Max Shepherd (#7) pushes forward for Harold Wood in their game this weekend
Written by Scott W [@ScottMHC14] – Non-League & EOFL Writer
Hello & welcome to the last edition of the Essex Olympian League column for the 2022-23 season, looking at the action in all divisions & Cups from the week to Saturday 13 May, at the end of the piece you’ll see the Champions from all six league divisions listed.
EOFL Premier Division
Two matches were played in the top-tier. Galleywood got a morale-boosting 2 – 1 win in their bottom-two clash with Bishop’s Stortford Swifts, held at Melbourne Park 3G. Freddie Bartram & Lee Judd got the goals for the relegated side to outdo Chris Gibbs’ reply for Swifts, who will finish second-bottom. Also, Runwell Sports‘ superb campaign goes on as they defeated Toby 4 – 3 at St Luke’s. Luca Frankis, Charlie Little, Riley Armstrong & James Dalton all netted here for Robert Hodgson’s side. Albert Perry’s brace & Ben Picton’s strike made it tight but Mark Jones’ side have still had a good season.
In Division Two, AS Rawreth ended their season in the best possible way, as the relegated side won 3 – 2 at home to Catholic Utd Res at the Warren. Eamonn Kearney’s team have the Reserve Cup Final in midweek against Wakering Sports Res at Heybridge’s Scraley Road.
In Division Four, Herongate Athletic Res defeated Pitsea Athletic Res 3 – 1 at Basildon Sports Village to fortify fourth spot. Habeeb Apatira, Alex Newton & replacement Kai Redmond all netted to seal the win. Pitsea Res finished eighth.
One other thing to mention, the Senior Cup Final this week was postponed because of the one thing that may be remembered – hefty rain. It has be re-set for May 24th, again at Heybridge’s Scraley Road. …
‘Roll of Honour’ champions by division
Hutton – EOFL Premier Division
Old Chelmsfordians – EOFL Division One
Shoebury Town – EOFL Division Two
Basildon Town Res – EOFL Division Three
Leigh Ramblers Res – EOFL Division Four
Manford Way Res – EOFL Division Five
Many thanks to all those who have read this column this term & to all who shared it as well. Have a good Summer.
Harold Wood: Sky Blue Shirts, Claret Shorts & Socks
ACD: White Shirts, Black Shorts & White Socks
Harold Wood claim promotion with gritty win over decent ACD Utd
Harold Wood Athletic 1 – 0 ACD Utd
Match Report & Photos by Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMHC14]
The final match for me in the Essex Olympian this season saw a nice return to Harold Wood Park, for this EOFL Division One match between promotion-chasing Harold Wood Athletic and mid-table ACD Utd, who also played their last game this season here. ‘Wood Manager John Field has done a fine job in keeping his team in the running for the top-two & his team have led the table for large parts of the campaign. Here, they had Jack Moore as their goalkeeper, a defence of Perry Robinson, skipper Zach Holding, Daniel Spittle and Jack Baines. Louis Bazely, Ben Woolven and Connor Sheehan were in midfield and Leroy Griffiths led the attack, supported by Tyrone Scarlett and Max Shepherd. ACD have had another decent season and boss Jack Munns named Tyler Richards as their goalkeeper, with a backline of captain Jamie Alexandrou, Alex Bessent, James Bell and Ollie Williams. Their midfield featured Jake Noble, Shaun Farrow and Billy Wren, with the forward line being comprised of Jacob Dingli, Samuel Payne and Scott Perkins.
In the early-going here, it was the visitors who settled slightly better and they certainly were up for the battle. Moments later, an early drive by Wood forward Tyrone Scarlett was comfortably gathered by ACD stopper Tyler Richards and Jack Munns’ team soon pushed on again. Ollie Williams was making the most of some space down the left flank, and his cross was half-blocked by Wood’s Ben Woolven but the ball eventually found Billy Wren & his strike needed the intervention of Wood goalkeeper Jack Moore to tip it over although there was an ACD player off-side in the same move. The visitors were certainly competing well and Harold Wood did not find it easy to retain possession in midfield, with Louis Bazely and Connor Sheehan having to work hard to restrict the flowing ACD forward moves.
ACD midfielder Jake Noble breaks forward in 1st half
Harold Wood did have a goal chalked off for off-side, as Shepherd’s low effort didn’t count while ACD defender Alex Bessent headed off-target. At this stage, it was looking more likely that the visitors would break the deadlock but one piece of oppurtunistic quality altered that perception. Three minutes before the break, as a defensive clearance went awry for ACD but just outside the 18-yard area, Wood forward Leroy Griffiths judged the ball coming out of the air superbly and his fine first-time strike sailed over Richards and high into the net. Certainly a goal to savour that one was.
Half-Time: Harold Wood 1 – 0 ACD Utd
As we resumed after the break, the visitors brought on Billy Rungay and Shaun Goddard. Again, ACD were a threat down the channels four minutes into the half as another good run & cross by Williams found Rungay at the back post and he headed narrowly wide, under pressure. As we approached the hour mark, Harold Wood Athletic were starting to have more ball time and were testing the visiting defence a bit more readily. A good ball in from Griffiths found defender Perry Robinson but his header couldn’t test Richards. As they often did, ACD responded well moments later, as first Samuel Payne’s strike was cleared off the goal-line by a covering defender and seconds later, Rungay’s shot was gathered by the well-positioned Moore.
The tension was growing somewhat here as we went into the last twenty minutes of this one, as Utd substitute Warren Taylor fired over the woodwork from a decent position. Quick forward Max Shepherd was finding more space down the right flank as the game went on & his strike was narrowly wide. ACD certainly didn’t back off as we entered the last five minutes of normal time, as another good strike by Billy Rungay needed the intervention of Moore as he pulled off another good save, before Bessent’s decent strike required another good save from the Harold Wood custodian.
Max Shepherd breaks down left side for Wood in 2nd half
The four minutes of added time may well have seemed longer to the Harold Wood players but soon enough, referee Richard Wilsher blew his whistle for the last time today & the celebrations could begin for a understandably chuffed home side.
Full-Time: Harold Wood Athletic 1 – 0 ACD Utd
Given the significance of the match for the hosts, this was going to be a nervy one but their second half display made it harder for ACD to create chances, after Jack Munns’ side had put in a good first-half display to not only stifle the hosts but also in creating several chances themselves. Wood had to grind it out towards the end, assisted by a tough backline & a few good saves by young custodian Jack Moore. Congratulations again to all at Harold Wood, as they join champions Old Chelmsfordians in getting promoted to the Premier Division next term.
