Kelvedon Hatch – survivor16b

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian Lge (Sat 15 Apr) [EOFL 22-23 17.4.23]

Image from Shenfield v Wakering Res in EPC Final this week

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 15 April, as the weather again impacted events, but 15 matches did take place this week.

EOFL Premier Division

In the top-tier, we start with a rare Bank Holiday Monday match as Catholic Utd convincingly won 6 – 0 at relegation candidates Galleywood. Harrison Day netted a treble here, with Brad Vaighan, James Warder & Lucas Polyblank also scoring for Simon Thomas’ team. The win strengthened Utd’s hopes of a third-placed finish. Onto the weekend now, and Hutton remain seven points clear at the top after a 5 – 1 win over Shenfield AFC at Hannakins Farm 3G. Jude Keeling netted twice here, with Stephen Judge, Lewis Scott & replacement Freddie Miller all scoring for Matt Singh’s team here. Rayleigh Town had to battle to grab a 3 – 2 win at Catholic Utd, with Jack Long, Phil Anunwa & Harry Talbot all scoring for Paul Higgins’ team. James Warder was amo g the scorers for Utd.

Elsewhere, Kelvedon Hatch got a important 3 – 2 victory over Toby at New Hall. Drew Klessa-Smith, James Nottage & substitute James Burt got the goals for Darren Hunt’s team, which takes them out of the bottom three. Replacements Ethan Hardy & Oliver Dingli showed their impact by scoring a goal each but they still have a good chance of a top ten finish. Bishop’s Stortford Swifts drew 0 – 0 with Springfield, which leaves Swifts vulnerable to be caught by Galleywood in the relegation battle. Finally, Leigh Ramblers battled a 1 – 0 victory over Sungate at Belfairs Park, despite playing 45 minutes with ten men. Justin Hazell got the big goal there, which sees the Rams back up to fourth spot.

Essex Premier Cup Final

It was a pleasure to watch the Premier Cup Final for the third time, this time the all-EOFL contest saw Shenfield AFC take the trophy with a 3 – 1 win against a spirited Wakering Sports Res side at New Lodge 3G. Goals from Elliott Thompson, Alex Tredgett & replacement Frankie Fealty sealed a memorable occasion for Kevin & Luke Williamson’s side. George Penfold netted for Sports but they could not make the most of their chances. If you’d like more on this game, my report is here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2023/04/13/s22-23-match-report-shenfield-afc-3-1-wakering-sports-res-wed-12-apr-epc-final/

EOFL Divisions One & Two

Moving into Division One now, and Corinthians bagged an important 3 – 1 victory at Epping Town to stay in the promotion race. They have a hard road ahead, having to play Old Chelmsfordians and Manford Way in their next two games, so this was a key win.

In Division Two, Shoebury Town held Wakering Sports Res 2 – 2 to stay on course for the title. Jack Woodham & Mechack-Kisoka Ausuka got the goals for Town, who remain a point clear withan extra game to play compared to their rivals.

EOFL Divisions Three, Four & Five

Division Three saw Pitsea Athletic win 3 – 2 at Old Chelmsfordians Res, which takes them into second spot, having now completed their season. Old Chelms’ second-side have one game left but will finish eighth.

Now in Division Four, the big game at the summit saw Leigh Ramblers Res defeat rivals Roydon 2 – 1 at Belfairs Park. Goals from Luis Bracci & Charlie Batchelor were enough to outdo Kyle Stanley’s reply for the visitors & send Rams three points clear st the top, with three matches left. The positive for Roydon is that one more win from their last two games could be enough to seal promotion. Collier Row ended their campaign with a 3 – 2 victory at home to Ongar Town, with Arley Barker & an OG accounting for Ongar’s goals. Row remain third but two more wins for Herongate Res will see them claim that place. Lastly in D4, Leytonstone Utd got a huge 1 – 0 win at Shenfield AFC Res come off the bottom. They still need four points from their last three games to exit the relegation zone but it is still possible.

In Division Five, Wakebury Res ended their season with a 4 – 2 victory at Sungate Res. Arry Hardy netted a hat-trick for Joe Creak’s side, with Ross Barnes also netted his tenth league goal of the season to see them go back into third spot. Basildon Town A need a win in the last game of the division to overhaul them. Shoebury Town Res also drew 5 – 5 with bottom side AS Rawreth Res at the Ekco Sports Club. Rodang Ngesang netted twice for AS here, with Ramadhan Ramadhan & substitutes Samuel Hall and Joe Terrell also scoring for the visitors.

Before we close this article, just to mention that the last EOFL round-up of the season is set to be on May 15th. As ever, my thanks to all regular resds of this column.

End

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian Lge (Sat 8 Apr) [EOFL 22/23 9.4.23]

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.

End

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian Lge & Cups (Sat 18 Mar) [EOFL 22-23 20.3.23]

Image from Leigh Ramblers Res v Wakering Sports A this weekend

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

Hello & welcome to the latest Essex Olympian League column, tracking the action in all divisions & Cups from Saturday 18 March, as the fixture programme was again blighted by the recent weather.

Cups

The two Essex Premier Cup ties did reach a conclusion to set up the Final at New Lodge on April 12th. Wakering Sports Res‘ dream run through the competition continued after a superb match ended in a 4 – 4 draw with EAL Senior side Woodford East at Cupid’s. Connor Fardyga & substitute Adem Beji both scored twice here for the hosts, and they held their nerve in the shoot-out, winning 5 – 4 to shatter East’s quest of making a second successive final. Sports will play Shenfield AFC after they came from behind to defeat Rayleigh Town at St Martins’. Jack Chatterway had given Town the lead but goals from Luke Williamson & Ben Absolon meant that it would be the hosts competing in an all-EOFL showpiece next month.

