Harold Wood Athletic – survivor16b

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

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

Hello & welcome to the round-up from the action in the Essex Olympian League. This week on Saturday 24 September, we look at the action in all six divisions, plus an extra section featuring the various Cup competitions.

Image from Rayleigh Town v Leigh Rams last weekend

EOFL – Saturday 24 September

EOFL Premier Division & Division One

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

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

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

EOFL Divisions Two & Three

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

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

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

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

EOFL Divisions Four & Five

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

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

Essex Premier Cup R1

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

Essex Junior Cup

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

Other Results in EJC:

Barkingside A 0 – 6 Collier Row

Harold Wood Athletic A 0 – 1 Leytonstone Utd

Pitsea Athletic Res 0 – 4 BKS Sports

In the Essex Junior Trophy,

Glendale 0 – 4 Collier Row Res

Harold Hill Res 5 – 1 Sungate Res

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian Lge (Sat 17 Sept) [EOFL 22-23 19.9.22]

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:

S22-23 Match Report: Rayleigh Town 4 – 3 Leigh Ramblers (Sat 17 Sept) [EOFL Prem 22-23 18.9.22]

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.

Other Results in EPC:

Alresford Colne Rangers 5 – 0 Runwell Sports

Chingford Athletic EOFL 3 – 4 Wakering Sports Res

Clapton CFC H – W Corinthians Res (Home Walkover)

Colne Athletic 1 – 0 Sungate

Dagenham Utd 2 – 1 Catholic Utd Res

Epping Town 3 – 4 Stanway Rovers U23

Hashtag Utd Dev 2 – 3 Tiptree Heath

Wakebury A – W Kelvedon Hatch (Away Walkover)

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League (Sat 27 Aug) [EOFL 22/23 28.8.22]

Image from Wakebury’s (in blue) win over OS Res this weekend

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

Hello & welcome to the round-up from the third week of action in the Essex Olympian League season. This week on Saturday 27 August, we look at the action in all six divisions, as some teams began their campaigns here. Photo taken by Pete Dudley [@ped1980], used with thanks.

EOFL Premier Division

In the top-tier, Hutton lead the table after a 2 – 0 victory at Bishop’s Stortford Swifts. The Reds have only conceded one goal in their three matches so far, of which they have all won. Galleywood were held 1 – 1 by Kelvedon Hatch at Melbourne Park 3G. Bradley Taylor netted for the hosts, but Chris Denham replied for Hatch as they took a point. Both teams are in mid-table, having yet to win so far this term.

At Chelmer Valley High School, Springfield also drew 1 – 1, with Leigh Ramblers. Replacement Antony Connor got the goal for Franco Zabotti’s team. Other results in the division were Canning Town‘s 2 – 1 win over Sungate in Beckton and Toby got a massive win in their new surroundings in Ramsden Heath, as they prevailed 6 – 2 against Runwell Sports.

EOFL Division One

In Division One, ACD Utd got their first win of the new term with a 3 – 1 success at Herongate Athletic. Frankie Markham netted a super treble in this comeback victory for Michael Wade’s team. Harold Wood Athletic made it three wins from as many games after they defeated Manford Way 1 – 0 at Harold Wood Rec. Sam Tampkins got the decisive goal that saw Ath go top of the early table.

In tbe other games, Old Chelmsfordians had an away day to remember as they won 6 – 1 at Beacon Hill Rovers. Substitutes had a big part to play in the win for OC’s with Billy Duke netting a hat-trick after coming off the bench. Jordan Boden also scored twice and replacement Jonny Waskett also netted for Scott Fleming’s team. Bertie Whymark got the consolation goal for Rovers. And Wakering Sports drew 0 – 0 at home to Leigh Town at Cupid’s, which means both teams are yet to win so far this term.

EOFL Divisions Two & Three

In Division Two, Wakebury leapt to the top of the table with an impressive 7 – 2 success over Old Southendian Res, at their new home of Cupid’s in Shoebury. Harry Kateley netted four goals here for the Berries, with Will Wheeler, Mo Sesay and Tommy Pinkerton all adding further pain on the visitors. Fellow Non-League writer Peter Dudley was there, here is his take on the game: https://pedroslocalfootiefix.blogspot.com/2022/08/wakebury-7-old-southendian-reserves-2.html

Elsewhere, Hutton Res defeated May & Baker EOFL 3 – 1 at Polo Fields. David Johnson struck twice for the Hutton second-side in that game. Replacement Benjamin Rose got the other goal too for the hosts. Also, Catholic Utd Res got their first win of 2022-23 as they defeated Rayleigh Town Res 3 – 0 at London Road. Franklin Craik netted twice for the visitors with Ben Burrows also on target there to secure the win.

Moving onto the only game in Division Three, Corinthians Res were held 1 – 1 by Buckhurst Hill U23 at Stambridge. Cameron Lyttle scored again for Darren Gosnell’s team, but Matt Lee’s reply meant that Alan Frost’s team took a point.

EOFL Divisions Four & Five

There were three games each in Divisions Four and Five this week. Firstly, in Division Four there was one big win for Herongate Athletic Res as they won 4 – 0 at Wakering Sports A. Kai Redmond scored two goals for Ath, with Makenna Brooke & Dan Webb joining him on the score-sheet.

Elsewhere, Pitsea Athletic Res achieved a narrow 1 – 0 win over visitors Galleywood Res at Basildon Sports Club, with Rinor Zeqiri getting the crucial goal. Finally, Collier Row were held to a goal-less draw by Roydon at the Forest Row Centre.

In Division Five, Wakebury Res began their campaign with some style with a 7 – 1 victory at AS Rawreth Res. Arry Hardy scored four goaks for Joe Creak’s team at the Warren. Tommy Wolfe added two more goals for the Berries’ second-team, plus Charlie Kernott also got on the score-sheet for the visitors.