The stand-out mentions start with victors Harold Wood. Centre forward Leroy Griffiths led the line well and his physical presence was tough for a resolute ACD side to deal with, and his goal was a super piece of technique. Max Shepherd made a number of good runs down the right flank & made some neat passes as well as tested the visiting defence, also getting back to defend well when needed. Powerful central midfielder Connor Sheehan also put in a hard shift for his team, was good aerially & also made some good interceptions. Lastly, a mention for goalkeeper Jack Moore who made some criticial saves in the latter moments of the game to thwart a talented ACD forward line. Congrats to him.
For ACD, I felt defender Alex Bessent had a very good game and made it tough for the hosts to get into any particular rhythm in the first half-hour, making good tackles & showing good defensive awareness. Ollie Williams also gave it everything & put in a number of good crosses from the left side, stretching the Harold Wood backline well. Midfielder Billy Wren also put in a good shift as Jack Munns’ side put in a good display going forward & retained the ball for good parts of the game. Finally, forward Scott Perkins contributed well, making several good runs and had a few chances to really make it a different game as well as putting in some good passes too.
Teams
Harold Wood Athletic | Manager: John Field | Assistant: Rod Edwards
Starting XI: 1 Jack Moore (GK), 2 Perry Robinson, 11 Zach Holding (Capt), 8 Daniel Spittle, 3 Jack Baines, 6 Louis Bazely, 17 Ben Woolven, 18 Connor Sheehan, 9 Tyrone Scarlett, 10 Leroy Griffiths, 7 Max Shepherd
Goal-scorer: Leroy Griffiths [42′]
Subs ON [Time]: 12 Thomas Butler [68′, replaced Robinson], 5 Jacob Roberts [77′], 16 Freddy Shepherd [89′, replaced Sheehan]
Booked: Griffiths, Butler, Moore | Subs Not Used: Harris & Sykes
ACD Utd | Manager: Jack Munns |
Starting XI: 1 Tyler Richards (GK), 23 Jamie Alexandrou (Capt), 5 Alex Bessent, 40 James Ball, 3 Ollie Williams, 36 Jake Noble, 15 Shaun Farrow, 47 Billy Wren, 32 Samuel Payne, 9 Jacob Dingli, 20 Scott Perkins
Sub ON (Time): 2 Billy Rungay [46′], 14 Shaun Goddard [46′], 19 Warren Taylor [68′]
Archive: Corinthians v Harold Hill earlier this term
Written by Scott W [@ScottMHC14] – Non-League & EOFL Writer
Hello & welcome to the latest Essex Olympian League column, looking at the action in all divisions & Cups from Saturday 8 April, with important results coming in Premier, and Divisions One & Four.
EOFL Premier Division
In the top-tier, Kelvedon Hatch got the big result at the bottom, as they edged to a 1 – 0 win over Shenfield AFC, which sends them five points clear of the bottom two. Springfield were held 1 – 1 by Runwell Sports, as Jamie Philbrick came off the bench to score for Sports, but a corker from Harry Kateley levelled the match & means Matt Cardy’s team are also five points clear of second-bottom Bishop’s Stortford Swifts, who drew 4 – 4 with Toby in a fabulous match at Silvey Leys. Albert Perry’s double allied with strikes by Luke Jones & Jonathan Packer were cancelled out by goals from Lewis Piggott, Igor Sani, Billy Turner & Ryan Stewart but Swifts have five games left to preserve their Step 7 status. Other results saw Canning Town hold Old Southendian 1 – 1 in Beckton, plus Leigh Ramblers defeated Catholic Utd 2 – 0 to send them up to fifth. Sungate also added to Galleywood’s woes as they won 3 – 0 at Slades Lane, which puts them 7th.
The other game saw the top-two face off at Thames Road. Rayleigh Town drew 1 – 1 with Hutton, with Philip Anunwa netting for Town in that one. Hutton remain seven points clear at the summit, they have six games left while Town have eight games left to play in the next four weeks or so.
EOFL Divisions One & Two
Moving into Division One now, and Harold Wood Athletic grabbed a 2 – 1 win in their local derby at Harold Hill. James Pottle & Alfie Terry both scored to send Ath back to the summit by a point. Hill remain second-bottom. Old Chelmsfordians are up to second place following a 3 – 1 success at home to Epping Town. Chris Gormley scored for the visitors but a double for Liam Landers & one for Billy Duke send the OC’s up to 2nd on goal difference. Epping remain fourth but are effectively out of the promotion race now. Lastly in this division, Beacon Hill Rovers got a fine 3 – 1 victory at ACD Utd. Josh Jones, Jack Walker & Ben Prentice all scored for Rovers, outdoing Jamie Alexandrou’s reply for Utd, who drop to 7th as Rovers rise up to sixth.
Just one game in Division Two to note, which saw Harold Wood Athletic Res power to a 7 – 3 win over Old Southendian Res. There were doubles for Freddy Shepherd & Kieran Moynihan here, with James Jenkins, Nazarij Bilanovszkij & Jerry Nkoy also on target to send Wood back up to fourth spot. The OS side will end their term second-bottom as this was their last game here.
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EOFL Divisions Three, Four & Five
Division Three saw one game played, as the battle of two of the promotion rivals saw Leigh Town Res draw 2 – 2 with Pitsea Athletic at John Burrows Rec. Liam Wragg & replacement Zack Walker netted to keep them second, needing a point in their last game to seal that place. Pitsea are third & have to win both their remaining matches to try and deny their opposition here. Basildon Town Res will be the Champions, as their match at Hullbridge Res was an away walkover.
In Division Four, Roydon remain second, level on points with the leaders after a 3 – 2 victory at Herongate Athletic Res. Nader Benzid was the hat-trick hero for the visitors, outdoing goals from Habeeb Apatira & Jordan Lewis. Leigh Ramblers Res remain top after a 4 – 0 win over bottom side Leytonstone Utd, who need at least two wins to stay up. Wakering Sports A got a important 1 – 0 triumph at Galleywood Res to go four points clear of the bottom two. Also, Ongar Town got another good win, as they comfortably defeated Shenfield AFC Res 5 – 0 at Marks Hall. Finlay Cook & replacement Billy Welch both netted two goals here, with Max Galati getting the other goal, to give Ongar a six-point cushion in sixth.
