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 logo

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.

S20-21 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League (Sat 15 May) [EOFL 20/21 16.5.21]

Still from Hutton (in red) v Leigh Ramblers [Image: Trev Robinson P’graphy]

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

Hello all and welcome to a mammoth edition of my round-up articles, looking the action in week nine of the ‘mini-season’ in the  Essex Olympian League divisions on Saturday 15th May. I’ve also included what I can about the action in Divisions Four & Five this week plus there are updated tables for each division. Lead image courtesy of Trev Robinson Photography [@fitinaflash1]. Thank you for reading.

EOFL Premier Division 

In the Premier Division, the main news from midweek was Buckhurst Hill were confirmed champions after Shenfield AFC withdrew from their midweek contest. Hill got another three points as opponents Old Southendian were unable to compete. Many congrats to manager Mark Williams and his impressive squad who are approaching fifty league goals scored this term.

Catholic Utd went back up to third spot after a 4 – 2 win against Shenfield AFC at the Len Forge. Brad Rowland, Aaron Baldwin, Teejay Chiororo and Luke Trice all scored for Simon Thomas’ team in that one. They are three points behind second-placed Basildon Town as they were held 1 – 1 by improving Springfield at Arun Park. Marcus Bowers netted for Town who have still had a mightily impressive season. Substitute Jake Clarke replied for Dan Williams’side.. Hutton got back to winning ways with a 3 – 2 triumph over Leigh Ramblers in what was the latter’s final game of the campaign. Brad Freeman, Will Marlowe & John hilliard all netted for Matt Singh’s team who have a top five finish back in their sights with two home matches left, they’re only against Buckhurst Hill and Springfield. Good test though Mr Singh, wouldn’t you agree? George Moxon and replacement Billy Carter responded for Ronnie Bridges’team.

Meanwhile, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts kept up their unbeaten league run with a 2 – 2 draw against spirited Canning Town at Silver Leys. Chris Lockwood and Kurt Smith netted for Billy Cove’s team here but they drop one to fourth. Fellow writer Aaron Moore was there & here’s his view on the match: https://footballreview.net/match-report-bishops-stortford-swifts-2-2-canning-town/

Elsewhere, Harold Wood Athletic got a decent 2 – 0 success at Kelvedon Hatch, with Matthew Donovan and a Josh Steel free-kick enough to see Alex Goldstone’s team to victory. Rayleigh Town also won again, 2 – 1 at Sungate with club stalwarts Bailey Moss and Paul Morris both netting for Paul Higgins’ side. They remain in ninth but are five points clear of Springfield in 10th.

Here’s the updated Premier Division table…

EOFL Division One 

With Ongar Town out of action, Galleywood had to keep winning to keep their slim hopes of the title alive. They did just that, defeating bottom side Shoebury Town 4 – 0 at Melbourne Park in Chelmsford. A double from replacement Ben Smith, plus goals for Harry Bond and Sean Barry were enough to keep their four-point cushion in second-place.  The chasing pack also all did their bit as they chase that second promotion spot, with Runwell Sports defeating Ramsden Scotia 2 – 1 at St Luke’s Park.

Manford Way also triumphed with a 4 – 1 win at Rayleigh Town Res. The ensemble cast of scorers included James Clarke, Glen Warwick and substitutes Tyrone Scarlett & Tyler Le Poidevin. Trevor Grace’s side notched their fifth win in their last eight matches and are five points clear in fourth spot. Town remain second-bottom. Toby also grabbed an impressive 6 – 1 success over Old Chelmsfordians in Newbury Park to rise up to fifth in the table. Ben Picton netted a fine hat-trick, supplanted by strikes from Rhys Willson (pen), Chris Rowland and Tolu Dina. Ryan Fleming netted for the OC’s but its five matches without a win for them now.

Lastly, Herongate Athletic and Snaresbrook had a quick turnaround in their two matches this week. Firstly, Snaresbrook defeated Herongate 4 – 2 at Riverside Sch in Barking on Tuesday night. Drew Barbier struck twice in this match with an OG also present. Joseph Fogarty and Elliott Thompson replied for Ath in this defeat but Athletic got some payback at the weekend as they won 2 – 1 against ‘Brook thanks to strikes from Brandon Kelly and substitute Jack Holloway in their home game on Saturday to go up to tenth. Snaresbrook drop down to sixth.

Here’s the updated Division One table…

EOFL Division Two

The Points per Game (PPG) rationale has rather confused things in Division Two. Champions Leigh Town were not in action, and in the conventional standings, they were overhauled by the teams chasing a second promotion spot. Beacon Hill Rovers got another important three points by defeating Ryan 4 – 2. They went ‘top’ of the table, and Epping Town are a point behind them in ‘second’ after their 3 – 1 victory over May & Baker A at Epping UC Rugby Club. Strikes from Sam Law, Joe Rickett (his 15th league goal of the season) and substitute Chris Gormley were enough to keep Stuart Hoskins’ side well in the reckoning for that valuable promotion spot. Wakering Sports also hold slim hopes as well after a 4 – 2 win over nine-man Corinthians at Cupid’s. A treble from Meschack Kisoka and a Ben Rowe strike truly ended the Stambridge side’s declining hopes of elevation and will be instead be aiming for a top-four finish after three straight losses have hit them hard in recent weeks. Wakering’s fifth win in their last six means they are in principal position capitalize if Beacon Hill & Epping slip up in a nerve-jangling last two weeks of the season.

Elsewhere, Laindon Orient hammered AS Rawreth 7 – 1 at Markhams Chase as they are also looking to finish strongly. Oliver Dingli netted a treble on his return for Neil Blackburn’s side, with James Shadwell scored twice to take his goal tally to six in the league. Joshua Chadwick and substitute Matthew Gibson all netted to take them up to fifth. Rawreth now have to win both of their remaining matches to stave off finishing at the foot of the table. Harold Wood Athletic Res also won this week, 4 – 1 at Rochford Town thanks to doubles from Warren Taylor and Derek Hawtin. This win sees them rise up to eighth spot.

Here’s the updated Division Two table…

EOFL Division Three

In the only division really still to be decided, Hutton Res are now the new leaders after another two wins this week. Firstly, they triumphed 5 – 1 away at Collier Row on Wednesday night, with a treble from top-scorer Jack Shaw, an OG and a pearler from Matthew Price securing the points. Hutton’s second side then kept the lead after an impressive 5 – 2 win at Corinthians Res at Stambridge on Saturday. Carl Dutton continued his fine form with a treble to lead the way, whilst Stewart Biggue and Tom Price also scored for the visitors. Bill Stratford’s side are a point clear of ACD Utd who are still in pole position in the PPG stakes for promotion & the title after a 3 – 1 win against Buckhurst Hill Res at Westlands. Paul Mangan, Charlie Munns and Mason Oakley saw Michael Wade’s team to a crucial three points.

With Manford Way Res not in action this week, Wakebury saw their faint hopes of promotion more of less fizzle out after losing 3 – 2 at Hullbridge Sports A on Thursday night. Charlie Cox scored twice for the Hullbridge youth side, with Edward Hawney also on target. Goals from Robbie Norris and replacement Harry Kateley were not enough to prevent Matt Cardy’s side a loss they could ill afford to really stay in the promotion hunt. The Berries recovered though on Saturday with a fine 3 – 2 win at Collier Row. Chris Gore’s spot-kick, an OG and one from Charlie Little’s 14th league goal this term saw the visitors to a morale-boosting win to strengthen their position in fourth.

Hullbridge A were also in action on Saturday, as they were held to a 1 – 1 draw by Basildon Town Res. Mark Squibb struck for the Town second-side, with Joseph Darby firing in his seventh league goal this term to keep his side in sixth, a point behind their opponents here. Finally for Div Three, Lakeside Utd all but secured eighth spot with a 5 – 2 success over Toby Res. Ryan Kenyon’s double plus strikes from David Alele, Brandon Booty and Kemari Hypolite’s spot-kick ensured Ben Crouch’s team got the points. Toby’s Ressies remain second-bottom. 

Here’s the updated Division Three table…

EOFL Division Four    

This week, we’re including the action in Divisions Four & Five. In Division Four, Catholic Utd Res secured the Division Four title with a 6 – 1 win over Wakering Sports Res in Westcliff. Tom Harding’s side gathered their 13th win in fourteen matches in some style, thanks to doubles from Franklin Craik (who has now scored 16 league goals this term) and Joe O’Kane plus one goal each for Mark Baptist and James Warder. This game saw Dan Trenkel make an incredible 801st career appearance and also confirmed another rare statistic – Mark Baptist has won promotion from Divisions One through & including Division Four as well as winning the Premier Division. Some stat that is too, thanks to the club’s Twitter for that. Congrats to the squad & the coaching team on their achievement this weekend.

In other action in the division, Chingford Athletic Res powered past Shenfield AFC Res 8 – 2 at Town Mead to see them rise to fourth spot. The visitors remain second-bottom after three wins from their fourteen outings. Hashtag Utd Development are a win away from probable elevation after a 2 – 1 win at Laindon Orient Res. Matthew Gauci and Kai Warren’s 14th league goal of the season secured the points for the visitors here. Wakering Sports Res could still deny them via PPG I believe if they get maximum points from their two games and Hashtag slip up in their last game at home to Ongar Town Ressies next weekend.

