G]

Rayleigh Town Res v Runwell Sports Res | London Road

Springfield Res v Shoebury Town Res | Arun Close

Sungate Res v Collier Row Res | Ilford Wanderers RFC

Essex Junior Cup – Hullbridge Sports ‘A’ v Wakering Sports Res | Lower Road (2pm KO)

EOFL Division One

Shoebury Town v Chingford Athletic | Cupid’s CC (Pitch 2)

Snaresbrook v Ramsden Scotia | Nutters Field

Toby v Ongar Town | Ford’s Sports Club (Newbury Park)

EOFL Division Two

Corinthians v AS Rawreth | Stambridge Memorial Ground

Laindon Orient v Ryan | Markhams Chase

Wakering Sports v Rochford Town | Cupid’s CC (Pitch 1)

EOFL Division Three

Basildon Town Res v Toby Res | Basildon Sports Club

Buckhurst Hill Res v Corinthians Res | Roding Lane (Pitch 2)

Leigh Town Res v Hutton Res | John Burrows Rec Ground

EOFL Division Four

Hashtag Utd Dev. v Galleywood Res

Old Chelmsfordians Res v Catholic Utd Res

Ongar Town Res v Leytonstone Utd

Shenfield AFC Res v Laindon Orient Res

EOFL Division Five

AS Rawreth Res v Herongate Athletic Res

Leigh Ramblers Res v Epping Town Res

Old Barkabbeyans v Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res

—————————————–

Essex & Suffolk Border Lge crest (Credit: ESBL/Twitter)

Essex & Suffolk Border League Fixtures

(Saturday 3 Oct) (3pm KOs unless stated)

ESBL Premier Division

Barnston v Felixstowe & Walton Utd Res | High Easter Road

Colne Athletic v Earls Colne | Strangers Corner Sports Complex

Dedham Old Boys v Alresford Colne Rangers | Duchy Field

Flitch Utd v Little Oakley Res | Alcott Playing Field

Hatfield Peverel v Lawford Lads | Keith Bigden Memorial Ground

Stanway Pegasus v Great Bentley | Stanway Sch (3.30pm KO)

Tiptree Heath v Gas Recreation | Tollesbury Road

West Bergholt v White Notley | Lorkin Daniell Field

————————————————————

Essex Alliance League Fixtures (Sat October 3rd) – 2pm KOs unless stated

Premier Division

CSM London v Blue Marlin | West Ham Community Ground [3G], Beckton

DT FC v FC Petrocub | the Harlow Arena [3G]

FC Baresi v Chigwell Town | Britannia Sports Ground, Walthamstow

Jolof Sports v All Prospects | Flanders Playing Fields, East Ham

London Cranes v Tower Utd | West Ham Memorial Park

West Essex Res v Lymore Gardens | Fairlop Oak Playing Fields

Division One

Chadwell Heath Spartans v North East Lions | Mayfield Leisure Centre, Goodmayes

Francis Luke v Kit Out London | Hackney Marshes

Kwanzas London Sport v Eastside | Beckton District Park (South), Stansfield Rd

Leyton Royal v London Park City | Salisbury Hall

Woodford East v Frenford ‘A’ | Debden Park Sch

Rest of the Fixtures are on website at essexallianceleague.com

Season 2020-21: The FA Cup Extra Prelim Rd (ESL/EaSL Sides) [FAC 2020-21 3.9.20]

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

Hello all and welcome to the new season of blogs here, you’ll find blogs on the Essex Senior, Essex Olympian League divisions & maybe a little more besides during the course of the season too.

This initial blog is looking at the local sides that were in action this week, which saw eleven Essex Senior sides progress and one Eastern Senior South side. Thanks for reading.

Monday 31 August

Woodford Town 3 – 1 London Colney | The Harlow Arena | Attendance: 247

Woodford Town opened the round’s action with a fine comeback victory over London Colney at the Harlow Arena. Scott Knight had given Colney an early advantage though Luke Parrott levelled matters on the half-hour for Town. Rigert Rama then turned the tide in favour of the hosts as the match approached the hour mark, tapping home following a goalkeeping error before sealing the contest thanks to a fine strike by Parrott to seal his brace and cue wild celebrations from the excited Towners faithful. Woodford are rewarded with a trip to Capershotts to face Waltham Abbey in the Prelim Round.

Tuesday 1st September

Cockfosters 4 – 2 Stanway Rovers | Chalk Lane | Att: 221

The ‘Fosters made a miraculous comeback with ten men to overcome Eastern Counties Premier side Stanway at Chalk Lane. Stanway started well and took the lead after four minutes through debutant Dan Gilchrist’s strike. The ESL side responded through George Beattie’s 20th-minute goal but had a double set-back around the half-hour mark as combative midfielder Matt Thomson was dismissed and soon after, Rovers made the most of the man advantage as Harry Thomas bundled the ball over the line after a set-piece. The drama only escalated after the break though as three goals in 15 minutes swung the tie in favour of the hosts. First, new signing Carl Mullings levelled midway through the half after a defensive howler, then player-boss Ryan Wade powered home a spot-kick mere minutes later. Substitute Rueben Campbell provided the telling fourth goal with eleven minutes left to eventually seal a terrific victory.

Walthamstow 3 – 2 London Lions | Wadham Lodge | Att: 292 |

Cockfosters will face Walthamstow in the next round as ‘Stow fought back to deny London Lions progression into the Prelim Round. Max Kyte broke the deadlock for the Lions in the early stages on the contest and although ‘Stow got more threatening in front of goal, it took until after the break for them to level through substitute Michael Osei’s curling drive. Kyle nabbed his second for the visitors soon afterward, but goals from Connor Scully and Charncey Dash [for Peter: Dash! Dash!] sealed the win in front of Walthamstow’s biggest crowd since 1996.

