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

Action from Corinthians v Beacon Hill this weekend

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

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

Midweek action

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

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

EOFL Premier Division

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

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


EOFL Reserve League Trophy Final

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

EOFL Divisions One & Two

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

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


EOFL Division Four

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

End

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

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

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

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

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

EOFL Divisions One and Two

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

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


EOFL Divisions Four & Five

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

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


Cups

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

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

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

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

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

End

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian Lge & Cups (Sat 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 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

S21-22 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League (Sat 30 Apr) [EOFL 21/22 1.5.22]

Image still from Rayleigh Town v Sungate this week [Image by Scott W]

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

Hello and welcome to this week’s extended round-up of the action in the Essex Olympian League this week, including the midweek action In League & Cups and the action on Saturday 30 April. The focus this week is on the League action in the top three divisions. Thank you for reading & thanks to Pete Dudley for allowing links to his reports to be added.

Essex Olympian League – Midweek [Mon 25 – Thurs 28 April]

The midweek action began with the EOFL Reserve Trophy Final held at Basildon Utd FC. May & Baker A got the silverware after a 2 – 0 triumph over Ongar Town Res, with Abraham Jairette and Ryan Mugera getting the job done, much to the felight of all at ‘Bakers, congrats to them. On Tuesday night, Rayleigh Town maintained their push for a minimum top-three finish with a gritty 1 – 0 over Sungate at London Road. Captain George Vile’s free-kick was enough to claim the win. Fellow Non-League writer Pete Dudley [@ped1980] was there & here’s his report: http://pedroslocalfootiefix.blogspot.com/2022/04/rayleigh-town-1-sungate-0.html

On Wednesday night, Galleywood Res got a good 2 – 1 victory at Sungate Dev, with Ben Smith and an OG overcoming James Oderinde’s reply for the hosts there. The win keeps ‘Wood in ninth. Finally on Thursday night, Runwell Sports added the EOFL Denny King Memorial Cup to their Division One Promotion as they won 09 – 8 on penalties following a 1 – 1 draw with Snaresbrook. Ife Ogunbayo netted for the East London side, but Charlie Little replied for Robert Hodgson’s side. Congrats to all at Runwell & Pete Dudley was also there, here is his report: http://pedroslocalfootiefix.blogspot.com/2022/04/runwell-sports-end-season-with.html


Essex Olympian League – Saturday 30 April

Now onto the weekend’s action, Ongar Town still lead the way on goal difference following a 3 – 2 win away at Catholic Utd. Harry Rawlins, Joe Lilly and Freddie Mattock got the goals to outdo replies from John Nutman and Carl Read for Utd to grab a vital win. Ongar host the same opponents in their last game on May 14th. Basildon Town are also still in contention after a 2 – 1 success over Sungate at Gardiners Close, with Rhys Willson and replacement Rhys Fatt grabbing the important strikes. Marcus Bowers’ team visit Hutton next weekend in their last game. Rayleigh Town have almost secured a third-placed finish now after a 2 – 1 victory at Hutton, with George Vile and substitute Philip Anunwa both netting to give them another important victory.

In the race to avoid relegation, Leigh Ramblers got a massive 6 – 0 victory at Harold Wood Athletic in their last game of the season. Jack Unwin netted a fine treble here, with Ryan Lowe netting twice and Jacob Meads adding the other goal to give the Rams a good chance of staying in the division, while ‘Wood will compete in Division One next term. Galleywood also got a 2 – 0 win at Bishop’s Stortford Swifts, with Thomas Watling’s 16th league goal this term & Matthew Crick’s strike giving them the points. ‘Wood need two points to mathematically secure safety. Lastly, Old Southendian still harbour a chance of a top-seven finish after a 3 – 1 success at Shenfield AFC.


In Division One, Snaresbrook took a big step towards safety with a 6 – 2 triumph over Epping Town at Hackney Marshes. Ife Ogunbayo netted twice for Rob Caine’s side, with Lee Lashley, Rajpal Bumbra and substitutes Saxon Shine & Youssef Moumen all netted also to take them to with fine points of safety, with three matches left to play. Epping will finish no lower than seventh in what has been a decent season for Stuart Hoskins’ side.

In Division Two, Hutton Res got a huge 3 – 1 win at relegation rivals AS Rawreth to extend the gap between the two sides to five points. A draw in the Reds’ second side’s last game may be enough to ensure they avoid a bottom two finish whereas Rawreth have to win in both games. May & Baker A also got a walkover win over Old Southendian Res which means they end their season in mid-table.