Other Result:

Sungate Res   H – W  Old Chelmsfordians Res  | Home Walkover

Here’s the updated Division Four table…

EOFL Division Five  

In Division Five, Springfield Res got the result with the biggest ramifications as their 3 – 1 victory over promotion rivals Collier Row Res meant they secured the runners-up spot via PPG. Another brace from Liam England plus an Antonious Simon-Parson goal was enough to give the hosts their tenth win this season. Elsewhere, in the second game of a double-header at Silver Leys, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res struck late to defeat Roydon 3 – 2. A brace from Oliver Fortune and one from Chris Jennings was enough to overhaul strikes from Mohamed Benzid and Olu Olaniyan to go above their opponents into fourth on goal difference.

Non-League colleague Aaron Moore was there & here’s his report: footballreview.net/match-report-bishops-stortford-swifts-reserves-3-2-roydon/

Finally for the action that did take place, Old Barkabbeyans secured a 6 – 1 trimuph over Epping Town Res at Barking Abbey Sch. Jordan Mullings and Michael Ryder both notched twice, with replacement Jerome Morris and an OG accounting for the other goals. Charlie Parker’s goal was scant consolation for the Town side who remain in ninth spot.

Other Results:

AS Rawreth Res  H – W  Herongate Athletic Res   | Home Walkover

Shoebury Town Res   A – W  Leigh Ramblers Res  | Away Walkover

Wakering Sports  A   H – W  Runwell Sports Res  | Home Walkover

Here’s the Division Five standings…

Thank you for reading, there will be two more round-ups this season before the close season break.

S20-21 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League (Sat 8 May) [EOFL 20/21 9.5.21]

Image from Rayleigh 2 – 1 H Wood (Premier Division) (Image: Scott W)

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 seven of the ‘mini-season’ in the  Essex Olympian League divisions on Saturday 8th May. As ever, our focus here is on the top four tiers, with results from Divisions Four & Five. Thank you for reading.

EOFL Premier Division 

In the Premier Division, Springfield got arguably the result of the weekend, as they won 1 – 0 at Basildon Town. It may not have been pretty for Dan Williams’ side, given that their goal was an OG from a set-piece but that won’t worry the Springfield management team. The win sees them rise up to eleventh spot and Basildon needing points to secure their second place. Bas have a swift chance to exact some payback though – they visit Arun Park next weekend! Bas’ chief challengers could well be Bishop’s Stortford Swifts who made it seven league matches unbeaten with a 2 – 1 success at Kelvedon Hatch. Kurt Smith and Ryan Blackman goals got Billy Cove’s side another win and it sees them go fourth, level on points with Leigh Ramblers just above them. Lee Hamill’s strike for Kelvedon couldn’t prevent their second loss in their last five games, and they fell to twelfth place.

In other action, Buckhurst Hill can win the Premier Division title in midweek after they were made to work hard to defeat Canning Town 3 – 1 at Roding Lane. Alfie Harris’ double and Suleyman Zuhdu’s 20th league goal of the campaign secured Hill’s 13th win in fourteen matches. Canning’s defeat sees them drop back to second-bottom.  Sungate were held 2 – 2 by Old Southendian in East London, with Craig Paton and Jamie Oates scoring for player-boss Connor Lane’s side. OS are two bottom, two points adrift of Canning Town but it was another gutsy point on the road. The ‘Gate remain sixth and they will aim for a top-four finish I feel given all their remaining three games are at home.  

Elsewhere, Rayleigh Town got an important 2 – 1 triumph over Harold Wood Athletic at London Road. Strikes from George Vile and Bailey Moss were enough to see Paul Higgins’ side keep a three-point cushion in ninth spot. Robert Whitnell’s strike from the penalty spot had brought Alex Goldstone’s side level but they fell to defeat, which sees them stay eighth. I was watching this match & my report is here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2021/05/09/s20-21-match-report-rayleigh-town-2-1-harold-wood-athletic-sat-8-may-eofl/

In the other action in this division, Catholic Utd travelled to Polo Fields and drew 2 – 2 with Hutton. Brad Rowland and Max O’Leary got the goals for Simon Thomas’ visiting side, but Joshua Seal and Alfie Curelli responded for Matt Singh’s team. Hutton remain sixth, while the Hoops drop to fifth after this result. Finally, Shenfield AFC got an eye-catching 3 – 2 win over Leigh Ramblers at St Martins Sch 3G. The win takes them up to tenth spot and Ramblers will have to hope victory in their last match next weekend at Hutton is enough to keep them in the top four at the end of May.

EOFL Division One 

In the second tier, Galleywood completed a terrific 5 – 3 win at home to Snaresbrook, played at Moulsham Sch 3G. Mark O’Sullivan’s side finished the match with ten men but a treble from Thomas Watling (who made it eight league goals in twelve starts this term) plus strikes by Jack Chatterway and Jack Hayes secured the win which kept them in second spot. Drew Barbier’s double (one from 12 yards) and one from Daniel Walsh kept ‘Brook in the match but they drop to eighth spot in this increasingly competitive division.

The hunt for the second-placed finish is also getting tighter. Runwell Sports are a point behind Galleywood in second after a 2 – 0 win at Ramsden Scotia. This was their third win in their last five matches for Jason Plom’s side. They are a point clear of Manford Way who got a important 1 – 0 win at Chingford Athletic with Charlie Heatley getting the only goal of the game for Trevor Grace’s side. Fellow Non-League writer Aaron Moore (Twitter: @aaron_moore25) was there & here’s his take on the match: https://footballreview.net/match-report-chingford-afc-0-1-manford-way/

Image from Rayleigh Tn Res 3 – 5 Shoebury Tn (Division One) (Image: Scott W)

Elsewhere, Shoebury Town got their first win in eight league matches with a fine 5 – 3 win at Rayleigh Town Res. Garry Johnson’s treble plus strikes by Billy Cottrill and a Kirk Hudson penalty was enough for Lee Boosey’s new side. Goals from Harry Barham, Matt Atoo and Matthew Bampus were not quite enough to recover any points for Dave Barker’s side in an entertaining match at London Road which I also attended. Here’s my report: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2021/05/09/s20-21-match-report-rayleigh-town-res-3-5-shoebury-town-sat-8-may-eofl/ 

Also, Toby got a good 3 – 2 win at Herongate Athletic, with Rhys Willson, Chris Rowland and Louis Hill all on target for Mark Jones’ side. This result takes them up to sixth spot and they will have a say in how the top five shapes up, given they have to play Old Chelmsfordians & Runwell Sports in the next three weeks. Herongate remain second-bottom. 

Meanwhile, Ongar Town garnering the points without needing to navigate a tricky tie with Old Chelmsfordians because the latter were unable to field an XI. It means that nearest challengers Galleywood have to defeat Chingford Athletic in midweek to stave off the party for champions-elect Town for another week.

EOFL Division Two   

We have our first confirmed champions in the Olympian divisions as Leigh Town battled to a 3 – 2 win at Laindon Orient at Markhams Chase. Strikes from Max Jones, Brodie Horne and James Roberts finally secured elevation for Jack Pearman’s side here. Shomari Barnwell’s brace had put Neil Blackburn’s side in strong position earlier in the game but Leigh would not be denied and they get deserved recognition for the form they’ve showed in the last couple of seasons. I’d like to pass on my congratulations to Jack and the whole squad on a great achievement. Laindon remain in sixth, ready to pounce if the sides above them falter as they will be looking for a top-four finish.

Elsewhere, Beacon Hill Rovers gained another big three points with a 3 – 1 victory over promotion rivals Corinthians at Wickham Bishops Sports Ground. The former Burnham Ramblers pair of Karl Swanborough (2) and Bradley Morgan combined to overpower Chris Stoneham’s side and stay a point clear in second spot. Ted Turnham netted a late consolation for the visitors but this result means they are not in charge of their own destiny. That is chiefly because Epping Town moved above them into third spot after a thumping 5 – 1 win at AS Rawreth. Joe Rickett notched four times in this one to take his tally to 14 league goals this term. Peter Paoletti had opened the scoring for the visitors here and Stuart Hoskins’ side are two points clear of the Stambridge side with both teams having three matches remaining. Oh, and they face each other on the last day of the Olympian season in Epping. Rawreth remain bottom, five points off their nearest rival May & Baker A, who lost 3 – 1 at Harold Wood Athletic Res. Darren Wettner, Warren Taylor and Adam Farley got the goals to give Wood’s second side the win which takes them up to ninth spot, whereas the visitors stay second-bottom.

Elsewhere in the division, Old Southendian Res put a spanner in the works of Wakering Sports‘ promotion aspirations as the OS side won 2 – 1 at Cupid’s. Nico Dubouchet’s ninth league goal this term and one from Jack Cripps were enough to overturn substitute Mohammed Sesay’s strike and go five points clear in seventh, with one match remaining on May 22nd – a trip to Epping Town. Sports stay fifth but their chances of a top-two finish appear slim, despite having three matches remaining – and they welcome Corinthians to Cupid’s next weekend.

Finally, Rochford Town drew 1 – 1 with Ryan, with Freddie Pettitt getting the goal for Town. Ryan have four matches remaining, two of those against the top two sides so realistically, the best they can hope for is a seventh-placed finish which would be creditable for Declan Murphy’s team.