Hullbridge Sports 0 – 2 Hadley | Lower Road | Att: 310

Another bumper crowd at Lower Road saw Hadley shock higher league opposition again with a fine win at Isthmian North side Hullbridge. Second-half strikes by that man Solomon Ofori and a Sam Edwards free-kick handed the impetus to the Bricks. ‘Bridge also had a penalty saved by Hadley ‘keeper Luke Ward which added to a frustrating evening for them on-the-pitch. Hadley will face FC Clacton away on Saturday week.

Stansted 3 – 2 Takeley | Hargrave Park | Att: 143

Stansted also had to fight back to secure their passage with a hard-fought win over local rivals Takeley at Hargrave Park. Luckless home skipper Billy Coyne headed into his own net five minutes in, but Jack Mitchell converted a spot-kick on 26 minutes to level things up. Paul Pittuck & John Watters’ side then took the ascendency on the score-sheet after the break as Mitchell struck again ten minutes after the break. Ash Siddik notched the Airportmen’s third in the last few minutes to effectively seal the tie. Substitute Samson Adelaja netted for Marc Das’ side deep into added-time but their focus turns now to the league opener at West Essex on Friday night. Meanwhile, the ‘Blue Brazil’ welcome Basildon Utd to Hargrave in the next round of the Cup.

Saffron Walden Town 4 – 2 Little Oakley | Catons Lane | Att: 286

Saffron Walden also progressed to the next round with victory over Eastern Senior League South side Little Oakley in another pulsating tie at Catons Lane. Oakley took the lead through Harry Mann before new signing Alfie Hilton levelled the match for the hosts. Oakley were not to be denied a second through as Jordan Heath made it 2 – 1 to Matt Carmichael’s team. More drama though was in the offing as Lewis Francis made his presence felt on his return to the Bloods in a big way. The forward came off the bench and struck a hat-trick to turn the match in favour of Jason Maher’s side and see them into the next round, in front of another hefty crowd. They face the trip to Welwyn Garden City.

Sawbridgeworth Town 2 – 1 Romford | Crofters | Att: 260

Sawbridgeworth pulled off one of the surprises of the round by knocking out Isthmian North side Romford at Crofters. Goals from Conor Clarke and Kieran Amos did the job on a terrific night for Lee Mackman’s side. Malaki Toussaint got one back for Romford midway through the 2nd half but Sawbo went through welcome fellow ESL side St Margaretsbury In the Prelim Round.

Clapton 2 – 2 Sporting Bengal Utd (Bengal won 6 – 5 on pens)

| Terrence MacMillan Stadium

Sporting Bengal edged to the next round on spot-kicks after a two-two draw with Clapton at the Terry Mac. David Tarawali netted to give Imrul Gazi’s side the lead, before Conor Okus equalised for his new club. Bengal re-took the lead soon afterward with Carlos Siegal Hubner slotting home smartly. The Tons forced a penalty shoot-out late on though as Shaun Gittleson once again levelled the match with minutes remaining. It was Bengal who held their nerve in the shoot-out, winning 6 – 5 on spot-kicks here and will travel to Harlow Town in the next round.

Wednesday 2nd Sept

Park View 1 – 2 Hashtag Utd | New River Sports Ground

On Wednesday, Hashtag made their debut in the competition at Park View & came from behind to progress. Kleon James had given the hosts a surprise lead, before George Smith equalised with a well-struck penalty. After the interval, recent addition Toby Aromolaran netted from close range to win the match and they will face Felixstowe & Walton Utd from the Isthmian North in the next round.

West Essex 6 – 3 Crawley Green | Oakside | Att: 147

Finally in our focused ten matches, West Essex progressed in a richly entertaining tie as they powered past Spartan South Midlands Premier side Crawley Green at Oakside. Michael Mignot blasted a hat-trick inside the first 30 minutes before Phil Draycott pulled one back for the visitors six minutes before the break. West extended their lead and sealed the tie through Mignot’s fourth soon after the break. Symeon Taylor and Tom Woodbridge then added further strikes as the Stags saw out a big night for them. To their credit, Danny Watson and Tyler Ingham added late goals for Crawley Green but there was no mistaking the performance by Kwame Kwateng’s side, who are rewarded with a trip to New Salamis in the Prelim Round.

Other Results (ESL & EaSL South Sides) – Tues 1 Sept

Brantham Athletic 1 – 1 Benfleet (Brantham won 3 – 2 on Pens)

Tom Watkins Ben Foord

Harlow Town 5 – 1 Enfield | Harlow Arena | Att: 260

Christian Adu Gyamfi, Hugo Vasconcelos 75’

Craig Alcock,

Ahmet Biler,

Hector Mackie

Sam Taylor (OG)

Hoddesdon Town 1 – 2 FC Clacton |at Ware FC | Att: 129

Cyrus Babaie Mekhi McKenzie

Charlie Thompson

Redbridge 0 – 2 Harpenden Town | Oakside | Att: 134

Mulik Rickman 16’

Harvey Scott 55’

Southend Manor 0 – 5 Ware | Southchurch Park | Att: 200 |

Leigh Rose 15’

David Kendall 46’ & 60’
Louis Rose 74’

Albert Adu-Donyinah 76’

Wednesday 2nd Sept

Baldock Town 2 – 2 St Margaretsbury (St Mags win 4 – 2 on pens)

Scott Piggott Kyle Roberts (pen)

Josh Furness Jae Partridge

Ilford 1 – 3 Halstead Town | Cricklefield | Att: 280

Juan Cardona Joe Jones

Chris Harris x 2

Season 2020-21: The FA Cup EPR Draw (Local sides) [FAC 20-21 18.8.20]

FA Cup Image

Compiled by Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMHC14]

Hello all and welcome to a brief rundown of the draws in the FA Cup Extra Prelim Round, focused on our local sides in East Anglia. Thanks for Reading.