Moving now into Division Three, and Hashtag Utd Development got a big 1 – 0 triumph at Wakering Sports Res to secure the Division Three title. Jay Knight’s early goal was enough to claim the points and congratulations to Denis Simpson’s side on their elevation. Catholic Utd Res got second spot after a convincing 5 – 0 victory at Hullbridge Sports Res meant they ended the season on 50 points, congrats to Eamonn Kearney’s side there who have now secured back-to-back promotions. Wakering Sports finish third in this division and have still had a fine season, but will have to wait to see if they do get elevated as well. The other game in D3 saw Buckhurst Hill U23 grab a 2 – 1 victory over Leigh Town Res to end their season in seventh spot, with substitute Enis Demirbala got both goals for Darren Gosnell’s side here. Leigh end in 9th, five points above the bottom two. & Josh Burrage’s side will seek to improve next term.

Lastly this week, in Division Four there was still promotion to be settled and Old Chelmsfordians Res moved into the lead position for that second spot after a 4 – 1 victory at home to Roydon. A win in their last game will undoubtedly secure elevation to the fourth-tier. Southend Manor Dev also ended their season in seventh after a 3 – 2 win at Sungate Dev. Jack Mead scored twice for the visitors here, with replacement Thomas Roser also on target. The Sungate side have to win both remaining games with a large goal swing to rivals Leytonstone to avoid a bottom two finish now. Chingford Athletic Res also got a walkover win against Wakering Sports A who will finish in eighth spot.

EOL Division Five season has now been completed.

That’s all for this week, the EOFL round-up will continue into May.

S21-22 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League (Sat 23 Apr) [EOFL 21/22 24.4.22]


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

Hello and welcome to this week’s extended round-up of the action in the Essex Olympian League this week, including the midweek action on Tuesday 19 April and the action on Saturday 23 April. The focus this week is on the League action in the top three divisions. Thank you for reading.

Essex Olympian League – Tuesday 19 April

The midweek action was centred on the Premier Division with two big games. First, Basildon Town got a crucial win as they edged to a 3 – 2 victory over Galleywood at Basildon Sports Club. Graham Harrison, Rhys Willson and Benkjamin Smith all scored to send Marcus Bowers’ side to the top of the table ahead of the weekend’s action. ‘Wood responded through strikes by Luke Seaton and Jack Lakin but they still had several matches left to gain points. Also, Sungate comfortably defeated Harold Wood Athletic 4 – 0 to push Ath ever closer to being relegated. Arif Mustapha, James Smith, Jake Willis and replacement Kyran Chiedozie all struck to send the ‘Gate up to sixth, with aspirations still of a top-four finish.

Essex Olympian League – Saturday 23 April

Remaining with the top-tier onto Saturday’s action now, and Basildon Town were held to a 1 – 1 draw by spirited Canning Town at Gardiners Lane. Graham Harrison netted his 18th league goal of the campaign but Canning levelled to keep themselves in contention to avoid the bottom two. This result also thwarted Bas as Ongar Town got a home walkover win over injury-hit Kelvedon Hatch, which sent Ongar back to the summit on goal difference. Both teams now have two matches and Basildon need two big wins to overhaul that goal deficit.

Galleywood hauled themselves to within a point of their nearest rivals after a 2 – 1 success at home to Harold Wood Athletic. Sam Donn & an OG outdid Billy Reed’s goal for Ath in a result which means Harold Wood are unable to mathematically avoid a bottom-two finish. The hosts here have four matches to gain at least two points to make sure of finish above the top three. Elsewhere, Hutton were held 1 – 1 by a Sungate side dealing well with a hectic run of fixtures. Brad Freeman netted for Matt Singh’s side here but realistically a third-place finish is their objective now. ‘Gate have six games left to gain nine points to confirm at least a fifth-placed finish.

Rounding out the action in Step 7 was Old Southendian’s 3 – 3 draw with Bishop’s Stortford Swifts at Garon Park 3G. Harry Bovington scored twice for the visitors, allied with substitute Edward Pinch’s goal which sees Swifts inch towards a top-ten finish. OS remain eighth. Also, Springfield drew 1 – 1 with Shenfield AFC at Arun Park, with Tristan Ofori-Sampong scored for Francesco Zabotti’s side. AFC have now reached 30 points this term.

In Division One, there was only one match played but also we heard of a big alteration to the final table. Wakering Sports got a 4 – 3 win over Old Chelmsfordians at Lawford Lane, with Aaron Clark, Ben Burrows, Joseph Burton and substitute Alfie Fossett all scored for Sports but while the result was enough to see them secure third spot, events elsewhere meant it was not significant. Epping were adjudged to have fielded an ineligible player in their win over Toby two weeks ago, which meant Toby awarded the points which in turn lifted them above Runwell Sports and claim the title by a point. Both sides will compete in the Premier Division next term as Toby also announced their future plans for a ground move to Barleylands in 15 months’ time.  Congratulations to Toby & Runwell Sports on their promotion.