EOFL League Divisions

As mentioned, the fixtures were hit by weather. We start as ever in the top-tier, as leaders Hutton were held to a 1 – 1 draw at Runwell Sports. Two substitutes were crucial in this game, with David Johnson netting for the Reds and Luca Frankis responded for Rob Hodgson’s team. The result meant that Matt Singh’s team remain ten points clear of second-placed Catholic Utd, who were also held, 2 – 2 by Sungate at the Len Forge 3G. Ben Burrows & Aaron Baldwin scored for Utd to give them the lead, but goals from Solomon Asomah & replacement Petrit Elbi meant that the ‘Gate left with a point, and they are up to seventh now.

Elsewhere, Old Southendian are back into fourth place after a 2 – 1 victory at Toby. Mattias Tonking & Jordan Faulkner both netted for OS, with substitute Jake Jones replying for the Brewers, who remain 10th. There were also two key results for teams at the bottom. Firstly, Kelvedon Hatch got a vital 3 – 2 victory over Canning Town at New Hall. Drew Klessa-Smith, Luke Winter & David Hamblett got the goals for Darren Hunt’s team, as they stayed out of the bottom two. Springfield also grabbed a hugely important three points as they had a 2 – 1 success at Belfairs Park. Two goals from Finlay Dorrell outdid a late spot-kick from Ole Hunter for the Rams to give Matt Cardy’s side the win. I attended this match & if you’d like more on it, my report is available here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2023/03/19/s22-23-match-report-leigh-ramblers-1-2-springfield-sat-18-mar-eofl/

There were two matches in Division One this week. First, Manford Way grabbed an important 2 – 0 victory over promotion rivals Epping Town at the London Marathon Sports Ground to go three points clear in fourth, with three games left. The other game saw ACD Utd obtain a good 4 – 1 success at Wakering Sports. Jacob Dingli scored twice for Michael Wade’s team, with Shaun Farrow & Ollie Williams also netting to see Utd gain ground on the top five.

There was one match apiece in Divisions Two & Three as well. In Division Two, Shoebury Town confirmed promotion to the second-tier after they conclusively won 7 – 0 over Old Southendian Res, in a match held at Garon Park 3G. Mechack-Kisoka Asuka netted another four goals here, with Jack Woodham’s double & one from substitute Enoch Gyimah securing the points which led to celebrations for Garry Johnson’s & John Galley’s team. Congrats to them. In Division Three, Buckhurst Hill U23 are up to third spot, after a 7 – 1 win over Old Chelmsfordians Res at Roding Lane. Louie Cooper & replacement Daniel Muela both scored twice for Darren Gosnell’s team here, with Jack Barnes, Jacob Richards & Harvey Woods also on the score-sheet in Hill’s penultimate league match this term. Old Chelms will finish eighth now.

In Division Four, the solitary game saw Leigh Ramblers Res produce a fine second-half showing to defeat Wakering Sports A 4 – 0 at Belfairs, in the second game of the double-header of matches which I attended. The ensemble of Luis Bracci, Cameron Jarvis, Taylor Stewart & Jacob Mead were all on target for Terry Johnson’s team, as they went up to second spot, three points behind leaders Roydon with two further games than them to play. The Sports side remain second bottom, with five matches left.

Finally, there was only one match in Division Five, Runwell Sports Res secured a very important 6 – 1 victory at Collier Row Res. The win takes them into top spot, two points clear of Manford Way Res and the pressure is on their rivals as the Runwell second-side have completed their league campaign. Row’s Ressie side also ended their term here, and reside in fourth but can still be caught by Basildon Town A, currently in fifth.

End

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian Lge (Sat 5 Nov) [EOFL 22-23 7.11.22]

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

Hello & welcome to the round-up from the action in the Essex Olympian League. This week on Saturday 5 November, we look at the action in all divisions, plus an extra section on Senior League Cup games this weekend. Image below taken by Peter D, used with thanks.

Image from Harold Hill v Waering Sports [Image by Peter D]

EOFL Premier Division

Firstly in the top-tier, Kelvedon Hatch got a good 2 – 0 victory at Leigh Ramblers, with Drew Klessa-Smith and Reece Simpson the scorers for Darren Hunt’s side. Other results in the division were Canning Town’s 5 – 0 win over Galleywood, Old Southendian’s fine 3 – 1 success at Catholic Utd and Sungate getting another way win with a 2 – 0 victory at Shenfield AFC.

EOFL Divisions One & Two

The second tier saw plenty of goals & a few surprises. First up there was no shock at Henderson’s though but Harold Hill did have to come from behind to defeat Wakering Sports 4 – 1. Ryan Curtis had given Sports an early lead, but a double from Jack Suters, plus goals from Ashley Blackburn and Joel Sampson swiveled the match in Hill’s favour, which sees Billy Cove’s team rise up to sixth spot. If you’d like more on this match, my erstwhile Non-League colleague Peter D was there & his report is viewable here: http://pedroslocalfootiefix.blogspot.com/2022/11/harold-hill-4-wakering-sports-1.html

Elsewhere, Epping Town got an important 4 – 2 victory over Beacon Hill Rovers to leap yp to second. Substitute Scout Bown nabbed a fine treble along with a Chris Gormley goal to see Stuart Hoskins’ side to the points. ACD Utd were also triumphant following a 2 – 1 win at home to Herongate Athletic at Westlands. Harry Payne & Jacob Dingli both netted for Michael Wade’s side, with this win taking them up to third. Old Chelmsfordians got a big 4 – 1 success at fellow top five side Corinthians while Manford Way drew 2 – 2 with leaders Harold Wood Athletic, with James Pottle & Leroy Griffiths both netting for Ath there.