The FA Cup – Extra Prelim Round (Ties to be played midweek – September 1st)

Long Melford v Northampton-on-Chenecks

Whitton Utd v Ipswich Wanderers

Newmarket Town v Walsham-le-Willows

Hadleigh Utd v Mildenhall Town

Diss Town v Framlingham Town

Gorleston v Swaffham Town

Haverhill Rovers v Norwich Utd

Woodbridge Town v Biggleswade Utd

Stowmarket Town v Rothwell Corinthians

Wroxham v Arlesey Town

Godmanchester Rovers v Ely City

Redbridge v Harpenden Town

Park View v Hashtag Utd

Harlow Town v Enfield

Clapton v Sporting Bengal Utd

Hoddesdon Town v FC Clacton

New Salamis v Colney Heath

Southend Manor v Ware

Walthamstow v London Lions

Saffron Walden Town v Little Oakley

Baldock Town v St Margaretsbury

Stansted v Takeley

Cockfosters v Stanway Rovers

Hullbridge Sports v Hadley

Sawbridgeworth Town v Romford

Brantham Athletic v Benfleet

Woodford Town v London Colney

West Essex v Crawley Green

Ilford v Halstead Town

Round-up: Essex Senior League (Fri/Sat 4 & 5 Oct) [ESL 19/20 6.10.19]

Written By Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMHC14] – Non-League & ESL Writer

Hello and welcome to this week’s round-up of the Essex Senior League action from the weekend of the 4th & 5th October, which saw 40 goals scored in league games. We also round-up the solitary ESL side left in the FA Cup as Hadley made the trip to Havant & Waterlooville.

Friday 4th October

Tower Hamlets 1 – 4 Takeley | Mile End Stadium | Att: 55

Takeley made the tricky trip to Mile End and came away with their third straight win. Hamlets got the opening goal in this one though as young starlet Yoan Edoukou struck after just five minutes. Bryn Thorpe levelled for the visitors on 28 minutes, before an OG put Takeley ahead. Thorpe netted again seven minutes before the break to really send Marc Das’ team into the interval with the initiative. Thorpe completed another treble ten minutes after the break to send Takeley up to third after Saturday’s action, five points off the leaders.

Saturday 5th October

Cockfosters 7 – 2 Clapton | Chalk Lane | Att: 55

Cockfosters produced a stunning goal-laden display to send the Tons to another heavy defeat at Chalk Lane. Reuben Campbell broke the deadlock in the hosts’ favour on 14 minutes, though Mario Gjini soon restored parity for Glen Kendall’s team two minutes later. However, three goals in the lead up to half-time changed the course of the match. First, Billy Healey restored the ‘Fosters lead on 31 minutes before Ceykan Karagozlu struck twice [33’ & 40’] to give Ryan Wade’s team a commanding 4 – 1 half-time lead.

Karagozlu more than ended the contest as he took his own tally to four with further strikes on 54 & 57 minutes. Francesco Cicconi pulled one back with a spot-kick for the visitors though Harley Haag completed a resounding win for the hosts in added-time. The hosts ended a three-match losing streak here and go into 9th spot while Clapton’s fourth loss in five matches sees them fall to third-bottom.

Enfield 5 – 2 Sawbridgeworth Town | Woodside | Att: 86

The E’s pulled off a fine win over Sawbridgeworth in this battle of the strugglers, despite playing with ten men for nearly 80 minutes. Matt Hanning’s side were fortunate to name well-travelled & prolific striker Jamie Cureton in their line-up though his cameo only lasted 11 minutes before he was dismissed for a high foot.

That hardly does the game justice though as Enfield led with 20 minutes played, as Olly Miles netted. Sawbo did take their opportunities as Evaristo Kitoko [42’] & Angus Poole [45’] goals saw them lead at the break. The introduction of Josh Sykes from the bench was key for the hosts as he levelled things up with ten minutes remaining. Sykes then completed a dizzying hat-trick soon after [80’ & 85’] to shock the bottom side and Sykes himself was brought down in the area in added-time with Alfie Mason converting the resulting spot-kick as the E’s ended a six-match winning run while consigning Sawbo to a ninth straight defeat.

Hoddesdon Town 4 – 4 St Margaretsbury | Lowfield | Att: 88

This local derby really produced an enthralling spectacle as Hoddy denied St Mags the win late on. It was the Lilywhites who took the lead as quick-fire goals from Jordan Halls five minutes in and Jack Lee two minutes afterward set the tone for the entire match. Daniel Palmer struck on the half-hour for the visitors before Isaac Marfo-Jacobs netted on 35 minutes to see Hoddesdon regain their two-goal lead at the break.

The second-half arguably belonged to one man though. Kyle Roberts continued his superb scoring run for St Mags with his opener four minutes after the interval to bring it back to 3 – 2. A subsequent penalty on 62 minutes saw Roberts level things up before the forward completed a fine treble eight minutes later and give the visitors the lead for the first time at 3 – 4. Marfo-Jacobs has been a key source of goals for Town so far this term and his second of the afternoon in added-time denied newly-appointed permanent co-managers Tony Wild & Ray Bartlett’s team all three points. Simon Riddle’s Hoddesdon drop to fourth, while St Mags sit 12th – both sides are unbeaten in their last five matches now.