EOFL Divisions Two, Three & Four

Into Division Two now and what was a hugely significant day for ACD Utd as they won their title decider with Harold Hill 1 – 0 at Westlands. Michael Wade’s 26th league goal of the season was enough to secure yet another title for Greg Knock’s side and they will be in the second-tier next season. Congratulations to all at ACD Utd. Hill need one point from their last match at Hutton Res next month to join them in Division One. That is because Manford Way lost 2 – 1 at Rayleigh Town Res. Sam Barker and Byron Down got the goals as Rayleigh came from behind to end their season on a high. Manford have to win their last game to finish third as Wakebury edged a super match, winning 5 – 4 over Rochford Town at Nursery Sports Ground. Jerry Nkoy notched a treble here for Matt Cardy’s team, with Daniel Buglione also netting his 10th league goal this term and Jake Farthing also scoring here. Rochford will finish bottom and after a good run in Division Two in the last few seasons, it looks very likely they will drop down to Division Three.

In the other game in this division, Harold Wood Athletic Res secured their place in the division next season with a 2 – 1 success over AS Rawreth at Harold Wood Park. Josh Portway and Oliver Portway both netted to give Wood’s second-side an important win. For Rawreth, they will need at least one win to overhaul closest rivals Hutton Res and stay out of the bottom two.

In Division Three, Wakering Sports Res got a priceless 4 – 2 victory at Corinthians Res to put themselves in the best position for the Division Three title & promotion. Eben Rowledge got two goals for the visitors, with Connor Fardyga’s 25th league goal this term and Scott Clark’s 15th goal of the campaign securing victory. Sports are a point clear of Hashtag Utd Dev who were held 1 – 1 by promotion rivals Catholic Utd Res at Barleylands. Shaun Warren netted for the hosts, but Franklin Craik’s 20th league goal this term for Ressie side was enough to claim a point an ensure the race for promotion goes into the last day next weekend. Hashtag travel to Wakering in what is sure to be a big game at Cupid’s.

Lastly, Hullbridge Sports Res got a fine 4 – 1 triumph at Buckhurst Hill U23 in the early game. Joe Ives netted twice for Sports here, with Harry Ives and George Mole also on target to render Jacob Richards’ goal as mere consolation. Both teams are likely to finish in lower mid-table.

Lastly for the main part of this week’s round-up, in Division Four Galleywood Res got a 2 – 0 win over Springfield Res in the late game. Clarke Green and substitute Craig Skipper both netted to give them a big win and dent the visitors’ chances in the promotion race.  Also, Wakering Sports A defeated Sungate Dev 4 – 1 in North East London, meaning they will finish at least eighth.

Div Five – Snaresbrook Res  H – W  Pitsea Athletic Res

S21-22 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League & Cups (Sat 5 Feb) [EOFL 21/22 7.1.22]


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

Hello all and welcome to my round-up of the action in the Essex Olympian League, on Saturday 5 February. This week, the league action takes the central focus, with a few matches also in several Cup competitions. This week’s round-up includes a section looking at EOFL Division Four & Five, with results from the Cup competitions.


Essex Olympian League Round-up – Saturday 5 February

EOFL Premier Division & Division One

In the Premier Division, with Basildon Town in Cup action, the focus turned to the chasing pack. Hutton went to the summit after a comprehensive 5 – 1 win over Harold Wood Athletic at Polo Fields. Luke Ricketts got a double, with Brad Freeman, Stephen Judge and substitute Jack Shaw all joined him on the score0-sheet as Matt Singh’s team made it five straight wins in the league. Rayleigh Town are two points behind them as they got a decisive 4 – 0 success at Sungate. Liam Oliver, Harry Talbot, Charlie Seaden and replacement Ben Baxter all scored for Paul Higgins’ side.

Meanwhile, Shenfield AFC got a fine 3 – 1 victory at Catholic Utd to move up to eighth in the table. A double from Luke Williamson and one from Ben Carroll overhauled Michael Sammut’s reply for Utd and give the visitors another good three points. Also, Canning Town leapt off the bottom of the standings with a 2 – 1 win over Leigh Ramblers in Beckton and Ongar Town were again held at home to a goalless draw by Old Southendian.


In Division One, leaders Runwell Sports were not in action but would have been reasonably happy with their rivals’ results. Toby were held to a 3 – 3 draw by fellow top six side Chingford Athletic, Albert Perry notched two goals for Mark Jones’ side, with Dean Maguchu getting the other goal but a brace of his own from Eren Muti and a goal from Airon Paul was enough to claim a point for Declan Murphy’s side. Wakering Sports were held 1 – 1 at Cupid’s by Epping Town, with Alfie Fossett scoring for Mitchell Gleeson’s side there and Old Chelmsfordians slipped up, as they were beaten 2 – 1 by improving Beacon Hill Rovers, with Charles Brewer and Jack Walker on target for Hill there.