In Division Two this week, Shoebury Town went top of the table with six wins from six after a 3 – 2 win at Hashtag Utd Development at Barleylands. Kian Bradshaw, Luke Jackson & Aaron Marshall got the goals for Garry Johnson & John Galley’s side as they kept up their terrific start to the season. Harold Wood Athletic Res are third after a 4 – 0 home win over Rayleigh Town Res. Joe Eldridge’s brace allied with strikes by Chris Dixon & Freddy Shepherd secured the points there while Wakebury are now fourth after a 3 – 1 victory at Hutton Res. Will Wheeler, Finlay Dorrell & Mark Frostick all netted for Matt Cardy’s team there as they notched their fifth win this term. David Johnson replied for the Reds’ second-side. In the other game, AS Rawreth got a rare away win, prevailing 1 – 0 at Old Southendian Res at Garon Park 3G to lift them into mid-table.

EOFL Divisions Three, Four & Five

Into Division Three now, Buckhurst Hill U23 got back on form with a 2 – 0 victory at Old Chelmsfordians Res, thanks largely to a double from Jacob Samber Richards for Darren Gosnell’s side. Hill stay fifth after this win. Hullbridge‘s Ressie side won 3 – 1 at Toby Res thanks to a Jay Knight double & one from Joe Tuskin, which takes them up to second. Basildon Town Res are still two points clear after a big win in a fantastic game, 7 – 4 at Chingford Athletic Res, while Springfield Res also won, 3 – 1 at home to Leigh Town Res.

In Division Four, Roydon are now three points clear at the summit following a 6 – 0 success at home to struggling Leytonstone Utd. Nader Benzid scored twice here, with the supporting cast of Mike Hayes, Connor Riddoch, Connor Presland & OG rounding out the scorers as Roydon remain unbeaten this term. Leigh Ramblers Res won 1 – 0 at Galleywood Res to go up to fourth, while in the other game, Pitsea Athletic Res drew 4 – 4 with Shenfield AFC Res.

Finally in the only match in Division Five, Runwell Sports Res got back to winning ways with a 3 – 1 triumph at Sungate Res in East London. The result puts Runwell’s second side back to second while the Sungate side are winless so far this term.

EOFL Senior League Cup

There were just the two matches in the Senior League Cup this weekend. Firstly, Rayleigh Town went through uin a rare first-team game this term back at London Road. Town defeated May & Baker EOFL 5 – 2, with George Vile and Phil Anunwa both netting two goals each, with other goal coming from Sonny Woodward. Alfie Horan and Frankie Worboyes got the goals for M & B there. In the other tie, top-tier Hutton had a scare before overcoming Division Four side Collier Row 3 – 2 at Forest Row.

Essex Junior Trophy Results

Ashingdon Res 2 – 3 Basildon Town A

Collier Row A 0 – 1 Manford Way Res

and Collier Row Res 4 – 0 Harold Hill Res

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian Lge (Sat 29 Oct) [EOFL 22-23 31.10.22]

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.

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian Lge (Sat 1 Oct) [EOFL 22-23 3.10.22]

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

Hello & welcome to the round-up from the action in the Essex Olympian League. This week on Saturday 1 October, we look at the action in all five divisions, plus an extra section on the various Cup competitions, including the EOFL Senior Cup.

Image from Cartholic Utd 1 – 4 Hutton – by Scott W

EOFL – Saturday 1 October

EOFL Premier Division & Division One

As ever we begin with the top-tier, and Rayleigh Town went up to second spot after a 4 – 0 victory against Springfield at Thames Road. George Vile grabbed a rare hat-trick, alongside a goal from replacement Lewis Robson for Paul Higgins’ team. After the game, Springfield boss Franco Zabotti stepped down as manager, I’d like to wish him and club well for the future. Also, Runwell Sports got a 1 – 0 success, against Canning Town at St Luke’s. Charlie Little getting the goal there for Robert Hodgson’s side. Leigh Ramblers also got a 1 – 0 win, over Bishop’s Stortford Swifts as Andrew Webster struck again for Mark Hunter’s team, who are in fourth.

Galleywood narrowly won at Sungate 1 – 0, with Ben Smith netting the solitary goal as they secured their first win this season. In the match I was at this weekend, Hutton made the most of big goals at important times as they won 4 – 1 at Catholic Utd. Jude Keeling netted twice for Matt Singh’s team, with an OG & David Johnson accounting for the other goals. If you’d like more on that game, my report is here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2022/10/02/s22-23-match-report-catholic-utd-1-4-hutton-sat-1-oct-eofl/

Meanwhile at St Martins’ Sch 3G, Shenfield AFC got a 2 – 1 success over Toby, with Ben Carroll netting both goals for AFC. Luis Ruiz’s penalty responded for Toby as they finished the game strongly. Finally, Kelvedon Hatch were pleased to record a 2 – 0 triumph over Old Southendian at New Hall. Drew Klessa-Smith was back on the score-sheet, with Charlie Nichols also on target as Hatch leapt out of the bottom two after netting first win this season.

In Division One, Manford Way went up to fourth spot after a fine 4 – 2 win at Old Chelmsfordians. Charlie Parish scored twice here, while Samuel Oramadike & James Dobson also netted for Manford here. Beacon Hill Rovers held Harold Hill 1 – 1 as well with Jack Walker scoring for the home side. Billy Cove’s side are in mid-table, seven points clear of the bottom three. Epping Town were held 3 – 3 at ACD Utd, with Joe Rickett, Scout Bown and Chris Gormley all scoring for Stuart Hoskins’ side. ACD responded through a double from Frank Markham & one from Jacob Dingli, as they remained fifth.

EOFL Divisions Two & Three

In Division Two, Harold Wood Athletic Res are three points clear at the summit after a 3 – 2 victory at home to Catholic Utd Res. Josh Portway’s superb treble was enough to send the hosts to the win, overhauling goals by Finley Lewis and Utd club stalwart Dan Trenkel. Shoebury Town are second after they humbled Wakebury 10 – 0 at Ekco Sports Club in Prittlewell. Kian Bradshaw netted four goals himself, Mechack-Kisoka Asuka grabbed three goals on his league debut while Aaron Marshall scored another brace plus there was a goal for Takondwa Maosa as Garry Johnson & John Galley’s team heavily bolstered their goal difference with this huge win.

