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

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

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

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

 

Gordon Brasted Trophy Saturday 24rd August – 3pm KO

 

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

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

Scott’s Prediction: 1 – 2

 

Ilford  v  Southend Manor   |  Cricklefield

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

Scott’s Prediction: 1 – 2

 

The FA Cup Prelim Round – Sat 24 August

 

Cockfosters  v  Coggeshall Town   | Chalk Lane

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

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

 

Hadley  v  Hoddesdon Town   | Brickfield Lane

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

 

Saffron Walden Town  v  Maldon & Tiptree  | Catons Lane

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

 

Takeley  v  White Ensign  | Station Road

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

 

Tower Hamlets  v  Horsham      |  Mile End Stadium

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

 

Walthamstow  v  Great Wakering Rovers    | Wadham Lodge Stadium

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

 

Eastern Senior League South Fixtures (23/24 August)

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

Sat 24 Aug: Benfleet  v  Lopes Tavares   | Park Lane

Burnham Ramblers v Wivenhoe Town    |  Leslie Field

Coggeshall Utd  v  Newbury Forest   |  West Street

Holland  v  Leyton Athletic   | Dulwich Road

 

 

 

Match Report: Stansted 1 – 0 St Margaretsbury (Mon 22 Apr) [GBT Final 22.4.19]

Gordon Brasted Memorial Trophy Final

Venue: Leslie Field (Burnham Ramblers FC)

Attendance: 148

2018-19 Season – Match 73

Monday 22nd April 2019  – 3.15pm KO

Stansted: Royal Blue Shirt, Royal Blue Shorts, Blue Socks

St Margaretsbury: Red & Black Hooped Shirts, Black Shorts, Red & Black Socks

Stansted club badge

St Margaretsbury club logo

Both sides pre-match

Stansted emerge with the Gordon Brasted Trophy after a hard-fought win over ‘Bury

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

On a glorious day weather-wise at Burnham Ramblers’ Leslie Field, this year’s Gordon Brasted Trophy Final pitted high-flyers Stansted against mid-table St Margaretsbury in the first season in the Essex Senior League. There was a sub-plot for both sides as the Airportmen still have a chance of promotion on the last day of the season while ‘Bury have had a mass squad turnover to contend with and thus looked rather more inexperienced compared to the squad that got them to this Final. Stansted named this season;s leading Clean Sheet holder Charlie Turner in goal, with left-back Billy Coyne as skipper and a front four of Callum Ibe, Jack West, Jordan Palmer and Jack Mitchell. Carl Mullings and midfielder Moses Carvalho were among the substitutes.

St Margs are under the caretaker management of Tony Wild and their full-backs were Tom Hayden and Taylor Wild with Daniel Palmer and Chris Cordana-Soanes at the centre of defence, Mason Todd led the line with skipper Tom Cowell in support along with Enzo Periera and Evvan Brown on the flanks. Kane Garwood and Jayden Mitchell-Brown were among their bench.

The match was delayed by 15 minutes due to a bad accident en route to Burnham but in the opening minutes of the contest it was the Airportmen who had the first sighter of goal with anchor midfielder Paul Clayton knocking a lobbed effort wide of the far post. Paul Pittuck & Marc Benterman’s side broke the deadlock on six minutes as full-back Billy Coyne’s corner curled dangerously into the area, evading everyone in a congested penalty box before nestling into the far corner. St Margaretsbury’s first sight of goal came from skipper Tom Cowell’s 35 yard pot-shot which sailed harmlessly wide.

Stansted winger Callum Ibe was again a good outlet for his team, stretching the ‘Bury defence with his pace and trickery. Right on the quarter-hour mark, attacking midfielder Ollie Bell’s pass found Ibe who lobbed over opposition goalkeeper Cameron Bailey and the woodwork, though he was straining to meet the ball. Tony Wild’s team didn’t have much in the way of forays forward though midfielder Glenn Nightingale’s drive kept Stansted stopper Charlie Turner alert. The ‘Bury defence were finding it hard to handle the Airportmen’s combined physicality and pace and thus conceded more chances through a few errors.

Seven minutes before the interval, Coyne send a lofted ball into the danger area, and forward Jack West headed against the crossbar from close range, though the assistant’s flag spared him any grief for not finding the target. With the break approaching, the ‘Blue Brazil’ had a goal chalked off for off-side as another telling Coyne set-piece was parried by Bailey though Clayton was first in to stroke the ball in. So, with only one goal seperating the sides, St Margs had a sniff at goal a minute before half-time as tricky winger Enzo Periera’s free-kick angled in to the six-yard line where Turner gathered under pressure.

Half-Time: Stansted 1 – 0  St Margaretsbury

Perhaps unsurprisingly, the Airportmen started the second period with renewed vigour. Winger Jack Mitchell and forward Jack West had efforts which couldn’t find the target, before a Coyne cross from the left was punched away well by Bailey, who had found crosses awkward at times earlier on. Ibe continued to pose problems down the right as he and forward West had efforts denied by Bailey, the former of those two a good effort by Ibe from the edge of the penallty area. St Margs right-back Tom Hayden made a few crucial interceptions, denying Ibe another shot at goal just shy of the hour before Mitchell skewed a drive wide.

