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

 

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Round-up: Essex Olympian League & Cups (Sat 7 Mar) [EOFL 19/20 8.3.20]

Archive Image: Corinthians v Rochford Town in EOFL D2 last month 

Written by Scott W  [Twitter: @ScottMHC14]

Hello and welcome to this week’s review of Essex Olympian League action on Saturday 7 March. The weather continued to blight fixtures though there were still a lot of big matches in League & Cups that took place. Thanks for reading.

EOFL Crest

Essex Olympian League – Saturday 7 March

Premier Division

In the Premier Division, Sungate picked up a narrow 1 – 0 win at Rayleigh Town to extend their lead at the summit to six points. Buckhurst Hill can still catch them if they win five of the eight matches they have in hand on the ‘Gate. Rayleigh remain in seventh spot. Meanwhile, Kelvedon Hatch rose to fifth place after a 3 – 2 win over Harold Wood Athletic in a match moved to Frances Bardsley Academy 3G in Romford. Calvin Poku, Theo Ola and Joe Gregory all netted for Hatch, with Rob Whitnell and Jack Brown-Sykes scoring for Ath, who remain bottom, five points adrift of the top ten.

Shenfield AFC also secured a much-needed three points with a fine 5 – 2 win at mid-table Springfield. Ben Carroll grabbed a treble here, with Samuel Lock and Alex Tredgett also notching for AFC to send them up to 11th spot, four points clear of the bottom two.

Match OFF: Basildon Town  P – P  Leigh Ramblers   |

 

Senior Division One

In Senior One, FC Hamlets won 2 – 0 at bottom side Toby through goals from Charlie Heatley and Jack Patten to secure their fifth league win this term, having played only 11 matches, due to postponements & Cup ties. Ashley King’s side rise to seventh spot and still have an outside chance of securing a top-four finish.

Lakeside edged to a 1 – 0 success over Runwell Sports with Jody Reynolds getting the only goal to go five points clear in fourth. Runwell remain in the bottom three. Also, Galleywood also won away from home, 2 – 0 at Ramsden Scotia thanks to strikes by Matthew Buckingham and replacement Jamie Rick, which sent ‘Wood up to fifth. Ramsden have lost three on-the-spin and remain in tenth.

 

Matches OFF:
Manford Way  P – P Rayleigh Town Res   |

Shoebury Town P – P   Herongate Athletic |

Snaresbrook  P – P  Old Chelmsfordians |

 

Senior League Cup

In the one EOFL Senior Cup Quarter-Final tie, Catholic Utd edged to a 1 – 0 win over fellow Premier side Hutton at the Len Salmon Stadium. Jay Nash got the only goal to see the Super Hoops through to the last four.

Essex Premier Cup: Semi-Finals

In the one Essex Premier up Semi-Final that did take place at Roding Valley Sch 3G, Premier side Buckhurst Hill edged past impressive Senior One side Chingford Athletic on penalties after a pulsating 3 – 3 score-line after extra-time. Sam Sollosi netted twice for Mark Williams’ side in normal time, before Fenti Falola netted in extra time though Chingford showed their warrior spirit with Alex Gordon netting a double of his own which was added to by Gary Murray. Hill won the ensuing shoot-out 5 – 4 though this battle adds fuel to the thought that Dave Richbell’s side will be a Premier Division side next term. Congrats to both teams though it is Hill who make it through to the Final to defend their title at Billericay Town’s New Lodge on Wednesday April 11th.

Match OFF: Leigh Town  P – P  Ongar Town  | New Date: Sat March 14th

 

Senior Division Two

Two matches survived in Senior Two, as Beacon Hill Rovers went back up to second spot with a 3 – 1 home win over Wakering Sports in the early kick-off, moved to Plume Sch in Maldon. Nathan Ruggles, Ade Adeyemi and a late Stephen Bennett spot-kick saw Rovers to a fifth straight win and are seven points off leaders Leigh Town. Corinthians also endorsed their promotion chances with a 4 – 2 win at May & Baker Res. Alfie Knight, Ollie Brickwood, John Bolton-Smith and Dan Cooksley all netted for Chris Stoneham’s side who went above their opponents into fourth place. Ryan Leavens and Ricardo Teixeira struck for Jimmy Donald’s team though their own aspirations of elevation took a dent here as they have five matches left to play.

Match OFF: Laindon Orient  P – P  Epping Town

 

Senior Division Three

Finally for the round-up section in Senior Three, Wakebury failed to gain ground on leaders ACD Utd as they were held 0 – 0 by Toby Res at Shoebury Park. It looks increasingly likely that Corinthians Res are the biggest threat for the title though the Berries will still want to secure a top-two finish for the best chance of promotion. Elsewhere, Lakeside Res got their third win in their last five with an important 3 – 1 win at Collier Row. This win sent ‘Side up to ninth, four points clear of the bottom two and handed Row a setback in their focus for a top-three finish.

Also, Corinthians Res handed White Ensign Res another heavy loss as Terry Rose’s side won 6 – 0 at Stambridge Memorial Ground. It was an ensemble cast of scorers with Steve Solarin, Max Hall, Ashley Webb, Ryan Woodley, George Penfold and Taner Dagyaran all on target as the hosts remain third and cut the deficit to leaders ACD to six points with three matches in hand on them. Ensign’s second side have three matches left to get out of the bottom two, they sit second-bottom and are three points away from Basildon Town Ressies.