Lastly this week, in Division Five, Basildon Town A maintained their hopes of promotion with a 4 – 1 victory at champions Manford Way Res. Aaron Clements netted for the hosts, but Donnel Kujinga’s brace here took him to 23 league goals in the race for the division’s top scorer, along with goals for Billy Falco & Luke Soley. A win for Bas in their last game in two weeks’ time will be enough to overhaul Runwell Res & claim second spot. Elsewhere, Canning Town Res won 3 – 1 at bottom side AS Rawreth Res to rise up to sixth place.
There is a game set for Easter Monday: Galleywood v Catholic Utd in Premier (1pm KO at Slades Lane) & there are two midweek games set (subject to change) for this week on Wednesday (12th Apr) night.
EOFL Prem: Toby v Rayleigh Town (6.15pm KO)
Essex Premier Cup Final: Wakering Sports Res v Shenfield AFC (at New Lodge 3G, 7.45pm KO)
I would recommend checking the clubs’ Twitter feeds for updates, particularly on the league matches.
Woodford East v Hutton image from this weekend [Image by Scott W]
Written by Scott W [@ScottMHC14] – Non-League & EOFL Writer
Hello & welcome to the another edition of the Essex Olympian League round-up. This week, we look at the action in all divisions & Cups from Saturday 21 January, as the weekend’s action was again reduced because of the frosty weather.
EOFL Premier Division & Division Three action was postponed this week.
EOFL Divisions One and Two
Division One only saw one match as Harold Wood Athletic got a important 5 – 0 victory over bottom side Wakering Sports. James Pottle netted twice here for John Field’s team, with Zach Holding, Perry Robinson & Louis Bazely’s spot-kick accounting for the other goals. The win takes Ath seven points clear at the top, with Corinthians the most likely rivals once they have played the four games they have in hand on Ath.
Into Division Two now and the only match here saw May & Baker draw 2 – 2 with Harold Wood Athletic Res at home. Matthew Harris & replacement Josh Portway netted for the visitors but they lost the chance to go back up to third here.
EOFL Divisions Four & Five
It’s straight into Division Four now, and Herongate Athletic Res are three points clear in third after a narrow 1 – 0 victory over Leigh Ramblers Res. John Hanrahan’s penalty proved decisive as Ath retained their chances of overhauling second-placed Collier Row, given they have three extra games to play, compared to Row. Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res rose to fourth after a conclusive 4 – 0 triumph at strugglers Leytonstone Utd. The cast of Archie Gerard, Henry Harnack, Matthew Allen & Jordan Trott were all on target for Swifts there. Finally in this division, Shenfield AFC Res defeated Wakering Sports A 4 – 0 at St Martin’s 3G. Mason Everitt, Kyle Constable, Lewis Dalley & Alec Roeper all scored to fortify AFC’s sixth place.
In Division Five, Collier Row Res are up to second after a 2 – 1 win at Sungate Res, with Raheem Bravo and Nicholas George the scorers for Row there. In the other match, Runwell Sports Res are five points clear in fourth after a 2 – 0 success at Wakebury Res. Harry Ford and Daniel Hobbs scored for Sports as they secured their sixth win this term.
Cups
Starting the Cup round-up with the Essex Premier Cup Quarter-Finals, and Wakering Sports Res‘ dream run continues after a superb 5 – 1 victory over Toby at Cupid’s. Connor Fardyga once again contributed hugely in big games with a hat-trick here, and Eben Rowledge & Charlie Smith also scoring. Jamie Simpkins replied for Toby but they bowed out – their focus is now on EOFL Premier survival. Rayleigh Town renewed their rivalry with Catholic Utd and Town prevailed 3 – 2 at Len Forge 3G. Harry Talbot scored twice for Paul Higgins’ side here, with Jack Long also scoring. Joe O’Kane had earlier given Utd the lead, and Aaron Baldwin netted a late second but they exited the Premier Cup.
Elsewhere, Shenfield AFC were made to battle hard for a 2 – 1 win at EOFL Division One side Corinthians. John Bolton-Smith’s spot-kick gave the hosts the lead but Ben Carroll & Elliott Thompson strikes turned the tide and saw AFC progress to the last four. Also, in the match I attended this week, Woodford East produced a superb comeback to defeat Hutton 4 – 2 at Mabley Green 3G. The Reds led by two goals at the break, through Lewis Scott & David Johnson. But a roaring response by East saw strikes by Harry Robinson, Matt Stacey, Billy Barr & Ben Smith saw the Essex Alliance side prevail. If you’d like more on this game, my report is here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2023/01/21/s22-23-match-report-woodford-east-4-2-hutton-sat-21-jan-epcqf/
Now into the EOFL Senior Cup games, Old Southendian progressed with a 4 – 1 success over Leigh Ramblers at Belfairs Park. Mattias Tonking netted two goals for Altan Ali’s team, while Mitchell Ali & Connor Burrows strikes secured a fine win. Canning Town also went through as they won another penalty shoot-out 5 – 4 after a 1 – 1 stalemate at Runwell Sports. Oliver Williamson netted for Runwell there.
The solitary Reserve Cup match this weekend saw Galleywood Res go through after a 3 – 1 victory at Shoebury Town Res. Alfie Hooper’s fine treble secured a good win for the visitors at the Ekco Sports Club.
Lastly this week, in the EOFL Denny King Cup, Epping Town had a Conor Corrigan goal to thank for a 1 – 0 win at home to Chingford Athletic Res. Shoebury Town also went through after a 4 – 1 win at home to Buckhurst Hill U23. Mechack-Kisoka Asuka scored another two goals here, with Aaron Marshall & an OG accounting for the other goals.
Written by Scott W [@ScottMHC14] – Non-League Writer
Hello & welcome to this weekend’s round-up from the action in the Essex Olympian League. This week on Saturday 19 November, we look at the action in all divisions, plus an extra section on the various Cup competitions this weekend.
EOFL Senior Cup
This week we’ll start with the League Senior Cup, where we saw two games. Toby progressed afterr a hard-fought 2 – 1 success at Corinthians, with Jamie Simpkins notching both goals for Mark Jones’ side. Bailey Moss was as ever on the score-sheet for the hosts at Stambridge. Catholic Utd also went through after a 6 – 2 win at home to Manford Way at the Len Forge.
