Max Shepherd (#7) pushes forward for Harold Wood in their game this weekend
Written by Scott W [@ScottMHC14] – Non-League & EOFL Writer
Hello & welcome to the last edition of the Essex Olympian League column for the 2022-23 season, looking at the action in all divisions & Cups from the week to Saturday 13 May, at the end of the piece you’ll see the Champions from all six league divisions listed.
EOFL Premier Division
Two matches were played in the top-tier. Galleywood got a morale-boosting 2 – 1 win in their bottom-two clash with Bishop’s Stortford Swifts, held at Melbourne Park 3G. Freddie Bartram & Lee Judd got the goals for the relegated side to outdo Chris Gibbs’ reply for Swifts, who will finish second-bottom. Also, Runwell Sports‘ superb campaign goes on as they defeated Toby 4 – 3 at St Luke’s. Luca Frankis, Charlie Little, Riley Armstrong & James Dalton all netted here for Robert Hodgson’s side. Albert Perry’s brace & Ben Picton’s strike made it tight but Mark Jones’ side have still had a good season.
In Division Two, AS Rawreth ended their season in the best possible way, as the relegated side won 3 – 2 at home to Catholic Utd Res at the Warren. Eamonn Kearney’s team have the Reserve Cup Final in midweek against Wakering Sports Res at Heybridge’s Scraley Road.
In Division Four, Herongate Athletic Res defeated Pitsea Athletic Res 3 – 1 at Basildon Sports Village to fortify fourth spot. Habeeb Apatira, Alex Newton & replacement Kai Redmond all netted to seal the win. Pitsea Res finished eighth.
One other thing to mention, the Senior Cup Final this week was postponed because of the one thing that may be remembered – hefty rain. It has be re-set for May 24th, again at Heybridge’s Scraley Road. …
‘Roll of Honour’ champions by division
Hutton – EOFL Premier Division
Old Chelmsfordians – EOFL Division One
Shoebury Town – EOFL Division Two
Basildon Town Res – EOFL Division Three
Leigh Ramblers Res – EOFL Division Four
Manford Way Res – EOFL Division Five
Many thanks to all those who have read this column this term & to all who shared it as well. Have a good Summer.
Image from Corinthians v Harold Hill in D1 this weekend
Written by Scott W [@ScottMHC14] – Non-League & EOFL Writer
Hello & welcome to the latest edition of the Essex Olympian League round-up. This week, we look at the action in all divisions & Cups from Saturday 11 February, as the weekend’s action in all six divisions was bolstered by Cup ties. Also includes the midweek EOFL Premier game this week at the start of that section.
EOFL Premier Division
We begin with the first of what could be several midweek EOFL matches as the season comes to its run-in. Catholic Utd got a narrow 2 – 1 victory at Old Southendian on Wednesday night at Garon Park 3G. James Warder & Michael Sammut got the important goals to outdo replacement Nico Dubouchet’s reply for OS. The win took Utd up to second after the weekend’s action. For more on this match, check out Peter Dudley’s match report here: https://pedroslocalfootiefix.blogspot.com/2023/02/old-southendian-1-catholic-united-2.html
In the weekend’s top-tier action, there were some key results at the bottom of the table. None more so than Galleywood‘s narrow 1 – 0 victory over Toby at Slades Lane. Kaiyun Reeves got the decisive goal there to grab their second win this term & go level on points with rivals Springfield, who drew 1 – 1 with Sungate at Arun Park. Lewis Chapman got the hosts’ goal in the opening game of the new era there, under new boss Matt Cardy, formerly of Division Two side Wakebury. Bishop’s Stortford Swifts went up to fourth-bottom with a gritty 1 – 0 win at Kelvedon Hatch. Substitute Harley Merry’s strike saw Swifts go above Hatch in the table but both these sides & Toby are precariously close to the bottom two, which are likely to be the relegation spots in three months’ time.
Elsewhere, Rayleigh Town renewed their rivalry with Old Southendian before coming away with a 3 – 1 success at Thames Road. Nick Henesy netted for OS while Harry Talbot, George Vile’s penalty & an early OG accounted for the hosts’ goals, with the win taking them back up to third, albeit they are 14 points adrift of leaders Hutton. Catholic Utd & Leigh Ramblers look to be their nearest challengers for that coveted second-spot. Finally, Leigh Ramblers drew 1 – 1 with Shenfield AFC. Luke Williamson got AFC’s goal and Andrew Webster netted for the Rams at Belfairs Park
EOFL Divisions One & Two
Division One again saw some big results. We begin with Old Chelmsfordians‘ 4 – 0 victory at home to Wakering Sports. The ensemble cast of Shane Pritchard, Joe Murphy, Ryan Baxter & substitute Billy Duke got the goals which sees the OC’s retain third spot & reduce the deficit to Epping in second to only one point. Manford Way edged a truly marvellous match as they won 6 – 4 at Epping Town. The defeat leaves Town further vulnerable to being caught by both Old Chelms & Corinthians, who battled to an important 3 – 2 victory at home to Harold Hill at Stambridge. Brodie Horne netted two good goals & an early OG proved enough to outweigh goals from Harry Watkins & Troy Tizard-Cleghorn’s spot kick. For much more on this game, here’s my report: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2023/02/11/s22-23-match-report-corinthians-3-2-harold-hill-sat-11-feb-eofl/
Also, Harold Wood Athletic were held 1 – 1 at ACD Utd. Leroy Griffiths scoed for Wood, with Matthew Taylor levelling the match for Utd. Harold Wood’s lead at the summit inches further to five points now, with four wins likely to be enough to secure the title. ACD remain sixth & are not out of the running for a top-four spot yet.