As we made our way into the last twenty minutes, ‘Bury substitute Kane Garwood turned well on the edge of the box before drawing a save out of Stansted ‘keeper Turner. The Airportmen were straining to put the match to bed, though forward Jordan Palmer struck straight at Bailey when well-placed to at least test the St Margaretsbury custodian. After arguably their best period of play going forward in the match, in which we saw shades of how St Margs ping the ball around, led by the energetic Periera and Nightingale in central midfield, Stansted squandered more oppurtunities as first, good build-up play by substitutes Moses Carvalho and Carl Mullings ended up with the latter’s ball in which Ibe headed down though Bailey saved again, this time with his feet.

After Cowell had miraculously cleared a stray header from a team-mate off the goal-line, Ibe showed his talents again dribbling his way past two defenders before scuffing a shot wide with only Bailey to bypass. In added time with the nerves rising, Carvalho sent a decent free-kick just over for Stansted while moments later a set-piece from deep by Nightingale found substitute Jayden Mitchell-Brown who could only head over the woodwork.

And with that chance, referee Paul Stratton blew up for time with the boys in blue celebrating a hard-earned victory.

Full-time: Stansted 1 – 0  St Margaretsbury

So, the statistics will read that Stansted are the victors and they had more than enough chances to seal a much more comprehensive success here. Credit though has to go to this youthful ‘Bury side who kept things as tight as they could and showed some enterprise going forward as well at times, although their final ball wasn’t quite there to create a number of stonewall chances that they needed. Nonetheless, both sides will be proud of their efforts in a match which perhaps promised more than it actually delivered.

‘Blue Brazil’ players celebrate with their supporters…

Referee Stratton recieves his momento, with his colleagues to follow..

St Margs players recieve their medals post-match

Stansted players recieve their medals, sporting the shirt remembering Pittuck Sr

In a really commendable gesture post-match but prior to the Trophy presentation, the Stansted players & managers donned a shirt in memory of co-manager Paul Pittuck’s father Keith who sadly died ten years ago today. Some synergy there on what will undoubtedly be an emotional day for a manager that has more than played his part in Stansted’s revival this term. You have to feel happy for Stansted’s hard-working committee as well who will savour this triumph. They will have a shot at a cup double in the Errington Cup Final against West Essex at Bishop’s Stortford FC on Monday May 6th.

Stansted players celebrate

Stansted  | Co-Managers: Paul Pittuck & Marc Benterman

Charlie Turner (GK), Jamie Bennett, Billy Coyne (Capt), Sam West, Joe Clark (Carl Mullings 70′), Paul Clayton, Callum Ibe, Ollie Bell (Moses Carvalho 73′), Jack West, Jordan Palmer, Jack Mitchell (James Turvey 85′)

Goal-scorer: Billy Coyne [6′]

Booked: Clark     | Subs Not Used: Tyrell, Buffin

St Margaretsbury  | Caretaker Manager: Tony Wild

Cameron Bailey (GK), Tom Hayden (Archie Roberts 84′), Taylor Wild, Reece Vicary (Jayden Mitchell-Brown 74′), Daniel Palmer, Chris Cordana-Soanes, Enzo Periera, Glenn Nightingale, Mason Todd, Tom Cowell (Capt), Evvan Brown (Kane Garwood 63′)

Booked: Hayden     | Subs Not Used: Shaves, Read

Referee: Paul Stratton
Assistant Referees: Nicholas Hodges & Callum Dorling
Fourth Official: Steve Marr

Match Report: Walthamstow 3 – 0 Leyton Athletic (Sat 10th Nov) [GBT QF 10.11.18]

Gordon Brasted Trophy 2018-19: Quarter-Final

Attendance: 57

2018-19 Season – Match 32

Saturday 10th November 2018  – 3pm KO

Walthamstow: Royal Blue Shirts, Blue Shoorts,  Blue Socks

Leyton Athletic: Maroon Shirts, Maroon Shorts, Maroon Socks

Walthamstow club logo

‘Stow overcome Leyton and the weather to make it into the GBT Semi-Finals

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

Players, Officials & Management observe the two-minutes silence for Rememberance Sunday. Lest we forget.

On a weekend of exclusively ESL Cup action with the Pete Butcher Trophy making its debut in the schedule, I went to Wadham Lodge to see this Gordon Brasted Trophy Quarter-Final tie. Walthamstow named a very strong starting XI, with James Peagram and Christian Owusu being the front two, Rheo Josephs on the left and the evergreen Lee Flynn at full-back. Leyton had a blow to contend with this week as forward Dwade James left the club to join…. Walthamstow, though he was ineligable for this match. For them, James Scammell continued in goal, with Eli Benoit once again skippering the side and Luwayne Greenwood the focal point in attack.

This match began with the hosts on the front foot, though the main issue was finding the final ball to bypass the three-man Ath central defence. Winger Rheo Josephs was having some joy down the ‘Stow left flank with his pace and crossing and on 19 minutes, Josephs had a sight of goal after being played in by forward James Peagram, though the former’s shot from a narrow angle was taken by Ath goalie James Scammell. On the cusp of the half-hour mark, fellow home forward Christian Owusu also struck wide.

It must be said though that both teams had to contend with a deluge of rain and to add to that, a hefty hailstorm as well. Leyton did show their game at times and looked pretty rapid on the counter-attack though they did also get the wrong side of the assistant referee’s flag on a few occasions. Ryan Maxwell’s side did keep the pressure on as just after the half-hour, Josephs again broke down the left channel, beating the on-rushing Scammell to the ball though couldn’t find the telling centre  to make the most of it in that attack.