Action still from first half of Leigh Rams v Galleywood this weekend
EOFL Premier Division
In the top-tier this week, Hutton remain nine points clear at the summit after a 3 – 0 win at local rivals Shenfield AFC. Brad Freeman, Will Marlowe & Luke Ricketts all scored for Matt Singh’s team at St Martin’s 3G. The Reds have only conceded four league goals in their undefeated ten games thus far, some statistic that is. Runwell Sports also got a much-needed win, as they won 4 – 2 at Kelvedon Hatch. James Dalton netted twice for Rob Hodgson’s side who move up to sixth, with Joe Olley & Gianni Frankis also finding the net to counteract goals for Hatch by Drew Klessa-Smith & Joe Newson. Canning Town are still second after a 1 – 0 win over Bishop’s Stortford Swifts in Beckton.
Division One saw seventeen goals in the three games played. Firstly, leaders Harold Wood Athletic had an enthralling match in their top-two contest with Epping Town, before eventually prevailing 5 – 4 at Harold Wood Rec. James Pottle led the way for the hosts with a treble, added to by goals from Daniel Spittle & Louis Bazely. Epping responded with Scout Bown netting another double, plus strikes by Chris Gormley & replacemement Joe Rickett but Epping are now ten points adrift of Ath. Harold Hill are up to fourth after a 2 – 1 victory over Beacon Hill Rovers at Henderson’s. Jack Sutters got both goals for Billy Cove’s side, with Bradley Morgan replying for Rovers in that game.
The other game saw Old Chelmsfordians maintain their top-four challenge with a 3 – 2 victory against Herongate Athletic at Lawfiord Lane. Adam Cole & George Godfrey both netting for Kurt Smith’s side there.
Into Division Two now, Rayleigh Town Res picked up a huge 4 – 1 win at AS Rawreth to leapfrog them off the bottom & up to seventh spot. Ebeneezer Djan once again led the scorers with a double here, with Matthew Oaten and Samuel Barker also netting here. Leaders Shoebury Town are now six points clear at the top after getting through a hugely-entertaining game at local rivals Old Southendian Res, before emerging with a 7 – 3 victory. Mechack-Kisoka Asuka and Jack Woodham both netted trebles for John Galley & Garry Johnson’s side here, with Luke Jackson also getting the other goal to more than confirm the win. OS’ second side fall to the foot of the table after this result.
Elsewhere, Wakebury picked up a very good 2 – 1 win again Harold Wood Athletic Res at Cupid’s. Will Wheeler netted both goals for Matt Cardy’s side, overhauling Kieron Moynihan’s goal for Ath here. The Berries remain in fourth but other results mean there are three sides on 18 points. May & Baker EOFL won 3 – 1 at home against high-flyers Wakering Sports Res to lift themselves up to sixth. Carl Patten, George Stanbrook & Frankie Warboyes all scored for Josh Lowbridge’s side. Connor Fardyga’s goal was not enough this time to prevent his side losing ground on the leaders Shoebury. Hashtag Utd Dev also got an important win, 5 – 4 at Hutton Res. Chandler Wray scored twice for the Tags side, with Jay Knight, Adam De Cruz and Samuel Pratt goals securing the win which adds to the grip they have on fifth spot currently. Thomas Price’s treble & a Lewis Hall goal were not enough to stop Hutton’s second side from dropping down to third-bottom.
EOFL Divisions Three, Four & Five
In the fourth-tier, Hullbridge Sports Res are in second place on goal difference after a 5 – 3 win at Chingford Athletic Res. Luke Dimond, Leighton Hughes-Franklin & Bilel Benyoucef all netted for Chingford but a treble for Lewis Foster plus goals for Harry Boswell and Jay Knight secured a good win for the visitors. Leigh Town Res are in third after a 4 – 0 win at home to Corinthians Res at John Burrows Rec. Zack Walker, Steve Birnie, Callum Stone & substitute Tommy Clayton all scored for Josh Burrage’s side in that one. Also, Old Chelmsfordians Res won 4 – 1 at Toby Res to go up to third bottom.
Into Division Four now, and Roydon extended their lead at the top to three points after a 2 – 0 victory at Ongar Town. Nader Benzid and substitute Zachary Ogundipe both netted to strengthen the promotion hopefuls’ chances on remaining in the top three. Elsewhere, Collier Row remain second after a goal-less draw with Herongate Athletic Res at Fotest Row, while at Basildon Sporting Village, Pitsea Athletic Res were held 1 – 1 by Leytonstone Utd, who got their first point of the campaign.
In Division Five, Basildon Town A had to overcome a stern test at St Luke’s Park before defeating Runwell Sports Res 3 – 2. Nathan Fisher scored twice for Bas, with Luke Soley also on target to give the visitors a one-point lead at the summit. Manford Way Res are up to second after a 4 – 1 triumph over Shoebury Town Res. The ensemble cast of Luke Bennett, Aaron Clements, George Green & replacement Harvey Brown all netted to ensure the win. Collier Row Res are five points further back in fourth spot after a 3 – 1 success at Canning Town Res. Celso Da Silva, Raheem Bravo & Harry Potts were all on target to secure the points.
Essex Premier Cup Replay (Last week’s result is void) – May & Baker Res (EAL) 3 – 1 ACD Utd (AET)
EOFL Reserve Lge Cup Results
Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res 0 – 2 Springfield Res
Galleywood Res 9 – 0 AS Rawreth Res
Wakebury 1 – 1p Catholic Utd Res (1-4 on pens)
and Essex Junior Cup R: Ilford Res 1 – 2 Shenfield AFC Res
Written by Scott W [@ScottMHC14] – Non-League Writer
Hello & welcome to the round-up from the action in the Essex Olympian League. This week on this Rememberance Weekend or Saturday 12 November, we look at the action in all divisions, plus an extra section on the various Cup competitions this weekend. Lest we forget.
AS Rawreth’s Sonny Newcombe (13) jostling for the ball v Shoebury this weekend
EOFL Premier Division
Firstly in the top-tier, Runwell Sports flew up into seventh spot with a 4 – 1 victory over visitors Bishops Stortford Swifts. Charlie Little & Gianni Frankis both notched doubles to see Rob Hodgson’s side to a big win. Alex Scott-Bell got an eventual consolation for Swifts, who remain a point clear of the bottom. Old Southendian got an good 2 – 0 win at Springfield, with Nico Dubouchet & Jack Lelliott both on target for Altan Ali’s side who for the moment go into sixth spot. Finally, Canning Town missed the chance to gain ground on the top two (who were in Cup action) as they lost 4 – 3 at Sungate, who rose to fourth, behind Canning by virtue of the latter scoring more goals.