Into Division Two now, and leaders Shoebury Town remain four points clear at the summit after a fine 3 – 1 victory at May & Baker. Lewis Hunt, Oliver Chew & Timi Tinubu goals sealed their 11th win this term. Wakering Sports Res remain their nearest challengers after a 3 – 0 win at home to Catholic Utd Res. Connor Fardyga again found the target, as did substitutes Eben Rowledge & David Watson to confirm the points.
Elsewhere, Harold Wood Athletic Res are back up to third spot after a good 3 – 0 triumph over out-of-form AS Rawreth at Harold Wood Rec. Matt Harris, Kieron Moynihan & an OG meant that the Wood side are still in the running for promotion.
EOFL Divisions Three, Four & Five
In Division Three, leaders Basildon Town Res extended their lead to ten points after a 4 – 1 win over Springfield Res at Basildon Sports Club. Anthony Aylett notched twice here for the hosts to reach seven league goals this term, while Louis Hill & replacement Ola Ogunjobi also scored to confirm the win. Pitsea Athletic are up to second, following an excellent 4 – 0 success at home to Hullbridge Res. Sean Devlin, Reece Stone, Jason Warner & Joe Berry all got goals there for Trevor Wickens’ side, who are now in prime position for that second promotion spot. In the other game this weekend, Chingford Athletic Res fortified sixth spot with a 6 – 1 triumph over Corinthians Res at Town Mead 3G. Luke Dimond netted a fine treble to reach 12 league goals this campaign thus far, allied with two for Sonny Clarke & one from Jack Smith confirmed the points for Carl Gregory’s side. Corinthians Res need a minimum of three wins from their last five matches to avoid a likely relegation to Division Four.
In Division Four, the top two were not in league action, which allowed Leigh Ramblers Res to retain third spot & reduce the gap to leaders Roydon to six points as they won 2 – 0 at Leytonstone Utd. Joe Howson & Jacob Meads got the goals at Forest Row. Also, Herongate Athletic Res are well-placed in fourth now, after a 4 – 0 success over Wakering Sports A at Billericay Road. Thomas Lambourne & Byron Brackett both scored to get the hosts going before further strikes by replacements Kieron Wilson-Fowler & Joe Coldham secured the points.
Lastly in this division, Ongar Town battled with Galleywood Res to a goal-less draw at Marks Hall Centre. the point sees Ongar rise to sixth and Galleywood remain third from bottom, still needing points to secure their place in this division next term.
In Division Five, Collier Row Res are back in second spot, following a impressive 7 – 3 victory at Wakebury Res. Harry Potts netted five goals himself to double his tally to ten goals this term for the Ressie side. Jake Griffin & Raheem Bravo’s penalty added further ache to the hosts. Joe Creak’s side replied through a brace from Ross Barnes & one from Arry Hardy. The other results saw Shoebury Town Res win 4 – 0 at AS Rawreth Res and Sungate Res triumph 3 – 1 at Canning Town Res.
Cups
We start the Cup action with mentions of the two Senior Cup games. First up, it was predictably tight in the all-Premier Division clash in Beckton as Hutton defeated Canning Town 3 – 2. Lewis Scott & substitutes Will Marlowe & Billy Chilcott got the decisive goals for Matt Singh’s side who may well mark this potentially pivotal season with a Cup Final appearance as well. Joining them in the next round will be Catholic Utd, who won 3 – 0 at Division Two side Hashtag Utd Development. Tom Elliott, Harrison Day and Tom Kearney got the goals for Simon Thomas’ side at Barleylands.
Moving on to the other Cup competitions now. Firstly in the Reserve Cup, and Basildon Town A got an upset on spot-kicks, after drawing 1 – 1 with Division Two side Hutton Res at Polo Fields. Donnel Kujinga again netted for the Division Five side, and they won 5 – 4 on penalties to see them through. There was nearly another upset in the Denny King Cup tie this weekend as Division One side Beacon Hill Rovers also needed penalties to progress, after a 1 – 1 draw at Division Four leaders Roydon. Nader Benzid got the hosts’ goal, with Charles Fitt’s late goal meaning a shoot-out was needed. Rovers won that 4 – 2 but credit does go to Roydon, who are continuing to show they may well be alright, should they complete the job & gain promotion for next term.
We end this week with two ties in the Reserve Trophy. Firstly, Manford Way Res narrowly got the better of Leigh Town Res, as Manford won 3 – 2 to send the Division Three team out. Luke Bennett’s double, allied with Charlie Ewing’s strike outdid strikes by Zack Walker & Spencer Izatt for Leigh to send the Division Five side through. Also, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res also prevailed, following a 2 – 0 victory at home to Shenfield AFC Res, with Matthew Allen & David Falzon strikes securing the win at Silver Leys.
Leigh Rams: Blue & Black Shirts, Black Shorts, Black Socks
Galleywood: Yellow & Black Shirts, Yellow Shorts & Socks
Rams take their chances to claim big win over Galleywood
Leigh Ramblers 4 – 0 Galleywood
Match Report & Photos by Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMHC14]
The weekend match this week was remaining with the Essex Olympian League but moving up to the Premier Division clash between Leigh Ramblers and Galleywood at Belfairs Park. An hour before kick-off, we got a early sight of the match conditions which was consistent rain. Mark Hunter’s Rams side featured Dylan Skinner in goal, a defence comprised of Harry DaCosta, Barv Waiwaiku & centre-backs Jamie Skinner and captain Ryan Lowe. The midfield trio were Callum Morris, Billy Field & Matt Brinklow, supporting forwards Andrew Webster, George Moxon & Scott Clark. Galleywood were second-bottom pre-match and had Billy Cropper in goal, skipper Harry Bond, Bradley Taylor, Matthew Hicks & Freddie Bartram in their backline. Louie Herbert, Matthew Buckingham & Sean Barry were in midfield. Ben Smith led the forward line, with support from Roman Sparks & Alex Sparks.