Saffron Walden Town 3 – 0 Ilford | Catons Lane | Att: 197

Walden got another three points to keep their lead at the summit to five points with victory over Ilford at Caton Lane. Jack Leachman got the opener on the stroke of the hour, before Charlie Cole got another brace [62’ & 72’] to give Jason Maher’s side a fourth straight win here. The Foxes ended the match with ten men and fell to their fifth consecutive defeat here. They drop to fourth-bottom.

Southend Manor 0 – 2 Redbridge | Southchurch Park | Att: 40

Redbridge got their first win in three matches here at Southchurch Park. Taylor Tombides’ close-range finish on 36 minutes was added to by Dean Hall’s header shortly before the interval. I attended this match and you can view my report here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2019/10/05/match-report-southend-manor-0-2-redbridge-sat-5th-oct-esl/

Sporting Bengal Utd 2 – 4 West Essex | Mile End Stadium | Att: 20

West Essex continued their goal-hungry run with a fine win at Mile End. It didn’t start so well though as Curtley McIntosh put Sorting ahead after ten minutes for his fifth goal in the last four league & cup games. West responded two minutes later through Symeon Taylor. A perhaps crucial moment came midway through the half as West ‘keeper Jack Coker saved a second penalty in as many weekends, this time from Sporting midfielder Charles Gregory. Three goals in eight second-half minutes turned the tide though as Brad Russell netted on 67 minutes to give the Stags the lead for the first time at 1 – 2.

Russell then set up Michael Mignot five minutes later before Taylor got his second on 75 minutes to see Kwame Kwateng’s side lead 4 – 1. Steven Carvell thundered home a free-kick late on for Imrul Gazi’s team though West got their third win in their last four games to rise to 8th spot while Bengal stay in 6th.

Stansted 0 – 2 Hashtag Utd | Hargrave Park | Att: 214

Hashtag extended Stansted’s stuttering start to the season as they claimed another three points at Hargrave Park. Jesse Lassen has been in good goal-scoring touch recently and broke the stalemate on the half-hour, before getting what turned out to be a decisive second four minutes after the interval. The Tags’ sixth win on-the-spin sees them rise to second, level on points with Takeley while the Airportmen third loss on the trot means they are in 15th.

FA Cup Third Round Qualifying (ESL sides)

Havant & Waterlooville 3 – 0 Hadley | Westleigh Park | Att: 550

Essex Senior League side Hadley’s FA Cup adventure ended but not before they showed what they are about at National League South side Havant. Joshua Ayenga and Alfie Rutherford goals after the interval pretty much ended realistic hope of progression for the Bricks. Ryan Seager made the game safe for Paul Doswell’s team late on though credit to travelling army of Hadley fans, which the hosts noted as well on social media.

That’s all for this week, thanks for reading.

Round-up: Essex Senior League & FA Cup 2RQ (ESL Sides) (Sat 21 Sept) [ESL 19/20 23.9.19]

St M v Enfield (Image - MN 21.9.19 ESL).jpg — Still from St Margaretsbury v Enfield (Image Credit: Matt North)

Written by Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMHC14] – Non-League & ESL Blogger

Image thanks to ESL Writer Matt North (Twitter: @MattNorth_)

Hello and welcome to this week’s Essex Senior League round-up piece, with a look at all the ESL action this weekend with a mention of the FA Cup action involving ESL sides too. Thanks for reading.

Saturday 21 Sept

Cockfosters 0 – 1 Southend Manor | Chalk Lane| Att: 56

The weekend’s action started with a rare away win for Manor at Chalk Lane over Cockfosters. New signing Ryan Imbert got the only goal as Manor got a win in new boss Michael Walther’s first game in charge, since his move from the Hullbridge Sports coaching team. The hosts fell to their third loss of the season as they fell into mid-table. The visitors here rise to fifth-bottom.

Ilford 1 – 2 Hashtag Utd | Cricklefield | Att: 124

Hashtag emerged with the points after a bruising battle at Cricklefield. Ross Gleed put Utd ahead eleven minutes into the contest, though that lead did not last until half-time as eight minutes prior to that, Tyson Talanya levelled for the Foxes. Recent acquisition Jeese Lassen got the winner for Jay Devereux’s team on 56 minutes as Hashtag rise to third after a fifth consecutive win. Ilf’s third straight loss sees them down into the bottom half.

Sawbridgeworth Town 0 – 6 Hoddesdon Town | Crofters |

Sawbo are still marooned to the foot of the table after a hefty loss to local rivals Hoddesdon at Crofters. Aaron Ramthor broke the deadlock for the visitors just seven minutes in, before Jordan Halls [31’] and another spot-kick fom Isaac Marfo-Jacobs six minutes after that put the Lilywhites three up at the break. It was four on 56 minutes through Harrison Cage’s strike and Simon Riddle’s side wrapped up a convincing win thanks to Halls’ second of the afternoon midway through the second half and a 78th-minute strike by substitute Cyrus Babaie. Hoddy sit second, above Hashtag thanks to a better goal difference.

St Margaretsbury 3 – 3 Enfield | The Recreation Ground | Att: 20

St Mags clinched a late draw in a real see-saw encounter at the Rec. New signing Matt Frew characteristically powered home a header on 11 minutes to put the E’s ahead though Napier Brown levelled midway through the half for Tony Wild & Ray Bartlett’s side. The tide turned in favour of the hosts as Andy Greenslade stuck ten minutes after the interval. There was another turnaround in the offing though as two quick-fire goals from Tyler Fowles [81’] and Josh Woodcock [86’] saw Matt Hanning’s side lead again, though another new signing was to have the final say as Ryan Reed levelled on the 90 to extend St Mags’ unbeaten stretch to three league games and see the E’s search for a win go on. Both sides remain in the bottom three with five points each.