Shoebury & Rawreth observe minute’s silence before KO
EOFL Divisions One & Two
In the only game in Division One this week owing to Cup action, second-placed Epping Town are seven points adrift of leaders Harold Wood Athletic after drawing 2 – 2 with mid-table Harold Hill. Scout Bown got both goals for player-boss Stuart Hoskins’ team there.
Moving into Division Two, Harold Wood Athletic Res kept up the pressure on the top two with a 5 – 1 triumph at Old Southendian Res. Chay Saggers scored for the OS side but Ath went three points clear in third, thanks to braces for Matt Harris & Thomas Butler, with Nazarij Bilanovszkij also on target. The bottom six clubs are seperated by only three points after Catholic Utd Res defeated Hutton Res 2 – 1 and Rayleigh Town Res held May & Baker EOFL 1 – 1, with Byron Down netting for the home side at London Road.
In the match I attended this week, Shoebury Town were given a test initially before powering to a 6 – 2 victory over AS Rawreth at Ekco Sports Club. Mechack-Kisoka Asuka netted a fine treble to lead the scorers, with captain Callum Merenda, Suhail Yasin & Ryan Galley all also scoring for John Galley & Garry Johnson’s side, who are now three points clear at the summit. Sonny Newcombe & captain Muntizir Hussain netted for Shane Bird’s side. If you’d like more on this match, my report can be viewed here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2022/11/12/s22-23-match-report-shoebury-town-6-2-as-rawreth-sat-12-nov-eofl/
EOFL Divisions Three, Four & Five
Into Division Three now, Basildon Town Res are five points clear at the top after a 4 – 1 success at Old Chelmsfordians Res. Keith King netted a fine treble, with Antony Aylett also on target to make it 35 league goals already this term (at an average of 3.88 goals per game) for Bas. Buckhurst Hill U23 are also well-placed, moving up to third after a 2 – 0 victory at Hullbridge Sports Res. Jacob Sember Richards & Olaobajuwan Olagbaju both scored for Darren Gosnell’s side. Finally, Springfield Res are up to fifth after a 3 – 2 win at Corinthians Res. Billy Headland, Edward Coggins & replacement Michael Loannou all scoring for ‘Field there.
In Division Four, Leigh Ramblers Res strengthened their fourth position with a 3 – 1 victory at Ongar Town. Alex Goodson, Dominic North & Ethan Nunn all netted at Marks Hall to leave Town in eighth. Galleywood Res got their first win this term, winning 3 – 2 at strugglers Leytonstone Utd. An OG, Alfie Hooper & Joshua Lapidus goals saw them to a vital win. Elsewhere, Roydon were held 1 – 1 by Herongate Athletic Res, with Nader Benzid getting the goal for the leaders. Collier Row are up to a second spot, a point behind Roydon after a 2 – 0 win at Shenfield AFC Res. Jake Skeet’s seventh league goal this term & substitute Freddie Donkor’s goal confirmed the points for Row. Finally, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res celebrated a big 6 – 1 triumph over Wakering Sports A at Silver Leys. Matthew Allen’s treble plus strikes by David Falzon, Ewan Rockell & Huey Reid saw them to victory & up to fifth. James Clark hot the solitary reply for the Sports’ third-side.
In Division Five, Wakebury Res became the first league side to beat leaders Basildon Town A & they did so in some style, winning 6 – 2 at Basildon Sports Club. Ross Barnes netted a hat-trick here for Joe Creak’s side, with Tommy Wolfe netting two more & Luke Abbott also ontarget. Luke Soley & substitute Alex Shields got replies for Bas but they now only lead the table on goal difference. That is because Runwell Sports Res got a 2 – 2 draw at Manford Way Res. Max Harrington & Benjamin See got the goals for Sports, while Manford’s goals came from Luke Bennett’s double. The other game in the division saw a huge win for Sungate Res as they won 8 – 2 at AS Rawreth Res, which earned them their first win this term.
Essex Premier Cup – Round Three
In the first of our ‘in-focus’ matches in the EPC, Shenfield AFC got back to winning ways with a hard-fought 3 – 2 victory over Essex Senior Reserve side White Ensign Res at St Martins’ 3G. Marlon Stratford, Luke Williamson & Courtney Justin got the goals for the home side in that tie as AFC went through. Catholic Utd also made the fourth round with a 2 – 0 victory over Heybridge Swifts Res at the Len Forge. Aaron Baldwin getting both goals for Utd with gives them a much-need confidence boost ahead of their other Cup fixtures this month. At Belfairs, Leigh Ramblers powered to a terrific 5 – 2 victory over Border League side Dedham Old Boys. Scott Clark continued his good season with a double here, while Callum Morris, Billy Field & an OG rounded out the scorers for the hosts.
Ellsewhere, Toby put in a clinical display to defeat Chelmsford City Res 5 – 0 at the Nursery Sports Ground. Jamie Simpkins & Oliver Dingli both got doubles, with Ben Picton getting the opener there for Mark Jones’ side. Harold Wood Athletic put in another excellent display to defeat Essex Alliance Senior side Frenford Development 4 – 3 at the Rec. Billy Gray, Billy Spencer, Mitchell Prue & Max Shepherd all notched as Ath progressed.
Rayleigh Town also progessed with a 6 – 0 trouncing of Galleywood at Slades Lane. Sonny Woodward netted a treble here to lead the way, with George Vile, George Aston & substitute Harry Talbot also netting. Wakering Sports Res also got a big 5 – 1 win ag home to Alresford Colne Rangers at Cupid’s, with Connor Fardyga again leading the scorers with a double here, with Billy Cottrill, Charlie Smith and a thunderbolt from David Watson adding more pain to the visitors. Finally for this section, Corinthians won 3 – 2 at Hashtag Utd Res, with a brace for Bailey Moss & one for Max Jones proving enough to win at Barleylands.