The first half was an absolute battle as the rain continued to gain strength & influence the game. Galleywood pushed forward and had the edge early on, with forward Roman Sparks sending a half-chance off-target inside the opening eight minutes. Defending was getting increasingly tricky giving the inclement conditions and with the game getting increasingly end-to-end, the Rams did take the lead on ten minutes. Central midfielder Callum Morris saw a glimmer of an oppurtunity and unleashed a powerful strike from 30 yards out, which caught out visiting stopper Billy Cropper on its way to finding the net.
Scott Clark (#7) pushes forward for Rams in first half
Most of the rest of the half was a pretty even contest in my view, with both teams venturing forward to good effect at times. Home skipper Ryan Lowe nodded wide of goal from a set-piece, while forwards George Moxon & Scott Clark were testing the visiting backline with their running & pace. Eight minutes before the interval, Roman Sparks was in the action again as his well-directed strike was heading for the far corner, only for a terrific save by home custodian Dylan Skinner clawed it away for a set-piece.
That intervention from Skinner ended up being influential as five minutes later, in attempting to recycle possession, Galleywood lost the ball in midfield and full-back Barv Waiwaiku’s good run ended with a fine pass which found Scott Clark in some space and his strike found the right corner, giving Cropper little chance of denying him.
A set-piece for Galleywood angled in towards home defence not long before half-time
Galleywood did have another chance on goal before the interval as forward Ben Smith could not find the target, firing narrowly over the goal frame from about 18 yards out.. At the interval, Dean Reeves’ team were still in the match but the rain continued unabated, which increased the effort needed to turn the game around.
Half-Time: Leigh Rams 2 – 0 Galleywood
As it happened, that chance for the visitors was pretty much gone after the Rams scored a third goal three minutes after the resumption. A well-angled cross by Matt Brinklow into the six-yard area, which found forward Andrew Webster and his header got the better of Cropper and it trickled into the net. Despite showing some admirable resolve to get down the channels to create crossing oppurtunities, Galleywood were unable to maintain the tempo they had started the game with, as Leigh Ramblers started to find another gear themselves.
Mark Hunter’s side further secured the points with a fourth goal, fourteen minutes from time. A well-measured pass by Brinklow split the visiting defence slightly left of centre of the pitch and found the advancing George Moxon who beat the off-side trap well and slotted home past Cropper and into the far corner. This writer felt it would be a case of ‘who wanted it more’ pre-match but in the end it was also a case of defensive errors proving costly for Dean Reeves’ team, which the Rams had the quality to make the most of.
Other than that, it was a good game considering all the factors mentioned earlier. This big win took the Rams up to seventh place after the weekend’s action, eight points above the top three. Galleywood drop to the foot of the table because of the goals conceded here, but they do have at least one game in hand on all of the teams around them.
Matt Brinklow (#11) about to take free-kick for Rams in 2nd half
Full-Time: Leigh Ramblers 4 – 0 Galleywood
To summarise this battling match played in difficult, rainy conditions, Leigh Ramblers traversed their way through a tricky first half in which Galleywood had a few chances to turn the screw in the second period, scoring some fine goals in the process. To their credit, the visitors kept going but the difficult conditions had an effect on them in the later stages. The main concern for Dean Reeves’ side is the need for more goals.
The stand-out performances start with victors Leigh Ramblers. Firstly, forward Scott Clark had another good game, making good runs & taking his goal calmly at an important time. Winger Matthew Brinklow makes a difference for the Rams and showed so again, conjuring up two assists & making several astute passes too. Skipper Ryan Lowe was his usual commanding self in defence and made several important interceptions in the first half & a few driving runs into midfield as well. Lastly, full-back Harry DaCosta also had a good game, showing good energy & stuck to his role in the side well to shut out a decent Galleywood forward line.
For Galleywood, midfielder Roman Sparks was their most creative player, making several good breaks forward, having two of their better chances & also making good passes too. Captain Harry Bond made a few really good tackles to keep his team in the game as well as showing high work rate, as did full-back Bradley Taylor who also had a good match. Forward Alex Sparks also contributed to his team’s forward moves, particularly before the break.
I will close by wishing both sides a good remainer of the season. Thanks for reading.
Teams
Leigh Ramblers | Manager: Mark Hunter | Assistant: Nathan Dewberry
Starting XI: 1 Dylan Skinner (GK), 2 Harry DaCosta, 14 Barv Waiwaiku, 5 Ryan Lowe (Capt), 4 Jamie Skinner, 7 Scott Clark, 8 Callum Morris, 12 Billy Field, 11 Matt Brinklow, 9 Andrew Webster, 10 George Moxon
Goal-Scorers: Callum Morris [10′], Scott Clark [42′], Andrew Webster [48′], George Moxon [76′]
Subs On (Time): 3 Thomas Franks [52′], 6 Scott Keys [78′]
Booked: J Skinner | Sub Not Used: Horne
Galleywood | Manager: Dean Reeves | Assistant: Billy Kinchlea
Starting XI: 1 Billy Cropper (GK), 2 Harry Bond (Capt), 3 Bradley Taylor, 4 Matthew Hicks, 12 Louie Herbert, 14 Matthew Buckingham, 5 Freddie Bartram, 11 Alex Sparks, 8 Roman Sparks, 7 Sean Barry, 9 Ben Smith
Subs On (Time): 6 Charlie Priest [52′], 16 Luke Seaton [68′], 10 Lewis Weedon [73′]
Booked: Bartram | Sub Not Used: Skipper, Kinchlea
Referee: Stuart Nixon Assistants: Joe Cowdrey & David Bloxham
Written by Scott W [@ScottMHC14] – Non-League Writer
Hello & welcome to the round-up from the action in the Essex Olympian League. This week on Saturday 8 October, we look at the action in all League divisions from Two to Five, plus an extra section on the Essex Premier Cup & the EOFL Reserve League Cup. Thanks as ever to all the regular readers of this column & to all the clubs.