Also, Corinthians got a vital win as they triumphed 6 – 2 at Herongate Athletic to go back up to fourth, just a point adrift of Toby in second.


EOFL Senior League Cup

Bishop’s Stortford Swifts  9 – 0  Snaresbrook | Silver Leys

Springfield  2 – 3  Basildon Town  | Arun Park


EOFL Reserve Lge Cup

Epping Town Res  0 – 7  Wakering Sports Res  | Epping UC Rugby Club

Galleywood Res  1 – 1  Leigh Ramblers Res (Galleywood won 5 – 4 on pens)  | Slades Lane


EOFL Divisions Two & Three

Into the League action with the three games played in Division Two. With leaders ACD Utd not in action, Harold Hill got a fine 5 – 0 win over Rochford Town, with Peter Tyler and George Shelvey both scoring twice there. Manford Way also won 3 – 0 at home to Harold Wood Athletic Res, with David Alele, Dominic Esty-Wilkinson and substitute Samuel Oramadike all netted for Manford to take them up to fourth, above Old Southendian Res. Also, Shoebury Town won 2 – 1 at Rayleigh Town Res, with Tyler Boosey and Steven Valente scoring for Town. William Vile got Rayleigh’s reply but they are six points behind Shoebury in seventh.

In Division Three, Basildon Town Res extended their lead in fourth spot to ten points after a 3 – 0 victory over leaders Catholic Utd Res. Keith King scored twice for Town, with Sam Marsh also on target here. Utd lost their unbeaten league record which had held since August. Pitsea Athletic remain in fifth place after a 3 – 2 victory at Leigh Town Res. Sean Devlin, Jason Stanhope and Reece Stone were the goalscorers there for Pitsea. Lastly, Buckhurst Hill U23 also won 3 – 1 against Collier Row at Roding Lane.


EOFL Divisions Four & Five

In Division Four, Roydon once again got a good three points to remain second in the table, after a 3 – 0 victory against Canning Town Res. Nader Benzid, Connor Presland and Ross Bourke all netted for the hosts here. Old Chelmsfordians Res are still third after winning 2 – 0 at Leytonstone Utd, with Martin Mixture on target for the visitors at the Forest Row Centre. Southend Manor Development are now up to fourth spot after a fine 3 – 1 triumph at local rivals Wakering Sports A. Max Franzosi netted twice for the visitors, with Marly Gunn also scoring for Carlos Codinha’s team.

Elsewhere, Sungate Development got their first league win in several weeks with a 4 – 3 success at mid-table Ongar Town Res. Finally, leaders Chingford Athletic Res are four points clear at the top after a 3 – 1 win at Shenfield AFC Res at Warley Playing Fields. Luke Dimond got another two goals here to reach 33 league goals this term, which is some achievement. Billy Calder’s eighth goal of the campaign for Shenfield wasn’t enough to prevent defeat for them.

In Division Five, AS Rawreth Res got another important victory with a 2 – 1 success over Wakebury Res at the Warren. Substitute Justin Burrell got both goals for the hosts, with Ben Morley getting the reply for the Berries’ second-side. In the other game in the division, Old Barkabbeyans went up to seventh spot following a 2 – 1 win at top four side Pitsea Athletic Res. Jay Elliott and Tyler Turner both got on the scoresheet for the East London side. Replacement Vishnu Panikkar responded for Ath at the Basildon Sports Village.

End

S21-22 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League & Cups (Sat 15 Jan) [EOFL 21/22 17.1.22]

Image from Basildon Town v Hutton in Essex Premier Cup [Image by Peter D]

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

Hello all and welcome to my round-up of the action in the Essex Olympian League, on Saturday 15 January. This week, the league action returned for the majority of teams, in addition to a smattering of matches in several Cup competitions. This week’s round-up includes a section on the Senior League Cup & EOFL Division Four. Main image supplied courtesy of Pete Dudley [Twitter: @ped1980]

Essex Olympian League Round-up – Saturday 15 January

EOFL Premier Division & Division One

In the top-tier, with most of the top seven sides in Cup action, Rayleigh Town went back up to third spot with a 2 – 1 success at home to Shenfield AFC. Liam Oliver’s strike and a spot-kick from Harry Talbot was enough to overpower Perry Robinson’s goal for AFC and get the points. Kelvedon Hatch narrowly defeated Springfield 1 – 0 at New Hall, with Chris Denham’s solitary strike enough to send Darren Hunt’s team up to fourth spot.

Also in the Premier Division, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts went up to eighth in the table with a 3 – 1 home win against strugglers Canning Town at Silver Leys. Lawrence Healey’s double and Sam Chaney’s 12th league goal this term was enough for Craig Glashan’s side here. In Division One, Runwell Sports increased their lead tat the top to six points with a 2 – 0 win at fellow top four side Toby. Oliver Quick and substitute Luca Frankis got the goals to give Rob Hodgson’s side their tenth win of the season.