Stansted 1 – 2 Woodford Town | Hargrave Park | Att: 45

Woodford got a much sought-after win at Stansted. Georges Kebi struck eight minutes in to open the scoring for Town, before Chris John doubled that lead just shy of the half-hour. The Airportmen halved their arrears on the stroke of half-time through Jack Mitchell though they couldn’t add to it meaning they stuttered to defeat. Woodford sit fourth in the table, five points off leaders Walden, though Town have scored the most goals in the division thus far with 21 (in seven matches). Stansted remain around the mid-table mark.

Tower Hamlets 2 – 3 Saffron Walden Town | Mile End | Att: 45

Walden came out of a tricky tussle at Mile End for the second straight season with a hard-earned win over Hamlets. Ross Adams, Spike Bell and substitute Greg Strong netted for Jason Maher’s team, while Yoan Edoukou netted twice for Hamlets here. Walden retained their unbeaten run, and the leaders are one of only two sides that are without defeat, the others being fellow title contenders Walthamstow.

West Essex 1 – 2 Clapton | Mayesbrook Park | Att: 35

Finally in League action, Clapton got their second win this term with a victory at West Essex. Mario Gjini netted ten minutes before the break to give the Tons the lead, before Baseer Ishanzadeh got the winner. Brad Russell got West’s strike with ten minutes left though Kwame Kwateng’s side fell to their league loss this term.

The FA Cup- Second Qualifying Round (ESL sides)

Hadley 1 – 0 Ramsgate | Brickfield Lane | Att: 202

Hadley’s FA Cup run goes on as a solitary Tom Milton strike overcame Isthmian South East strugglers Ramsgate at Brickfield Lane. Anthony Clark’s side were rewarded with a trip to National League South side Havant & Waterlooville in the next round.

Walthamstow 1 – 1 Abbey Rangers | Wadham Lodge | Att: 245

‘Stow are still in the hat following a hard-fought draw against fellow Step 5 side Abbey Rangers. Marcus Cousins had put Abbey ahead on 14 minutes, though Billy Jones’ cracker six minutes after the resumption put Ryan Maxwell’s side level. Rangers skipper Tom Bentley then got his marching orders though the visitors held on for a replay in midweek. It’s worth noting the crowd of nearly 250 which the club later noted could be their highest in twenty years – the Magic of the Cup and that perhaps…

Preview: Gordon Brasted Trophy & FA Cup Prelim Round (ESL Sides) (Sat 24th Aug) (ESL 19/20 22.8.19)

FA Cup Image

Written by Scott W (Twitter: @ScottMHC14) – ESL Writer & Grassroots Football Show Contributor

Hello all and welcome to an extended preview piece looking at the two Gordon Brasted Memorial Trophy ties this weekend, plus a wealth of FA Cup Preliminary Round matches involving Essex Senior League sides. We’ll also be listing the remaining Eastern Senior League South fixtures as well this weekend.

Enjoy your weekend whoever you are watching. Thanks for reading. Love Non-League!

Gordon Brasted Trophy Saturday 24rd August – 3pm KO

Clapton v Sporting Bengal Utd | Moved to Oakside (Redbridge FC)

The Tons face Sporting Bengal for the second time this month, in a match again moved to Oakside in the Gordon Brasted Trophy First Round. Glen Kendall’s team won on that occasion in the league though have been inactive in terms of competitive action due to continuing off-field issues. Bengal by contrast have had a mixed week with defeat at Hadley last weekend being followed by a hard-fought win at Sawbridgeworth in midweek. I’m going go for a narrow away win here.

Scott’s Prediction: 1 – 2

Ilford v Southend Manor | Cricklefield

The other tie in the GBT this weekend sees the Foxes welcome Manor to Cricklefield. You would believe that both of these teams would like a cup run this term, though the Foxes will have to rally after a hard-fought win over Tower Hamlets in midweek. Manor have had a week off and that may hold them in good stead here. My gut instinct says that Manor have more momentum with them at this stage of the season and therefore they will be the side to progress.

Scott’s Prediction: 1 – 2

The FA Cup Prelim Round – Sat 24 August

Cockfosters v Coggeshall Town | Chalk Lane

The first of our featured FA Cup ties sees the ESL’s Cockfosters welcome Isthmian North side Coggeshall to Chalk Lane. The hosts have certainly not been goal-shy, scoring eight goals in their four league matches to date. That said, they have also conceded as many goals too so you feel they will have to raise their game defensively to increase their chances of an upset against a side unbeaten, albeit early in their league campaign.

I also feel it fitting to mention that the hosts will want to put in a good performance in memory of long-serving player & secretary Graham Bint, who sadly passed away this week. My thoughts & respects to his family & all at Cockfosters FC.

Hadley v Hoddesdon Town | Brickfield Lane

It’s an all-ESL battle at Brickfield Lane as Hadley welcome local rivals Hoddesdon. Anthony Clark’s side beat Redbridge in the last round while Hoddesdon knocked out Brantham Athletic. The hosts are yet to lose at home in all competitions and that may prove to be the slight edge they need in what could be a tight battle. The Lilywhites defeated Ilford last weekend and are looking to continue their own good start to the season here.