As it happened, only a minute later the hosts took the lead as a peach of a free-kick from midfielder Robbie Martin curled right into the danger zone and Peagram headed in cooly. Ath had barely settled back into play when ‘Stow doubled their advantage as midfielder Matt Brinklow unleashed a sublime dipping shot which evaded Scammell’s grasp and then crept under the crossbar. One for the Brinklow ‘play-book’ there I suspect.

Half-Time: Walthamstow  2 – 0 Leyton Athletic

After the break, the rain continued to pour down making playing conditions ever more tricky with the ball holding into the pitch and the like. The hosts effectively sealed the contest five minutes after the interval as from Martin’s pass, Peagram struck home his second of the afternoon.

In the last half hour, Leyton did keep going and tried to keep their rapid passing game going despite the torrid conditions. Skipper Eli Benoit as ever tried to drive his team on by making powerful runs forward though in fairness, home custodian James Harkin didn’t have much to do besides cutting out crosses and the like. ‘Stow at the other end had two good chances to add to the score-line though substitute Joe Benjamin, on debut got ahead of the tiring Ath defence thouh chipped wide and moments later, Peagram’s audacious 40-yard lob hit a post with Scammell beaten. Scammell did well with minues remaining to deny a 20-yard bolt from ‘Stow full-back Ross Pope and in almost the last action of the game, Harkin denied attacking midfielder Mario Gjini’s effort.

All in all, a good win for the hosts who were the better side today. Congrats to Walthamstow and best wishes to Leyton Athletic for the remainder of the season.

Full-Time: Walthamstow   3 – 0  Leyton Athletic

Walthamstow  | Player/Manager: Ryan Maxwell

James Harkin (GK), Ross Pope, Lee Flynn, Reece Conway (Emmanuel Dasho 74′), Craig Pope (Capt), Jack Leachman, Matt Brinklow, Robbie Martin (Gus Douglas 82′), James Peagram, Christian Owusu, Rheo Josephs (Joe Benjamin 50′)

Goal-scorers: James Peagram [35′, 50′], Matt Brinklow [38′]

Booked: Conway, Martin   | Subs Not Used: Gebrai, Edwards (GK)

Leyton Athletic    | Manager: Glen Kendall

James Scammell (GK), Jayesh Gohil (Jonathon Klug 46′), D’Neil Bryan, Jason Brown, Eli Benoit (Capt), Cory Rider, Misha Djemaili (Emmauel Oluwole 56′), Dujan Foster (Francesco Cicconi 56′), Luwayne Greenwood, Mario Gjini, Lance Ledgister

Booked: Oluwole, Brown     |  Subs Not Used: Jinadu, Walsh (GK)

Match Report: Takeley 1 – 3 Stanway Rovers (Tues 2nd Oct 18) [GBT R2 3.10.18]

Gordon Brasted Memorial Trophy – Round 2

Venue: Station Road

Attendance: TBC

2018-19 Season – Match 18

Tuesday 2nd October 2018  – 7.45pm KO

Takeley :  Blue Shirts, Blue Shorts, Blue Socks

Stanway Rovers : Amber Shirts, Black Shorts, Black Socks

 

Takeley emblem

Stanway emblem

 

Stanway outclass Takeley to record a fine win and advance in the GB Trophy

Report & Photos by Scott W (Twitter: ScottMHC14)

This Gordon Brasted Trophy Second Round tie saw Takeley, who have been in the final in the last two seasons, face Stanway Rovers at Station Road. The hosts fielded a changed side though still had commanding goalkeeper Ronnie Yates between the sticks, Bryn Thorpe and Frank Oatham in central defence and skipper Jason Todd supporting the front two. Stanway named a strong side with wingers Lewis Stantiall and Marley Andrews supporting the front two of Callum Griff and Toby Blanche, with Teddy Nesbitt skippering the side as ever.

In what was a slightly quiet start to the match, Stanway had a sighter at goal on seven minutes as forward Toby Blanche sent a low drive from 20 yards wide of Ronnie Yates’ goal. Olly Miles was proving to be the biggest threat from the hosts and his free-kick on nine minutes needed the intervention of visiting stopper Lewis Hawley who parried it wide of the post. Further free-kicks from Olly Miles and Bryn Thorpe in the first half-hour failed to beat Hawley though you felt the visitors needed to curb such oppurtunities to score.

Marley Andrews showed what he was capable of with his pace and crossing which game the home defence something to think about though it was a ball in from fellow winger Lewis Stantiall which was a headed on at the back post to Blanche who snuck in to slot home from close range just past the half-hour. That lead barely lasted a minute though before the hosts were awarded a spot-kick, which Olly Miles duly struck home without any fuss. The hosts had a goal chalked off for off-side minutes later and were happy to see Stantiall’s free-kick slide just over the bar moments before the break.

 

 

Half-Time: Takeley    1 – 1   Stanway Rovers

The visitors made a (presumably enforced) change at half-time with Max Brassington replacing Harry Seal at centre-back though they also emerged with a renewed determination and moments after midfielder Jeff Hogan blasted over the bar, the speedy winger that is Andrews was left alone at the back post to grab a tap-in to restore Stanway’s lead with 52 minutes on the watch. Hawley was called into action again bang on the hour with a good save from Josh Sykes’ powerful effort.

The hosts unsurprisingly poured forward, bringing on the ‘big guns’ of Mitch Das, Stuart Zanone and Charlie Cole for the last half-hour or so. Andrews sent a drive wide of the post as there were gaps appearing in the home defence as they chased the game though the Rovers defence remained stout and resilent. At the other end, Blanche was well-stopped by a last-ditch tackle which prevented a shot on goal.