Meanwhile, Corinthians rose to third spot after a hugely important 5 – 3 triumph at Epping Town. Bailey Moss netted four goals here to take his tally to 21 in the league this term, with Cameron Glover also finding the net. Snaresbrook gained ground on Epping in the bottom four after a 2 – 1 win at home to Herongate Athletic.


EOFL Senior League Cup

There was another six matches in the Senior Cup this week, with ACD Utd more than securing their spot in the next round with a 14 – 0 triumph over Rochford Town at Westlands. There were no less than three hat-tricks for the hosts, from Shaun Goddard, Warren Taylor and from substitute Jacob Dingli. Samuel Payne added a pair, with strikes by Charlie Munns, Shaun Farrow & an OG completing a crushing victory for Greg Knock’s side. Galleywood also progressed with a 4 – 2 success at local rivals Old Chelmsfordians, with the ensemble cast of Freddie Bartram, Thomas Watling, Ben Smith and replacement Matthew Buckingham all on target in a good win at Lawford Lane.

Elsewhere, Wakering Sports prevailed with a 3 – 1 win against Manford Way at Cupid’s. Joseph Barton and substitutes Alfie Fossett & Mohammed Sesay all netted for Mitchell Gleeson’s team, outweighing a strike in response for Manford by David Alele. Catholic Utd won the battle of the Premier Division sides at the Len Forge, as they narrowly defeated Ongar Town 3 – 2. The other two matches played went all the way to spot-kicks. First, Sungate edged an epic penalty shoot-out after they drew 3 – 3 with Old Southendian. The East London side won the shoot-out 13 – 12 to get through to the next stage. At John Burrows Recreation Ground, Leigh Town won the 12-yard contest 4 – 3 after a goalless draw with Harold Wood Athletic. And Chingford Athletic went through via a walkover as Beacon Hill Rovers were unable to contest their fixture.


Essex Premier Cup – Last 16

The last remaining match in the EPC Last 16 saw Basildon Town launch another stirring comeback to win 2 – 1 at home to Hutton at Basildon Sports Club. An OG gave Matt Singh’s side the advantage, though a brace from the ever goal-hungry player-boss Marcus Bowers meant that Town made the quarter-finals. If you’d like more on this match, Pete Dudley’s report is available here: http://pedroslocalfootiefix.blogspot.com/2022/01/basildon-town-2-hutton-1.html  


EOFL Divisions Two & Three

Moving back into the League action in Division Two, Old Southendian Res moved up to fourth place with a 3 – 1 win over May & Baker A in the late kick-off at Garon Park. Thomas Margerison, Oliver Tatton-Bennett and Sean Simmonett all scored for Josh Bambury’s team here. Also, Shoebury Town got a 2 – 1 success at Harold Wood Athletic Res, with player-boss Garry Johnson and replacement Kyle McAlindon netting at the Robert Clack Sch 3G. This win keeps them in sixth spot.

In Division Three, Wakering Sports Res strengthened their hold on third place with a 5 – 1 triumph at Collier Row. Connor Fardyga got another double to reach 18 league goals this term, with David Watson reaching 15 league goals thanks to a brace as well, with substitute Eben Rowledge also notching. Leigh Town Res also got a 5 – 1 win away from home, as they defeated Corinthians Res at Stambridge. Lewis Brooks, Zack Walker, Chris Pope, Jack Pearman & replacement Callum Stone all scored for Josh Burrage’s new side.

Elsewhere, Hashtag Utd Development remain four points clear in second spot as they won 1 – 0 at improving Buckhurst Hill U23, with Shaun Warren getting the only goal in that game. Finally, Catholic Utd Res retained their three point lead at the summit as they won 7 – 2 against Pitsea Athletic at Basildon Sports Village.


EOFL Reserve League Cup Results

Herongate Athletic Res  2 – 2 Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res  | Billericay Road  (Swifts won 4 – 2 on penalty kicks)

Hutton Res  1 – 3  Rayleigh Town Res  | Polo Fields


EOFL Divisions Four & Five

In Division Four, Galleywood Res got a fine 4 – 0 victory over Leytonstone Utd at Slades Lane. Replacement Oliver Sadler netted twice for the hosts here, with Bradley Taylor and Clarke Green also adding a goal each. Roydon were held 1 – 1 at home to Old Chelmsfordians Res, with Connor Riddoch once again on the score-sheet for Roydon. And Wakering Sports A came away with a big 6 – 1 triumph over strugglers Canning Town Res, who now haven’t won since the opening match of the campaign. Lewis Brooks fired in a treble here for the Sports development side, with Harry Groves, Danny Pallett and Adam Smith also scoring.