Elsewhere, Old Southendian Res narrowly defeated Hutton Res 1 – 0 in the late game at Garon Park 3G. Nico Dubouchet got another decisive goal for Josh Bambury’s team, who got their first win this term. Finally in this division, Hashtag Utd Dev were held 2 – 2 by bottom side Rayleigh Town Res at Barleylands. Tommy Green & Matthew Gauci netted for Denis Simpson’s team.

In Division Three, Springfield Res went into mid-table after a 1 – 0 win over Buckhurst Hill U23, with Liam England getting the only goal. Leigh Town Res were held 2 – 2 by Basildon Town Res. The visitors netted through a brace from Joe Fogarty but strikes by Steve Birnie & replacement Callum Stone and they went up to third. Lastly, Chingford Athletic Res won 4 – 0 at Toby Res.

EOFL Division Four

Moving into Division Four now, and Leigh Ramblers Res went up to fourth after a fine 4 – 1 victory at Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res. Lewis Wake netted for Swifts at Silver Leys but goals by Mickey Dodkins, Luis Bracci, Jacob Meads & Joe Howson secured the win for the Rams second-side. Herongate Athletic Res are still unbeaten after a 2 – 1 success against Ongar Town. Habeeb Apatira’s double saw Ath go two points clear at the top. Ongar’s struggles continue, having lost all four games thus far.

Elsewhere, Galleywood Res drew 1 – 1 with Shenfield AFC Res. Substitute Ebenezer Fasoranti scored for the hosts, and Ross Riding again netting for AFC’s second side. The other game saw Wakering Sports A win 5 – 1 against second-bottom Leytonstone Utd. Joe Young scored a hat-trick for the hosts, with James Medlock getting a solitary goal for Utd.

No action in Division Five this week.

Essex Premier Cup R1

So the EPC had one additional fixture this week with Corinthians going through after defeating Stanway Rovers U23 2 – 1 at the Stambridge Memorial Ground. Bailey Moss & Jake Hodder got the goals to overturn Ehren Collins’ strike for the Rovers’ developmental side.

EOFL Senior League Cup

There were four ties in the Senior League Cup. First, May & Baker EOFL won 6 – 1 at Wakering Sports, with braces for Carl Patten & Jack O’Connor plus goals for Kane Messenger & Scott O’Connor as they progressed. Harold Wood Athletic also went through after a 4 – 1 triumph at Hullbridge Sports Res. Max Shepherd, Zach Holding, Matty Donovan and Owen Edwards all netted with Harry Mole scoring for the ‘Bridge side. Pitsea Athletic joined them in the next round as they won 3 – 1 at AS Rawreth, with Reece Stone, Kwadwo Asante & Josh Ledger all scoring for the visitors. Collier Row also went through 5 – 4 on spot-kicks after a 0 – 0 draw with Leigh Town.

Essex Junior Trophy Results

Ashingdon Res 3 – 2 Wakebury Res

Basildon Town A 8 – 0 Rochford Town

Epping Town Res 1 – 6 Great Baddow

Hutton B 3 – 2 Runwell Sports Res

Leigh Ramblers A 6 – 1 AS Rawreth Res

Manford Way Res 3 – 0 Dagenham Utd Res

Shoebury Town Res 5 – 0 Catholic Utd A

S21-22 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League (Sat 9 Apr) [EOFL 21/22 11.4.22]

Archive Image – Wakering Sports v Runwell Sports last month in D1

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

Hello all and welcome to my round-up of the action in the Essex Olympian League, on Saturday 9 April. The focus this week is on the League action and the additional sections on Divisions Four & Five remain in place with their campaigns coming to a conclusion. Thank you for reading.

Essex Olympian Lge – Saturday 9 April

EOFL Premier Division, Divisions One & Two

In the Premier Division, Leigh Ramblers got a key 2 – 1 win over relegation rivals Canning Town to keep them four points clear of the bottom three. Nathan Dewberry got both goals for Mark Hunter’s team. The Rams open the midweek matches in the EOFL this week with the visit of Springfield to Belfairs. Kelvedon Hatch deepened Harold Wood Athletic’s concerns of the drop as Hatch won 4 – 1 at New Hall. Drew Klessa-Smith got another two goals to take his tally to 17 this term, which was allied with strikes by substitutes Tom Johnson & Darren Jiro to give Darren Hunt’s side the points. Tim Hinds-Addow also got a goal for Ath after coming off the bench. Galleywood are still requiring points after they lost to Hutton 2- 1 at Slades Lane. The ever-dependable duo of Brad Freeman and Will Marlowe both netted for Matt Singh’s side as they kept pace with the top three above them. Matthew Crick replied for ‘Wood though they have seven matches to overhaul Leigh Ramblers and Springfield directly above them.

At the summit, Basildon Town got a 2 – 0 triumph over Catholic Utd with Jamie Bradbourn and Ryan Scougall’s fine free-kick proving enough to give Marcus Bowers’ side the points and reduce the gap to the top two to just one point with at least one match more to play. Utd remain sixth with Sungate their main rivals for that spot after they comfortably defeated Springfield 6 – 0 in NE London. Finally, Rayleigh Town maintained their good form with a 4 – 0 away win at Shenfield AFC. Harry Talbot is the division’s top-scorer now with 19 goals this term after a double here. Liam Oliver and Jack Long also netted for Paul Higgins’ team as they for the moment went top, above Ongar on goal difference, having played a game more.

News: It was announced this week that Basildon Town are leaving their current tenancy at Basildon Utd, with Marcus Bowers’ side having agreed to ground-share at Step 3 team East Thurrock Utd next season.