No EOFL Premier Division & Division One action this week
EOFL Divisions Two & Three
We begin this week in Division Two, with a handsome win for Hashtag Utd Dev as they prevailed 12 – 1 at AS Rawreth. Samuel Pratt struck four goals here, with Matthew Gauci notching twice. There was a hefty ensemble of Josh Jarvis, Thomas Matthew, Jay Knight, Chandler Wray, Tommy Green & replacement Jake Smith who all scored as well. Wakebury also got a morale-boosting win, 5 – 2 at Catholic Utd Res. Will Wheeler, Mark Frostick, Ben Morley, Junior Lawrence & substitute Isaac Bello all netted for Matt Cardy’s side in that game. The other result saw Old Southendian Res draw 3 – 3 at May & Baker EOFL.
Moving now into the solitary match in Division Three, as Basildon Town Res got another big win, 7 – 0 at home to Corinthians Res. Harry Payne came off the bench to score a treble, with the supporting cast of Louis Hill, Antony Aylett, Jamie Miller & Billy Hutchinson all scoring too.
EOFL Divisions Four & Five
In Division Four, Roydon got a big 5 – 0 victory over Galleywood Res. Substitute Mike Hayes netted twice for the hosts, with Connor Presland, Lucas Riddoch & fellow replacement Lee Wicks secured the points. Herongate Athletic Res also got the points with a 2 – 0 success at Leytonstone Utd. Kieron Wilson-Fowler & substitute Kai Redmond got the goals there. The other result in the division was Ongar Town’s 3 – 1 victory against Pitsea Athletic Res at Marks Hall.
In Division Five, the top four sides all won. Basildon Town A are still top after a 4 – 0 victory at Canning Town Res. Daniel Kujinga got all four goals for the visitors as they stayed a point clear. Runwell Sports Res are in second place after a 9 – 1 victory over Shoebury Town Res at St Luke’s. Gianni Frankis scored four goals here, with Harry Ford scoring two goals as well as Luke Smith and substitutes James Clarke & Bryce Comer. Manford Way Res are in third after a 5 – 3 success at Sungate Res. Callum Thomas scored two goals for them, with Charlie Webb, Charlie Thomas & Bradley Wilkins all also on target.
Lastly for the League action, Collier Row Res are in fourth spot after a terrific 11 – 1 win over AS Rawreth Res. Jordan Lee & Raheem Bravo both scored trebles for the Romford-based side, with Eric Eze & George Coker netting twice each also, with Ryan Costello also on target.
Essex Premier Cup
In our additional section on the EPC this week, we start with ACD Utd progressing with a 6 – 1 victory over Springfield Res. Alex Bessent netted twice for Michael Wade’s side, with Jacob Dingli, Samuel Payne, Scott Perkins & substitute Connor Lambert all netting on a good day for them. Catholic Utd had a scare before joining ACD as they had extra time to deal with before winning 4 – 2 at Buckhurst Hill U23. Aaron Baldwin & Ben Burrows scored for Utd, with Harry Maslin & Harvey Woods scoring for Hill. Extra-time strikes by Tom Elliott & Adrian Maponga sealed the win for Simon Thomas’ side.
Frenford Development got a fine 3 – 2 win at fellow Step 7 side Canning Town. Edem Tetteh, Isima Iguisi & substitute Sebastian Ramirez goals saw the EAL Senior side through. EOFL Division One side Beacon Hill Rovers made a superb comeback as they won 4 – 3 at Middlesex County Premier side Clapton CFC. Greg Moorse, Fred Taylor & Reggie Nelson goals saw the Tons take the lead, but a treble from Karl Swanborough turned the tables & Bertie Whymark also netted for Rovers. Galleywood also got the win as they defeated Leigh Town Res 4 – 0 at John Burrows Rec. Ben Smith scored a treble with Jamie Lockwood getting the other goal.
Elsewhere, Rayleigh Town also went through following a 3 – 0 victory at Manford Way. George Vile, Jack Long & William Vile got the goals for Paul Higgins’ team. Harold Wood Athletic also won, as Jacob Roberts & Matty Donovan goals saw them to a 2 – 1 win at EAL team Oakside, after extra-time. Old Chelmsfordians defeated fellow EOFL Division One side Harold Hill 3 – 1 , thanks to a brace from Joe Kemp and one goal from Max Johnson. Troy Tizard-Cleghorn responded for Billy Cove’s team.
Meanwhile, Pitsea Athletic won with a 3 – 2 triumph over Hullbridge Sports Res. Kwadwo Asante, Reece Stone & Josh Ledger all netted there at Basildon Sports Club. Toby also booked their place in the next round withh a 2 – 1 success over Shoebury Town. Jamie Simpkins & replacement Oliver Dingli both scored for Mark Jones’ side. Leigh Ramblers also won through after a 3 – 1 triumph at Wakering Sports. Ryan Wyatt scored for Wakering, but goals from Scott Clark, Jack Gardner & an OG secured the win.
Our final two matches start with a excellent game which Alresford Colne Rangers progress with a 5 – 4 victory at Springfield. Josh Gray scored two goals for Rangers, but further goals from Finley Hughes, Sam Hume & Ryan Lewis sealed the win. Strikes by Mason Sprott, Harrison Elles, Cameron Brown & substitute Olle Gentry made it close but interim boss Cameron Scorer’s side went out. Lastly, there was a rare scoreline at St Martins Sch as Shenfield AFC trounced May & Baker Res 21 – 0. Substitute Alex Tredgett led the way with five goals, Jack Shaw & Luke Williamson also scored four goals each. Frankie Fealty & Ben Absolon netted two more goals apiece and the scorers were rounded out by Elliott Thompson, Ben Carroll, Samuel Lock & an OG.