Rovers sealed the tie late on as Lewis Stantiall struck, getting the better of Yates when one-on-one with the Takeley goalkeeper. To be fair, it was a deserved victory for the visitors who showed good energy, pace and no little amount of belief.

Full-Time: Takeley   1 – 3  Stanway Rovers

I would like to thank ESL President Rob E and all at Takeley for their kind welcome and hospitality during the evening.

 

Teams

Takeley      | Manager: Marc Das

Ronnie Yates (GK), Jeff Ageyman (Mitchell Das 56′), Coby Miles, Bryn Thorpe, Frank Oatham, Michael Pardoe, Jason Todd (Capt), Matt Hurley, Josh Sykes (Stuart Zanone 68′), Olly Miles (Charlie Cole 73′), Alex Warman

Goal-scorer: Olly Miles [pen 32′]

Booked: Oatham, C Miles  | Subs Not Used: Wappett, Gulliver

Stanway Rovers  | Manager: Lee Fisher

Lewis Hawley (GK), Romario Dunne, Teddy Nesbitt (Capt), Jeff Hogan, Danny Nesbitt, Harry Seal (Max Brassington 46′), Marley Andrews, Alfie Cleal, Toby Blanche, Callum Griff (Finn O’Reilly 88′), Lewis Stantiall

Goal-scorers: Toby Blanche [31′], Marley Andrews [52′], Lewis Stantiall [86′]

Booked: None  |  Subs Not Used: None

Round-up: Essex Senior League (Sat 8th Sept) [ESL 9.8.18]

Written by Scott W (Twitter: @ScottMHC14)

Hello and welcome to the return of my round-up’s of the Essex Senior League action this weekend. How did your side do? With thanks to A Perkins for use of the Club crests.

Friday 7th September  – Gordon Brasted Trophy

Sawbridgeworth club badge

Sawbridgeworth Town  5 – 2  Tower Hamlets   | Crofters End | Att: 39

Sawbridgeworth finished the match very strongly to secure progression in this Gordon Brasted tie at Crofters. Hamlets led on 19 minutes through Elias Tackie’s strike though less than a minute later the hosts counter-attacked and levelled through Lewis Deamer. The stalemate persisted until the the last third of the match and a spot-kick from Oliver Fortune [64′] gave Sawbo the lead though again, that lead was quickly snuffed out as Hamlets levelled through Simon Bamidele two minutes later.

This only spurned John Watters’ side on though as Daryl Doolan [69′], Josh Knight [75′] and James Braughurst [85′] strikes sealed a morale-boosting triumph for Sawbridgeworth. Hamlets will be wondering where their first win of the campaign will come from.

Essex Senior League – Saturday 8th September

 

Barkingside club logo

St Margaretsbury club logo

 

Barkingside  0 – 2  St Margaretsbury  | Cricklefield  | Att: 50

St Margs grabbed their second league win of the season with this success at ‘Side. Charncey Dash [28′] and Phil Lowen [72’] goals assisted John Barker’s side to a much-needed win after their FA Vase exit last weekend. ‘Side are still winless in this league campaign.

 

Hullbridge badge

Hoddesdon Town  1 – 2  Hullbridge Sports  | Lowfield  | Att: 97

Hullbridge struck in added-time to pinch this fiesty encounter at Lowfield. Joss Lillis converted a 21st-minute spot-kick to out the hosts ahead though Darren Manning’s side restored parity thanks to Adebola Sotoyinbo only three minutes later. That looked to be the end of the goal-scoring action though returning stalwart Rob Hodgson powered home a winner right at the death to give Sports their fourth straight league win and go top of the standings.

 

Redbridge club crest

Clapton logo

Redbridge   1 – 1   Clapton  | Oakside | Att: 63

Redbridge’s season continued to be stifled by draws as they were held by the Tons at Oakside. Asher Modeste struck 12 minutes before half-time to put the Motormen ahead though the visitors responded through prolific scorer Jeffrey Cobblah [76′]. Redbridge have three draws in their opening four matches while Jon Fowell’s side achieved their first draw of the league season.

 

Southend Manor club crest

Stansted club badge

Southend Manor 0 – 3  Stansted   | Southchurch Park | Att: 31

I attended this match, here is my report: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2018/09/08/match-report-s-manor-0-3-stansted-esl-8-9-18/

 

Sporting Bengal crest

Enfield logo

Sporting Bengal Utd  6 – 0  Enfield 1893   | Mile End | Att: 30

Bengal had a superb day as they thrashed Enfield at Mile End. Imrul Gazi’s side led ten minutes before the break thanks to Steven Carvell’s goal though after the interval Sporting had a day to savour. Bobby Redwood [47′] and Jon Watson [60′] goals sealed the points before a brace from influential winger Codey cameron [70′ & 72′] and Yasir Rashid [85′] strikes added to the pain for Matt Hanning’s team. Bengal earned their first league win in their third match while Enfield suffered their second loss of the campaign.

 

West Essex crest

West Essex  4 – 1  Leyton Athletic   |  Mayesbrook Park

The Stags finally grabbed their first win of the new season with a good victory over Leyton. Cameron Gray, Michael Mignot, Izzy Ogedi-Uzokwe and Hakim Medfal goals did the damage for Kwame Kwateng’s side. Mario Gnijaj got Leyton’s consolation though they fell to their first loss in four league games.