Division Five Results

Collier Row Res  4 – 3  Pitsea Athletic Res  | Forest Row Centre (Pitch 2)

Leigh Ramblers Res  H – W  Epping Town Res | Home Walkover

Runwell Sports Res  3 – 1  Old Barkabbeyans  | St Luke’s Park  

End 

S21-22 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League & EPC (Sat 16 Oct) [EOFL 21/22 18.10.21]

Leigh Town GK Matthew Riley making another fine save [Image: @ABridgeTooFar16]

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

Hello all and welcome to my round-up of the action in the Essex Olympian League, on Saturday 16 October. This week, there was less League action in top three tiers as the focus was towards Essex Premier Cup ties, to which I’ll have a round-up section but I’ll also have a extensive look at all the League action this week, which I seldom get the chance to do.

Photo by Neil Hunwicks (@ABridgeTooFar16)
Many thanks for reading.

EOFL Premier Division & Division Two

In the top tier, two matches took place. Rayleigh Town got a fine 4 – 0 triumph at Springfield, thanks in no small part to doubles for Liam Oliver and Harry Talbot, while Bishop’s Stortford Swifts also notched a big win as they got a 3 – 1 success over Harold Wood Athletic. Harry Clifford netted for Ath but that goal was outdone by another pair for Sam Chaney and one from Samuel Brown.

Due to the myriad of Cup ties this weekend, there was no action in Division One. So we move on EOFL Division Two, where Old Southendian Res were the first side this season to stop ACD Utd from claiming a victory, as their match at Garon Park ended 2 – 2. Sam Jones struck twice for Josh Bambury’s side, while Michael Wade and Warren Taylor replied for the leaders.


Essex Premier Cup

In the first of our ten focused matches from the Essex Premier Cup this weekend, on Friday night Old Southendian got a fine 3 – 2 win at Billericay Town Res, who play in the Essex Senior Reserve League. Callum Ludlaim got two goals for Altar Ali’s visitors, with replacement Taylor Turner getting the other goal for OS. James Drake and Max Gnandi responded for the hosts but it was the EOFL side who went through. On Saturday, Canning Town went through after a 3 – 1 win against Saffron Walden Town Res, with Stephen Ikumelo’s hat-trick proving the difference in that match in Beckton. EOFL Division One side Leigh Town faced a tricky test at Essex Alliance League Senior Division side Chadwell Heath Spartans, who are playing a division higher than Town this term. Dan Driscoll, Shane Cooper and Junior Lawrence all netted for Jack Pearman’s side here but a stirring response from the Spartans saw goals from Ray Hunwicks, Samir Aboulainaf and Jonathan Adams force a 3 – 3 scoreline and with it, the added 30 minutes. Extra-time could not determine a winner so over it went to the arduous penalty shoot-out, with Leigh goalkeeper Matthew Riley proving the hero with three penalty saves as Town won 3 – 2 on spot-kicks.

Elsewhere, Wakering Sports were conclusive 5 – 0 winners at divisional rivals Epping Town, with Aaron Clark notching twice, plus Max Drury, Connor Burrows and Daniel Regan all netted for Mitchell Gleeson’s side as they went through to the third round. Leigh Ramblers also progressed with a 2 – 0 win at Galleywood, thanks to goals from Nathan Dewberry and Rick Alabaster. There was a good win for Harold Wood Athletic Res, who knocked out AS Rawreth as ‘Wood won 4 – 3 AET at Harold Wood Park. Tish Ogungbayi, Tom Butler, Del Hawtin and Eddy Clinton all netted for Steve Hubbard’s side as they went through.

Catholic Utd also went through after navigating a tricky test at Billericay Road, with Simon Thomas’ side defeating Herongate Athletic 2 – 1. Aaron Baldwin and Jay Nash both scored for Utd there. Rayleigh Town Res made it a good week for the club as they defeated Essex Alliance League Senior side CSM London 4 – 1, with Byron Down notching a treble and Matthew Oaten also netted for Dave Barker’s side. Basildon Town saw off fellow EOFL Premier side Shenfield AFC 5 – 1 at St Martins Sch 3G. Graham Harrison netted twice here, with Jamie Bradbourn, Adam Bessadi and Jaime Selby-Knight also on target for Marcus Bowers’ side. Finally for this section, Toby continued their good Cup run with a 4 – 2 win over fellow Division One side Corinthians, with Marc Porter-Brown, Ben Picton, Rhys Willson and Albert Perry notching for the hosts in a good victory in Newbury Park.  