Other Results
Harold Wood Athletic Res 2 – 3 Dedham Old Boys
Hashtag Utd Res 4 – 0 Hutton Res
Herongate Athletic 1 – 4 Barnston
Hutton 1 – 0 Rayleigh Town Res
Oakside 1 – 2 Harold Wood Athletic (AET)
Old Chelmsfordians Res 1 – 4 Colne Athletic
Old Southendian 2 – 3 Woodford East
Wakering Sports Res 2 – 1 Frenford Res
West Bergholt 6 – 1 Toby Res
EOFL Reserve League Cup
In the Ressie League Cup, Leigh Ramblers Res went through after a 3 – 0 victory over Wakering Sports A. Jacob Meads scored twice & Charlie Batchelor got the other goal at Belfairs Park. Also, Wakebury Res also won, getting a surprise 4 – 1 win over EOFL Div Four side Shenfield AFC at Shoebury Park, Ross Barnes netted twice for the hosts, with Luke Abbott and Jamie Oates also on target for Joe Creak’s team. Jack Panons got the solitary reply for AFC’s second team.
Written by Scott W [@ScottMHC14] – Non-League Writer
Hello & welcome to the round-up from the action in the Essex Olympian League. This week on Saturday 1 October, we look at the action in all five divisions, plus an extra section on the various Cup competitions, including the EOFL Senior Cup.
Image from Cartholic Utd 1 – 4 Hutton – by Scott W
EOFL – Saturday 1 October
EOFL Premier Division & Division One
As ever we begin with the top-tier, and Rayleigh Town went up to second spot after a 4 – 0 victory against Springfield at Thames Road. George Vile grabbed a rare hat-trick, alongside a goal from replacement Lewis Robson for Paul Higgins’ team. After the game, Springfield boss Franco Zabotti stepped down as manager, I’d like to wish him and club well for the future. Also, Runwell Sports got a 1 – 0 success, against Canning Town at St Luke’s. Charlie Little getting the goal there for Robert Hodgson’s side. Leigh Ramblers also got a 1 – 0 win, over Bishop’s Stortford Swifts as Andrew Webster struck again for Mark Hunter’s team, who are in fourth.
Galleywood narrowly won at Sungate 1 – 0, with Ben Smith netting the solitary goal as they secured their first win this season. In the match I was at this weekend, Hutton made the most of big goals at important times as they won 4 – 1 at Catholic Utd. Jude Keeling netted twice for Matt Singh’s team, with an OG & David Johnson accounting for the other goals. If you’d like more on that game, my report is here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2022/10/02/s22-23-match-report-catholic-utd-1-4-hutton-sat-1-oct-eofl/
Meanwhile at St Martins’ Sch 3G, Shenfield AFC got a 2 – 1 success over Toby, with Ben Carroll netting both goals for AFC. Luis Ruiz’s penalty responded for Toby as they finished the game strongly. Finally, Kelvedon Hatch were pleased to record a 2 – 0 triumph over Old Southendian at New Hall. Drew Klessa-Smith was back on the score-sheet, with Charlie Nichols also on target as Hatch leapt out of the bottom two after netting first win this season.
In Division One, Manford Way went up to fourth spot after a fine 4 – 2 win at Old Chelmsfordians. Charlie Parish scored twice here, while Samuel Oramadike & James Dobson also netted for Manford here. Beacon Hill Rovers held Harold Hill 1 – 1 as well with Jack Walker scoring for the home side. Billy Cove’s side are in mid-table, seven points clear of the bottom three. Epping Town were held 3 – 3 at ACD Utd, with Joe Rickett, Scout Bown and Chris Gormley all scoring for Stuart Hoskins’ side. ACD responded through a double from Frank Markham & one from Jacob Dingli, as they remained fifth.
EOFL Divisions Two & Three
In Division Two, Harold Wood Athletic Res are three points clear at the summit after a 3 – 2 victory at home to Catholic Utd Res. Josh Portway’s superb treble was enough to send the hosts to the win, overhauling goals by Finley Lewis and Utd club stalwart Dan Trenkel. Shoebury Town are second after they humbled Wakebury 10 – 0 at Ekco Sports Club in Prittlewell. Kian Bradshaw netted four goals himself, Mechack-Kisoka Asuka grabbed three goals on his league debut while Aaron Marshall scored another brace plus there was a goal for Takondwa Maosa as Garry Johnson & John Galley’s team heavily bolstered their goal difference with this huge win.
Elsewhere, Old Southendian Res narrowly defeated Hutton Res 1 – 0 in the late game at Garon Park 3G. Nico Dubouchet got another decisive goal for Josh Bambury’s team, who got their first win this term. Finally in this division, Hashtag Utd Dev were held 2 – 2 by bottom side Rayleigh Town Res at Barleylands. Tommy Green & Matthew Gauci netted for Denis Simpson’s team.
In Division Three, Springfield Res went into mid-table after a 1 – 0 win over Buckhurst Hill U23, with Liam England getting the only goal. Leigh Town Res were held 2 – 2 by Basildon Town Res. The visitors netted through a brace from Joe Fogarty but strikes by Steve Birnie & replacement Callum Stone and they went up to third. Lastly, Chingford Athletic Res won 4 – 0 at Toby Res.
EOFL Division Four
Moving into Division Four now, and Leigh Ramblers Res went up to fourth after a fine 4 – 1 victory at Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res. Lewis Wake netted for Swifts at Silver Leys but goals by Mickey Dodkins, Luis Bracci, Jacob Meads & Joe Howson secured the win for the Rams second-side. Herongate Athletic Res are still unbeaten after a 2 – 1 success against Ongar Town. Habeeb Apatira’s double saw Ath go two points clear at the top. Ongar’s struggles continue, having lost all four games thus far.