That is all for this week. Thank you for reading.

Cup Draws: Gordon Brasted Memorial Trophy & Errington Challenge Cup – Prelim Rd’s (GBT & ECC 19.7.18)

Compiled by Scott W (Twitter: @ScottMHC14)

(With thanks to Adam of GFS)

 

Hello and welcome to a mini-look at the cup draws for the Prelim Round of both the Gordon Brasted Memorial Trophy and the Errington Challenge Cup.

Both sides who won the respective cups were promoted to the Bostik League in May. FC Romania defeated previous holders Takeley to win the Gordon Brasted Trophy while Great Wakering Rovers beat Sawbridgeworth Town to claim the Errington Cup last season.

Turning our attention to the 2018/19 campaign, here is the draw for the Preliminary rounds of both competitions, starting with the Gordon Brasted Trophy.

Gordon Brasted Memorial Trophy – Prelim Round

Ties to be played week commencing August 20th

Woodford Town  v  Barkingside

Southend Manor  v  Walthamstow

Sawbridgeworth Town  v  Tower Hamlets

Ilford    v     West Essex

 

Errington Challenge Cup  – Prelim Round

Ties to be played week commencing September 4th

St Margaretsbury   v   Stanway Rovers

Southend Manor   v  Saffron Walden Town

Sawbridgeworth Town   v  Tower Hamlets

Woodford Town   v   Hoddesdon Town

Match Report: Takeley 0 – 1 FC Romania (GBMT Final 2.4.18)

Gordon Brasted Memorial Trophy Final

Venue: Leslie Field

 

Attendance: 139

 

Monday 2nd April 2018 – 3pm KO

 

2017/18 Season – Match 60

 

Takeley: Royal Blue Shirts, Red Shorts, Red Socks

 

FC Romania: Red Shirts, Blue Shorts, Yellow Socks

 

 

 

Report by Scott W (Twitter: @ScottMHC14)

 

With photos by Andy Wilkins (Twitter: @andywilkins2015) and Adam Richardson (Twitter: @ELRFootball)

On a damp afternoon at Burnham’s Leslie Field, the first ESL Cup final of the season saw holders Takeley face FC Romania in the Gordon Brasted Memorial Trophy Final. Team-wise, Takeley were hampered by player unavailability here with Alex Martin leading the line with George Wappett and Mitchell Das on the flanks. FC Romania lined up with Sergiu Pitaru, Mihai Circiumaru and Florin Pop in a three-man attack.

The side in the ‘away’ dug-out started the stronger here, as FC Romania dominated possession and having a series of efforts on goal that didn’t really test Takeley goalkeeper Ronnie Yates. Nine minutes in, after good build-up play by Florin Pop, his shot was saved by Yates though fellow forward Mihai Circiumaru shot wide, following up.

FCR’s Florin Pop in action (Credit: Andy Wilkins)

Takeley defender Andre Humphrey symbolised his side’s committed defending by making a couple of inportant tackles on the edge of the penalty area in the first third of the match. To be fair, Takeley did have forays forward at times and with 22 minutes on the clock, Nick Barrett blazed a free-kick over the bar.

 

FCR had another great chance three minutes later as Florin Pop was one-one-one with Yates and although the ‘keeper got the better of that exchange, the ball trickled out to Sergiu Pitaru who couldn’t find the target. FCR custodian Adrian Darabant was largely untroubled in the opening half though had to be alert to gather a good cross in from the left flank, ahead of the on-rushing Mitchell Das. As the interval beckoned, Yates was in the action again, only this time pulling off a good save to stop Humphrey putting through his own goal.

 

Half-Time: Takeley 0 – 0 FC Romania

 

Takeley’s Mitchell Das on-the-ball (Credit: Andy Wilkins)

 

Early in the second period, Takeley started the brighter of the two sides and eight minutes in, captain Jason Todd had a good chance to break the deadlock but shot just wide after being fed by target-man Alex Martin, who led the line quite well, although he was quite isolated at times. Takeley did have the ball in the net with twenty minutes or so remaining, though Mitchell Das’ strike was ruled out for off-side.

As we entered the latter stages, FCR kept going well as attacking full-back Sergiu Maximov delivered a good ball into the box from the right flank though couldn’t find a team-mate in the box. Five minutes before the 90, FC Romania did break the stalemate as substitute Attila Kelemen broke free of the attentive Takeley defence and slotted home past Yates to send the travelling Wolves’ support delirious.

 

Takeley did keep Darabant and the FCR defence honest in the last few minutes though the FC Romania goalkeeper punched a corner away from danger.

 

Full-Time: Takeley   0 – 1  FC Romania

All in all, you can argue that FCR had more chances in this match and lacked a bit of clinical finishing though for the most part, they defended well against a Takeley forward line that was missing Carl Mullings and Will Green. Marc Das’ side may just be starting to feel the effects of their intense fixture congestion and they will have better days than this. Credit to them though as they defended the trophy they won twelve months ago with characteristic vigour and passion. In my view, FC Romania deserved their victory here.

 

Messrs Leno & Brasted presenting the medals to FCR (Credit: Andy Wilkins)

FCR Captain George Taban lifts the trophy with his delighted team-mates (Credit: Andy W)

 

My thanks to Burnham Ramblers for their hospitality and it was good to be amongst ‘the great and the good’ of the Essex Senior League today including the various League officials.