Other Results In EPC:
Colne Athletic 2 – 1 Old Chelmsfordians
Hutton 2 – 1 Kelvedon Hatch
May & Baker Res (EAL side) 1 – 1p ACD Utd (3 – 5 on pens)
Pitsea Athletic 1 – 2 Beacon Hill Rovers
EOFL Senior & Reserve Cups
In the single match in the EOFL Senior Cup, Wakebury progressed with a very good 4 – 1 victory over goal-hungry Chinford Athletic Res at Cupid’s. Finlay Dorrell again netted twice for Matt Cardy’s team, with Junior Lawrence & Isaac Bello also on target for the hosts. Leighton Hughes-Franklin got the reply for Ath but they exited the competition here.
Written by Scott W [@ScottMHC14] – Non-League Writer
Hello & welcome to the latest round-up from the action in the Essex Olympian League. This week on Saturday 29 October, we look at the action in all divisions, plus an extra section on Senior League Cup games this weekend. The Image is from Shoebury Town v Hutton Res in D2, taken by Peter D. Used with thanks.
EOFL Premier Division
Firstly in the top-tier, Hutton extended their lead at the summit to nine points after a 2 – 1 win against Canning Town at Chadfields. Stephen Judge & substitute Brad Freeman got the crucial goals for Matt Singh’s side whgo are really pushing the pressure onto the chasing pack. Kelvedon Hatch got a important success as they defeated secopnd-placed Rayleigh Town 3 – 1 at New Hall. Drew Klessa-Smith scored a double, along with a goal for James Burt for Darren Hunt’s side. Hatch are up to 10th. Shenfield AFC continued their good recent form, with a 2 – 1 success against Catholic Utd at St Martins. Ben Absolon & Ben Carroll both netted to outdo substitute James Warder’s reply for Simon Thomas’ side.
Lastly, Sungate powered their way to a 3 – 1 win at Toby. Substitute Petrit Elbi scored two goals here, with Lee Samwys adding the other to see the ‘Gate up to seventh. Jamie Simpkins got the consolation for Mark Jones’ side in that game.
EOFL Divisions One & Two
The only match in Division One this week saw Beacon Hill Rovers draw 4 – 4 with Manford Way. Jack Walker’s double plus strikes by Bertie Whymark & Semi Akinlolu accounted for the Rovers goals but a goal each for Samuel Oramadike, David Alele, Joshua Owoaje and Richard Kadima ensured Manford took a point.
In Division Two this week, Shoebury Town got a important & hard-fought 3 – 1 victory over Hutton Res at Ekco Sports Club. Mechack-Kisoka Ausuka netted a double here for John Galley & Garry Johnson’s side, with Luke Jackson scoring a late penalty. Will Marlowe had earlier kept Hutton in the game. For more on this game, my Non-League colleague Peter D (@ped1980) was at the game and his report is here: https://pedroslocalfootiefix.blogspot.com/2022/10/shoebury-town-3-hutton-reserves-1.html
Wakering Sports Res are three points clear of Shoebury at the summit after a 4 – 0 success over Harold Wood Athletic Res. Liam Jarrett notched a double, with Connor Fardyga’s 6th league goal and Charlie Smith also on on target. In other results, May & Baker EOFL defeated Catholic Utd Res 4 – 0 and Old Southendian Res won 5 – 1 against Rayleigh Twn Res at Garon Park 3G.
EOFL Divisions Three, Four & Five
Into Division Three now, Basildon Town Res are the new leaders after an impressive 5 – 2 triumph at Buckhurst Hill U23. Louis Hill got a double, with Ashley Drury, Jamie Miller and replacement Keith King also netted for the visitors. Harvey Woods & Jack Ferris goals responded for Buckhurst there. Corinthians Res got their first win of the term as they defeated Toby Res 2 – 1 at Stambridge. Kian Hayter & Leo Clarke got the goals for the hosts. Old Chelmsfordians Res also got their first win with a 1 – 0 victory at Springfield Res. Also, Leigh Town Res were held 1 – 1 by Hulllbridge Res at John Burrows Rec. Chris Pope scored for Town, with Joe Tuskin’s 5th league goal replying for ‘Bridge.
Moving into Division Four now, Herongate Athletic Res remain five points clear in third after a 1 – 1 draw at Shenfield AFC Res. Habeeb Apatira’s fifth league goal accounted for Ath’s goal, with Ben Cawood levelling the game for AFC. Collier Row lead the way at the summit on goal difference with a 3 – 1 win at BIshop’s Stortford Swifts Res. Matt Kemp’s sixth league goal was the consolation for Swifts there. Wakering Sports A drew 3 – 3 with Pitsea Athletic Res at Cupid’s. Joseph Young, Alfie Grove & substitute James Clark got Wakering’s goals, but strikes for Carlos Dias, Precious Aminu & Paul Gunn meant Ath left with a point.
Finally in Division Five, leaders Basildon Town A made it six wins from six after a 2 – 1 win over Sungate Res at Basildon Sports Club. Donnel Kujinga scored another double to reach 11 league goals already, and James Oderinde netted for the visitors. Manford Way Res are two points behind in second after a 6 – 0 home win over AS Rawreth Res. Luke Bennett grabbed a fine treble, with a brace for Charlie Webb & Callum Thomas also on target. Collier Row Res are well-placed in fourth after a resounding 7 – 0 win at Runwell Sports Res. Celso Da Silva netted twice for Row, with the ensemble cast of Raheem Bravo, George Coker, Harry Potts, Eric Eze & Ryan Costello also scoring.
EOFL Senior League Cup
There were several matches in the Senior League Cup this weekend. Harold Wood Athletic made sure of their place in the next round with a 2 – 0 win against spirited Roydon at Harold Wood Park. Ben Woolven and Owen Edwards were the scorers for John Field’s team. Springfield got their second consecutive win in all competitions as they won 4 – 0 at Ongar Town. Replacement Tristan Ofori-Sampong nabbed two goals for Allan Fenn’s side, with Cameron Brown and Harrison Elles also netting after comiing off the bench. Runwell Sports got a much-needed victory with a 5 – 1 success at Galleywood. The scorers for Rob Hodgson’s side included Jamie Philbrick, Charlie Little, Ollie Quick and Oliver Williamson. Freddie Bartram got the solitary reply for the hosts at Slades Lane.