Collier Row Res are the leaders of the division after a 3 – 1 triumph over Sungate Res. George Coker, Jordan Lee & Raheem Bravo all netted for the Romford side to secure the points. And finally, Runwell Sports Res drew 3 – 3 with Canning Town Res at St Luke’s Park.

End

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League (Sat 20 Aug) [EOFL 22/23 22.8.22]

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

Hello & welcome to the round-up from the second week of action in the Essex Olympian League for the 2022-23 season. This week, we look at the action in all six divisions, as some teams began their campaigns here.

EOFL Premier Division

As usual we begin with the top-tier, and Rayleigh Town got a fine 4 – 0 victory over Toby at Concord Rangers’ Thames Road. Harry Talbot got a fine treble with George Vile’s penalty securing the points. Leigh Ramblers began their 125th Anniversary season with a good 3 – 2 win in their local derby at Old Southendian. Tom Franks got a brace while stalwart Ryan Lowe got the other goal. Mattias Tonking and Jack Lelliott both notched for OS there.

The two other matches were narrow wins for the home side. Firstly, Catholic Utd defeated Canning Town 1 – 0 at Len Forge, with Louis Robinson the goal-getter. Also at Chadfields, Hutton had a goal from substitute Jude Keeling to thank for a 1 – 0 win against Kelvedon Hatch.

EOFL Division One

In Division One, Corinthians made it two wins from two as they hammered Leigh Town 9 – 0 at Stambridge. Bill Wilton got four goals for the hosts, with Jake Hodder, Max Jones, Bailey Moss and Connor Summerhill also on target, along with an OG. Beacon Hill Rovers edged to a 2 – 1 success over Wakering Sports, with Bertie Whymark and a penalty from Jack Walker enough to seal the three points. Elsewhere, Harold Wood Athletic made it two wins from two games with a 3 – 2 triumph over Herongate Athletic at Harold Wood Park. James Pottle, Zach Holding and Billy Gray’s penalty were enough to overhaul Ath goals from Matthew Keiller and Callum Palmer.

In the other action, Epping Town bagged a 4 – 2 win over Old Chelmsfordians, with Abdul Kamara scoring twice for Epping along with one goal each for Scout Bown and Chris Gormley. Also, Harold Hill drew 4 – 4 with Manford Way in their first meeting in this division. The scorers for Hill were lack by Jack Suters’ brace and one apiece for Connor Donnelly and Jack Stevenson.

EOFL Divisions Two & Three

Into Division Two now, and Harold Wood Athletic Res also won at home, with a 2 – 1 success over Wakebury. James Jenkins and Ollie Portway goals were enough for them. Harry Kateley got the goal for Matt Cardy’s team. Elsewhere, Hashtag Utd Development were held 1 – 1 at home to Catholic Utd Res. Substitute Chandler Wray netted for the hosts with Dominic O’Kane scoring for Utd’s second-side.

The other results in the division were AS Rawreth’s 3 – 1 triumph over Old Southendian Res, and Wakering Sports Res defeated Hutton Res 5 – 2 at Cupid’s.

Moving onto Division Three, Hullbridge Sports Res got a 4 – 2 win over local rivals Corinthians Res at Lower Road. There were doubles for Jay Knight and Joe Tuskin for the hosts to outdo strikes by Chevon Bryan and Agelos Alla for the visitors. Buckhurst Hill U23s had strikes by Cameron Lyttle and Louie Cooper to thank for a 2 – 1 win at Basildon Town Res. Tyler Fowles got the goal back for Town there.

Also, Pitsea Athletic edged to a 2 – 1 win over Leigh Town Res with Precious Aminu and replacement Reece Stone seeing Ath to victory. Springfield Res won 3 – 1 at Toby Res, with Liam England scoring all three goals for the Chelmsford-based side there.

EOFL Divisions Four & Five

There were two games each in Divisions Four and Five. Firstly, in Division Four there was a fine away win for Pitsea Athletic Res as they won 4 – 2 at Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res. Lewis Brown scored two, plus Rinor Zeqiri and substitute Jay Seeley-Hanson were also on target. Ewan Rockell and Lewis Wake got consolation goals for Swifts. Shenfield AFC Res also won away from home, winning 2 – 1 at Collier Row. Ross Riding and replacement Paul Constable Jr both netted for AFC there, with Jack Bird also scoring after coming off the bench.

Division Five there was a good start to Miki Hood’s tenure as Shoebury Town Res boss as his side won 3 – 2 at Collier Row Res, at the Forest Row Centre. Substitute Kyle McAlindon scored twice, with Chadrack Kisoka also netting. Charlie Quant and Harry Potts both struck for Row’s second team but they fell to defeat. Also, Runwell Sports Res were held 2 – 2 by Manford Way Res at St Luke’s Park.

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League (Sat 13 Aug) [EOFL 22/23 14.8.22]

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

Hello & welcome to the return of the Essex Olympian League round-up articles for the 2022-23 season. I will endeavour to compile these as often as I can during the season, though just as an advance notice that they may not be done weekly. This week, we look the action in all six divisions, as the new EOFL season began in earnest.

Match still from Corinthians 3 – 1 ACD Utd [Image by Scott W]

EOFL Premier Division

As usual we begin with the top-tier, and in a season of change which includes two new names to the division (Toby & Runwell Sports) and a few clubs moving into ground-shares at Senior grounds, we start with Hutton‘s 2 – 1 victory over Rayleigh Town at Tilbury’s Chadfields. Stalwarts Will Marlowe and Stephen Judge got the important goals there as Matt Singh’s side began their new era well. Catholic Utd also began their new season well with an impressive 5 – 1 success at newcomers Toby. Aaron Baldwin started his season with a treble, with substitutes Harrison Day and Liam Oliver also notching at Toby’s new venue – the Nursery Sports Ground in Ramsden Heath.