Saffron Walden Town v Maldon & Tiptree | Catons Lane

Walden entertain Isthmian North side Maldon at Catons Lane. Jason Maher’s side knocked out Baldock Town in the last round before going on to defeat Takeley (away) and Stansted (home) in the last week. They will be another side who will fancy a run in the FA Cup though face a Maldon side who have scored five league goals already this term. This one could be a cracking encounter.

Takeley v White Ensign | Station Road

Ensign continue their maiden FA Cup voyage with a trip to ESL pace-setters Takeley, who knocked out Crawley Green in the last round. Ensign showed a lot of guts in their replay win over Woodford and they will need that to overpower Marc Das’ side here. Brett Munyard & Mark Healy’s side unsurprisingly rested a few in their Essex Senior Cup loss at home to Holland in midweek and this tie could be another stonker.

Tower Hamlets v Horsham | Mile End Stadium

Hamlets have a formidable task on their hands as they welcome Isthmian Premier Division (Step 3) side Horsham to Mile End. Damien Briggs’ side won well at Sawbridgeworth last weekend before succumbing to a late defeat at Ilford in midweek. Horsham won well at Enfield Town last weekend in their division and you’d be very surprised to see anything except an away win.. though the FA Cup does have its ‘magic dust’ and some could be sprinkled here…

Walthamstow v Great Wakering Rovers | Wadham Lodge Stadium

Finally in the Cup action, Isthmian North side Great Wakering travel to Wadham Lodge to face Walthamstow. ‘Stow defeated Stansted last weekend in the ESl while Wakering defeated Tilbury at Burroughs Park in the Isthmian North. If Steve Butterworth’s side are not on-song, they could get a bit of a ‘rude awakening’ here though six goals in their recent two league matches sets them up well. This one could be a battle though you would still expect the Step 4 visitors to triumph.

Eastern Senior League South Fixtures (23/24 August)

Friday 23 Aug: Brightlingsea Regent Res v Frenford | North Road

Sat 24 Aug: Benfleet v Lopes Tavares | Park Lane

Burnham Ramblers v Wivenhoe Town | Leslie Field

Coggeshall Utd v Newbury Forest | West Street

Holland v Leyton Athletic | Dulwich Road

Match Report: White Ensign 3 – 1 Woodford Town (Wed 14th Aug) [FAC 19/20 EPR 15.8.19]

The FA Cup 2019 -20: Extra Preliminary Round Replay

Venue: Burroughs Park

Attendance: TBA

2019 – 20 Season: Match 13

Wednesday 14th August 2019 – 7.45pm KO

W Ensign: Navy Blue & Red Shirts, Navy Blue Shorts, Navy Blue Socks

Woodford :Yellow Shirts, White Shorts, White Socks

Ensign triumph in an enthralling FA Cup tie at Burroughs Park

White Ensign 3 – 1 Woodford Town

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

This year’s FA Cup Extra Prelim Round ended for me with a trip to Great Wakering’s Burroughs Park to see White Ensign face Woodford Town in this replay following an entertaining draw in Harlow the previous Friday night. It was widely reported that Ensign held their own in that match and are one of the sides talked about with regards to promotion from the Eastern Senior League South this term. Woodford Town reside in the Essex Senior League though before kick-off it was felt in the local Non-League scene that the hosts had a chance of progression here.

For this debut match in their new ‘home’, Ensign fielded a strong side with Elliot Vile and Andy George in central defence, midfielder & skipper Jack McWee with a front three of player-boss Brett Munyard, Connor Barnby and Dominic Locke. Forward Luke Skinner and midfielder John Hilliard were among the substitutes. Woodford, buoyed on by their travelling support ‘the Woodford Towners’ also named a well-recognised side with Morgan Seaman, Josh Steele, Tola Odedoyin and Ellis Routledge making up their back four, Andrea Mantovani as captain and a front two of the in-form Asher Modeste and a big prospect in Temi Babalola. Samir Ali, Connor Leon and Vlad Sighiartau were among the options on the bench.

The hosts started the game brightly, as on eight minutes forward Connor Barnby got his past his marker to face Town custodian Alex Reed one-on-one though his low drive was adrift of the target. Four minutes later, Ensign took the lead as from Munyard’s in-swinging corner, centre-back Elliot Vile powered home a header past Reed to really gee up the home crowd. Woodford took a little time to settle, particularly defensively and conceded another decent opportunity for the hosts though rapid forward Dominic Locke’s effort was tame and was easily gathered by Reed. As we passed the midway point in the first half, Town were getting their passing game going and had two half-chances of their own though forward Asher Modeste and midfielder Georges Kebi couldn’t trouble home stopper James Parkins.

That momentum continued for Town as the hosts were finding it increasingly difficult to break out of their own half, though the likes of midfielder Ensign Ben Austin were doing an admirable job of ‘dampening the tide’ as Town’s attacks gathered steam. With nine minutes to play until half-time, Locke did well to seize on a Town defensive error though couldn’t make the most of it. Woodford did level moments later as a ricochet off a home defender saw the ball fall kindly to the on-rushing Temi Babalola who made no mistake as he drilled low past Parkins to heighten the tension in this tie.

Half-Time: White Ensign 1 – 1 Woodford Town

The tempo of the match was building as the second-half began as both sides traded openings. Six minutes into the half, a free-kick in a promising position saw visiting skipper Andrea Mantovani step up and his good strike was well parried away from danger by Parkins. At the other end, forward Brett Munyard was causing some trouble with his set-pieces and from his deep free-kick, energetic midfielder Harry Skinner headed over after being well picked out. On the hour, Ensign’s good passing continued as Munyard was well found though just as he was making his way in on goal to strike, Town centre-back Tola Odedoyin made a crucial interception to snuff out the opportunity.