Elsewhere, Galleywood Res drew 1 – 1 with Shenfield AFC Res. Substitute Ebenezer Fasoranti scored for the hosts, and Ross Riding again netting for AFC’s second side. The other game saw Wakering Sports A win 5 – 1 against second-bottom Leytonstone Utd. Joe Young scored a hat-trick for the hosts, with James Medlock getting a solitary goal for Utd.
No action in Division Five this week.
Essex Premier Cup R1
So the EPC had one additional fixture this week with Corinthians going through after defeating Stanway Rovers U23 2 – 1 at the Stambridge Memorial Ground. Bailey Moss & Jake Hodder got the goals to overturn Ehren Collins’ strike for the Rovers’ developmental side.
EOFL Senior League Cup
There were four ties in the Senior League Cup. First, May & Baker EOFL won 6 – 1 at Wakering Sports, with braces for Carl Patten & Jack O’Connor plus goals for Kane Messenger & Scott O’Connor as they progressed. Harold Wood Athletic also went through after a 4 – 1 triumph at Hullbridge Sports Res. Max Shepherd, Zach Holding, Matty Donovan and Owen Edwards all netted with Harry Mole scoring for the ‘Bridge side. Pitsea Athletic joined them in the next round as they won 3 – 1 at AS Rawreth, with Reece Stone, Kwadwo Asante & Josh Ledger all scoring for the visitors. Collier Row also went through 5 – 4 on spot-kicks after a 0 – 0 draw with Leigh Town.
Written by Scott W [@ScottMHC14] – Non-League Writer
Match Photos by Scott W
Hello & welcome to the round-up from the action in the Essex Olympian League. This week on Saturday 17 September, we look at the action in all six divisions, plus an extra section on the Essex Premier Cup which also got underway once again this weekend. The above image is taken from a fine minute’s silence observed to mark Queen Elizabeth II, at Rayleigh Town v Leigh Ramblers as was the case at all EOFL matches and elsewhere this weekend.
EOFL – Saturday 17 September
Still from Rayleigh Town v Leigh Ramblers this weekend
EOFL Premier Division & Division One
We start this week in the top-tier with Toby‘s 3 – 2 win over Bishop’s Stortford Swifts at the Nursery Sports Ground. Jamie Simpkins, Oliver Dingli and Luis Ruiz’s spot-kick were enough to send Mark Jones’ team to victory, overhauling goals from Jordan Robertson and Jack Clarke for Swifts to confirm the points. Hutton had a Stephen Judge goal to thank for a 1 – 0 win over Old Southendian at Chadfields which keeps them top by three points.
In the match I saw myself at Thames Road, Rayleigh Town left it late to secure a comeback 4 – 3 win over Leigh Ramblers in a superb match. Frank Hession-Harris, Will Baldry, Harry Talbot and substitute Philip Anunwa’s strike overturned a brace from Andrew Webster and a stunner from Scott Clark to grab the points. If you’d like more on this match, my report is available here:
Finally in the Premier, Springfield were held 2 – 2 by Canning Town. Emmanuel Etcheri and Arinze Ossai both netted for Franco Zabotti’s side.
In Division One, Harold Wood Athletic continued their fine form with a 5 – 0 victory over Wakering Sports at Cupid’s. James Pottle netted twice again here, with the supporting cast of Leroy Griffiths, Billy Gray and Connor Sheehan all netting for John Field’s team, who are three points clear at the summit. Corinthians sit second after a 4 – 2 success at home to Herongate Athletic. Bailey Moss netted another fine treble here for Chris Stoneham’s team, with Max Jones adding the other after coming off the bench. Both the top two remain unbeaten.
Still in the second-tier, Manford Way got their first win of the new term in some style as they won 5 – 1 at home to Leigh Town. David Alele, Richard Kadima, Dawid Potoczek, Alfie Smith and substitute Samuel Oramadike all scored to secure the win. Zack Walker got the consolation goal in what proved to be boss Antony Lane’s last game in charge, I’d like to wish him well for the future.
EOFL Divisions Two & Three
In the only Division Two match this week, Harold Wood Athletic Res were too strong on this day as they defeated May & Baker EOFL 5 – 2 at Harold Wood Rec. Thomas Butler scored twice here for the hosts, with substitutes Del Hawtin, Lennie Milton-White & Sam Tampkins all netting as well.
In Division Three, Hullbridge Sports Res were a rare side who handed Bickhurst Hill U23 a defeat at home, with Hullbridge winning 3 – 2. Joe Tuskin scored twice for the Sports’ developmental side, and Jay Knight was once again on the score-sheet. Stefanos Ladoukakis and Jack Barnes goals made it tight but ultimately the Buckhurst developmental side fell to defeat. Also, Leigh Town Res were 2 – 0 winners at Old Chelmsfordians Res, with Chris Pope and substitute Nathan Cox on target for Josh Burrage’s side. Lastly in Division Three, Pitsea Athletic were 3 – 1 victors over Springfield Res at Basildon Sports Club. Liam Jeffrey netted twice here, with replacement Carlos Dias adding his name on the score-sheet. Harrison Elles responded for the visitors.
EOFL Divisions Four & Five
Moving into Division Four now, Roydon continued their decent start with a 1 – 0 win away at Shenfield AFC Res. Rene Pivarnik was the hero as they celebrated another welcome win. Leigh Ramblers Res also got a huge win with an 8 – 0 triumph over Ongar Town at Belfairs. Substitute Temi Adebayo struck three goals here, with Luis Bracci adding two goals plus there was one goal each for Taylor Stewart, Matthew Pooley and replacement Cameron Jarvis. Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res also got maximum points with a 4 – 1 win over Galleywood Res at Silver Leys. Substitute Matt Kemp led the charge with two goals, with Henry Harnack and Matthew Allen adding to the visitors’ pain.