EOFL Division Three 

This was quite a day in Division Three. Firstly, Hutton Res gave the title race added impetus as they fought back to win 3 – 2 at leaders ACD Utd. An OG and a Jamie Alexandrou strike put Michael Wade’s team in command but Bill Stratford’s side turned it around through strikes from Jim Gardner, Mike Cason and Jack Shaw and made it seven straight league wins as well. The visitors stay third, but are only two points away from the leaders, who have three matches remaining.

Manford Way Res are also right in the chase for elevation, after a 4 – 0 win over Toby Res at Ford’s Social Club in Newbury Park. David Hornsby took his goal tally past twenty for the league season with a treble here, with Jake Muller also on target. Manford’s second side are a point behind the leaders in second spot, with two matches remaining. It’s worth noting that Points Per Game (PPG) might also be a factor in which sides get promoted in the close season. Hullbridge Sports A picked up a hard-fought 1 – 0 win at Collier Row, which all but ends Row’s chances of a top-two finish. William Bray got the only goal to reduce the deficit between the sides to one point. The youthful Sports side in 7th and Row are in sixth.

Elsewhere, Basildon Town Reserves are three points clear now in fifth after a 3 – 0 success against Leigh Town Res at Basildon Sports Club. Jamie Simpkins’ brace and one from replacement Shaun Watkins were enough to give Richard Bennett’s side the points. Wakebury are also still in contention for that top-two finish as they battled to a 4 – 1 victory at Buckhurst Hill Res. A brace from Charlie Little plus goals from Billy Bonham-Dare and Harry Kateley made sure Matt Cardy’s side picked up the win against a side which certainly earned the visiting manager’s respect. Jason Gomes got the sole goal for the home side. The Berries stay fourth and realistically need at least two of the three sides above them to slip up but they have still had a great campaign to date, regardless of the outcome.

Also, Corinthians Res held Lakeside Utd to a creditable 2 – 2 draw in Stambridge. Utd remain in eighth place after their first draw this term. The hosts remain in tenth after a difficult campaign.

EOFL Division Four Results  

Hashtag Utd Dev  0 – 1  Catholic Utd Res | Barleylands Road

Laindon Orient Res   3 – 3  Leytonstone Utd   | Pegasus Club, Corringham

and

Sungate Res  A – W  Canning Town Res  | Away Walkover

Wakering Sports Res  H – W  Old Chelmsfordians Res   | Home Walkover

EOFL Senior Five Results  

Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res  3 – 2  Newbury Forest Res  | Silver Leys

Runwell Sports Res  0 – 5  Old Barkabbeyans   | St Luke’s Park

Wakering Sports A   4 – 1 Roydon   | Cupid’s CC (Pitch 2)

and
Collier Row Res  H – W  Herongate Athletic Res  | Home Walkover

Epping Town Res  H – W  AS Rawreth Res  | Home Walkover

Springfield Res  H – W  Shoebury Town Res  | Home Walkover

S20-21 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League (Sat 10 April) [EOFL 20/21 11.4.21]

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

Hello everyone and welcome to another edition of my round-up articles, looking back on the action in the Essex Olympian League divisions on Saturday 10th April, with some super score-lines occurring & a tale of sportsmanship as well. As ever, our focus here is on the top four divisions, though there is a mention of the game covered by a Non-League colleague in Division Five this week. Thank you for reading.

EOFL Logo

EOFL Premier Division                    

In this week’s top-tier action, Basildon Town were held 1 – 1 at Sungate, with replacement Jimmy Markham getting the important goal for player-boss Marcus Bowers’ team. Sungate levelled thanks to Lee Samways’ strike but drop to eighth after this result, while Town also lost ground by virtue of Buckhurst Hill’s comfortable 4 – 0 success over Hutton at Roding Lane. Captain Suleyman Zuhdu grabbed another double here to take his goal tally to 17 for the season. Nathan Sollosi and Tyler Dolan also netted to give Mark Williams’ side a two-point lead at the summit. Hutton’s fine form comes to a halt and they dropped one place to fourth. That was because Catholic Utd stunned Rayleigh Town 7 – 0 at London Road with Brad Rowland netting a treble, Aaron Baldwin a brace plus Tom Kearney and replacement Rhys Fatt notching in completing a big win for Stuart Marshall’s side to go into third spot on goal difference. Rayleigh’s tricky season continues and they are looking over their shoulder in second-bottom.

Elsewhere, Old Southendian grabbed a super 5 – 3 away win at Canning Town, thanks to a treble from midfielder Mitchell Ali and strikes from Craig Paton and Sam Adcock. OS’ first away win in five games his term sees them gain big ground on the five sides immediately above them. Canning fall to eleventh place, due to Kelvedon Hatch rising up to ninth spot thanks to a 2 – 1 victory over Springfield at New Hall. Kyle Asante and Lewis Young were the goal-scoring heroes for Steve Mann’s side. Springfield responded through substitute Jake Clarke but still drop below their opponents here to tenth spot.

Also in this division, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts maintained their good start to this ‘mini-season’ with a 3 – 1 triumph at Shenfield AFC. A brace from Kurt Smith and one for Kieran Southgate was enough to send Billy Cove’s side hurtling up to seventh in the table, five points adrift of the top four. And Harold Wood Athletic also continued their good form with a narrow 1 – 0 win over Leigh Ramblers at Harold Wood Park. Club stalwart John Bradley got the only goal of the game here for Alex Goldstone’s team.

EOFL Division One

This week in Division One, Toby rose to seventh spot, thanks to a 4 – 3 win over Galleywood in Newbury Park. Rhys Willson netted twice for the East Londoners, with Luis Ruiz and Louis Hill also on target on his debut. Galleywood fell to fourth spot as Old Chelmsfordians leapfrogged them into third place, as they won 4 – 0 at Ramsden Scotia. Martin Mixture, Joe Kemp, Samuel Adams and Paul Tiffen all netted for the OC’s. Ramsden sit in eighth spot, three points clear of the bottom three.

Also, Chingford Athletic got another positive result with a 1 – 1 draw at fellow strugglers Herongate Athletic. Michael Mignot got his second goal in as many weeks here as Lee Bowers’ side continue to look upwards. Runwell Sports got a comfortable 3 – 0 win over Rayleigh Town Res at St Luke’s Park which keeps the gap to leaders Ongar to three points.

Ongar Town themselves were involved in a game with a story this weekend, with Richard Ponsford’s side recording a big 15 – 0 triumph over Shoebury Town. The mass array of scorers were led by substitute Jack Zielinski’s treble, doubles for leading scorer Aaron Blair, Mitchell McCabe, Oswald Nyahunda and replacement Conner Jones plus one each for Joe Lilly, Eamon Payne, Harry Rawlins and Billy Reed. However, that wasn’t the aforementioned story. The story was that strugglers Shoebury did not concede the game before kick-off after several departures in the week and the South Essex side stood up for themselves & the league, which earned the leaders’ respect & acclaim on the final whistle. Something which I believe deserves noting here also, so credit to Shoebury.

In other action, Snaresbrook also pulled off a huge win, defeating Manford Way 3 – 1 at the London Marathon Sports Ground. Daniel Tesfay’s brace along with Ife Ogunbayo’s strike was enough to Rob Caine’s side further impetus as they are in sixth place in the standings, only four points away from the top four. Connor Hammond’s goal wasn’t enough for Manford in this game and they are only above their opponents here on goal difference now in fifth.

EOFL Division Two

In the third-tier, we have new leaders as Leigh Town are once again the team to catch, as they won 5 – 2 over Ryan at the John Burrows Recreation Ground. Brodie Horne notched twice in this match, along with further strikes by Daniel Driscoll, Rhys Mosedale and Lewis Lawrence. Jack Pearman’s side are two points clear at the top with games in hand on their nearest rivals. Corinthians celebrated a welcome return to form, defeating previous leaders Beacon Hill Rovers 2 – 0 at the Stambridge Memorial Ground to gain ground on the top three.

Meanwhile, Wakering Sports were back on winning form as they won 3 – 2 at home to Laindon Orient. Goals from Aaron Clark, Meschack Kisoka and Mo Sesay saw Mitchell Gleeson’s side to the points & cement their position in sixth. Laindon got on the scorer’s sheet thanks to a brace from James Shadwell but they ended the game with ten men and are now three points off the leaders & are vulnerable to being caught by Corinthians & Epping Town. Epping remain fifth after a important 5 – 0 win at strugglers May & Baker ‘A’. Callum Turner’s double got Stuart Hoskins’ side well on the way to victory, with goals from Graeme Turner, Joe Rickett and Charlie Pollard adding further gloss to the score-line.

Elsewhere, Rochford Town got a surprise 3 – 2 victory at Old Southendian Res as Harry Ford, Matt Welsh and Alex Gray all scored for James Cooper’s side. Dave Stubbs and Tom Judge responded for Oliver Tatton-Bennett’s side but it was Rochford who got the points which sent them rising up the standings to eighth spot. Also, Harold Wood Athletic Res grabbed a narrow 1 – 0 win at AS Rawreth, thanks to Ola James’ goal.

EOFL Division Three

In Division Three, ACD Utd recovered from defeat last week to remain two points clear at the summit, thanks to a 3 – 1 win over Lakeside Utd in the early game of the day at Westlands. Player-boss Michael Wade scored yet another double here to take his goal tally to 19 in the league this term, with Ollie Williams also on the score-sheet for ACD. Also, skipper Mason Oakley made his 100th appearance for the club in this match so congrats to him. Lakeside drop to seventh in the table after this result.