In Division One, there was a shift in the dynamics in the promotion race as Epping Town defeated second-placed Toby 4 – 3 at Epping UC Rugby Club. Stuart Hoskins’ side put in a big display to ensure a mid-table finish thanks to Joe Rickett’s 10th league goal this term, plus strikes from Callum Turner, Chris Gormley and Conor Corrigan. Mark Jones’ team replied through goals from Albert Perry, Nick Walk and Jake Jones but they ended their season here in the knowledge that if Wakering Sports win by six goals in their last game, the latter side will be promoted.

Toby’s loss also confirmed Runwell Sports as Champions of the Division, so again congrats to Rob Hodgson, all his management team and the squad. Wakering Sports did their part on Saturday as they had three second-half goals to thank for a 3 – 0 victory at Corinthians. The substitutes made the difference here as two goals for Mohammed Sesay and one from Callum Burns-Green were enough to claim the win. Finally, Leigh Town drew 2 – 2 with Beacon Hill Rovers at John Burrows Rec, which means both sides will likely need to avoid defeat in their last game to avoid a bottom-two finish.

Moving into Division Two now, leaders ACD Utd fell to only their third loss of the season as Manford Way won 1 – 0 at Westlands. James Dobson got the vital goal for Manford as they stayed three points adrift of second-placed Harold Hill. ACD need four points from their last two games to complete the job with yet another title. Harold Hill stay second after a 3 – 0 triumph over Old Southendian Res at Noak Hill – it is most likely that one win in their last two matches will confirm promotion as they have a superior goal difference to the teams below them.

Elsewhere, Harold Wood Athletic Res held Wakebury to a 3 – 3 draw at Harold Wood Park. Ben Rowe got two goals here while Josh Portway also scored for Steve Hubbard’s team, who are pretty much safe from the bottom two now. Harry Kateley, Kofi Gyamfi and Ibrahim Kagbanda all scored in reply for Matt Cardy’s side but it seems most likely they will finish fourth after a fine debut campaign at this level.

Also, Shoebury Town ended their season with a positive 3 – 1 win over Rochford Town at Cupid’s. Garry Johnson’s side sit fifth with aspirations of a better season next term with their youthful squad. Rochford will likely finish bottom, with only one match left to play later this month – at Wakebury. Finally, Rayleigh Town Res defeated Hutton Res 3 – 1 at London Road, which means Town could finish seventh and Hutton’s second-side still needing points from their remaining two games to avoid a bottom-two finish.

EOFL Divisions Three, Four & Five

Into Division Three, Toby Res went up to sixth after a 2 – 0 victory over Hullbridge Res in the early kick-off in Newbury Park. Oliver Dingli went joint-top in the lead goal-scorers charts with 23 league goals after a brace here for the hosts, congrats to Ollie on another fine season. ‘Bridge will finish no better than eighth this season after this loss. In the other result, Wakering Sports Res got a hard-fought 3 – 2 win at Leigh Town Res which takes them top of the table, in a tight promotion race.

Moving into Division Four, Springfield Res had a super 7 – 0 success at home to Sungate Dev to put them five points clear in second spot. The Sungate side need at least five points from their last five matches to avoid a bottom-two finish. Also in the relegation battle are Leytonstone Utd, who ended their campaign with a 2 – 2 draw with Shenfield AFC Res. The draw means that Utd will have to await other results as both Galleywood Res & Sungate Development have several matches left to play.

In Division Five, Collier Row Res ended their season with a fine 3 – 1 win at Snaresbrook Res, with Nicholas George, Harry Potts and Raheem Bravo all on target to ensure they will finish the campaign no worse than seventh. Snaresbrook have one match left to play and can finish sixth with a win. Also, Herongate Athletic Res drew 0 – 0 with Pitsea Athletic Res at Billericay Road, which means that the PItsea side will finish third and Herongate fourth, as they both have one match remaining.

EOFL Cups

EOFL Reserve Lge Cup

Hashtag Utd Dev 2 – 3 Buckhurst Hill U23

EOFL Res Lge Trophy

Ongar Town Res p2 – 2 Catholic Utd Res (Ongar won 5 – 4 on pens)

Thanks again for reading.

S21-22 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League (Sat 26 Feb) [EOFL 21/22 28.2.22]

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

Hello all and welcome to my round-up of the action in the Essex Olympian League, on Saturday 26 February. This weekend saw big results and with a number of different competitions being played (the EOFL Senior Cup, Reserve League Cup, Ressie Trophy, Denny King Memorial Cup & Essex Junior Cup), our focus remains on the League action. This week, in addition to the usual top three tiers, we have sections on the Senior Lge Cup & Division Four.

Main Image is by Peter Dudley [@ped1980], used with permission & thanks. Many thanks for reading.

Essex Olympian Lge – Saturday 26 February

EOFL Premier Division, Divisions One & Two

In the Premier Division, Kelvedon Hatch maintained their excellent campaign with a tough 3 – 2 win against improving Springfield at Arun Park. Max Bradford, James Burt and Tom Johnson got the important strikes for Darren Hunt’s side, with Garjay Thompson and Roland Oteniya responding for Francesco Zabotti’s side. Kelvedon are now up to second and face Hutton away next weekend (see fixtures at article’s end) which will be a tough one for Hutton as they look to stay in the top two. Springfield remain in tenth but are vulnerable to be caught by two sides just below them (Stortford Swifts & Galleywood) who have matches in hand.

Elsewhere, Shenfield AFC got another good win away from home with a 4 – 0 triumph over Harold Wood Athletic at Robert Clack Sch 3G. A double from substitute Ross Riding was added to by strikes from Samuel Lock and Elliott Thompson to put them three points clear in ninth. Athletic remain bottom, seven points adrift of exiting the bottom two with nine matches left. Catholic Utd also got a narrow 1 – 0 success at Leigh Ramblers, with Jay Nash getting the only goal to see his side back up to sixth. The Rams have eight games to retain their status as a Step 7 side arguably.