Elsewhere, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts also got an important win against lower division opposition in Pitsea Athletic. Alfie Bowen’s brace and one from substitute Jordan Trott enabled Swifts to get a 3 – 2 victory. Leigh Ramblers also went through with a 1 – 0 victory over ACD Utd at Belfairs, with Andrew Webster again the hero for the Rams. Hashtag Utd Development also went through after a hard-fought 4 – 3 win over Epping Town after extra time. Lastly, Harold Hill went through with a 5 – 1 success at Leytonstone Utd. Ryan O’Connell grabbed another two goals here, with substitute James Bayo also scoring a brace, alongside one for Troy Tizard-Cleghorn. William Medlock was the scorer for Utd at Forest Row.
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 15 October, we look at the action in all divisions, plus an extra section on the Cup competitions this weekend. There was no Action in Divisions Three & Five this week.
Action still from Runwell v Shenfield this weekend
EOFL Premier Division
Firstly in the top-tier, Hutton are four points clear at the summit after a 2 – 0 victory at Canning Town. Sean O’Callaghan got both goals for Matt Singh’s side. Catholic Utd are third after a 2 – 0 success over Springfield at Len Forge Centre. Aaron Baldwin and Franklin Craik both scored for Simon Thomas’ team. Springfield have subsequently announced that Allan Fenn will be their new manager, I’d like to wish him well in his new role.
Meanwhile, Toby went into mid-table with a 2 – 1 triumph over Galleywood at the Nursery Sports Ground. Dean Maguchu and Luis Ruiz goals were enough for the win. Zane Liles got the goal back for ‘Wood there. Sungate also got an important three points with a 2 – 1 win at home to Kelvedon Hatch. Substitute Dawood Ghafar scored for Hatch but goals for Solomon Asomah & stalwart Petrit Elbi ensured the points stayed in East London. There was also an important victory for Bishop’s Stortford Swifts as they defeated Old Southendian 2 – 1 at Silver Leys. Mitchell Burr got both goals to outdo Mitchell Ali’s reply for OS.
In Division One, Herongate Athletic got a good 3 – 0 victory at Epping Town, with Benjamin Clarke, Frankie Aston and substitute Harvey Yellop all on target for Kurt Smith’s team. Old Chelmsfordians won 2 – 0 at Wakering Sports at Cupid’s and finally, Harold Wood Athletic continued their great season’s start with a 4 – 3 home win over Beacon Hill Rovers. Billy Gray’s penalty plus strikes by Max Shepherd, Jacob Roberts and Connor Sheehan ensured the points. Ben Prentice, Harry Hearn & Ben Jackman all netted for Rovers in that game.
In Division Two this week, Shoebury Town got a big 6 – 0 win over May & Baker at Cupid’s. Kian Bradshaw again led the line well with a treble, with substitute Luke Antoine adding two goals and there was a goal for Callum Merenda also. Hashtag Utd Development also got a good win, 2 – 0 at Old Southendian Res with Tommy Green & Matthew Gauci the goal-scorers at Garon Park 3G. Elsewhere, Rayleigh Town Res edged to a 3 – 2 success at home to Wakebury. Jack Long & replacements Calvin Armstrong and Harry Herbert were all on the score-sheet for Dave Barker’s side. Finlay Dorrell got both goals for the Berries here.
Finally, Wakering Sports Res grabbed an impressive 7 – 1 victory at AS Rawreth. Steven Valente & Connor Fardyga got braces apiece for the visitors, with Sam Shenstone, Ciaran Sweeney & Eben Rowledge also on target. Billy Brown got the goal for Rawreth.
EOFL Division Four
Moving into Division Four now, Roydon got the win in the only league match this weekend. They won 4 – 1 at Pitsea Athletic Res, Mike Hayes scored twice for the victors, with Nader Benzid and substitute Ryan Knowles also netting. Replacement Rinor Zeqiri did get a goal back for the Ath second-side.
EOFL Senior League Cup
There were two matches in the SLC. Firstly, Corinthians put in a very strong showing with a 8 – 0 victory at Buckhurst Hill U23. Bailey Moss & Max Jones both scored trebles for Chris Stoneham’s team. Connor Summerhill and Jordan Stoneham were also on target at Roding Lane as the Division One side went through. In the other game, Manford Way defeated Basildon Town Res 5 – 1 at the London Marathon Sports Ground. Samuel Oramadike, James Dobson, Dawid Potoczek plus substitutes Harry Davison & Harvey Brown were all on the scorers’ sheet. Jack Main got a consolation strike for the visitors.
Essex Reserve League Cup
In the EOFL Ressie Cup, Collier Row Res continued their good season with a thumping 9 – 2 victory over Epping Town Res at Forest Row. Raheem Bravo & Ryan Costello both netted hat-tricks, while Jordan Lee got a double and Harry Potts also notched. Catholic Utd Res also progressed with a 5 – 0 home win over Manford Way Res. Finlay Grant, Dabniel Williams, Matt Creevy & Ryan Morgan were all on target for the hosts.
Other Results in RLC:
Hutton Res 3 – 4 Runwell Sports Res
Old Chelmsfordians Res 2 – 2p Basildon Town A (Bas wion 4 -3 on penalties)
Springfield Res p1 – 1 Canning Town Res (Spr won 3 – 2 on penalties)
Essex Junior Cup R’s
Cowley CC 3 – 2 Leytonstone Utd
Galleywood Res 1 – 2 Old Chelmsfordians A
Leigh Ramblers Res 2 – 1 Southend Rangers
Ongar Town 0 – 3 Brentwood Athletic
Shenfield AFC Res p1-1 Hutton A (Shen Res won 5 – 4 on pens)
Written by Scott W [@ScottMHC14] – Non-League Writer
Hello & welcome to the round-up from the action in the Essex Olympian League. This week on Saturday 8 October, we look at the action in all League divisions from Two to Five, plus an extra section on the Essex Premier Cup & the EOFL Reserve League Cup. Thanks as ever to all the regular readers of this column & to all the clubs.
No EOFL Premier Division & Division One action this week
EOFL Divisions Two & Three
We begin this week in Division Two, with a handsome win for Hashtag Utd Dev as they prevailed 12 – 1 at AS Rawreth. Samuel Pratt struck four goals here, with Matthew Gauci notching twice. There was a hefty ensemble of Josh Jarvis, Thomas Matthew, Jay Knight, Chandler Wray, Tommy Green & replacement Jake Smith who all scored as well. Wakebury also got a morale-boosting win, 5 – 2 at Catholic Utd Res. Will Wheeler, Mark Frostick, Ben Morley, Junior Lawrence & substitute Isaac Bello all netted for Matt Cardy’s side in that game. The other result saw Old Southendian Res draw 3 – 3 at May & Baker EOFL.