Buckhurst Hill Res got the points by virtue of a home Walkover against Corinthians Res, who are yet to win away from Stambridge this term. Hill’s second-side reside in ninth spot, one place above their opposition. Basildon Town Res had to grind out a

1 – 0 win at home to Toby Res, with Scott Cooper grabbing the decisive goal to send them up to sixth spot. Hullbridge Sports ‘A’ got a good three points in defeating winless Leigh Town Res 3 – 0 at the side pitch at Lower Road. Joseph Darby opened the scoring with substitutes Josh Boswell and Bryce Odea also notching as they fortified fifth spot with this result.

Elsewhere, Manford Way Res kept the pressure on leaders ACD with a 4 – 1 win at Hutton Res. Josh Duah struck twice for the Manford second-side, with top scorer David Hornsby and Fuad Ibrahim also netting. They sit second, three points clear of Wakebury, who scored six goals for the second successive week, emerging with a

6 – 3 win over fellow high-flyers Collier Row at Shoebury Park. Daniel Buglione struck a hat-trick, with Adam Topley netting twice and Billy Bonham-Dare adding another for Matt Cardy’s side. The ‘fly in the ointment’ for the Berries is that their five remaining games are all away from home.

EOFL Division Four Results  

Chingford Athletic Res  2 – 3  Sungate Res  | Town Mead [3G]

Galleywood Res  0 – 2   Shenfield AFC Res | Clarkes Field

Hashtag Utd Dev.  4 – 1  Canning Town Res   | Barleylands Road

Laindon Orient Res  3 – 3  Ongar Town Res  | Markhams Chase

Old Chelmsfordians Res  2 – 3  Wakering Sports Res   | Lawford Lane

EOFL Senior Five Results  

Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res  1 – 2  Shoebury Town Res  | Silver Leys

Epping Town Res  5 – 3 Old Barkabbeyans  | Epping UC Rugby Club

Leigh Ramblers Res  2 – 3  Newbury Forest Res   | Belfairs Park

Roydon  1 – 0  Collier Row Res  | Roydon Playing Fields

Springfield Res  13 – 0  AS Rawreth Res | Arun Park (Close)

Wakering Sports ‘A’  3 – 2  Herongate Athletic Res  | Cupid’s CC (pitch 2)

Fellow Non-League writer Aaron Moore [@aaron_moore25] was at Silver Leys to report on Shoebury Town Reserves’ win, here’s his report: https://footballreview.net/match-report-bishops-stortford-swifts-reserves-1-2-shoebury-town-reserves/

That’s all for this week’s EOFL round-up, we’ll be back next week.

S2020-21 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League (Wk 9 – Sat 31 Oct) [EOFL 20-21 1.11.20]

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

Hello and welcome to another edition of the Essex Olympian League round-up, here on my blog, looking at the action from Saturday 31st October from the Premier Division all the way to Division Three this week, also including results from Senior Four & Five. Thanks for reading.

EOFL Crest

EOFL Premier Division

Despite the awful weather this week, most of the Olympian League programme went ahead. In the top-tier, Buckhurst Hill temporarily went back to the top of the standings after edging a titanic tussle to win 5 – 4 at Harold Wood Athletic. Harold Wood started the better of the sides with Tom Ward and Connor Hartwell goals giving them a 2 – 1 lead, with Alfie Harris initially responding for Hill. Louis Wynter levelled things up for Mark Williams’ side who then found another gear with Suleyman Zuhdu’s 14th league goal of the season and a brace from Reece Tranter putting the high-flyers 5 – 2 up. But any notion that they would canter to victory soon dissolved as Wynter was dismissed for a strong tackle and in the latter stages, Athletic ensured a nervy ending for the visitors through strikes from substitute Jack Sykes and Robert Whitnell. Hill did hold on for an important win which takes them back top on goals scored. Harold Wood fall to tenth spot.

Elsewhere, Catholic Utd are up to third spot after a hard-fought 3 – 1 win over Rayleigh Town in the match I attended this weekend. An early header from Michael Sammut and a brace from livewire Brad Rowland ensured the ‘Super Hoops’ first home win of the season. Bailey Moss got one back for Rayleigh but they drop to 11th spot. If you’d like more on this match, my report is here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2020/11/01/s20-21-match-report-catholic-utd-3-1-rayleigh-town-saturday-31st-oct-eofl/

Kelvedon Hatch finally got their first league win this term as they narrow defeated Canning Town 1 – 0 at New Hall. Lewis Young got the crucial goal to ensure his side leaps off the bottom of the table. Canning drop to eighth spot. Leigh Ramblers also got a narrow win, 1 – 0 over Bishop’s Stortford Swifts at Belfairs Park, Matt Brinklow with the crucial goal in that contest to see Ronnie Bridges’ side up to fifth. Swifts’ sixth loss this season means they drop to third-bottom. Finally in this division, Springfield got only their second win this campaign, as they defeated Shenfield AFC 2 – 1 at Arun Close. Andy Elgar and Charlie Nicholls got the strikes for Dan Williams’ side as they rise to seventh spot in a congested bottom half of the table. 

EOFL Division One

In Division One, Ongar Town are five points clear at the summit after a fine 4 – 1 win at rivals Galleywood. Frank Goodall’s hat-trick and one for Aaron Blair secured Town’s third consecutive win and reached thirty goals scored already this term. Harry Bond netted Wood’s reply but they dropped to fourth place. Runwell Sports had a Daniel Okah goal to thank for a 1 – 0 win over Shoebury Town as they went second. Shoebury drop to the bottom of the table as Rayleigh Town Res got a 2 – 2 draw at Herongate Athletic with Pat Mills and Robbie Allen goals helped Dave Gip’ side claim a point at St Clere’s. Herongate drop to ninth place.

Elsewhere, Ramsden Scotia held Chingford Athletic to a 1 – 1 draw at Town Mead, with Jamie Auvache netting for Scotia in this one. Chingford’s tricky start continues as they remain tenth, seven points adrift of the top five. Also, Old Chelmsfordians powered to a 7 – 2 win over Toby at Lawford Lane to go up to third spot, ahead of Galleywood and Snaresbrook on goal difference.

EOFL Division Two

Things are getting tight at the summit in Division Two. Beacon Hill Rovers remain top after a 3 – 2 win over Epping Town. Callum Turner and another goal-scoring cameo from substitute Dave Limber accounted for the Epping goals but Rovers scored three of their own to go two points clear at the summit. With Leigh Town’s match at Ryan postponed, Corinthians had a chance to go into a second spot, which they did after a tough 3 – 1 win at home to May & Baker ‘A’ at Stambridge Memorial Ground. Strikes by John Bolton-Smith, Ollie Brickwood and Sammy Ayres were enough to give Chris Stoneham’s side their fifth win this term.

Also, Laindon Orient are up to fourth spot after a hard-fought 1 – 0 win at Rochford Town. Ashley Blackburn got his sixth league goal this term to help his side to the win which keeps Rochford in 8th spot. Orient went above Wakering Sports as the Shoebury-based side lost 2 – 1 at home to Harold Wood Athletic Res. Del Hawtin and Tommy Harber goals sealed their first win of the league campaign and go level on points with May & Baker ‘A’ and Ryan above them. Ben Rowe netted for Sports in this one. Old Southendian Res also got a big 5 – 1 win over struggling AS Rawreth at Garon Park, which keeps them seventh, five points away from the top four.

EOFL Division Three

Finally this week in the round-up section, in Division Three this weekend the top three sides all won. The leaders are still ACD Utd after their hard-fought 4 – 3 win at Manford Way Res. David Hornsby netted another double to reach ten league goals this term for Manford’s second-side who drop to fifth, who also had an OG to thank for their other goal. But, ACD are known for scoring bundles and they made it 27 goals in just five league games thanks to Michael Wade’s double (he is now on 13 league goals this term) and strikes by Billy Wren and Paul Mangan. Wakebury remain the nearest challengers, two points adrift in second after they won 3 – 1 at Hutton Res. The cast of William Wheeler, Charlie Little and replacement Harry Kateley did the job for Matt Cardy’s side. Hutton’s Reserve side remain third-bottom.

The turnaround at Hullbridge ‘A’ this term continued as they won 3 – 2 at bottom side Leigh Town Res Joe Ives got a brace to make it three matches in a row he’s netted in, with Harry Boswell also scoring to put the Lower Road development side in third and are one of only two sides that are unbeaten in this division, alongside ACD Utd. Collier Row went up to fourth after a hard-fought 2 – 1 win at Toby Res, who remain second from bottom. Lastly, Basildon Town Res got a fine 4 – 2 win at Lakeside Utd to go up to sixth with Michael Clark getting another double here to reach five league goals this term, with Sam Marsh also notching twice here. David Alele and Harry Davison’s 5th league goal this season accounted for Lakeside’s goals, but they slide down to 8th spot.