Elsewhhere, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts grabbed a 2 – 0 triumph over Sungate at Silver Leys. Jamie Dicker and William Morris secured the points for the home team there. Old Southendian also started with a win as they defeated Springfield 2 – 1 at Garon Park 3G. Nico Dubouchet and Jack Lelliott scored one goal each for Altan Ali’s team to overturn Arinze Ossai’s goal for Francesco Zabotti’s team. Other results on the day were Runwell Sports’ 1 – 1 draw with Galleywood and Canning Town‘s 3 – 1 success over Shenfield AFC.

EOFL Division One

In Division One, Harold Wood Athletic began life in the second-tier with a fine 4 – 0 victory over Old Chelmsfordians. Matt Donovan, Billy Gray, Zach Holding and Max Shepherd were the ensemble cast of scorers to give John Field’s new side the points. Harold Hill also began their season under new management with a win, as they defeated Leigh Town 2 – 0 at Noak Hill. James Odhiamba and Troy Tizard-Cleghorn got the goals for Billy Cove’s new team.

In the match I watched live this weekend to mark the new Intermediate season, Corinthians were made to work hard before earning a 3 – 1 victory over divisional newcomers ACD Utd at Stambridge. Bailey Moss netted twice and Bill Wilton added the other goal for Chris Stoneham’s team, after Samuel Payne had earlier given ACD the advantage. If you’d like more on this game, my full report is available here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2022/08/13/s22-23-match-report-corinthians-3-1-acd-utd-sat-13-aug

Finally in this division, Epping Town started their campaign strongly with a 5 – 2 victory at Beacon Hill Rovers. Sacha Canning and Jack Walker got the goals for Rovers but ultimately, Stuart Hoskins’ side were too strong on the day.

EOFL Divisions Two & Three

Moving into Division Two now and in the two games that took place, both were won by the visiting side. Wakebury began their season with a gutsy 2 – 1 triumph at Wakering Sports Res at Cupid’s. Ben Rowe and Will Wheeler got the telling goals to give Matt Cardy’s side the points. Harold Wood Athletic Res got a narrow 1 – 0 success at newcomers Hashtag Utd Development, with Thomas Butler getting the only goal on the half-hour.

Only one match began the term in Division Three, and it ended in a draw. Basildon Town Res fought hard but were held 2 – 2 by Old Chelmsfordians Res at Basildon Sports Club. Rodney Wilson and Joshua Hales got the goals for the hosts there.

EOFL Divisions Four & Five

Roydon began their new season in Division Four with a superb 4 – 1 victory at Wakering Sports A on the second pitch at Cupid’s. Connor Riddoch scored twice here, with Max Pike and Connor Presland also netting for the visitors. In the other game, Collier Row began life in the fifth-tier with a comfortable 3 – 0 win against visitors Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res.

Just the one match in Division Five this week, which saw Collier Row Res launch their season with an excellent 7 – 1 win over newcomers Manford Way Res at Forest Row Centre.

End

S21-22 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League (Sat 21 May) [EOFL 21/22 22.5.22]

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

Hello all and welcome to the final edition of the Essex Olympian League round-up, looking at the action from Saturday 21 May, from the Premier Division & Division One. There were still big things to settle, with the identity of the clubs being relegated from the top two tiers was pretty much assured after this weekend’s action. Lead image is from Ongar Town v Catholic Utd last weekend.

Archive Image from Wakebury v Harold Hill earlier in the season

Essex Olympian League Round-up – Saturday 21 May

In the Premier Division, they key game was at the Len Forge Centre which saw Catholic Utd launch a stirring comeback from two goals behind to claim a 3 – 2 victory over Canning Town. Goals by Franklin Craik, Thomas Kearney and an OG sealed the turnaround and send Canning down with two matches left to play for them. Utd got the points in their last game of the campaign to strengthen their position in sixth, but Sungate can overhaul them if they win their last two games – both against Canning Town.

This was club stalwart Louis Godwin-Green’s last game before retiring from playing & I’d just like to wish him well for the future and congratulate him on a super career for several clubs in the area. Fellow Non-League writer Pete Dudley was there & here is his report: pedroslocalfootiefix.blogspot.com/2022/05/catholic-united-3-canning-town-2.html

Elsewhere in the top division, Harold Wood Athletic ended their 15 year tenure in the EOFL Premier Division with a spirited & welcome 3 – 1 victory over Old Southendian at Harold Wood Park. Tommy Harber, Oluwatomiwa Bankole and Thomas Butler got the goals for Gary Willis’ side, with the Wood gaffer standing down from over a decade of service to the club in various management roles, I’d like to wish Gary well for his future as well. Wood will compete in Division One next term after seeing their relegation confirmed several weeks ago. Finally, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts ended their season with a walkover win over Hutton, which saw the latter deducted two points but their finishing place of fourth is not affected. Swifts will finish tenth, on 30 points.

In the big game in Division One, Snaresbrook retained their status in the division with a brilliant 4 – 2 victory over Leigh Town in a match moved to Ilford Wanderers RFC, where Sungate usually play. The Snaresbrook scorers were Yehven Zhyvka from the penalty spot, Rajpal Bumbra, Max Catherall and Youssef Moumen. The result leaves Snaresbrook in eighth place, having moved above their opponents here on goal difference. They finished ninth, with Herongate Athletic finishing second-bottom, which could see them relegated.

One game to Division Four to round off the EOFL articles this term, which was Springfield Res winning 2 – 0 at home to Roydon which meant they secured third spot and a possible promotion, given that Division Three is also short on clubs.

Thank you for reading this article series during the season, it’s certainly taken hours & hours to put together. Have a good summer everyone.

S21-22 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League (Sat 4 Dec) [EOFL 21/22 6.12.21]

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 4 December. This week, the league action returned on a bigger scale this weekend.. Also includes results from Cup ties involving EOFL sides and a partial round-up from Divisions Four & Five.

Many thanks for reading.