 

Teams:

 

Takeley   |   Manager: Marc Das

 

Ronnie Yates (GK), Bryn Thorpe, Andre Humphreys, Nick Barrett, Mike Castle, Matt Hurley (Frankie Oatham 74′), Mitchell Das, Freddie Burrell, Alex Martin, Jason Todd (Capt), George Wappett

 

Booked: Burrell, Barrett  | Subs Not Used: Bartram, Gill, Green

 

FC Romania  |   Manager: Ion Vintila

 

Adrian Darabant (GK), Sergiu Maximov, Felix Lupu, Gabriel Ghinea (Cosmin Sandu 60′), Constantin Arotaritei, Andrei Baciu, George Taban (Capt), Adrian Balsanu, Sergiu Pitaru (Attila Kelemen 72′), Mihai Circiumaru (Mihai Botosan 54′), Florin Pop

 

Goal-scorer: Attila Kelemen [85′]

 

Booked: Circiumaru, Arotaritei  |  Subs Not Used: Stroe, Carter

 

Referee: Rhys Battye

Assistant Referees: Michael Iddenden-Smith & Charlie Roberts

Fourth Official: Craig Pullen

Match Report: Southend Manor 0 – 1 FC Romania (GBMT 27.9.17)

The Gordon Brasted Memorial Trophy Round One

Venue: Southchurch Park

Attendance: 60

2017-18 Season – Match 25

Wednesday 27th September 2017 7.45pm KO

Southend Manor: Yellow Shirts, Yellow Shorts, Black Shorts

FC Romania: Sky Blue Shirts, Sky Blue Shorts, Sky Blue Socks

Scott W reporting (Twitter: @ScottMHC14)

On a wet, damp evening at Southchurch Park, Southend Manor welcomed FC Romania in another Gordon Brasted Memorial Trophy First Round tie.

The match didn’t exactly roar into life unfortunately and Manor had to make an early change as Charlie Barlow had to be substituted after only eight minutes, being replaced by Hamid Zemani and the early sub Zemani had a shot on goal that brought a save out of visiting goalkeeper Georgian Bordeanu. To be fair, FCR midfielder Ionut Jugaru sent a drive whistling past the left-side post.

For Manor, winger Rhys Fatt was looking useful down the right with his pace and running though the game lacked clear-cut chances. On 21 minutes, Jacob Cleaver’s header was saved by Bordeanu though the assistant referee was flagging for offside anyway. With ten minutes to play until half-time, midfielder Joe Skeels fizzed a 35-yard effort at goal and it went just over the bar.

Cleaver was pretty much the focal point of the home side’s forward line though with three minutes to go until the break, he had another header which Bordeanu saved. Soon after, FCR winger Kelemen Attila powered a 25-yard drive just over the bar. It was that sort of match that needed something perhaps speculative to kick it into life. All square at the break.

Half-Time: Southend Manor  0 –  0 FC Romania

The second half began as the rain lashed down which was an added inconvience for the players. Zemani had another pop at goal ten minutes into the second-half though Bordeanu saved well. In a match that was still starved of chances and arguably had more talking points elsewhere, Cleaver twice couldn’t beat ‘keeper Bordeanu. Into the last ten minutes of normal time and the FC Romania goalkeeper did well to gather forward Bayley Newell’s right-wing centre with Cleaver waiting in the wings just behind him.

FC Romania, while not at their best, did so flashes of good passing and movement though you sensed they were looking to go on the counter-attack rather than push forward with any great urgency. In truth, the ‘urgency’ or high-tempo was lacking by both sides here as it looked ominous that spot-kicks would be needed to settle this tie.

FCR substitute Sergiu Maximov was denied by home goalkeeper Liam Pitts as the 90-minute mark approached. Just into added time, Manor substitute Micky Hopkins’ shot was tipped wide by Bordeanu, though again the linesman was flagging for offside.

Though there was a late sting in the tail as in three minutes into added-time, FCR substitute Mihai Botosan was in the right place at the right time as with Manor stretched at the back, the forward lashed home from near point-blank range and wheeled away in delight as the visitors edged into the next round.

You could argue that the hosts edged the match in terms of play and chances created though you could also say that both sides were below-par tonight. Manor will now turn their attention back to the ESL on Saturday (30th Sept) where they entertain Waltham Forest while FC Romania travel to Great Wakering Rovers on Saturday (30th Sept).

Full-Time:                 Southend Manor  0 – 1 FC Romania

Botosan 90’ +3

Teams:   *=Denotes came on as Sub & ^ denotes player going off
Southend Manor Manager: Stuart Marshall	FC Romania Assistant Manager: Dragos Ciolca (Manager Ion Vintila was away)
1  Liam Pitts  (GK)	27  Georgian Bordeanu  (GK)
2  Ross Johnson	2  Florea Ionut
3  Alfie Lindfield^	3  Vladut Andries
4  Lee Delf  (C)	4  Paul Grigoras
5  Scott Keys	5  Felix Lupu  (C)^
6  Charlie Barlow^	6  Mihai Circiumaru
7  Rhys Fatt	7  Kelemen Attila
8  Callum Jex	8  Ionut Jugaru
9  Jacob Cleaver	9  Sergiu Pitaru
10  Bayley Newell^	10  Laurentiu Balosu
11  Joe Skeels	11  Victor Bogos
Substitutes:
12  Micky Hopkins*	12  George Stroe
14  Finlay Dopson	15  Sergiu Maximov*
15  Hamid Zamani*	16  Gabriel Ghinea
16 Luke Winter*	17  Dinu Barcari
17 Jamie Alexandrou	19  Mihai Botosan*
Referee:	Paul Humphries
Assistant Referees:	Michael Iddenden-Smith Joe Burgess
Booked: Lindfield, Jex	Booked: Bordeanu, Andries, Circiumaru