EOFL Reserve League Cup Result

Ongar Town Res  2 – 3  Wakering Sports Res

EOFL Division Four Results

Catholic Utd Res  5 – 1  Chingford Athletic Res

Leytonstone Utd 0 – 6  Galleywood Res

Shenfield AFC Res  3 – 1  Canning Town Res

EOFL Division Five  Results

Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res  6 – 4  Herongate Athletic Res

Old Barkabbeyans 0 – 0  Runwell Sports Res

S2020-21 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League (Wk 8 – Sat 24 Oct) [EOFL 20-21 25.10.20]

Image from Hutton 4 – 0 Bishop’s S Swifts [Credit: @fitinaflash]

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

Hello and welcome to another edition of the Essex Olympian League round-up, here on my blog, looking at the action from Saturday 24th October from the Premier Division all the way to Division Three this week, also including results from Senior Four & Five. My thanks to @fitinaflash and Pete Dudley (@ped1980) for the photos. Thanks for reading.

EOFL Premier Division

As ever, we begin in the Premier Division and we have new leaders. Basildon Town kept up their perfect record this term with a narrow 1 – 0 win over highly-rated Leigh Ramblers at Basildon Sports Club. Keith King got the only goal to give player-boss Marcus Bowers’ side a three-point lead at the summit. Buckhurst Hill are in second after a rare loss, 2 – 1 at Canning Town, with strikes by Jack Williamson and Harry Rixon meaning the latter side moving up to seventh after this fine result. Even another goal from Suleyman Zuhdu wasn’t enough for Hill to avoid defeat. Also, in-form Hutton got another win, defeating Bishop’s Stortford Swifts 4 – 0 at Polo Fields, A brace for Stephen Judge plus goals for Will Marlowe and Tony Shaw saw Matt Singh’s side up to fourth, with Swifts down to eleventh.

Elsewhere, Catholic Utd are up to fifth spot following a comfortable 3 – 0 triumph over bottom side Kelvedon Hatch at New Hall. Goals from Brad Rowland, Aaron Baldwin and Harley Kee were enough to see Stuart Marshall’s side to a decent win. Rayleigh Town also got a ‘W’ this week as they narrowly beat Sungate 1 – 0 at London Road, with Dan Regan’s early goal enough for the win for Paul Higgins’ side. The ‘Gate remain third but are still five points adrift of Hill in second. Also among the winners this week were Shenfield AFC who got a very respectable 3 – 0 win over Old Southendian at St Martins Sch [3G]. Perry Robinson, Sam Lock and Liam Snellin were the goal-scorers here at AFC went up to eighth whole OS drop to second-bottom. Finally for the top-tier, Springfield were held 2 – 2 by improving Harold Wood Athletic at Arun Close. George Rose and Jack Browne-Sykes netted for Alex Goldstone’s side who inch up to ninth spot with goals from Jake Clarke and Denzel Adebiyi giving Dan Williams’ side a point – they are in 12th spot.

EOFL Senior League Cup Result

May & Baker ‘A’  6 – 1  Newbury Forest Res

EOFL Division One

In Division One, the leaders are still unbeaten Ongar Town after they negotiated a tough test by winning 3 – 1 at Chingford Athletic. Joe Lilly, Aaron Blair and a cracker from Eamon Payne secured the win for Richard Ponsford’s side, who are now four points clear at the summit. Their nearest challengers are now Galleywood after they edged to a hard-fought 3 – 2 win over Rayleigh Town Res at Clarkes Field. Harry Bond and Lewis Rose were among the scorers for the hosts, with Harry Barham and Kalvin Armstrong responding for Dave Gipp’s side who drop to the foot of the table. That was because Shoebury Town got their first win this term with a 2 – 1 success over high-flyers Snaresbrook at Cupid’s. Ife Ogunbayo’s fourth league goal this term was not enough to prevent the East London side dropping to third on goal difference.

Also, Runwell Sports were held 1 – 1 by fellow top-five side Toby at St Luke’s Park. Joe Olley struck for the hosts, while Rhys Willson got the goal for the visitors. Both sides are well-placed for an assault on the top three at this point. Elsewhere, Ramsden Scotia got a second successive win over Herongate Athletic, winning 3 – 2 at the Nursery Sports Ground. Scotia’s goals came through a brace from Ryan McDonach and one from substitute Max Fernee. Harley Benn and Ben Warren both netted for Ath, but they drop to ninth spot. Finally, Old Chelmsfordians are seventh after a 2 – 1 win at Manford Way, despite Tyrone Scarlett netting for Trevor Grace’s side. 

EOFL Division Two

Into Division Two and Beacon Hill Rovers have taken the top spot after a 4 – 0 success at Harold Wood Athletic Res. Bradley Morgan netted twice here to climb to eight league goals this season, plus Lewis Sherwood and George Davis also struck to complete another splendid afternoon for Steve Bennett’s side. Corinthians rose to third spot after a tough 2 – 1 win at local rivals Rochford Town, with Nathan Dewberry also netting his eighth league goal this term, alongside a John Bolton-Smith goal to see Chris Stoneham’s side to the win.

Also, Leigh Town continue to fight hard for points as they held Old Southendian Res to a 0 – 0 draw at John Burrows Recreation Ground though they drop to second. It’s worth noting that Town haven’t been beaten in the league since April 2019 I believe. Some record that. Epping Town climbed into sixth place after a blistering 6 – 1 win at home to Ryan. Chris Gormley netted twice here, with Michael Moore, Joe Rudkin, Peter Paoletti and Joe Rickett also on target for Stuart Hoskins’ side. Ryan remain tenth. Finally, Laindon Orient got their biggest league win of the season, defeating AS Rawreth 5 – 1 at the Warren. Ashley Blackburn got two goals to reach five in total this season, with Jason Jones, Matthew Gibson and Carlos Dias also contributing to Neil Blackburn’s side remaining fifth, four points off the leaders.

Image from Wakebury 2 – 3 ACD Utd [Credit: Pete Dudley]

EOFL Division Three

We also have new leaders in Division Three as ACD Utd won their top-of-the-table clash, winning 3 – 2 at Wakebury. Player-manager Michael Wade grabbed another treble to make it to eleven league goals already this term for ACD, and while Billy Bonham-Dare and Chris Gore’s late spot-kick gave Matt Cardy’s side hope, it was the visitors who retain their 100% winning record and go top of the standings by two points. Non-League colleague Pete Dudley was at this game & his report is here: https://pedroslocalfootiefix.blogspot.com/2020/10/wakebury-2-acd-united-3.html

Elsewhere, Hutton Res got their first win in the league with a fine 4 – 2 win at fellow strugglers Toby Res in Newbury Park. The Shenfield-based side rose above their opponents into tenth spot. Justin Clarke and Junior Bammeke netted for the hosts in this one but it’s still no wins since their opening match now. Lakeside Utd leapt into mid-table after triumphing over Leigh Town Res 5 – 3 in an entertaining game at the Lakeside Sports Ground [3G]. Aaron Tyler, Christian Seymour and Callum Stone all netted for Rob Hutchings-Spiller’s side but their winless run went on thanks to Harry Davison’s four-goal haul for Lakeside, assisted by Brandon Booty’s strike. 

Hullbridge ‘A’ continued their fine season with a 4 – 2 success over Buckhurst Hill Res at Lower Road. The cast of Joe Ives, George Mole, Harry Mole and replacement Charlie Cox all netted to stay third and are only one of two unbeaten sides in the division. Manford Way Res are behind on goal difference alone in fourth after despatching Corinthians Res 4 – 1 at Stambridge. David Hornsby struck another two goals here to take him on to eight league goals this season, with Shaun Goddard and Jake Muller also on target. Sonny Woodward got the reply for Russell Saggers’ side.

Finally for this division, Collier Row are also on ten points with Hullbridge and Manford after a 3 – 2 win over Basildon Town Res at Robert Clack [3G]. Town fall to eighth.

EOFL Division Four Results

Canning Town Res  1 – 1  Leytonstone Utd

Hashtag Utd Development  4 – 3  Chingford Athletic Res

Laindon Orient Res  1 – 2 Galleywood Res

Old Chelmsfordians Res  1 – 4 Ongar Town Res

Sungate Res  1 – 6  Catholic Utd Res

Wakering Sports Res  8 – 1  Shenfield AFC Res

EOFL Division Five  Results

Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res  3 – 1  Springfield Res

Collier Row Res  4 – 1  AS Rawreth Res

Herongate Athletic Res  2 – 1  Runwell Sports Res

Leigh Ramblers Res  3 – 4  Old Barkabbeyans

Roydon 3 – 0  Epping Town Res

Match OFF: Shoebury Town Res  P – P  Wakering Sports Dev (Due to Waterlogged pitch)

S2020-21 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League & Cups (Wk 7 – Sat 17 Oct) [EOFL 20-21 19.10.20]

Behind the goal at Rayleigh Town [Image: Scott W]

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

Hello and welcome to another edition of the Essex Olympian League round-up, here on my blog, looking at the action from Saturday 17th October from the Premier Division all the way to Division Four this week, also including sections on the Senior & Reserve League Cup action this weekend. Thanks for reading.

EOFL Crest

EOFL Premier Division

The top two in the Premier Division both got big wins this weekend. Buckhurst Hill are now in possession of top spot after a huge 8 – 3 win over Springfield at Roding Lane. Suleyman Zuhdu only endorsed his growing reputation with five goals here to take him to twelve league goals already this season. Josh Banfield, Henry Fisher and Nathan Sollosi all also netted to give Mark Williams’ side a sixth straight win. But, Basildon Town matched their win tally with a good 4 – 1 win over Canning Town at Basildon Sports Club. Marcus Bowers’ side are continuing to surprise in a good way, with Graham Harrison, Joe Burgess, Jacob Cleaver and Jamie Simpkins all on target for the hosts here.