Other Results in EPC:

Colne Athletic  3 – 0  Kelvedon Hatch

Grays Athletic Res  2 – 1  Ongar Town

Manford Way  3 – 2  Runwell Sports

Shoebury Town  1 – 3  May & Baker A

Waltham Abbey Res  3 – 2  Snaresbrook

White Notley  1 – 2  Chingford Athletic

Wivenhoe Town Res  0 – 6  Sungate

Uncontested matches:

Beacon Hill Rovers A – W Harold Hill

Clapton CFC H – W  Wakebury

Hutton H – W Rochford Town


EOFL Division Three

In the four matches in Div Three, Hashtag Utd Development emerged with a good 2 – 1 win at Hullbridge Sports Res. Joe Ives netted for Sports, but strikes by Kai Warren and Jay Knight ensured the points left with Denis Simpson’s side. Pitsea Athletic continued their fine form this term, with a 4 – 0 win at strugglers Corinthians Res, with Reece Stone grabbing a fine treble, and Ben Challis was also on target for the visitors in that one.

In the two other matches in the division, Leigh Town Res got a fine 3 – 1 success over Toby Res, with player-boss Antony Lane grabbing a rare but welcome double, alongside Zack Walker’s strike. Arty Benjamin replied for Toby’s second side. Also, Catholic Utd Res got a 1 – 0 win over Basildon Town Res at St Thomas More Sch and keep their lead at the top at six points.


Essex Junior Cup Results

Buckhurst Hill U23  3 – 0  Herongate Athletic Res  | Roding Lane (pitch 2)

EOFL Division Four

This week, we’ve got round-up sections on Divisions Four & Five. Springfield Res went up to second spot in Div Four after a 3 – 1 win at Roydon, with Alfie Halliday notching twice and one for Sean Coughlan. Connor Riddoch got the only goal for the hosts but they drop to fifth. Chingford Athletic Res roared up to third spot after a big 5 – 1 success at strugglers Sungate Development. Luke Dimond nabbed four goals himself for the visitors with Jordan Baende also on target for Ath’s second side. Wakering Sports A are up to mid-table after a fine 5 – 2 win at local rivals Southend Manor Development. Telmo Cangoma and Matthew Pooley both scored for Carlos Codinha’s side but an ensemble cast of Tom Vine, Danny Pallett, Nikki Beale and substitutes Liam Jarrett & David Watson all netted in response to claim the win for Tony Wells’ side.

Meanwhile, Galleywood Res edged an eleven-goal thriller as they won 6 – 5 at Canning Town Res. Stuart Alexander hit two goals for the visitors, with William Santos, Luke Seaton, Lewis Brett & Travis Owles joining in on the goal-scoring. Canning responded thanks to a treble from Marcus Byfield plus strikes by Billy Evans and Sean Mooney. Galleywood rise to eighth spot after their second win this term. In the other matches, Old Chelmsfordians Res defeated Leytonstone Utd 3 – 2 whilst leaders Ongar Town Res maintained their unbeaten record by drawing 1 – 1 at Shenfield AFC Res.

EOFL Division Five

Finally this week in Division Five, Leigh Ramblers Res maintained their eight-point lead at the summit after winning their top of the table clash with Runwell Sports Res 3 – 0. Charlie Batchelor grabbed all three goals for the Rams, which takes them up to thirty goals scored this term. Nearest rivals Pitsea Athletic Res are the only side who have scored more with 32 goals after a 8 – 2 success against Epping Town Res at Basildon Sports Village. Kwadwo Asante led the way for Ath with a hat-trick here, though the supporting cast were Joshua Ledger with a brace, plus Jimmy Donovan and substitutes Joseph Milne and Jay Seeley-Hanson.

In other action, Collier Row Res were held 1 – 1 by Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res at the Forest Row Centre. An OG accounted for Swifts’ goal, with Raheem Bravo equalising for Row. Old Barkabbeyans also went up to seventh after defeating Wakebury Res 7 – 2 at the Nursery Sports Ground, with Bailey Diamond and Ben Morley scoring for Brett Deeming’s side.

S21-22 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League & EPC (Sat 18 Sept) [EOFL 21/22 19.9.21]

Archive Image – Rayleigh Tn are now leaders of EOFL Premier

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

Hello all and welcome to my round-up of the weekend’s action in the Essex Olympian League, on Saturday 18th September. This weekend, we saw the start of the Essex Premier Cup campaign so the focus this week is the top three tiers of the EOFL & the EPC, with results from Divisions Three, Four & Five. The EPC is a competition which teams from the Essex Olympian, Essex & Suffolk Border League and Essex Alliance League compete (all are Step 7 divisions), along with sides in the Essex Senior Reserve division.

Many thanks for reading.