Match Report: Hullbridge Sports *1 – 1 Sporting Bengal Utd (GBMT 26.9.17)

The Gordon Brasted Memorial Trophy Round One

*Denotes won on penalties

Venue: Lower Road

Attendance: 44

2017-18 Season – Match 24

Tuesday 26th September 2017 7.45pm KO

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

Sporting Bengal Utd: Orange Shirts, Black Shorts, Black Socks

Hullbridge head clear during the match (Image Credit: Peter Dudley or @ped1980 on Twitter)

Scott W reporting (Twitter: @ScottMHC14)

On a fairly chilly evening at Lower Road, Hullbridge Sports took on Sporting Bengal Utd in a Gordon Brasted Memorial Trophy First Round tie. The hosts sported a strong side while Bengal were missing several first-team regulars including the likes of Antony Murray-Bruce, Oscar Mendes and goalkeeper Denzel Kobia.

We certainly didn’t have long to wait for the first goal. In the first minute, a Jimmy Cox free-kick was floated in and forward Luca Frankis’ header powered into the right corner to give Rob Hodgson’s side the lead. The hosts did have more of the play in the early-going and therefore more of the chances as well, though midfielder Sam Dulieu and Cox couldn’t find the target. Hullbridge suffered an early setback as forward Howard Wright had to be substituted on 17 minutes, due to what appeared to be a hamstring injury, with Jamie Buffin replacing him.

On 21 minutes, Bengal midfielder Ashaan Siddik’s mazy run got through the Sports defence though Hullbridge goalkeeper Bobby Mason did well to gather the ball cleanly to deny him. The hosts did need to re-settle themselves after the substitution though Bengal levelled with 26 minutes on the watch as Mahdi Khan’s shot squirmed through Mason’s legs at the near post.

Both sides had chances to go ahead in the remainder of the first half. Just after the half-hour, Hullbridge midfielder Lewis Watson’s header hit the crossbar from full-back Charlie Buffin’s right-wing cross. Three minutes later, Siddik’s goal-bound drive was well tipped-over the bar by Mason. Bengal were awarded a penalty four minutes before the break, though skipper Freddy Tandon’s spot-kick was well-saved by Mason, diving to his left. Although they had to negotiate a few hairy moments at the back, the hosts made it to half-time honours-even.

Half-Time: Hullbridge Sports 1 – 1  Sporting Bengal Utd

Only a minute into the second half, Watson’s drive was parried away by visiting goalkeeper Ataaib Khan. The Bengal custodian also gathered headers from Watson and Hodgson soon afterward and in the main, he was calm and assured in supporting his defenders.

With 68 minutes gone, Cox’s shot was saved by Khan following a good run by Hodgson through the middle in possession. The visitors did find another gear in the latter stages though shots on goal from Mahdi Khan, forward Jamalur Rahman and winger Codey Cameron couldn’t get past Mason. Deep into added-time, Bengal were awarded another spot-kick after a foul by Charlie Buffin, which saw his gather his second booking on the way to a (not very) early bath. This time, Cameron took the spot-kick though ‘lightning did strike twice’ as he blazed his kick over the bar. So, the dreaded spot-kick deciders were necessary as is this competition there isn’t any extra-time.

After 90 mins:  Hullbridge Sports  1 – 1  Sporting Bengal Utd

In the shoot-out, to begin with anyway, the evening’s lack of penalty success continued as Hullbridge’s Aaron Hunwicks and Bengal’s Mahdi Khan both had their spot-kicks saved. Hullbridge’s Jimmy Cox edged his side ahead before Bengal’s Codey Cameron levelled. Hullbridge substitute Jamie Buffin made it 2-1 before Bengal skipper Tandon once again missed, hitting the bar. Michael Edgar successfully converted his spot-kick to make it 3-1 before Bengal forward Rahman made it 3-2 though Hullbridge substitute Damien Siemienczuk scored the winning penalty to see his side advance to the next round where they will face Great Wakering Rovers at Burroughs Park in an intriguing local derby.

FT: 1 – 1 (Hullbridge won 4-2 on penalties)

In summary, the match was pretty even for most of the evening. Both sides had their chances; the hosts in particular could’ve scored four or five if they were more clinical whilst Bengal will rue those two missed penalties. For the hosts, forward Luca Frankis stood out as a threat on the right flank while midfielders Lewis Watson and Sam Dulieu put a heck of a shift in. For the visitors, winger Mahdi Khan and midfielder Ashaan Siddik put in good performances in my opinion.