Essex Olympian League Round-up – Saturday 4 December

EOFL Premier Division

In what was another big day of action in the Premier Division, Basildon Town retained their four-point lead at the summit with a 3 – 0 success over Springfield. Graham Harrison scored another two goals here for Marcus Bowers’ side, with substitute Antony Aylett also netting to complete the win. Ongar Town remain second after a 4 – 0 victory against Canning Town at Lakeside Sports Ground 3G. Joe Lilly, Rodney Wilson, Kane Adams and replacement Jack Zielinski all scored for Richard Ponsford’s side here.

Elsewhere, Hutton also are still in the chasing pack in third after a hard-fought 2 – 1 win over Leigh Ramblers at Polo Fields. Stephen Judge and George Ezekiel both scored for Matt Singh’s side who remain two points clear of Rayleigh Town in fourth. Town completed a memorable 7 – 0 win at Old Southendian with Harry Talbot netting four goals alone to take him to eleven league goals this term. Liam Oliver also scored a fine treble to go joint-top of the goal-scoring charts with twelve goals in the league thus far. OS remain eighth.

Also, Kelvedon Hatch went up to sixth place after a 3 – 2 success against Galleywood at New Hall. Joseph Newson, Wayne Semanshia and James Burt were all on the score-sheet for Darren Hunt’s team, to outdo strikes by Thomas Watling and Freddie Bartram for ‘Wood, who stay in 1th. Sungate are up to fifth after they won 3 – 2 at home to Shenfield AFC, with Ben Carroll scoring both goals for AFC in their valiant effort there.

In the match I saw this weekend, Harold Wood Athletic got only their second win of the season as they emerged with a 3 – 1 victory at Catholic Utd at the Len Forge. Half-time substitute Freddy Shepherd, James Pottle and Billy Reed all netted for Gary Willis’ side, with Harley Kee’s penalty little consolation for the Super Hoops as they fell to seventh place – eight points adrift of the top three. If you’d like more on this match, my report is available here:

S21-22 Match Report: Catholic Utd 1 – 3 Harold Wood Athletic (Sat 4 Dec) [EOFL 21/22 5.12.21]

EOFL Division One

In the second-tier, Chingford Athletic went into the top five after a resounding 5 – 1 win at Snaresbrook. Jed Arthur scored twice for Declan Murphy’s team, with Scout Bown, Eren Muti and Valter Simao all also on target on a fine day for Chingford. Toby are also well in-form after a 2 – 1 success at home to Herongate Athletic. Ben Picton and Marc Porter-Brown both netted for Mark Jones’ side who sit third, just a point adrift of the leaders with matches in hand as well. One other note on Herongate to mention, which is that manager Billy Cove and his coaching staff have all departed the club, I’d like to wish them well for the future.

In other results, Old Chelmsfordians are up to fourth spot after a battling 3 – 2 victory at Epping Town. Joe Rickett and Conor Corrigan goals for Town were not enough to stop OC’s from picking up another victory. Finally, Runwell Sports went to the summit on goal difference after a 4 – 1 triumph over Leigh Town at St Luke’s Park.

EOFL Division Two

In Division Two, there was just two matches that took place due to the weather starting to have its wintery impact on the season. ACD Utd won’t mind too much though as they got another handsome win, as they defeated Hutton Res 9 – 2 at Westlands to go top of the table on goal difference. Jacob Dingli and Michael Wade both got four goals here for Greg Knock’s team, with Shaun Goddard also on target as his side reached sixth goals scored in just thirteen games. That’s some goal-scoring feat.

Elsewhere, Manford Way edged to a 2 – 1 victory at Shoebury Town to rise up to fifth spot. Kemari Hypolite and Charlie Parish got the goals for Manford, with Kirk Hudson responding for Shoebury. One match which wasn’t contested saw Rayleigh Town Res get a home walkover against May & Baker A.

Essex Junior Cup Result

Wakering Sports Res 8 – 1 Springfield Res

Herts Junior Cup Result

Lemsford Res 2 – 1 Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res

EOFL Division Three

In Division Three, and with leaders Catholic Utd Res not in action this week, nearest challengers Hashtag Utd Development sought to gain ground and crikey, did they do that. They emerged with a comprehensive 17 – 1 triumph over Toby Res at Barleylands. Samuel Pratt led the huge list of goal-scorers for Denis Simpson’s team with six goals here himself, and reach 15 league goals this term. Tony Stevens also netted a treble, with Matthew Gauci, Jake Smith and Chandler Wray all notching doubles here for the Tags’ youth side, with Alex Warren and Jay Knight completing the score-sheet. Meanwhile, Basildon Town Res remain seven points clear in fourth place after a 4 – 2 success at Leigh Town Res. Louis Hill netted a brace here for the Basildon side, with Rhys Willson and Scott Cooper also finding the net for the visitors.

Pitsea Athletic went up to fifth spot after a 3 – 1 triumph at home to Buckhurst Hill U23. Sean Devlin netted twice and there was a goal for Jason Stanhope for Pitsea at Basildon Sporting Village. There was also a win for Hulbridge Sports Res as they won 3 – 1 against Collier Row at Lower Road. Michael Clark, Jake Frost and Henry Hands got the goals as Sports ended a three-match losing run.

EOFL Divisions Four & Five Round-up

In an extended round-up this week, we move into Division Four. Leaders Chingford Athletic Res kept their four-point lead as they powered to a 7 – 1 victory over Shenfield AFC Res at Town Mead. Southend Manor Dev are second after a good 3 – 1 success at Ongar Town Res, with Jack Mead scoring twice and there one for Harry Lincoln as well. Roydon are up to fourth after a fine 4 – 2 win at Galleywood Res. Connor Riddoch, Connor Presland, Karim Francis and Halcyon Griffith all netted for Roydon to overcome strikes by substitute Lee Judd & an OG to secure the win at Slades Lane.