Elsewhere in Division Four, Herongate Athletic Res got all three points with a 4 – 0 victory over Pitsea Athletic Res at St Clere’s 3G. Kai Redmond scored twice here, with Kemston Allen and Kieron Wilson-Fowler also finding the net in this good win. The other game saw Collier Row grab a huge 7 – 1 victory over Wakering Sports Res at Forest Row Centre.
In Division Five, Basildon Town A got a big 7 – 0 triumph at AS Rawreth Res, with Harry Payne scoring a treble, Scott Read adding two goals and Rodney Wilson getting the other strike. Wakebury Res also got three points, as they won 2 – 1 at Shoebury Town Res. Tommy Wolfe got both goals for Joe Creak’s team there. The other result saw Runwell Sports Res defeat Epping Town Res 5 – 0 at St Luke’s Park. Benjamin See and substitute Wallace Hoyi both netted twice here, with Alex Gray grabbing the other goal.
Essex Premier Cup R1
So the EPC got underway with the various leagues at Step 7 of the pyramid (Essex Olympian, Essex Alliance, Essex & Suffolk Border etc) facing each other as well as some Reserve sides. We begin our in-focus look at seven matches with Shoebury Town‘s superb 5 – 1 victory over Olympian League local rivals Old Southendian Res. Kyle McAlindon came off the bench to score twice for Garry Johnson & John Galley’s team here, with Kian Bradshaw, Aaron Marshall and Enoch Gyimah also finding the net. Jack Pagett’s goal for the OS side did little to inspire them unfortunately.
In the lunchtime game, Catholic Utd negoiated a tricky trip to Barking U23 as Utd prrevailed 4 – 0 at Mayesbrook Park 3G. Louis Robinson, Franklin Craik, Ben Burrows and James Warder all netted for Simon Thomas’ team as they progressed. Beacon Hill Rovers went through thanks to a 3 – 2 win over Saffron Walden Town Res with Charles Brewer, Ashley Hill and Jack Walker all netting for the victors there. Harold Hill also had a good day, as they defeated fellow Olympian side AS Rawreth 4 – 1. Robbie Farrell, Charles Georgiou, Joe Killingback and Freddie Madle all score to see Billy Cove’s side through.
ACD Utd also went through after despatching Belle Vue SC 4 – 1 at Westlands. Jacob Dingli scored twice here for Michael Wade’s team, with Scott Perkins and an OG accounting for the other goals. Galleywood were made to work hard for their 3 – 2 victory over West Essex Development, with Roman Sparks’ double leading the way and Ben Smith also notching for the hosts there. Lastly for this week, Old Chelmsfordians progressed with a 3 – 1 success over Takeley Res. The trio of Max Johnson, Shane Pritchard and Greg Strong were all on target to see the hosts through. Alfie Nicholls got the solitary reply for the ESL Reserve side.
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 14 May. The focus this week is on the League action in the top three divisions. Thank you for reading.
Photos by Trevor Robinson Photography [@TrevRobPhoto] & Scott W
Image from Basildon Town’s 1 – 0 win at Hutton last week, Image by @TrevRobPhoto
Essex Olympian League – Midweek [Tues 10 May]
The solitary midweek match this week was the EOFL Senior League Cup Final, which saw Canning Town grab a surprise 3 – 2 triumph over Sungate at Woodside. Goals from Dominic Lewis, Karl Harms and Jack Williamson confirmed a memorable evening for Canning. Jake Willis and Petrit Elbi both netted for Sungate but they will have to be content with their Essex Premier Cup success this term.
Essex Olympian League – Saturday 14 May
Now moving on to the weekend action, and Ongar Town got a big 4 – 0 victory over Catholic Utd to confirm the EOFL Premier Division title for the first time. Second-half goals from Evernage Nyahunda, Joe Lilly, Mitchell McCabe & a Fred Mattock special secured a memorable day (and evening) of celebrations for Richard Ponsford’s team as they won the title on goal difference. Utd will finish no worse than seventh and have one more match to play at home to Canning Town next weekend. If you’d like more on this match, my report is here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2022/05/15/s21-22-match-report-ongar-town-4-0-catholic-utd-sat-14-may/
A Champions’ Guard of Honour for Ongar Town yesterday post-match by Catholic Utd
Continuing with the Premier Division, Galleywood secured their divisional safety for another season with a 3 – 0 success at Springfield. Matthew Crick scored twice for the visitors there, with Thomas Watling again on target in this win against their local rivals. Canning Town retained their slim hopes of avoiding a bottom two finish with a 3 – 0 home victory over Bishop’s Stortford Swifts in Beckton. Town will have to win all three of their remaining matches to do that, and two of those games are against Sungate. Swifts fell to 11th but are out of immediate danger.
Finally in the Premier, Old Southendian grabbed a 2 – 0 win at Sungate, with two Daniel Frimley goals giving Altar Ali’s team the points, they will likely finish in eighth in what has been a good season in the main for OS.
In Division One, Beacon Hill Rovers confirmed their safety for another season with a superb 3 – 2 win away at rivals Snaresbrook at Hackney Marshes. ‘Brook need at least a point to avoid a bottom two finish from their last match – against rivals Leigh Town next weekend.
In Division Two, Manford Way got given the points from a recent match after an infringement from the opposition and that boost assisted them to a runners-up finish (and promotion so congratulations to them) as they won 4 – 3 at AS Rawreth. James Dobson, Alfie Smith and substitutes Samuel Oramadike and Dawid Potoczek all netted to secure the win for the East London side. Harold Hill finished third as they lost 1 – 4 to Hutton Res at Polo Fields, which also ensured the Hutton scond-side will avoid a bottom two finish and likely avoiding relegation along with it. With Division One short of clubs, Hill might still get elevated. Rawreth & Rochford Town are the bottom two clubs and will likely be demoted.