Moving now into the solitary match in Division Three, as Basildon Town Res got another big win, 7 – 0 at home to Corinthians Res. Harry Payne came off the bench to score a treble, with the supporting cast of Louis Hill, Antony Aylett, Jamie Miller & Billy Hutchinson all scoring too.
EOFL Divisions Four & Five
In Division Four, Roydon got a big 5 – 0 victory over Galleywood Res. Substitute Mike Hayes netted twice for the hosts, with Connor Presland, Lucas Riddoch & fellow replacement Lee Wicks secured the points. Herongate Athletic Res also got the points with a 2 – 0 success at Leytonstone Utd. Kieron Wilson-Fowler & substitute Kai Redmond got the goals there. The other result in the division was Ongar Town’s 3 – 1 victory against Pitsea Athletic Res at Marks Hall.
In Division Five, the top four sides all won. Basildon Town A are still top after a 4 – 0 victory at Canning Town Res. Daniel Kujinga got all four goals for the visitors as they stayed a point clear. Runwell Sports Res are in second place after a 9 – 1 victory over Shoebury Town Res at St Luke’s. Gianni Frankis scored four goals here, with Harry Ford scoring two goals as well as Luke Smith and substitutes James Clarke & Bryce Comer. Manford Way Res are in third after a 5 – 3 success at Sungate Res. Callum Thomas scored two goals for them, with Charlie Webb, Charlie Thomas & Bradley Wilkins all also on target.
Lastly for the League action, Collier Row Res are in fourth spot after a terrific 11 – 1 win over AS Rawreth Res. Jordan Lee & Raheem Bravo both scored trebles for the Romford-based side, with Eric Eze & George Coker netting twice each also, with Ryan Costello also on target.
Essex Premier Cup
In our additional section on the EPC this week, we start with ACD Utd progressing with a 6 – 1 victory over Springfield Res. Alex Bessent netted twice for Michael Wade’s side, with Jacob Dingli, Samuel Payne, Scott Perkins & substitute Connor Lambert all netting on a good day for them. Catholic Utd had a scare before joining ACD as they had extra time to deal with before winning 4 – 2 at Buckhurst Hill U23. Aaron Baldwin & Ben Burrows scored for Utd, with Harry Maslin & Harvey Woods scoring for Hill. Extra-time strikes by Tom Elliott & Adrian Maponga sealed the win for Simon Thomas’ side.
Frenford Development got a fine 3 – 2 win at fellow Step 7 side Canning Town. Edem Tetteh, Isima Iguisi & substitute Sebastian Ramirez goals saw the EAL Senior side through. EOFL Division One side Beacon Hill Rovers made a superb comeback as they won 4 – 3 at Middlesex County Premier side Clapton CFC. Greg Moorse, Fred Taylor & Reggie Nelson goals saw the Tons take the lead, but a treble from Karl Swanborough turned the tables & Bertie Whymark also netted for Rovers. Galleywood also got the win as they defeated Leigh Town Res 4 – 0 at John Burrows Rec. Ben Smith scored a treble with Jamie Lockwood getting the other goal.
Elsewhere, Rayleigh Town also went through following a 3 – 0 victory at Manford Way. George Vile, Jack Long & William Vile got the goals for Paul Higgins’ team. Harold Wood Athletic also won, as Jacob Roberts & Matty Donovan goals saw them to a 2 – 1 win at EAL team Oakside, after extra-time. Old Chelmsfordians defeated fellow EOFL Division One side Harold Hill 3 – 1 , thanks to a brace from Joe Kemp and one goal from Max Johnson. Troy Tizard-Cleghorn responded for Billy Cove’s team.
Meanwhile, Pitsea Athletic won with a 3 – 2 triumph over Hullbridge Sports Res. Kwadwo Asante, Reece Stone & Josh Ledger all netted there at Basildon Sports Club. Toby also booked their place in the next round withh a 2 – 1 success over Shoebury Town. Jamie Simpkins & replacement Oliver Dingli both scored for Mark Jones’ side. Leigh Ramblers also won through after a 3 – 1 triumph at Wakering Sports. Ryan Wyatt scored for Wakering, but goals from Scott Clark, Jack Gardner & an OG secured the win.
Our final two matches start with a excellent game which Alresford Colne Rangers progress with a 5 – 4 victory at Springfield. Josh Gray scored two goals for Rangers, but further goals from Finley Hughes, Sam Hume & Ryan Lewis sealed the win. Strikes by Mason Sprott, Harrison Elles, Cameron Brown & substitute Olle Gentry made it close but interim boss Cameron Scorer’s side went out. Lastly, there was a rare scoreline at St Martins Sch as Shenfield AFC trounced May & Baker Res 21 – 0. Substitute Alex Tredgett led the way with five goals, Jack Shaw & Luke Williamson also scored four goals each. Frankie Fealty & Ben Absolon netted two more goals apiece and the scorers were rounded out by Elliott Thompson, Ben Carroll, Samuel Lock & an OG.
Other Results
Harold Wood Athletic Res 2 – 3 Dedham Old Boys
Hashtag Utd Res 4 – 0 Hutton Res
Herongate Athletic 1 – 4 Barnston
Hutton 1 – 0 Rayleigh Town Res
Oakside 1 – 2 Harold Wood Athletic (AET)
Old Chelmsfordians Res 1 – 4 Colne Athletic
Old Southendian 2 – 3 Woodford East
Wakering Sports Res 2 – 1 Frenford Res
West Bergholt 6 – 1 Toby Res
EOFL Reserve League Cup
In the Ressie League Cup, Leigh Ramblers Res went through after a 3 – 0 victory over Wakering Sports A. Jacob Meads scored twice & Charlie Batchelor got the other goal at Belfairs Park. Also, Wakebury Res also won, getting a surprise 4 – 1 win over EOFL Div Four side Shenfield AFC at Shoebury Park, Ross Barnes netted twice for the hosts, with Luke Abbott and Jamie Oates also on target for Joe Creak’s team. Jack Panons got the solitary reply for AFC’s second team.
Written by Scott W [@ScottMHC14] – Non-League Writer
Hello & welcome to the round-up from the action in the Essex Olympian League. This week on Saturday 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.
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