Meanwhile in the match myself & Non-League colleague Pete Dudley attended, Hutton won 3 – 1 at Rayleigh Town with substitute Sean O’Callaghan netting twice for Matt Singh’s side, after Will Marlowe’s opener. Paul Morris got Town’s goal from twelve yards but this surprising result seems them drop to second bottom, whereas Hutton are up to fifth. If you’d like more on this match, my report is here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2020/10/17/s20-21-match-report-rayleigh-town-1-3-hutton-saturday-17th-oct-eofl/

Elsewhere, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts comfortably defeated Kelvedon Hatch at Silver Leys 4- 1 with goals from Wale Odedoyin, Archie Gerard, Carlos Flood and Chris Lockwood the difference for Billy Cove’s side as they rise to seventh. Hatch’s goal came from substitute Lewis Young but they remain winless and bottom. Also, Harold Wood Athletic got a decent 2 – 1 win over Old Southendian at Harold Wood Park. Connor Hartwell and Robert Whitnell’s goals meant Alex Goldstone’s side got some measure of comeback after their loss at Garon Park in September. Connor Burrows got the OS goal but they drop down to third-bottom.

Essex Premier Cup Results

Barnston 2 – 2 Shoebury Town (Town won 6 – 4 on penalties)
Frenford Res 2 – 1 Snaresbrook
Saffron Walden Town Res 4 – 2 Ryan
Sungate 2 – 0 Shenfield AFC

EOFL Reserve League Cup

In the one Reserve Cup tie we had this week, Galleywood Res went through after a 3 – 2 win over Hutton Res at Clarkes Field. Luke Seaton, Craig Robertson and Zak Robinson all struck for the hosts in this successful afternoon.

EOFL Division One

Going back to League action now with Division One, and it’s as you were at the top with Ongar Town continuing their irrepressible start with a 3 – 1 win over Manford Way at Lakeside [3G]. Aaron Blair got his 13th league goal of the season, along with Joshua Boxall and replacement Rodney Wilson on the score-sheet for Town. Dexter Stuart scored for Manford but their 100% record ended here. Runwell Sports reside in fourth spot despite a 1 – 1 draw at home to improving Chingford Athletic, who remain in the bottom four. Galleywood also won, 1 – 0 at Old Chelmsfordians with the goal-scoring hero being Thomas Watling to go three points clear of their opponents in sixth.

Ramsden Scotia also notched their first league win this term in fine style, winning 3 – 2 at Herongate Athletic. Ben Warren’s brace wasn’t enough for Athletic, as goals from Max Corrigan, Alex Bessent and Richard Bishop saw Scotia up to tenth. Meanwhile, Toby are up to fourth place after a 3 – 0 win over Rayleigh Town Res. Josh Hales, Rhys Willson and Chris Rowland all netted before half-time to secure a comfortably win for the Newbury Park-based team.

EOFL Division Two

In Division Two now, Leigh Town still lead the division despite Jack Pearman’s injury-hit side being held 1 – 1 by Epping Town at John Burrows Recreation Ground. Rhys Mosedale netted for the hosts, while Peter Paoletti struck for Stuart Hoskins’ side, who remain in mid-table. Beacon Hill Rovers got a storming 9 – 1 win away at AS Rawreth, with Bradley Morgan netting four of them, Lewis Sherwood grabbing a hat-trick plus Rob Olding and Henry Ballard were also on target in this resounding win which sees Rovers up to second. Said Ahmed got a little consolation for Rawreth but they are still without a point in four league games thus far.

With Corinthians having a week off, Wakering Sports went up to third spot after a good 2 – 0 away win at Laindon Orient with Meschack Kisoka and Ben Rowe the scorers for Mitch Gleeson’s side.  Mid-table Old Southendian Res were surprisingly held 3 – 3 by Harold Wood Athletic Res  at Garon Park. Dave Stubbs, Nico Dubouchet and Lewis Bickford all scored for Oliver Tatton-Bennett’s side but strikes by Warren Taylor, Del Hawtin and Darren Wettner secured the Wood side their first point of the season. Also, Rochford Town were held 1 – 1 by May & Baker ‘A’ with Town up to eighth and M & B remaining in tenth.

EOFL Division Three

In the Division Three action this week, Wakebury remain the leaders by a point as they defeated Toby Res 5 – 0 at Shoebury Park. Charlie Little grabbed another treble here to make it seven goals in two matches – not bad going really! Shaun Lewis-Evans and William Wheeler also netted for Matt Cardy’s side. The visitors drop to ninth spot and The Berries are still unbeaten in their four league matches so far.

That said, the result of the day has to go to ACD Utd as they comprehensively dismantled Collier Row 9 – 1 at Westlands.  No less than four players got doubles here with Sam Payne, Michael Wade, George Munns and Brad Falco the four, with Shaun Farrow also notching on a terrific afternoon for Wade’s side. Row’s first league loss this term drops them back to fifth whereas ACD rise to second. Hullbridge Sports ‘A’ continued their unbeaten league start this season as they won 3 – 1 at Buckhurst Hill Res. Harry Boswell, Joe Ives and Edward Hawney all netted for the youthful ‘Bridge side who are third. Genit Abazi struck for the home side.

Also, Manford Way Res are up to fourth spot after a hard-fought 3 – 2 home win against Basildon Town Res. David Hornsby struck twice for Manford to make it to six league goals already this term, with Gideon Sengulay-Thomas getting the other goal for them. Michael Clark got both Town goals but they fell to seventh after this loss. Last up, Corinthians Res got their first win of the campaign with a 5 – 1 triumph over winless Leigh Town Res at Stambridge. Max Hall got two of the hosts’ goals, with Ashley Webb, Charlie Marden and Ben Langton all also scoring for Russell Saggers’ side, who go up to eighth spot. Miles Waddilove netted a scant consolation for Rob Hutchings-Spiller’s side here.

EOFL Division Four

In an extended look at Division Four this week, Hashtag Utd Development lead the standings by three points after a 4 – 1 win against Laindon Orient Res. Strikes by Samuel Pratt, Adam de Cruz, Tony Stevens and Harry Braysher sealed the win for the hosts, with Herman Mwanza getting the only goal in reply for Laindon’s second side. With Catholic Utd Reserves not in action this weekend, Chingford Athletic Res got their third win in four games after a 4 – 0 success over Old Chelmsfordians Res. Substitute Regan Marshall got a brace for Ath here, with Leighton Hughes-Franklin and Cane Sullivan also on the score-sheet in this win which sees Ath’s reserves go up to third on goal difference.

Elsewhere, Ongar Town Res also won 4 – 1 this weekend against Shenfield AFC Res with doubles for Frankie Goodhall and Riyan Metasha as the Ongar side go up to seventh. Finally for this division, Wakering Sports Res convincingly defeated Sungate Res 5 – 1 at Cupid’s with Connor Fardyga notching four goals himself and Charlie Smith also on target as Sports sent the ‘Gate Ressies to their first league loss this season.

EOFL Division Five  Results

Collier Row Res  1 – 3 Old Barkabbeyans

Epping Town Res  1 – 2  Leigh Ramblers Res

Newbury Forest Res  1 – 0  Runwell Sports Res

Shoebury Town Res  1 – 2  Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res

Springfield Res  5 – 0  Herongate Athletic Res

Wakering Sports Dev 2 – 1  AS Rawreth Res

Season 2020-21 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League & Cups (Wk 2 – Sat 12 Sept) [EOFL 20-21 13.9.20]

EOFL Crest

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

Hello and welcome back to the the second of my round-up blogs looking at the Essex Olympian League divisions for the Season 2020-21. In this piece, we look at the League, Reserve Cup & Senior Cup action, focusing on the Top four divisions and the Cups this weekend. How did your side get on? Thank you for reading.

EOFL Premier Division                                                  

In this week’s action in the Premier Division, Basildon Town made it two wins from two games with a 4 – 0 home win over Kelvedon Hatch. Antony Aylett, Keith King,  Benjamin Smith and substitute Jamie Simpkins all netted for Marcus Bowers’ side. Hatch have conceded seven goals now in their opening two games, without scoring. Buckhurst Hill also made continued their good start to the season with a hard-fought 2 – 1 win over Bishop’s Stortford Swifts at Roding Lane. Suleyman Zuhdu and Nathan Sollosi goals before the interval secured the points for Mark Williams’ side.

Elsewhere, Springfield had an own goal to thank for a 1 – 0 triumph in a tight contest with Rayleigh Town at Arun Close. Catholic Utd returned to winning ways with a 2 – 0 success at Shenfield AFC. Ronnie Hobbrough’s first-half penalty put Stuart Marshall’s side ahead before Ellis Sands sealed the win on his 100th appearance for the club. Sungate also kept their 100% record with a 3 – 2 win over Harold Wood Athletic, although Tom Ward and an OG accounted for Ath’s goals In that contest. Finally in this division, Canning Town remain unbeaten after defeating Leigh Ramblers 1 – 0 in Beckton.  

EOFL Division One

Now moving into Division One, and Ongar Town maintained their fine start in all competitions with a thumping 7 – 0 over Toby at the Lakeside Sports Ground. Aaron Blair scored four goals on his own, with Ayo Awosinka notching a brace and Harry Rawlins also chipping in. Snaresbrook also won, 3 – 0 at Rayleigh Town Res with Ife Ogunbayo grabbing two goals and an OG also appearing on the score-sheet.