The hosts had another good opening for Ensign minutes later as after forward Connor Barnby was denied by ‘keeper Reed, Munyard picked up the second ball though his drive was well-blocked on the goal-line. With ten minutes remaining on the watch, Town midfielder Georges Kebi did well showing neat touches before blasting over. The Ensign defence had to stay alert in the latter stages as Parkins superbly denied a firm header on goal.

After 90 Minutes: White Ensign 1 – 1 Woodford Town

Extra-time it was then and somehow you felt that it was one of those ties that you felt was going to need that extra 30 minutes and that one single incident might have a bearing on who would win out. It was the hosts who had the first chance though after decent approach play, Locke found himself in goal but he couldn’t generate the power in his shot to beat Reed, who gathered comfortably. Kebi also headed over for Town in that first period of extra-time though more drama came on the other side of the extra thirty minutes.

Just three minutes into the second period of extra-time, Town defender Tola Odedoyin brought down substitute Luke Skinner and was promptly sent off, much to the dismay of the visiting side. Directly from the free-kick just outside ‘the D’, substitute John Hilliard (who has just come on for Munyard) sent over a crisp strike over the wall and curled in past Reed to give the hosts the lead once again. Ensign hammered home the advantage as with five minutes to play, midfielder Jake McWee made no mistake from close range to send the vocal home fans into raptures and give them a two-goal cushion to defend.

Not even a late second booking for Vile after a tussle with Babalola could dampen the spirits for Ensign who held out for arguably their most important win as a Senior club and complete one of the biggest results in their history.

Full-Time (AET): White Ensign 3 – 1 Woodford Town

After the full-time whistle, the home side turned to their supporters to applaud them as the celebrations begun in earnest. Woodford will feel they had the chances to come away with a win though ultimately the energy levels and determination of the Ensign side could not be matched. As far as stand-out performances go, it is very hard to pick out one or two players. For Ensign, midfielder Harry Skinner typified the resolve of his side and shone, as did centre-half pairing Elliot Vile and Andy George who had to deal with the physicality of Babalola plus the skill of the likes of Modeste and substitute Sighiartau. Full-back Charlie Buffin also showed great willing and energy plus the pace of Dominic Locke really gave the hosts a good outlet on the right flank.

For Woodford, forward Temi Babalola was always an outlet going forward while centre-half pairing Josh Steele and Tola Odedoyin also stood firm under pressure. Skipper Mantovani also helped build his side’s attacks well and could’ve had a big say on the match with his delivery too.

Finally, I’d like to thank Ensign for their hospitality and regardless of the result, it was great to be there for a dramatic and highly-engrossing match. Brett Munyard’s side make the trip to ESL side Takeley in the Preliminary round of the FA Cup and whilst that is a different challenge, these two matches may well buoy them on for the season to come. Best wishes to Woodford as well for the rest of the campaign.

Teams

White Ensign | Player-Manager: Brett Munyard | Assistant: Mark Healy

James Parkins (GK), Charlie Buffin, Elliot Vile, Andy George, David Limber, Harry Skinner, Jake McWee (Capt), Ben Austin (Luke Skinner 72’), Connor Barnby, Dominic Locke (Jack Maleary 113’), Brett Munyard (John Hilliard 106’)

Goal-scorers: Elliot Vile [12’], John Hilliard [110’], Jake McWee [115’]

Booked: Locke | Sent Off: Vile (two bookings) | Sub Not Used: Ainslie

Woodford Town | Manager: Dee Safer | Assistants: Neil Day & Ross Weare

Alex Reed (GK), Morgan Seaman, Ellis Routledge (Connor Leon 106′), Chris John (Alfie Anderson 74′), Josh Steele, Tola Odedoyin, Andrea Mantovani (Capt) (Mohammed Al-Dani 84′), Georges Kebi, Temi Babalola, Asher Modeste (Vlad Sighiartau 54′), Sharn Quinn

Goal-scorers: Temi Babalola [37’]

Booked: Routledge, Seaman, Babalola, Quinn | Sent Off: Odedoyin |Subs Not Used: Ali, Parrott

Referee: Lukas Wood

Match Report: West Essex 1 – 2 Whitton Utd (Sun 11th Aug) [FAC 19/20 EPR 12.8.19]

The FA Cup 2019 -20: Extra Preliminary Round

Venue: Oakside

Attendance: 109

2019 – 20 Season: Match 11

Sunday 11th August 2019 – 3pm KO

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

Whitton: Green & White Striped Shirts, Green Shorts, Green Socks

20190811_145624 — Players before KO at Oakside (Image: Scott W)

West bow out in the FA Cup to Whitton in frustrating display

West Essex 1 – 2 Whitton Utd

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

The second of my FA Cup weekend matches took me to Redbridge’s Oakside. Like the first match 24 hours earlier, this was also a battle between Essex Senior League and Thurlow Nunn Premier sides. ESL representatives West Essex welcomed Whitton Utd, who are based in Ipswich and have existed under their present guise since 1926. West of course are celebrating their 30th anniversary this year, having worked their way up the leagues since their inception in 1989.

As for the teams today, West fielded ever-present Jack Coker in goal, with a back four of Sanchez Hardy, Tom MacLeod, Nick Walk and Sam McNally. Cameron Gray pulled up with a knock in the warm-up so Joe Lefley replaced him in the starting eleven. Defender Josh French plus forwards Symeon Taylor & Izzy Ogedi-Uzokwe were among the options on the bench. Whitton named Harry Wales and Josh Hubert in central defence with Lewis Higgins as their goalkeeper and three-pronged forward line in Jamie Cole, Liam Wales and Jacob Lay.