Rounding the top-tier action, Old Southendian got a memorable 2 – 0 win at Rayleigh Town to shore up their own mid-table ambitions and also dent Rayleigh’s chances of the title. On that note, Ongar Town went back up to the top after a hard-fought 2 – 1 victory at Bishop’s Stortford Swifts. Archie Gerard gave Swifts a surprise lead but Ongar displayed their spirit once again as goals from Joe Lilly and Jack Zielinski turned the game and gave Richard Ponsford’s side another important three points.

Division One saw two matches that did not go ahead. Firstly, Epping Town were the first beneficiaries of a Home Walkover in their match with Chingford Athletic, as the Town Mead side have withdrawn their first team only from their remaining matches, in the division (Source: EOFL website) after boss Declan Murphy departed the club this week. I understand their Reserve team is not affected, but let’s hope Chingford Firsts return next season.

Also, Toby’s match with Old Chelmsfordians also ended up in a walkover in favour of the hosts. That result sends them into second spot on their own but with Wakering Sports having one more match to play, Mark Jones’ side will need to amass as many points as they can from their remaining three matches.

There was also one match in Division Two, and it was an important one. ACD Utd continued their leap towards Division One with a hard-fought 2 – 1 success over rivals Wakebury at Westlands. Michael Wade and Mason Oakley got the crucial goals for Greg Knock’s team to outweigh Jamie Bradbourn’s strike for the Berries. ACD go back to the summit, three points clear of rivals Harold Hill, with Wakebury’s destiny now not entirely in their own hands given they are four points behind Hill in second and Manford Way are five points behind them but with two further matches to play.

EOFL Divisions Four & Five

In Division Four, the top two did battle at Town Mead as Chingford Athletic Res drew 3 – 3 with Roydon. Luke Dimond, Cane Sullivan and replacement Benson Osejindu got the goals for the hosts but the visitors are having a good run and strikes by Nader Benzid, Halcyon Griffith and Rene Pivarnik claimed a point which means the gap between the two teams remains at four points, with both teams having five matches left.

Division Five Results

AS Rawreth Res 1 – 2 Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res | The Warren

Runwell Sports Res 1 – 1 Epping Town Res | St Luke’s Park

Wakebury Res A – W Collier Row Res | Away Walkover

EOFL Senior League Cup

Three matches were played in the Senior League Cup and two of them were surprises. Corinthians showed how strong they are at their best as late goals assisted them to a superb 5 – 0 win at Premier side Hutton. There were doubles for Bailey Moss and Jake Hodder for Chris Stoneham’s side, with Leo Clarke also on target. They face a trip to Sungate next, while Hutton will have ten league matches to focus on. Sungate went through 5 – 4 on penalties, after a 0 – 0 draw with Basildon Town. Both sides will have hectic conclusions to the season, including midweek league matches in April and May.

Finally for this part, Harold Hill also issued a reminder of their talents as they won 4 – 2 at Galleywood. Craig Skipper and Oliver Sadler got the goals for ‘Wood but Hill still progressed.

Essex Junior Cup Semi-Finals:

Belle View SC 3 – 2 Hashtag Utd Development

And Wormingford Wanderers 0 – 3 Catholic Utd Res

EJC Final: Belle View SC v Catholic Utd Res (set for Wednesday April 6th, at Concord Rangers FC)

EOFL Reserve League Cup Results

Buckhurst Hill U23 6 – 0 Galleywood Res | Roding Lane

Old Southendian Res 3 – 5 Wakering Sports Res | Garon Park 3G

EOFL Reserve Lge Trophy: Ongar Town Res 2 – 1 Leigh Ramblers Res

EOFL Denny King Memorial Cup

Old Barkabbeyans 2 – 4 Beacon Hill Rovers | Barking Abbey Sch 3G

Pitsea Athletic 2 – 6 Runwell Sports | Basildon Sports Village

Shoebury Town 2 – 2p Manford Way | Cupid’s (Pitch 2) | Manford won 4 – 3 on pens

For more on this game, fellow Non-League writer Pete Dudley was watching & his report Is here: http://pedroslocalfootiefix.blogspot.com/2022/02/shoebury-town-2-manford-way-2-manford.html

Season Run- in: Fixtures for March 5th (top two tiers only, stc)

EOFL Premier Division (2pm KO unless stated)

Hutton v Kelvedon Hatch | Polo Fields

Leigh Ramblers v Springfield | Belfairs Park

Rayleigh Town v Galleywood | London Road

Old Southendian v Basildon Town | Garon Park 3G (2.30pm KO)

Shenfield AFC v Bishop’s Stortford Swifts | St Martins Sch 3G (2.30pm KO)

One game in EOFL Division One:

Beacon Hill Rovers v Herongate Athletic | Wickham Bishops Sports Ground

Thanks again for reading.

S21-22 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League & Cups (Sat 19 Feb) [EOFL 21/22 21.1.22]

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

Hello all and welcome to my round-up of the action in the Essex Olympian League, on Saturday 19 February. This week, the league action takes the central focus, with a few matches also in several Cup competitions (the Senior Cup does have a short round-up section). This week, because of a number of Cup matches there was no league action in Division Three, Four or Five.