Finally, in Division Four Old Chelmsfordians Res secured their promotion as they grabbed a 4 – 1 victory over Ongar Town Res. They will finish second and congrats to them as well. Champions Chingford Athletic Res also ended their season with a home walkover win against Sungate Development, who finish bottom and will be relegated.
The last edition of this round-up for the season will be online on or soon after Monday 23 May. Thank you for reading.
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.
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 ManorDev 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.
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
Archive Image – Matt Tonking [#9] steps up to take FK for OS v Hutton
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 2 April. The focus this week is on the League action and we have additional sections on Divisions Four & Five. Thank you for reading.
Essex Olympian Lge – Saturday 2 April
EOFL Premier Division, Divisions One & Two
In the Premier Division, Rayleigh Town got the big win this weekend to stay in the title hunt, as they got a 3 – 1 triumph over rivals Hutton at London Road. Will Baldry, Liam Oliver and Harry Talbot all netted for Paul Higgins’ side as they stayed second. Stephen Judge got the reply for the visitors. Fellow Non-League writer Pete Dudley was there and his report can be viewed here: http://pedroslocalfootiefix.blogspot.com/2022/04/rayleigh-town-3-hutton-1.html
Elsewhere, Basildon Town remain third after a 3 – 1 victory over Kelvedon Hatch at Gardiners Lane. The trio of Graham Harrison, Rhys Fatt and James O’Brien got the goals for Marcus Bowers’ team there. They still have two games in hand on the top two with a four point deficit to make up. Sidney Walker netted for Kelvedon , who are in fifth spot. Leaders Ongar Town remain three points clear at the summit after a 5 – 1 success at bottom side Harold Wood Athletic. Joe Lilly netted twice for Richard Ponsford’s side here, with Harry Rawlins, Brandon Wood and an OG accounting for the other goals. Max London responded for Ath but they have six games left to overhaul a nine point deficit to third-bottom Galleywood. Speaking of Galleywood, they got a big 2 – 1 victory at Shenfield AFC, with Harry Bond and Tyler Tredgett netting for ‘Wood there.
Also, Leigh Ramblers got a massive three points by overcoming Old Southendian 3 – 0 at Belfairs. George Moxon, Tom Franks and Ryan Lowe (on his 200th appearance for the club) all netted for Mark Hunter’s team here. They have four games left to gather as many points as possible as all the sides below them have matches in hand on them. OS remain seventh. Finally, Catholic Utd had goals from Tom Elliott and replacement Joe O’Kane to thank for a 2 – 0 success at home to Bishop’s Stortford Swifts, which keeps them in sixth spot and a chance of a top-five finish. Swifts remain tenth.
In Division One, the only match was a big one which saw Epping Town grab a 3 – 2 triumph at rivals Beacon Hill Rovers, thanks to a fine treble by Joe Rickett. The win takes Epping six points clear of the bottom two. Rovers will need at least one win from their last two matches to avoid a bottom-two finish.
Moving into Division Two now, Hutton Res drew 1 – 1 with AS Rawreth in a big battle at the bottom of the division. Both teams remain in the bottom three, with Rawreth having one more match to play. There was a walkover win for Manford Way also, over bottom side Rochford Town which saw them rise back up to third spot. It’s worth noting also that all of the top four sides have three matches remaining.
EOFL Divisions Three, Four & Five
Into Division Three, Hashtag Utd Dev took a big step towards the title with a huge 10 – 1 triumph at Toby Res. The ensemble cast of goal-scorers for Denis Simpson’s included doubles for Shaun Warren, Matthew Gauci and Josh Jarvis with Samuel Pratt, Chandler Wray, Jake Smith and Bradley Bunker all adding one each to take them to the top, with three matches left. Also, Hullbridge Sports Res drew 3 – 3 with Corinthians Res at Lower Road. Jay Knight got two goals for Sports here, with Owen Barrett also scoring for the hosts.
Moving into Division Four, Springfield Res got a important 3 – 1 victory over Leytonstone Utd to remain second, with two games in hand on nearest rivals Ongar Town Res, who also got three points after a 2 – 1 victory at Southend Manor Dev, in a match played at Cupid’s. Hudson Lawrence scored for Manor’s side there. Elsewhere, Old Chelmsfordians Res secured a 3 – 2 win at home to Galleywood Res, thanks to Timothy King who struck two twice for OC’s second side, with Shane Pritchard also finding the net. Oliver Sadler and Lee Judd responded for the visitors but they remain third-bottom. There are as many as four teams who could finish in second spot and the OC side and Roydon have the most matches left (four each) to play.At the bottom, Canning Town Res rounded out their campaign with a 3 – 1 win at home to Shenfield AFC Res, to record their second win this term but it is most likely they will still finish bottom of the table.
In Division Five, Old Barkabbeyans drew 4 – 4 with top four side Herongate Athletic Res at Barking Abbey. The point means the hosts go up to sixth, but this was their last match of the season so they could yet be caught by the two teams immediately below them in the standings. Herongate have two matches left. There was a walkover win for Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res as well over Runwell Sports Res, which sent Swifts top by two points and ended the Runwell team’s season, in which they will finish fifth.
EOFL Cups
EOFL Senior Lge Cup – Semi-Finals
Harold Hill 1 – 2 Canning Town
Sungate p1 – 1 Corinthians ( Sungate won 6-5 on penalties)
EOFL Reserve Lge Cup
Wakering Sports Res 6 – 1 Chingford Athletic Res
EOFL Res Lge Trophy
May & Baker A 2 – 1 Leigh Town Res
EOFL Denny King Cup
Runwell Sports 2 – 1 Collier Row
Snaresbrook p1 – 1 Wakering Sports (Snaresbrook won 7 – 6 on penalties)
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