Both sides gradually made their way into the match, with Whitton defender Harry Wales heading well wide nine minutes in whilst in a promising position about eight yards out. Meanwhile at the other end, home midfielder Callum Bloss was attempting to find his radar sending through his telling through balls into forward Michael Mignot though visiting centre-back Josh Hubert was alert to the danger, showing good positioning. Whitton broke the deadlock after 17 minutes as a powerful drive from forward Liam Wales caught out Stags custodian Jack Coker and flew into the net from twenty yards. With Kwame Kwateng’s side on the back foot, they had a great chance to level just four minutes after the goal as creative midfielder Joe Lefley found himself one-on-one with ‘keeper Lewis Higgins though his shot couldn’t find the target, though Hubert did well to clear off the goal-line before Mignot blazed the follow-up over the bar.

The first ‘flash-point’ of the match struck with a jolt on the half-hour as Greens centre-back Harry Wales was given a straight red card for a challenge on Mignot just as the forward was approaching the penalty area, much to the chagrin of the visiting dugout. To be fair to Shane Caldron’s team, they were still posing a threat of their of their own as fleet-footed winger Jacob Lay was driving his way towards the 18-yard area before a good challenge by West right-back Sanchez Hardy stopped him. The Stags were losing their rhythm in the five minutes or so before half-time and just before the interval came the second ‘flash-point’. Mignot was fouled again on the edge of the penalty area though this time reacted rather vigorously as the defender ended up on the floor. You’ve seen dismissals happen for that type of thing before and the West forward was fortunate to not add to that statistic.

Half-Time: West Essex 0 – 1 Whitton Utd

After the interval, the hosts started building their good passing play as a move involving Bloss and forward Hakim Medfai showed before Higgins gathered the ball with Mignot lurking. At the other end, on 52 minutes a corner by Greens midfield anchor Kevin Inglis viciously curled in which needed the intervention of Coker to tip round the post. Moments later, Higgins denied Mignot again though the hosts did level nine minutes into the half as a sweet Joe Lefley corner found skipper Tom MacLeod who powered an unstoppable header right into the top left corner.

West had chances to take the advantage themselves trough Mignot and Medfai though Higgins and a well-regimented visiting backline was equal to it. As we entered the latter stages, the atmosphere only increased in tension as the Stags could not settle into their preferred ‘pass & move’ play, instead getting drawn into a physical battle. With 17 minutes left, Lay sent in a great ball from the left for fellow winger Zehnn Young though his stroke was blocked, with the rebound falling to Lay himself who drilled his low strike narrowly wide.

Soon after Higgins again denied MIgnot, the crucial goal came as West were piling numbers forward, Greens forward Jamie Cole challenged Coker on the edge of the area before lobbing home coolly the rebound. The fraid nerves were only going to go one way and despite the Stags piling on the pressure to the Whitton 18-yard area in added time which need two goal-line clearances from the gutsy visitors and Higgins being alert to deny late substitute Izzy Ogedi-Uzokwe’s drive, it was not enough as the visitors held on for one heck of a hard-fought victory.

Full-Time: West Essex 1 – 2 Whitton Utd

The Whitton dugout watch on (Image: Scott W)

It has to be said that this is a darn hard game to sum up. To call it ‘feisty’ would be an understatement though the one thing we saw in abundance is passion and fortitude. This may not have been the best West performance I’ve seen, though one thing I will ‘stick my neck out’ to say is that they are driven to improve, irrespective of how long that journey takes. Skipper Tom MacLeod stood out for me, reverting to centre-back today and showed again his aerial threat and determined attitude. Fellow defender Sam McNally also had his moments with some good interceptions. Forward Michael Mignot again showed that despite it not being his day in front of goal, he is a difficult player to keep out of the game.

You had to respect Whitton for their guts in defending en-bloc, with centre-back Josh Hubert really shining out for his side with good tackles at times to prevent more chances going the way of the hosts. Also, to hold firm for over an hour with ten men takes some doing, fair play. The front three of Jamie Cole, Liam Wales and Jacob Lay all offered a differing threat too. Cole with his physicality, Wales with his running & finishing and Lay with his pace and trickery. It is arguable that they were trying to ‘take time out of the game’ as well at times and whilst it won’t win them many friends, it did the job for them.

Finally, I’d like to say thanks to West for their hospitality and that by Ricky Eaton and Redbridge FC. Thanks also to Dan Reading.

Teams

West Essex | Manager: Kwame Kwateng

Jack Coker (GK), Sanchez Hardy, Sam McNally, Tom MacLeod (Capt), Nick Walk, Emanuel Wazola, Brad Russell, Callum Bloss (Izzy Ogedi-Uzokwe 82’), Joe Lefley (Symeon Taylor 67’), Michael Mignot, Hakim Medfai

Goal-scorer: Tom MacLeod [54’]

Booked: Mignot | Sub Not Used: Russell (GK), French, Leo, Dodon, Gray

Whitton Utd | Manager: Shane Caldron

Lewis Higgins (GK), Lloyd Clarke, Ethan Clarke (Capt), Kevin Inglis (Stef Mallardo 75’), Harry Wales, Josh Hubert, Zehnn Young, Jack Baker, Jamie Cole, Liam Wales, Jacob Lay (Jack Newman 82’)

Goal-scorers: Liam Wales [17’], Jamie Cole [78’]

Booked: L Clarke, Newman | Sent Off: H Wales | Subs Not Used: Garrett, Gittens, Stevens

Referee: Sam Ingrey