Meanwhile, Old Chelmsfordians Res are nine points clear in eighth after a 3 – 2 win over strugglers Canning Town Res at Lawford Lane. Timothy King, Lee Mulholland and replacement Henry Field all scored for the OC second side there. The other result in this division was Leytonstone Utd’s 3 – 0 win over bottom side Sungate Dev. Utd rise one place to ninth after this win.

Finally this week, in Division Five there was a surprise loss for leaders Leigh Ramblers Res as they lost 5 – 3 at home to mid-table Snaresbrook Res. Charlie Batchelor’s double and a goal for Kai Baker for the Rams was outdone by a four-goal haul for Rajpal Bumbra and one from Liam Adams for the visitors at Belfairs Park.

Other Results in Division Five

AS Rawreth Res 1 – 2 Old Barkabbeyans | The Warren

Herongate Athletic Res 2 -2 Epping Town Res | Billericay Road

Wakebury Res 2 – 3 Runwell Sports Res | Nursery Sports Ground

End

S21-22 Match Report: Catholic Utd 1 – 3 Harold Wood Athletic (Sat 4 Dec) [EOFL 21/22 5.12.21]

Essex Olympian League – Premier Division

Venue: Len Forge Centre 3G

2021-22 Season: Match 45

Attendance: 25 (Est)

Saturday 4th December 2021 – 2pm KO

Catholic Utd: Green & White Shirts, Black Shorts, Green & White Socks

Harold Wood: Claret & Sky Blue Shirts, Claret Shorts, Claret Socks

Harold Wood produce excellent second-half showing to win well at Catholic Utd

Catholic Utd 1 – 3 Harold Wood Athletic

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

This weekend, I was pleased to end a five-week break from watching Essex Olympian action with a short trip to the Len Forge Centre to see Catholic Utd welcome Harold Wood Athletic in the EOFL Premier Division. Athletic were bottom of the table pre-match after one win so far this campaign & Utd were keen to keep up the pressure on the top three. Simon Thomas’ hosts had a full-strength side to choose from here, and Louis Godwin-Green was again the glovesman, with Alfie Whiteaker and Cameron Lemar the full-backs. Michael Sammut skippered the side, and Utd also had a front three of Aaron Baldwin, Franklin Craik and Alex O’Leary. Options from the bench included the attack-minded Harrison Day, Pablo Passenda and Jay Nash. Harold Wood were missing stalwarts Matt Donovan and Jacob Roberts but did have Steven Reynolds in goal, with a back four of Tommy Harber and Jack Baines plus centre-backs Harry Clifford and Ben Gibbons. Another long-standing player in Reiss Kingsley captained the visitors, with a forward line of Max Shepherd, James Pottle and Billy Reed. Gary Willis’ side also had Freddy Shepherd, Emmanuel Olaniyan and Lee Dann as substitutes.

The match started with both sides looking to set their stall out, with Utd looking to create chances early and Athletic looking to deny said chances and build a base from there. Simon Thomas’ ‘Super Hoops’ had early sighters at Steven Reynolds’ goal as forward Alex O’Leary narrowly struck over the woodwork and skipper Michael Sammut also sent a header off-target. Catholic continued to have a good share of ball rentention as the first half went on, with Franklin Craik and Aaron Baldwin both having strikes on goal that kept Reynolds alert.

Harold Wood did have the occasional foray in the hosts’ defensive third, with forwards Billy Reed and James Pottle making good runs, Reed’s whilst in possession to turn past his marker but there was little in the way of clear-cut chances to test Utd custodian Louis Godwin-Green. That being said, what Gary Willis’ side were doing well was stifling their opposition’s attacking rhythm as Utd didn’t have the ball for long enough in the last few minutes before the break.

Half-Time: Catholic Utd 0 – 0 Harold Wood

It was fair to say that the visitors would be the happier of the two sides at the break, as Utd really did need to find another gear to bypass a commendably solid Ath backline, led well by centre-back Harry Clifford. In the first part of the second half though, the hosts’ passing did go astray somewhat, despite that Craik had another decent effort denied by the visiting defence. Harold Wood brought on substitutes Freddy Shepherd and Emmanuel Olaniyan at the restart and they soon had an impact on proceedings. Shepherd made a good run into the penalty box and was well-poised to strike at goal, only for full-back Cameron Lemar to tackle well to send the ball out for a set-piece.

Pottle also had a strike off-target but there was a sense that Athletic were building momentum. Even so, it was a bit of a surprise when Harold Wood broke the stalemate on 63 minutes. A good floated centre from the right flank by full-back Tommy Harber found the six-yard line area, and Freddy Shepherd rose in the air ahead of Godwin-Green to nod home well, although the Utd ‘keeper will have been disappointed that he mistimed his leap to gather the cross.

Understandably, Catholic Utd sought to quickly get back on level terms. The home contingent were starting to voice their frustration from the stands but Ath were doing a decent job of once again stifling promising moves from the attack-minded Utd side, until we got to 76 minutes. Craik was clipped in the area in what looked a nervous challenge, and referee Daniel Mann showed little hesitation to point to the penalty spot. Harley Kee stepped up and blasted home high into the net, giving Reynolds little chance to save.

So, with the match tantalisingly-poised at 1 – 1, you may have thought that Utd would build more impetus to get another goal. Well that just didn’t happen. Harold Wood went straight up the other end to attack and Freddy Shepherd again had a crucial part in the goal as good passing found him and then continuing the move, he found James Pottle who found enough space to fire low into the net, beyond the grasp of Godwin-Green.

To be fair to the match, it had built up nicely since the half-hour mark and Catholic did respond well, putting in good crosses and passing, notably by substitutes Pablo Passenda and Harrison Day, who also made a few good surging runs down the channels though Reynolds didn’t have a great deal to do to be honest at this stage.