Teams:
Hullbridge Sports Player-Manager: Rob Hodgson	Sporting Bengal Utd Manager: Imrul Gazi
1  Bobby Mason  (GK)	1  Ataaib Khan  (GK)
2  Charlie Buffin	2  Shafi Noor
3  Aaron Hunwicks	3  Ismael Chand            (Subbed 69’)
4  Michael Edgar	4  David Tarawali
5  Rob Hodgson	5  Freddy Tandon  (C)
6  Ollie Quick	6  Adil Salih
7  Luca Frankis     (Subbed 78’)	7  Codey Cameron
8  Lewis Watson	8  Ashaan Siddik
9  Howard Wright  (Subbed 17’)	9  Curtley McIntosh       (Subbed 53’)
10  Jimmy Cox  (C)	10  Jamalur Rahman
11  Sam Dulieu	11  Mahdi Khan
Substitutes:
12  Jamie Buffin                 (On 17’)	12  Nazmul Ahmed        (On 69’)
14  Damien Siemienczuk  (On 78’)	13  Jahed Ahmed
15  Angus Poole	14  Daryl Noble              (On 53’)
GK  Jamie Merralls	15  Imrul Gazi
Referee:	Kirk Edwards
Assistant Referees:	Erwin Kegyes Ray Parmenter
Booked: Edgar, Hunwicks, Hodgson	Booked: Rahman, Cameron.
Sent Off: C Buffin (2 Bookings)

Match Report: Takeley 3 – 0 Eton Manor (GBMT Final)

Gordon Brasted Memorial Trophy Final

Venue: Leslie Field

Attendance: 206

Date: Monday 17th April 2017

Takeley  : Blue Shirts, Blue Shorts and Blue Socks

 Eton Manor : Red & White Striped Shirts, Red Shorts, Red & White Hooped Socks

The Gordon Brasted Trophy

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

On a cloudy afternoon at Burnham Ramblers’ Leslie Field Stadium, Takeley took on Eton Manor in the Gordon Brasted Memorial Trophy Final. Neither of these sides had won this competition before so we would see a new name on the cup regardless.

Takeley started the stronger of the two teams in the early-going with winger Andy Bartram and forward Mitchell Das having early strikes on goal, though they couldn’t get past Manor ‘keeper Michael Shoudry. Manor did have to defend deep at times, though they had chances of their own in their best spell of the game from the half-hour mark with midfielder Michael Castle blasting an effort over the bar after decent build-up play. Only a few minutes later, Manor had arguably their best chance with tireless forward Harry Prince striking his shot well, though a good save from Takeley ‘keeper Ronnie Yates tipped it onto the bar.

Half-Time: Takeley 0 – 0 Eton Manor

The second half began with Takeley pushing forward, striving to break the deadlock. Just before the hour mark, Takeley hot-shot Charlie Cole had his header cleared off the line by the under-pressure but resolute Manor back-line. Shortly afterwards, Cole then played in Das though his shot wide, in a good position. Manor had to soak up a lot of Takeley pressure and battled very hard throughout, with centre-backs Josh Woodcock and Ryan Cosson & midfielder Jacob Dixon particularly showing that iron will. Try as they might, Takeley could not quite find that ‘final ball’ often enough.

End of 90 Minutes: Takeley 0 – 0 Eton Manor

As extra-time began, early on there was a nervy moment at the back for Marc Das’ men though Manor captain Ben Bradbury’s effort was saved by Yates. Takeley surged forward again and captain Jason Todd nearly opened the scoring on 96 minutes with a curled drive that only just went over the bar. It was a sign of things to come though as Takeley won a free-kick soon after on the ‘edge of the D’ and substitute Reece Barrett’s curled strike evaded Shoudry to give Takeley the lead.

Unsurprisingly, Takeley were buoyed on by the goal, though just a minute afterward, Cole headed over and then moments later, Cole sent his shot over an unguarded net from Das’ pass. Cole would have his moment in the sun though with minutes remaining, first slotting home past Shoudry from a narrow angle and then getting a tap-in after the Manor ‘keeper had saved Mitchell Das’ effort.

A deserved, hard-fought win it was for Takeley, though admittedly the score-line did flatter them a bit in the end. Tony Stavri’s Manor, to their credit dug in and showed battling qualities which will hold them in good stead for the future, they can be proud of themselves too.

Manor captain Ben Bradbury leads his side to collect their momentos

The Victorious Takeley team with the Trophy

FT (AET): Takeley      3  – 0         Eton Manor

Barrett 98’

Cole 112’, 116’

Teams:
Takeley Manager: Marc Das	Eton Manor Manager: Tony Stavri
1  Ronnie Yates  (GK)	1  Michael Shoudry  (GK)
2  Danny Hammett	2  Billy Johnson
3  Bryn Thorpe	3  James Shadwell
4  Nick Barrett	4  Josh Woodcock
5  George Powell	5  Ryan Cosson
6  Alex Martin         (Subbed 106’)	6  Jacob Dixon
7  Andy Bartram     (Subbed 83’)	7  Daniel Chambers   (Subbed 37’)
8  Jason Todd   (C)	8  Michael Castle
9  Mitchell Das	9  Harry Prince        (Subbed 106’)
10  Charlie Cole	10  Ben Bradbury  (C)
11  George Wappett    (Subbed 85’)	11  Daniel Crowie    (Subbed 83’)
Substitutes:
12  Joe Bees	12  Mason Stavri
14  Freddie Burrell     (On 106’)	14  Kingsley Francis    (On 37’)
15  Sean Sanmoogan	15  Lewis Hagland
16  Matt Hurley      (On 83’)	16  Kadeem Brightly     (On 106’)
17  Reece Barrett   (On 85’)	17  Dominic Herbert     (On 83’)
Booked: Martin, Das	Booked: Johnson, Cosson, Crowie, Francis, Castle, Woodcock
Referee:	Karl Sear
Assistant Referees:	Eddie Andrews and Tony King
Fourth Official:	Craig Barnett