Meanwhile, Runwell Sports roared to a 5 – 0 success over Herongate Athletic at St Luke’s Park. Jon Atmore and Ashley Burgess both struck twice for Jason Plom’s side, with Ben Austin also on target. Also, Ramsden Scotia drew 2 – 2 at home with Shoebury Town.

EOFL Division Two

In Division Two, Beacon Hill Rovers made it two wins from two with a 2 – 0 win over AS Rawreth. Also, Ryan made it two wins from two in League & Cup as they defeated Wakering Sports 2 – 0 at Cupid’s. Lewis Watson and Tayyab Mahmoud were the scorers for the new-look Walthamstow-based outfit.

Corinthians also returned to league action with a 5 – 2 away triumph at Laindon Orient. Nathan Dewberry returned with a brace, with John Bolton-Smith also grabbing two goals plus Connor Summerhill also netted in this fine win for Chris Stoneham’s side. In the other match in the division, Rochford Town held visitors Epping Town to a 1 – 1 draw, with Charlie Pollard getting Epping’s goal there..

Still from Res Cup: Old S Res 3 – 1 L Town Res [Image: Scott W]

EOFL Reserve League Cup    

This week, the Reserve League Cup took centre stage with fourteen ties taking place. In the first of our nine featured matches, Division Five side Shoebury Town Res got a fine win at Division Two side Harold Wood Athletic Res, winning 4 – 3 at Harold Wood Park. Replacement Connor Payne scored twice for Shoebury, with Kirk Hudson and Garry Johnson also netting for the visitors. James Pottle’s brace and one from Joe McBurney in response for Ath’s second-side was not enough to prevent them heading out of the competition.

Collier Row Res also progressed with a 2 – 0 home win over Shenfield AFC Res at the Forest Row Centre. Nicky George and Johnson Lawrence were the goal-scoring heroes for the Division Five side. Galleywood Res also went through, beating fellow Division Four side Canning Town Res 3 – 1 away from home. Jack Chatterway’s double and one from Zak Robinson meant the Chelmsford-based side went through.

Hutton Ressies also progressed as they achieved a 3 – 1 home win over Basildon Town Res at Polo Fields. Stewart Biggie, Brad Freeman and substitute Benjamin Rose all found the net for Hutton, with Jamie Miller getting the consolation for Town here. Runwell Sports Res also went through, as they won 3 – 1 at Epping Town Res, with James Driver notching a brace and Alex Marsh getting the other goal for Runwell. Andrew Smith got the goal for the hosts but they unfortunately headed out of the Cup. Ongar Town Ressies made it a good day for the club as they won 3 – 2 at Leigh Ramblers Res. Frankie Goodall struck twice for the visitors, with Jack Zielinski’s goal also proving important.

Next, in the match I attended at Garon Park, Old Southendian Reserves were made to work hard before they grabbed a 3 – 0 win over Leigh Town Res. A fine strike by Jack Cripps and two from substitute Nico Debouchet sealed the win. If you’d like more on this match, the link to my report is here: survivor16b.wordpress.com/2020/09/12/match-report-os-res-3-0-leigh-town-res-eofl-rc-12-9-20/  

Manford Way Ressies also had a great day, winning 5 – 1 at Toby Res, with Shaun Goddard leading the goal-scorers with a double. David Hornsby, Jack Barraclough and Jake Muller all also netted as they took their place in Round Two. Chingford Athletic Res also advanced to the next round as they triumphed 4 – 1 at Old Chelmsfordians Res. Callum Godfrey, Leighton Hughes-Franklin and Conor Medhurst were among their Ath’s scorers here.

Other EOFL Reserve Cup Results:

AS Rawreth Res  0 – 6  Wakering Sports Res

Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res  0 – 2  Springfield Res

Corinthians Res  2 – 6  Catholic Utd Res

Herongate Athletic Res 1 – 1 Laindon Orient Res (Laindon won 4 – 3 on pens)

Wakering Sports Dev. 4 – 0 Buckhurst Hill Res

EOFL Senior League Cup

In the two remaining Senior Cup ties, the South Essex sides competing both prevailed. First, Division Three side Wakebury went through on spot-kicks, after a 3 – 3 draw with Division One side Chingford Athletic at Town Mead. Two goals from Harry Kateley and one from Billy Bonham-Dare for Matt Cardy’s side forced the penalty shoot-out, which they won 4 – 1 to claim a scalp and go through.

Also, Division One side Leigh Town went through after a comfortable 3 – 0 win at Division Four side Leytonstone Utd. Dan Steerwood, Mark Frostick and James Roberts were all on target to seal progression for Jack Pearman’s side.   

EOFL Division Three

Finally for the round-up section this week, in the one Division Three match this week, Hullbridge Sports ‘A’ got a good 3 – 1 win over Lakeside Utd at Lower Road. Harry Boswell, William Bray and Joseph Bray were the scorers for the ‘Bridge side.

EOFL Division Four Result

Hashtag Utd Dev. 1 – 2 Sungate Res  

EOFL Senior Five Result

Old Barkabbeyans  0 – 4  Roydon

That’s all from the Essex Olympian League round-up this week. Check back next week for the next edition, and thank to those clubs who passed on the info of goal-scorers this week.

Season Review 2019-20: Essex Olympian League Division Three [EOFL SR 19/20 23.4.20]

Written By Scott W  [Twitter: @ScottMHC14]

Hello and welcome to the second of a mini-series of blog articles looking back at the ‘void’ Season 2019-20, as deemed by the FA.

In this piece, I look back at Essex Olympian League Division Three, including an array of statistics compiled from the EOFL FA Full-Time website including top goalscorers & top appearance makers in the League fixtures. I was fortunate enough to attend a few Division Three matches this term so they may be referenced to as well here.

 

EOFL Division Three  (as of season cut-off point of March 14th 2020)

As with all the EOFL divisions, the season was halted in mid-March 2020 before eventually being curtailed several weeks later. At that point, ACD Utd held the top spot with 43 points from 18 matches. This record included thirteen wins and only the one loss, which was away at rivals Wakebury in late October. Michael Wade’s side were also the best side defensively in this division this term with only 19 goals conceded all league campaign, not bad for their first campaign as an Olympian League side. Fellow newcomers Wakebury were four points adrift in second place, with twelve wins from their 19 matches this term. Matt Cardy & Dan Blewett’s side were the most entertaining side this term with 56 goals scored, at an average of 2.95 Goals per game (GpG). The Shoebury-based side were not as proficient in defence and that may have cost them the top spot but both Wakebury & ACD have a lot to be proud of this season.

Wakebury v Corinthians Res (Sat 11 January ’20)

Another image from Wakebury v Corinthians Res (11.1.20)

Another promoted side ended up being third in Corinthians Reserves. Terry Rose & Ben Adams’ team had an impressive twelve wins from their 15 matches, with only two losses, at home to Buckhurst Hill Ressies and away at Wakebury, which I was pleased to watch in-person. On a better note, they are the second-best goal-scorers this term with 51 goals (but in fewer matches than the Berries so the GpG is 3.40). A sturdy defence as well may have seen them climb into the top two, had the season continued. The next two sides ended in close formation in fourth & fifth respectively. Firstly, Toby Reserves were fourth on 29 points, with nine wins from their 18 matches. They were also fourth in the ‘Entertainers’ listing, with a substantial number of their 40 goals this season coming from forwards Marc ‘The Flea’ Porter-Brown and Luis Ruiz. In fifth place are Collier Row with 28 points from fourteen matches, which included an impressive nine wins for you guessed it, another promoted side (from Div Five in 2018/19). What is also noteworthy is that Row have the third-most miserly defence this term as well with 25 goals conceded, so plaudits to them on that.

Image from White Ensign Res v Hutton Res (visitors in yellow – from 14.12.19)

Another still from White Ensign Res v Hutton Res (14.12.19)

Another side I saw this term in Hutton Reserves finished in sixth spot, having played the least amount of matches this term (13), ending up with 21 points. Matt Singh’s side grabbed seven wins this term, though as a caveat, six of those wins were at home. The other win was at White Ensign Reserves in mid-December, which happened to be the game I watched them in. Factor in an impressive goal-scoring record of 35 strikes (a GpG of 2.69) this season and again, they also have grounds for optimism next season. Leigh Town Reserves and Buckhurst Hill Reserves finished in seventh and eighth spot respectively. Leigh’s second-side, under the leadership of Robert Hutchings-Spiller ended up with 20 points from their 14 matches played. Unlike their first team in the division above, Town’s defence was breached 33 times this term as they won six and lost six of their matches this season. Hill’s second-team were two points behind them in eighth spot with 18 points from their fourteen games. Again, their defence was their ‘Achilles heel’, shipping 35 goals at an average of 2.50 per game.

Into the bottom four now, with Lakeside Reserves ending up ninth on 14 points from their 17 matches. All four of their wins this term came in their last nine matches as the latter half of the campaign saw them evade the dreaded bottom two. It was that poor start to the campaign (they didn’t win in their first ten matches) that contributed to them having the second-worst defensive record, conceding 48 times. Basildon Town Reserves finished tenth with 13 points from 15 matches. A difficult campaign at both ends of the pitch was highlighted by them having the third-weakest side in terms of goal-scoring, having scored 23 times and also conceding 41 goals, the fourth-worst in the division. Even so, their four wins this term matches the win count combined for the bottom two sides this term.