Whilst it’s true that Utd were threatening to respond with another goal, it was Harold Wood who really capped a fine afternoon’s work as with four minutes of the ninety remaining, another counter-attack by Ath found gaps in the Utd defence and Shepherd I think it was who found the impressive Billy Reed who fired home well to give Harold Wood a decisive third goal and complete a surprise win. Reed did deserve something from the game as on at least two occasions, the forward showcased his talents making tricky and rapid turns past opposition defenders.

Catholic Utd kept pouring forward looking for that important second goal but it wasn’t their day. Other results saw them drop to seventh after the day’s League action, while Wood climbed off the bottom, but are still five points off the top ten and relative safety.

Utd’s Alex O’Leary in possession looking to find that telling pass

Full-Time: Catholic Utd 1 – 3 Harold Wood Athletic

To summarise, Utd had a number of chances, particularly in the first period which they couldn’t make the most of. Harold Wood responded well after the interval to weather the storm and kept their hosts at bay before being fairly clinical in attack in the latter stages to claim a valuable win.

For stand-out performances here, we start with Harold Wood. Credit has to go to hard-working forwards James Pottle and Billy Reed who had moments of decent play before the interval. After it, they both showed good awareness, good passing and finishing as both also got on the score-sheet. Centre-back Harry Clifford was a towering figure at the heart of the Athletic defence, making several important clearances, particularly aerially. And a word too for the impact of substitute Freddy Shepherd who scored one goal and had a assist for another. His energy, passing and movement caused headaches for the tiring hosts backline.

For Utd, Tom Elliott put in a good shift, interchanging positions with skipper Michael Sammut at times. Elliott also had good presence to disrupt the visitors’ midfield passing at times. Harley Kee put in another characteristic display, and only good defending stopped him from putting in telling passes. Lastly, replacement Harrison Day showed his talent in the half-hour he had today, showing good pace and passing.

Best wishes to both teams for the rest of the campaign. My thanks to Catholic Utd boss Simon Thomas for his assistance pre-match.

Teenage full-back Alfie Whiteaker (#3) about to strike a set-piece for Utd

Catholic Utd | Manager: Simon Thomas

Starting XI: 1 Louis Godwin-Green (GK), 2 Cameron Lemar, 3 Alfie Whiteaker, 5 Louis Robinson, 6 Tom Elliott, 8 Michael Sammut (Capt), 20 Harley Kee, 7 Tom Kearney, 9 Aaron Baldwin, 10 Franklin Craik, 11 Alex O’Leary

Goal-scorer: Harley Kee [pen 77′]

Subs On (Time): 12 Harrison Day (61′), 15 Jay Nash (61′), 14 Pablo Passenda (68′), 16 Tobias DeSouza (72′), 17 Temi Adebayo (80′)

Booked: None | Subs Not Used: None

Harold Wood Athletic | Manager: Gary Willis

Starting XI: 1 Steven Reynolds (GK), 2 Tommy Harber, 3 Jack Baines, 4 Ben Gibbons, 19 Harry Clifford, 6 Sam Tampkins, 7 Jordan Crane, 8 Reiss Kingsley (Capt), 9 Max Shepherd, 10 Billy Reed, 11 James Pottle

Goal-scorers: Freddy Shepherd [63′], James Pottle [78′], Billy Reed [86′]

Subs On (Time): 14 Freddy Shepherd (46′), 15 Emmanuel Olaniyan (46′), 12 Lee Dann (68′)

Booked: Kingsley, F Shepherd | Sub Not Used: None

Referee: Daniel Mann
Assistants: Brett Grant & Guy Pell-Ilderton

S21-22 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League & EJC (Sat 25 Sept) [EOFL 21/22 27.9.21]

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 25 September. This weekend saw some hard-fought contests and some stellar results too. This week, the focus is on the top three divisions with results from Divisions Three, Four & Five and the Essex Junior Cup involving EOFL sides.

Many thanks for reading.

EOFL Premier Division

In the Premier Division, Harold Wood Athletic leapt out of the bottom two with a hard-fought 1 – 0 win at Leigh Ramblers, with stalwart Matt Donovan getting the solitary goal for Gary Willis’ side at Belfairs Park. Shenfield AFC are in top ten after a superb 5 – 3 win at Old Southendian. Ben Carroll, Mitchell Day, Charlie Heatley, Samuel Lock and Alex Tredgett all netted one each for the visitors. Mitchell Ali, Sam Jones and Ed Gould all responded for Altan Ali’s team but they go into next week’s local derby with Catholic Utd needing a better result.

Meanwhile, Basildon Town are up to third after a tough 3 – 2 win at Kelvedon Hatch, with Graham Harrison notching all three goals for Marcus Bowers’ side at New Hall. Hutton continued their good form with a 3 – 0 home success over Canning Town at Polo Fields, with Will Marlowe, Jude Keeling and substitute Jonathon Hilliard all scoring for Matt Singh’s side. And in the top two clash at London Road, Ongar Town emerged with a 4 – 1 victory over previous leaders Rayleigh Town. Josh Boxall netted twice, with Frank Goodall and Harry Rawlins also on target for Richard Ponsford’s side, in the match I attended this week. If you’d like more on it, my report is here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2021/09/25/s21-22-match-report-rayleigh-town-1-4-ongar-town-sat-25-sept-eofl/

Elsewhere, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts were held by Springfield 4 – 4 in an entertaining match at Silver Leys. Mitchell May struck twice for Dan Williams’ visitors, with Harrison Elles and replacement Andrew Morgan also on target for them. And Sungate consigned Catholic Utd to another defeat, winning 3 – 1 in East London to go up to fourth.

EOFL Division One

Moving now into Division One, and Herongate Athletic were held 0 – 0 by a decent Toby side at Billericay Road, but both sides remain in the top six. Wakering Sports are the new leaders as they made it five wins from six games after a 1 – 0 success at home to Beacon Hill Rovers. Ben Burrows got the only goal for Mitchell Gleeson’s new-look side. Leigh Town also continued their rise up the standings, with a hard-fought 3 – 2 home win over Snaresbrook. Strikes by Sam Irvine, Mark Frostick and Lewis Lawrence saw Jack Pearman’s side get the win.