EOFL Premier Division

In the top-tier, Ongar Town got themselves into a fine position after a 2 – 1 home success over Bishop’s Stortford Swifts. Harry Rawlins and Frankie Goodhall got the goals for Richard Ponsford’s side. They will travel to London Road next week to face leaders Rayleigh Town, who got a superb 6 – 0 triumph at Canning Town. The ensemble cast of scorers included Sonny Coutts, Charlie Seaden, Jack Long, Liam Oliver, Paul Morris and Alfie Larkin to give Paul Higgins’ team a fourth consecutive victory.

Elsewhere, Hutton emerged with a narrow 1 – 0 win  at Shenfield AFC which was the third straight win for Matt Singh’s side. Leigh Ramblers finally got their first win of the new campaign after a 3 – 2 success over Galleywood at Belfairs Park. Ben Smith scored twice for the visitors but the Rams were not to be denied here. Lastly, Catholic Utd were held 1 – 1 by improving Kelvedon Hatch at the Len Forge. Lewis Payne netted for the hosts, with Drew Klessa-Smith responding for Darren Hunt’s side.


EOFL Division One

Moving into the three matches played in Div One this week, and Wakering Sports got another victory with a 3 – 1 win at Snaresbrook. Ben Burrows, Paul Brennan and Alfie Fossett got the goals for Mitchell Gleeson’s team. In other results, Chingford Athletic got a fine 4 – 0 win at Beacon Hill Rovers while Runwell Sports got a fine away win, defeating Leigh Town 5 – 2 at John Burrows Recreation Ground.


Essex Premier Cup round-up

This weekend, the Essex Premier Cup campaign began, with some big wins for EOFL sides. First up, Premier side Basildon Town put in a terrific performance to hand Earls Colne a 5 – 1 defeat, with Adam Bessadi scoring twice, with Rhys Fatt, Jamie Bradbourn and Graham Harrison also netting for Marcus Bowers’ team. Division One side Herongate Athletic progressed with a 3 – 1 success at Div Two side Old Southendian Res. Antoine Fontaine, Robbie Farrell and Izaih Antoine bagged goals for Billy Cove’s side. Fellow Div One side Toby also won, 2 – 0 at home to Old Chelmsfordians, with Ben Picton and Albert Perry the goal-scorers there.

Corinthians also got a good 2 – 1 win over Halstead Town Res, with Bill Wilton and Bailey Moss netting for Chris Stoneham’s team. Two Division Two sides allso went through, with Shoebury Town defeating West Bergholt 4 – 0, thanks to a brace from Garry Johnson plus strikes by Luke Ball and Kian Bradshaw for Jason Doyle’s team. Finally, ACD Utd won 4 – 2 at Essex Senior Reserve side Takeley Res. Michael Wade and Billy Wren both netted twice for Greg Knock’s side, overcoming goals from Ezra Forman and Callum Leggett for the hosts.

Other Results in EPC

AFC Barnston  0 – 3  Sungate

Dunmow Town  4 – 4  Springfield (AET, Dunmow won 7 – 6 on pens)

Harold Wood Athletic  2 – 4  Tiptree Heath

Lymore Gardens  1 – 2  Epping Town

Old Southendian H – W  Dedham Old Boys


EOFL Division Two

Back into League action now in Division Two, and May & Baker A got a rare big win as they won 6 – 0 at home to Hutton Res. Gabriel Odili and Abidemi Lamina both struck doubles, while Ryan Stowell and Rolan Newland also notched. Also, Wakebury edged to a hard-fought 3 – 2 success over Harold Wood Athletic Reserves at Nursery Sports Ground. Max Hall, Will Wheeler and Chris Gore all netted for Matt Cardy’s side, with the replies for ‘Wood coming from Ben-Paul Gibbons and Thomas Butler. Other results saw a big win for Manford Way as they defeated AS Rawreth 7 – 1, while Rayleigh Town Res were among the goals again, defeating Rochford Town 7 – 3 at London Road.


EOFl Division Three Results

Hullbridge Res  1 – 2  Basildon Town Res

Leigh Town Res  1 – 1  Corinthians Res

Pitsea Athletic  0 – 0  Collier Row

Wakering Sports Res  1 – 7  Catholic Utd Res

and Hashtag Utd Dev  H – W  Buckhurst Hill U23


EOFL Division Four Results

Canning Town Res  4 – 6  Springfield Res

Chingford Athletic Res  9 – 0  Old Chelmsfordians Res

Galleywood Res  5 – 4  Southend Manor Dev|

Leytonstone Utd  1 – 3  Ongar Town Res

Roydon  3 – 1  Sungate Dev

Shenfield AFC Res  0 – 0  Wakering Sports A


EOFL Division Five Results

AS Rawreth Res  1 – 4  Epping Town Res

Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res  3 – 2  Wakebury Res

Herongate Athletic Res  2 – 1  Old Barkabbeyans

Leigh Ramblers Res  4 – 1  Collier Row Res

Runwell Sports Res  3 – 2  Snaresbrook Res