Still from White Ensign Res v Hullbridge ‘A’ (2nd Nov 19)

White Ensign Reserves were 11th, with three wins chalking up the bulk of their ten points gained this term. Manager Jack Caten has had it hard this term, as his side conceded 53 times in their 18 matches, the worst in the division. That said, they continue the club’s tradition of playing at the Len Forge Centre [3G] which is good to see. Finally, another new side in Hullbridge Sports ‘A’ ended up propping up the table, with one win all season – away at rivals Lakeside Reserves. It was a rare great day for Jason Mole’s side, as they scored four points all season and conceded forty-six  goals in their 15 matches this term. I saw the bottom two duke out a 1 – draw in November (image above) at the Len Forge.

EOFL Division Three – Top Goalscorers 2019-20 Season

		Club/s	League Goals	League Starts
1	Max Hall	Corinthians Res	18	14
2	Charlie Little	Wakebury	17	10
3	Ed Hart	Collier Row	16	13
=4	Sean O’Callaghan	Hutton Res	15	9
	Michael Wade	ACD Utd	15	11
6	Marc Porter-Brown	Toby Res	14	14
=7	Harry Davison	Lakeside Res	9	10
	Harry Kateley	Wakebury	9	17
	Luis Ruiz	Toby Res	9	17
	Ben Munday	Wakebury	8 (+1 pen)	14
=11	Chris Pope	Leigh Town Res	7	12
	Alex Hubbard	Leigh Town Res	7	14
=13	Tommy Fraine	Buckhurst Hill Res	6	9
	George Wickings	Hutton Res	6	10
	Grant Cumming	Basildon Town Res	6	11
	Landry Gogoa	Buckhurst Hill Res	6	11
	Luke Smith	Corinthians Res	6	13
	Samuel Payne	ACD Utd	6	14
	Ashley Webb	Corinthians Res	6	14

Finally, here’s the top page of the Leading Appearance Makers in Division Three (focus on League Starts)

			Appearances
		Club/s	League Starts	Bench	Total
1	Liam Jarrett	Wakebury	19	0	19
=2	Jamie Alexandrou	ACD Utd	17	1	18
	Harry Kateley	Wakebury	17	1	18
=4	Ben Perry	Wakebury	17	0	17
	Luis Ruiz	Toby Res	17	0	17
	Ollie Williams	ACD Utd	17	0	17
=7	Daniel Buglione	Wakebury	16	1	17
	Dominic Cooper	Toby Res	16	1	17
	Chris Gore	Wakebury	16	1	17
=10	Yaw Danso	White Ensign Res	16	0	16
	Archie Matthews	White Ensign Res	16	0	16
	Mason Oakley	ACD Utd	16	0	16
	Matthew Thompson	Lakeside Res	16	0	16

 

Round-up: Essex Olympian League & Senior Cup (Sat 7 December) [EOFL 19/20 8.12.19]

Image from Corinthians 1 – 3 Old Southendian Res this weekend [Image: Scott W]

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

 

Hello and welcome to this week’s Essex Olympian League round-up, which includes matches from the top four divisions & more on Saturday 7th December. Thanks for reading.

 

Saturday 7 December

Premier Division

In the top-tier, Sungate are the new leaders of the division after a narrow 1 – 0 win at Shenfield AFC. One loss in their last six matches see the ‘Gate a point clear of Catholic Utd who powered past Springfield 7 – 3 in a entertaining encounter at the Len Salmon Stadium. Luke Trice netted a treble for Dan Trenkel’s side, with Jay Nash getting a brace plus Aaron Baldwin & Brad Vaughan were also on target. Springfield had Dylan Caramba-Coker, Oliver Evans and replacement Harrison Elles to thank for their goals though they drop to sixth, behind Rayleigh Town on goal difference.

Meanwhile, Leigh Ramblers ended their recent winless run with a 2 – 0 success at Old Southendian, with Ryan Lowe and Justin Lowe strikes proving the difference in a team-wide good performance, which sees Wayne Seal’s team rise to third, at least temporarily given their rivals have games in hand on them. Kelvedon Hatch were held 3 – 3 by strugglers Canning Town at New Hall, which gave the visitors the point they needed to rise off the foot of the table.

 

Match Postponed: Harold Wood Athletic  P – P  Basildon Town (Waterlogged pitch)

 

Senior Division One

Now into a reduced programme in Senior One, and Chingford Athletic remain seven points clear at the summit, thanks to a 3 – 1 triumph over Rayleigh Town Res at Town Mead. The goals came from Mickey Mesmin, Alex Gordon and an OG as Ath got their fifth straight league win. Town’s Ressie side remain in mid-table. Elsewhere, Manford Way drew 2 – 2 with Toby at London Marathon Sports Ground. Olajide Yusuff and Paul Marjason struck for Manford though goals by Nic Keyamo and Sam Parrish levelled things for Toby who got their second point of the season. Manford are winless in their last four matches and sit 7th. Also, Old Chelmsfordians won 4 – 1 at Herongate Athletic to retain second spot, four points ahead of Ongar Town.

Match Postponed: Snaresbrook  P – P  Galleywood   | (Waterlogged Pitch)

 

Senior Division Two

In EOFL Senior Two, Leigh Town roared back to the top of the standings after a fine 6 – 2 win over AS Rawreth at John Burrows Recreation Ground. Shane Cooper and Tom Byford both nabbed braces here, alongside one each for Daniel Driscoll and Max Jones. Town are unbeaten in their nine league matches thus far now, the only side still unbeaten. Rawreth struck through Louis Hill’s double though it’s nine consecutive defeats for them now as they drop to last place. Laindon Orient won 3 – 1 at Rochford Town, thanks to a Charlie Mann double & one from ex-Southend Manor midfielder Ricky Bowyer. Matt Welsh got the solitary Rochford goal as Orient’s third win in their last five outings sees them remain sixth. Town stay third-bottom after their fifth loss on-the-spin.

Meanwhile, in the match I attended at Stambridge Memorial Ground, Old Southendian Res put in a very gritty display to defeat Corinthians 3 – 1. Ben Franklin’s two goals & one from skipper Oliver Tatton-Bennett won the contest, and a hard-working defensive showing assisted them with Nathan Dewberry on the score-sheet for Chris Stoneham’s side. If you’d like more on this match, my report is available here: survivor16b.wordpress.com/2019/12/07/match-report-corinthians-1-3-old-southendian-res-sat-7th-dec-eofl/

Also, May & Baker Res made a blistering comeback to win 5 – 2 at Epping Town. Kurt Smith and Joe Thomas netted for Billy Cove’s side though they were also reduced to ten men in what was their first loss this term in the league.Bakers recovered superbly thanks to doubles from John Mogege and Ricardo Teixiera and one from George Dawood.

Ryan drew 2 – 2 with Harold Wood Athletic Res with Krasimir Kamboshev getting both Ryan goals & Mike Lowry notching both for Wood’s second side. As a result, both sides are in the bottom four while Beacon Hill Rovers won 3 – 2 at Wakering Sports, with Sam Holden getting two of the Rovers goals. Adebolu Adeyemi got the other while Ben Rowe and replacement Ben Aston notching the Sports goals here.

 

Senior Division Three

Finally for this section, in Senior Three, with their nearest rivals not in action due to postponements, Wakebury went two points clear at the top with a fine 5 – 1 win over White Ensign Reserves at Shoebury Park. Christopher Gore led the way with a treble, plus Daniel Buglione and Charlie Little also chipping in for Matt Cardy’s side. Hullbridge Sports ‘A’ finally ended their winless run with an important 1 – 0 at fellow strugglers Lakeside Res, with Josh Boswell getting the crucial goal for Jason Mole’s side. Hutton Res also won, 3 – 0 at home to Leigh Town Reserves thanks to strikes by Harry Calder, Stephen Judge and substitute Harry Lane. That win sees them stay 9th but gain ground on the sides above them.

 

Matches Postponed: Collier Row  P – P  Corinthians Res   | Forest Row Centre

Toby Res  P – P  ACD Utd  | Ford’s Sports Club (Newbury Park – Toby pitch)

 

Senior League Cup Results

Bishop’s Stortford Swifts  2 – 2  Hutton  (Hutton won 5 – 4 on pens) | Silver Leys

Rayleigh Town  4 – 0  Lakeside   | London Road

 

Essex Junior Cup

Buckhurst Hill Res  0 – 1  Wakering Sports Res

Shoebury Town ‘A’  5 – 2  Basildon Town Res 

 

Senior Division Four Results

Catholic Utd Res  0 – 1  Chingford Athletic Development

Galleywood Res  3 – 4  Ongar Town Res

Laindon Orient Res  1 – 6  Roydon

Leytonstone Utd  1 – 2  Forest Glade

Old Chelmsfordians Res  5 – 3  Shenfield AFC Res

 

Senior Division Five Results

Leigh Ramblers Res  3 – 2  Wakering Sports ‘A’

Newbury Forest Res  0 – 5  Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res

Roydon Res  1 – 0  Old Barkabbeyans  

Shoebury Town Res  P – P  Collier Row Res

Springfield Res  9 – 1  Herongate Athletic Res