Essex Olympian League Round-up – Saturday 19 February

EOFL Premier Division & Division One

In the top-tier, with their rivals not in league action, Ongar Town kept their title hunt going with a fine 3 – 0 victory over Basildon Town at Lakeside Sports Ground 3G. Jack Zielinski continued his fine scoring run with a double here, which was added to by George Hayes. Richard Ponsford’s side lead the table, having played the most of the top three sides. Basildon temporarily dropped to fifth spot but have eleven matches remaining, in what will be a hectic last three months for Marcus Bowers & Lee Bunn’s side. Kelvedon Hatch rose to fourth spot after a battling 2 – 1 victory over Leigh Ramblers at Belfairs Park in the match I attended. Drew Klessa-Smith’s 15th league goal of the season and skipper Wayne Semanshia’s goal was enough for Darren Hunt’s side here. Tom Franks had levelled for the Rams soon after they fell behind. If you’d like to see more on this match, my report is here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2022/02/19/s21-22-match-report-leigh-ramblers-1-2-kelvedon-hatch-sat-19-feb-eofl/

Elsewhere, Old Southendian went up to eighth spot after a 3 – 1 success over Sungate at a very windy Garon Park 3G. Ruari McIntyre’s double and a Callum Ludlaim strike ensured an important win for Altar Ali’s team. Sungate have the most games to play in the entire division, with 13 matches left and they will be looking to to get into the top five at least. Springfield took another good step towards safety with a huge 6 – 0 victory over bottom side Harold Wood Athletic. The trio of Joe Kiff, Tristan Ofori-Sampong and substitute Reece Simpson all got two goals each here as Francesco Zabotti’s side rose to tenth spot, six points clear of the bottom three. Ath are four points adrift at the bottom with ten matches left after Canning Town defeated Shenfield AFC 2 – 0 in Beckton. AFC fell one to ninth spot.

In Division One, Runwell Sports got the win they needed in their penultimate league match of the season, as they defeated Corinthians 2 – 1 at a wet St Luke’s Park. A brace from James Cox was enough to outdo Bailey Moss’ penalty for the visitors, whose quest for promotion will go to the wire and isn’t entirely in their own hands. Wakering Sports got a narrow 1 – 0 win over Herongate Athletic at Cupid’s, with Alex Jenkins getting a crucial goal to get the win they required. Herongate have one match left this term and seventh is the best they can finish. I would also like to give a mention to the character that is Nick Wilson, who has been Ath’s goalkeeper for most of this season.

Elsewhere, Old Chelmsfordians were held 2 – 2 by Leigh Town, with Daniel Driscoll and Aaron Tyler netting for Town, who still need points to avoid finishing in the bottom two.

EOFL Senior League Cup

In the Senior Cup, Toby progressed after a narrow 3 – 2 victory over fellow Division One side Chingford Athletic. Goals from Harry Barham, Albert Perry and Callum Mann were enough to see Mark Jones’ side progress. Catholic Utd also went through after staging a good comeback in defeating Rayleigh Town 3 – 2 at the Len Forge 3G. Aaron Baldwin, Alfie Whiteaker and replacement Jay Nash got the goals to render strikes by Paul Morris and skipper George Vile as not enough for the visitors as Utd went through.

Galleywood P – P Harold Hill (Rescheduled for next weekend)

EOFL Reserve League Cup

Chingford Athletic Res 3 – 2 Springfield Res | Town Mead 3G

Harold Wood Athletic Res 2 – 4 Collier Row Res | Moved to Robert Clack Sch 3G

Rayleigh Town Res 2 – 0 Old Chelmsfordians Res | London Road

Wakebury Res 0 – 4 Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res | Nursery Sports Ground

Wakering Sports ‘A’ A – W Hashtag Utd Dev (Visitors progress via away walkover)

EOFL Reserve Lge Trophy

Corinthians Res 3 – 2 Runwell Sports Res | Stambridge Memorial Ground

Epping Town A – W Snaresbrook Res (Away Walkover, Snaresbrook progress)

and Herongate Athletic Res 2 – 4 Shenfield AFC Res | Billericay Road

EOFL Division Two

Returning to the League action now, starting in Division Two. With the top two of ACD Utd and Harold Hill not in league action, Wakebury needed a big result to maintain their good chances of leapfrogging them for the title. Hutton Res had other ideas though as they edged to a 4 – 3 triumph at Hannakins Farm Community Centre 3G. The cast of goalscorers were Jack Shaw, Thomas Price plus substitutes Jude Keeling and Benjamin Rose for the hosts, though the Berries showed their spirit again through a brace from Daniel Buglione and one from Max Hall but ultimately they lost out and their match against ACD Utd at Westlands next weekend could be pivotal for them.

Also, May & Baker A continued their fine recent form with a 7 – 4 victory over Shoebury Town. A double for Daniel Brooker plus one each for player-boss Garry Johnson and Kyle McAlindon was insufficient for the ten-man Town side as Bakers took the points thanks to the ensemble cast of goalscorers led by Alagi Juwara and Ryan Stowell but also included Ryan Mugera, Nuno Espadaneira, Adnan Malik, Jack Howard and Michael Begg.

EOFL Denny King Memorial Cup

AS Rawreth 3 – 0 Leytonstone Utd | The Warren

Rochford Town 1 – 3 Collier Row | Rochford Recreation Ground

Southend Manor Dev P – P Snaresbrook

End

S21-22 Match Report: Leigh Ramblers 1 – 2 Kelvedon Hatch (Sat 19 Feb) [EOFL 21-22 19.2.22]

Essex Olympian League – Premier Division

Venue: Belfairs Park

2021-22 Season: Match 58

Attendance: 25 (est)

Saturday 19th February 2022 – 2pm KO

Leigh Rams: Blue & Black Shirts, Black Shorts, Black Socks

Kelvedon: Red Shirts, Red Shorts, Red Socks

Kelvedon captain Wayne Semanshia clears the ball for his team

Kelvedon battle hard to claim good win in awful weather at Belfairs Park

Leigh Ramblers 1 – 2 Kelvedon Hatch

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

A day after the hefty winds of Storm Eunice, I was pleased to have a match on as I made a welcome return to Belfairs Park (for the first time this season) for this Essex Olympian League Premier match between Leigh Ramblers and Kelvedon Hatch. The ‘Rams’ have had a tough season so far and they were missing a host of players including midfielders Patrick Cannon and Richard Alabaster plus defenders Will Hayes and Barv Waiwaiku. Mark Hunter did field a four-man defence of Sam Nagle, George Moxon, Tom Franks plus club stalwart & captain Ryan Lowe, ahead of stopper George Hills. Paul Hayes and Andrew Webster led the attack, with support from Jack Unwin and Matt Brinklow. Kelvedon have undergone a squad change since the return of boss Darren Hunt, and had James Alborough in goal, with a defence including Tom Mann, Reiss Hatwell and skipper Wayne Semanshia. The front three for them were Joe Newson, Chris Denham and Drew Klessa-Smith.