Elsewhere, Corinthians got arguably the result of their season so far with a 4 – 3 win at Chingford Athletic. Scout Bown scored twice for Ath, with Nickal-David Luzolo also netted for Declan Murphy’s side but a double from substitute Bailey Moss plus goals for John Bolton-Smith and Jake Hodder gave the visitors the points to move up to fifth spot. Finally for this division, Old Chelmsfordians drew 2 – 2 with Epping Town, with Callum Turner and George Spillane scoring for Stuart Hoskins’ side.

EOFL Division Two

In Division Two, ACD Utd are the leaders with a 100% record from their first five games after a 5 – 4 victory over Old Southendian Res at Westlands. Jacob Dingli grabbed another double, with Michael Wade, Shaun Goddard and Ollie Williams all joining him on the score-sheet. Harold Hill are second on goal difference only after a fine 3 – 0 win over AS Rawreth at Noak Hill. Jack Suters, Peter Tyler and Thomas Dunning strikes were enough to keep a three-point lead over third-placed Wakebury, who triumphed 5 – 2 over Hutton Res. William Wheeler notched an excellent treble, with Chris Gore and Max Hall also on target for Matt Cardy’s side. Lewis Hall and Owen Chesney responded for Bill Stratford’s side who are yet to win this term.

Harold Wood Athletic Reserves got their second win this season, with a 3 – 0 victory over Rayleigh Town Res. Kieron Moynihan got two goals for the hosts, with Ben Rowe also on target for Steve Hubbard’s side as they went up into mid-table. Elsewhere, Manford Way went into fourth spot with a 5 – 2 success over May & Baker A. Samuel Oramadike led the way with a treble, with Daniel Demain and Kenneth Amaning also netting for Colin Dobson’s team. Finally, Rochford Town held Shoebury Town to a 1 – 1 draw at the Rochford Rec.

EOFL Division Three

Catholic Utd Res 6 – 1 Hullbridge Res

Essex Junior Cup Results

AS Rawreth Res 6 – 0 Rochford Town Res

Basildon Town Res 5 – 7 Hashtag Utd Dev.

Bowers & Pitsea U23 3 – 1 Southend Manor Dev.

Buckhurst Hill U23 H – W Old Chigwellians Res

Collier Row Res 0 – 4 Oakside

Corinthians Res 1 – 2 Wakering Sports A

Debden 6 – 1 Shenfield AFC Res

Galleywood Res 3 – 2 Chingford Athletic Res

Old Barkabbeyans 8 – 0 All Prospects

Ongar Town Res H – W South Woodham Ferrers

Pitsea Athletic Res 3 – 7 Wakering Sports Res

Snaresbrook Res 2 – 5 Collier Row

South Essex Utd 9 – 3 Wakebury Res

Toby Res 3 – 5 Sungate Dev.

League – EOFL Division Four

Roydon 3 – 0 Leytonstone Utd

Springfield Res 5 – 5 Old Chelmsfordians Res

EOFL Division Five

Epping Town Res 1 – 5 Leigh Ramblers Res

Runwell Sports Res 4 – 1 Herongate Athletic Res

S20-21 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League (Sat 22 May) [EOFL 20/21 23.5.21]

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

Hello all and welcome to another edition of my round-up articles, looking the action in week ten of the ‘mini-season’ in the Essex Olympian League divisions on Saturday 22nd May, plus a mention of the action in midweek as the champions were confirmed in the Premier Division. As ever, the focus is on the top four divisions despite several matches being uncontested this week.

EOFL Premier Division

In the Premier Division, Basildon Town secured second place after a 3 – 1 triumph at home to Old Southendian. Strikes from player-boss Marcus Bowers, Grant Cumming and replacement Michael Clark were enough to earn a good tangible reward for the change of fortunes under Bowers this term. Basildon Town have also announced this week that they will ground-share at Gardiners Close with Step 4 side Basildon Utd next season, ahead of the heavily-rumoured new ground that Utd will build in the near future. Os will likely finish the season bottom but with relegation looking most unlikely, they will have some room to re-build ahead of what will be a tough division next term.

Elsewhere, Springfield got their second win in their last four with a 2 – 1 success at Rayleigh Town. A Shaun Gittleson power strike was not enough for the hosts to avoid defeat here. Dan Williams’ visiting side have secured a tenth-placed finish after this win. That is the case as Shenfield AFC lost their final game of the season, as Harold Wood Athletic won 2 – 1 at St Martins Sch 3G. Strikes from Max Shepherd and Tom Ward secured a second consecutive away win for Alex Goldstone’s team and a win in their final match next weekend could see them sneak into the top six.

Also, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts came from behind to draw 1 – 1 with Catholic Utd at Silver Leys. Aaron Baldwin put the visitors ahead on the hour, but substitute Gabriel Odili’s third league goal in his spell at the club ensured the points were shared. The Hoops have finished their season now and they remain third, but the form Billy Cove’s side has shown since the restart continues – they are nine league games unbeaten now.

Sungate’s match with Kelvedon Hatch was uncontested and the ‘Gate got the points, with Hatch also unable to compete next week too.

Finally, Buckhurst Hill were given a scare before securing a 4 – 3 success at Hutton. A brace from Max Nicholson plus goals by Tyler Dolan and Jack Griggs were enough to give Mark Williams’ side the points but the hosts responded through Josh Brocklebank and a brace from substitute Ben Stanton made it a nervy end for the Champions, who were presented with the Trophy shortly after the match, which I had a chance to see first-hand as I was at this match & my in-depth report is here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2021/05/22/s-20-21-match-report-hutton-3-4-buckhurst-hill-sat-22-may/

Hill can pass the fifty-point mark with a win at Sungate next weekend, whereas Hutton need to defeat Springfield to at least secure fifth spot.