The aforementioned storm may have departed our shores but the gloom and the rain certainly didn’t which made for terrible conditions for both teams. However, both sides started the game strongly, with Kelvedon taking an eighth-minute lead as forward Chris Denham’s super floated ball found strike partner Drew Klessa-Smith in at the back post and his crisp volley found the far corner of the net. The Rams are known for the spirit and responded barely two minutes later, as a set-piece evaded the visiting backline and allowed Tom Franks to slot home from mere yards out, much to the elation of the home supporters.

Rams skipper Ryan Lowe (on the ball) looking to start his side’ next attack

From afar, I’ve seen Kelvedon pick up good results this season and their steel were in good evidence again as they wrestled back the advantage on fourteen minutes. The hosts would not have been happy with their defending as another set-piece found its way to skipper Wayne Semanshia and he made no mistake, slotting home low past home stopper George Hills with a oppurtunistic finish. As far as the goals went, that turned out to be the lot but the intruigue continued, as this report does.

Kelvedon certainly looked useful going forward and Klessa-Smith was hungry as ever for more goals. He struck wide shortly after the second goal though the visitors also had a let-off when winger Jack Unwin fired wide for the Rams, who did concede possession more than boss Mark Hunter would have liked. Denham also had another sight at goal just before the break but Rams goalkeeper George Hills was equal to it.

Half-Time: Leigh Rams 1 – 2 Kelvedon Hatch

The conditions continued to be trying for both teams after the interval and whilst the number of clear-cut chances lessened, the strong tackles did not. As the half progressed, the home side did have more impetus and kept the Kelvedon defence alert, though they were frustrated as their forward moves were stifled by a combination of a lack of a telling final ball and stoic defending by the visitors.

During the good spells that Leigh Ramblers had, Unwin had a strike that drifted wide and as the clock moved on towards the match’s conclusion, Jack Gardner’s set piece from 20 yards out was well denied by visiting stopper James Alborough, who had a good presence to assist his defence.

Captain Ryan Lowe also powered a header towards goal in the latter stages but it didn’ quite have the placement to bypass Alborough, who gathered. In the end though, it was another frustrating day for the hosts but take nowt away from Kelvedon Hatch, who battled away well to claim the win which took them up to fourth spot. The Rams likely will need a few wins from their remaining games to stay in the division.

Full-Time: Leigh Ramblers 1 – 2 Kelvedon Hatch

In summary, kudos to both teams for the spirit and work rate they put in despite hefty amounts of rain and wind here. Kelvedon showed enough to display why they’ve had a good season, with work rate, grit and good finishing. Leigh Ramblers will be disappointed that they couldn’t make the most of good spells in the second half through they gave their opponents a tough game and made them earn the points.

As ever, we had a number of good performances. For victors Kelvedon, Drew Klessa-Smith led the forward line well and was a constant threat to the home defence down the right channel and took his goal very well, was nice to see him in action for the first time, having seen his goal record for previous clubs. Also, Chris Denham had a good game showing pace and good passing and was only denied a goal through decent saves by the goalkeeper. Kelvedon custodian James Alborough deserves a mention for a few good saves and skipper Wayne Semanshia took his goal well and had to marshal his defence well to keep the points intact.

For Leigh Ramblers, I felt winger Jack Unwin had a very promising game, showing good pace, energy levels and an eye for a pass to go with it. Winger Matt Brinklow also was a threat down the left side and put in several good crosses into the box as well as showing good desire. Jack Gardner had a good game in central midfield also and was well-denied from a free-kick towards the end of the match. Finally but not least, skipper Ryan Lowe had another strong match making several important defensive clearances early on and likely kept his side in contention because of them.

Best wishes to both teams for the rest of the campaign.

Jack Gardner about to take a set-piece for the hosts

Teams (Rolling Subs Used in EOFL matches)

Leigh Ramblers | Manager: Mark Hunter |

Starting XI: 1 George Hills (GK), 2 Sam Nagle, 14 George Moxon, 4 Tom Franks, 5 Ryan Lowe (Capt), 6 Jack Gardner, 7 Jack Unwin, 8 Justin Hazell, 9 Andrew Webster, 16 Paul Hayes, 11 Matt Brinklow

Goal-scorer: Tom Franks [10′]

Subs On (Time if known): 15 Charlie Batchelor [59′], 10 Niyazi Sahan [72′], 12 Jacob Meads

Booked: Franks | Subs Not Used: None

Kelvedon Hatch | Manager: Darren Hunt |

Starting XI: 1 James Alborough (GK), 2 Tom Mann, 3 Reiss Hatwell, 6 Wayne Semanshia (Capt), 5 Daniel Tapper, 15 Sidney Walker, 12 James Burt, 19 Lewis Young, 20 Joe Newson, 11 Chris Denham, 7 Drew Klessa-Smith

Goal-scorers: Drew Klessa-Smith [8′], Wayne Semanshia [14′]

Booked: Ventura | Sub Not Used: Iley, Fortune

Subs On (Time if known): 9 Joe Kebbell [on 8′], 4 Gavin Walker [27′], 8 Oliver Ventura

Referee: Josh O’Sullivan
Assistant: Guy Pell-Ilderton