Buckhurst Hill celebrate their Premier Division title win [Image: Scott W]

EOFL Division One

Moving now into Division One, with two matches uncontested (see listing at end of this section), the action was restricted to two matches this weekend. Firstly, Toby got a fine 2 – 0 win at Chingford Athletic to go up to fifth in the table after their third win in a row. Chingford drop to ninth and a rebuilding job awaits in the summer though full respect to Chairman Lee Bowers who has stepped in as manager for the last several weeks. Also, Manford Way defeated Herongate Athletic 4 – 0 at Jo Richardson Sch to give them hope of overhauling rivals Galleywood to secure the runners-up spot next weekend. Charlie Heatley scored twice here after coming off the bench, with James Clarke and Tyrone Scarlett also netting for Trevor Grace’s side. Fellow Non-League writer Aaron Moore was there & here’s his look at the game: https://footballreview.net/match-report-manford-way-4-0-herongate-athletic/

Next weekend, Manford have to win in the reverse match at Herongate whilst Galleywood have to win at champions Ongar Town. Intriguingly poised I’m sure you’ll agree.

Uncontested:

Ramsden Scotia H – W Snaresbrook | Home Walkover
Ongar Tn H – W Rayleigh Tn Res | Home Walkover

EOFL Division Two

Division Two is also not all ‘said & done’ either in terms of the promotion spots. That being said, Champions Leigh Town endorsed their growing reputation with a 5 – 1 win away at Ryan in Leigh’s farewell match of the season. Jack Pearman’s side remain third in the conventional table, though have won the title thanks to their superior PPG ratio. Ryan have two matches left and maximum points from those matches will see them pinch eighth spot.

Elsewhere, Harold Wood Athletic Res gathered a third win in succession with a 1 – 0 triumph at Laindon Orient. James Pottle got the only goal from twelve yards as their campaign ended on a high at Markhams Chase. Laindon must win next weekend to have any chance of pinching fifth spot but all in all, it’s been a decent season for Neil Blackburn’s side.

Beacon Hill Rovers are still in the box seat for the crucial runners-up position in the division after a nerve-jangling 4 – 3 win over May & Baker A at Wickham Bishops Sports Ground. Strikes from Bradley Morgan, Josh Perry, George Davis and player-boss Stephen Bennett were enough to secure a fourth win in five matches. Their job next week is simple, win against Wakering Sports and the job is done. Bakers were in the game for long periods through a brace from Tolouwa Dada and one from Jeese Martin ultimately wasn’t enough and they need four points from their last two matches to have any chance of a top-ten finish.

Finally, Wakering Sports secured a top-five finish with a 2 – 0 win over AS Rawreth at Cupid’s. Aaron Clark and Ben Rowe goals made it six wins in their last seven matches for Mitchell Gleeson’s side. This result also makes sure Rawreth will finish bottom of the standings.

As far the promotion picture stands, Epping Town have a chance of overhauling Beacon Hill if the latter fail to win, but Stuart Hoskins’ side also have to defeat Corinthians at home on the final day after they got another three points without playing, as did the Stambridge side.

Uncontested matches:

Corinthians H – W Rochford Town | Home Walkover

Epping Tn H – W Old Southendian Res | Home Walkover

EOFL Division Three

Finally for this week, in Division Three ACD Utd cemented their position as Champions with a walkover win against Toby Res. The race for second is somewhat more complex, as Hutton Res played twice this week again. Firstly, on Thursday night they edged to a 4 – 3 win over Hullbridge A at a very windy Lower Road. Matthew Price struck twice for Bill Stratford’s side here, with Thomas Price and Jack Shaw also on target to make Joe Ives’ fine treble for Hullbridge semi-redundant with regards to the points.

Then on Saturday, the Hutton second-side were held 4 – 4 by Basildon Town Ressies at Basildon Sports Club in the late kick-off. Jack Shaw struck another treble to take his tally to nineteen league goals this term, with James Gardner also netting. But Town responded through the ensemble cast of Keith King, Garron Leatherbarrow, Tom Clayton and replacement Jamie Simpkins to gain a point which means they will finish at least sixth.

The knock-on effect of the above now means that Manford Way Res can secure the runners-up spot with another win next weekend after they won 2 – 1 at Lakeside Utd in the lunchtime kick-off this weekend. David Hornsby took his tally to 24 this term with another brace here, in a match that Aaron also watched – his report is here: https://footballreview.net/match-report-lakeside-united-1-2-manford-way-reserves/

Daniel Stokes responded for Lakeside but this defeat means they will finish the season in eighth spot. In the other matches, Hullbridge A defeated Collier Row 2 – 1 while Wakebury secured a top-four finish with a 3 – 1 success at Buckhurst Hill Res, with Charlie Little’s 15th league goal of the campaign plus Jack Smith and Billy Bonham-Dare goals were enough for Matt Cardy’s team to secure the win

EOFL Division Four Results

Laindon Orient Res 0 – 3 Shenfield AFC Res | Peagsus Club

Wakering Sports Res 1 – 1 Galleywood Res | Cupid’s CC (Pitch 1)

Uncontested:
Sungate Res H – W Leytonstone Utd | Home Walkover

EOFL Division Five Results

AS Rawreth Res 0 – 10 Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res | The Warren

Springfield Res 1 – 0 Leigh Ramblers Res | Arun Park

Uncontested:
Epping Town Res H – W Shoebury Town Res | Home Walkover

Herongate Athletic Res A – W Roydon | Away Walkover

Runwell Sports Res A – W Collier Row Res | Away Walkover

Wakering Sports A H – W Newbury Forest Res | Home Walkover

Thank you for reading, the final edition of this season’s EOFL Round-up will be available in about ten days time to round out the campaign. It’s been a pleasure to write about the Essex Olympian League this term once again and my thanks to all the clubs, managers & players that have assisted these articles this season.