Matches OFF:

Buckhurst Hill Res  P – P  Hutton Res   |

Hullbridge Sports ‘A’  P – P Basildon Town Res |

 

Senior Division Four results

Canning Town Res  1 – 1  Roydon

Forest Glade  P – P  Catholic Utd Res

Galleywood Res   P – P  Wakering Sports Res

Old Chelmsfordians Res  2 – 4  Chingford Athletic Development

Ongar Town Res  P – P  Laindon Orient Res

Shenfield AFC Res  0 – 2  Leytonstone Utd

 

Senior Division Five results

Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res  4 – 0  Shoebury Town Res

Herongate Athletic Res  P – P  Collier Row Res

Roydon Res  2 – 2 Springfield Res

Runwell Sports Res  1 – 0  Newbury Forest Res

Round-up: Essex Olympian League (Sat 25 Jan) (EOFL 19/20 26.1.20)

Image from OS 4 – 0 Catholic Utd on Sat 25 Jan [Image: Scott W]

Written by Scott W   [Twitter: @ScottMHC14]

Hello and welcome to this week’s Essex Olympian League round-up, looking at all the action from Saturday 25th January. There were battles at both ends of the Premier Division as well as big games in the divisions below that.

EOFL Crest

Saturday 25 January

Premier Division

As we usually do, we start in the top-tier. In their top of the table showdown, Buckhurst Hill were held to a goalless draw by rivals Sungate, in a match seen my Non-League Correspondent ‘DW’. His video clips are available via his Twitter feed sat @essexfootie. Also, Leigh Ramblers  got a fine 4 – 1 win at struggling Bishop’s Stortford Swifts. Charlie Portway netted for Swifts though that was outdone by goals for the Rams by Andrew Webster, Ryan Lowe , Pat Cannon and Dan Williams wich in turn secured the visitors their fourth win in their last games and rise to second spot, six points off leaders Sungate. Shenfield AFC also grabbed a hugely-important triumph as they won 4 – 1 at Canning Town. Alex Tredgett’s brace led the strugglers on the path to victory, with Ben Caroll and Samuel Lock also on target to send them up two places to 12th. Canning stay in eighth spot but only have seven matches remaining to play this season and they are only three points clear of the bottom.

Finally for the Premier, in the match I attended at Garon Park, Old Southendian got a big 4 – 0 win over title challengers Catholic Utd. Nick Henesy struck twice, with Nico Dubouchet and Ryan Stillwell’s also on target as OS ended a a four-match winless run in some style to rise to 10th. The ‘Super Hoops’ have lost their last three matches now and drop to 3rd and are vulnerable by the sides immediately below them in Buckhurst Hill, Springfield and Rayleigh Town who all have matches in hand on Dan Trenkel’s side. If you’d like more on this match, my report is here: survivor16b.wordpress.com/2020/01/25/match-report-old-southendian-4-0-catholic-utd-sat-25th-jan-eofl/

Matches OFF: Harold Wood Athletic  P – P  Springfield   |

Kelvedon Hatch P – P  Hutton   |

 

Cups

EOFL Senior League Cup –  Rayleigh Town  P – P  Toby   | (Waterlogged pitch)

Essex Premier Cup: Basildon Town  1 – 4  West Bergholt  |

 

Essex Junior Cup Results

Collier Row  6 – 1  Wakering Sports Res   |

Hutton Res  2 – 1  Shoebury Town ‘A’   |

 

EOFL Senior ONE

In Senior One, FC Hamlets defeated fellow mid-table side Shoebury Town 2 – 0, thanks to goals from John Gilroy and Charlie Heatley to move up to ninth, though Ashley King’s side have still only played eight matches in the league thus far, so a busy next three months or so beckons. Leaders Chingford Athletic won again, 3 – 0 at top five side Galleywood, thanks to a treble by Lee Lashley. Dave Richbell’s side lead the division by ten points, though their rivals all have a number of matches in hand on them. Old Chelmsfordians remain second after a thumping 6 – 1 success over Herongate Athletic at Lawford Lane. Ongar Town rise to third after a fine 4 – 0 home win over Manford Way which preserves their unbeaten record this term.

 

Matches OFF: Lakeside P – P  Runwell Sports  | 

Snaresbrook  P – P  Ramsden Scotia  |

 

EOFL Senior TWO

In what was a mixed day for the top five in Senior Two, leaders Leigh Town were untroubled as they won 3 – 1 at home to Harold Wood Athletic Res at John Burrows Rec. Harry Payne, Daniel Driscoll and Brodie Horne all struck to give Jack Pearman’s side a sixth consecutive league triumph and go three points clear at the summit. May & Baker Res defeated fellow high-flyers Old Southendian Res as Jmmy Donald’s side came out 2 – 1 winners. Michael Agha and Darren Seymour strikes overturned David Stubbs’ strike for the OS side and went five points clear in 4th. Ben Manley’s OS side saw their eleven-match unbeaten streak end here though they remain 2nd, a point clear of Beacon Hill Rovers, who impressively won 3 – 2 at rivals Corinthians. A George Davis double and one from Adefunbi Adeyemi was enough to secure Rovers a sixth win in their last seven matches to stay 3rd. Chris Stoneham’s side drop to seventh though do have matches in hand to compensate for their dip in form of late.

Wakering Sports also won, 2 – 0 at home to out-of-form Epping Town. Ryan Gregory and Ben Rowe strikes were enough to give Sports a second win in their last seven outings. Epping remain fifth on goal difference after a frustrating afternoon. Laindon Orient are level on points with Town in sixth following a 6 – 0 win at home to beleaguered Ryan. Skipper James Shadwell got a treble with Carlos Dias, Jordan Walsh and Ashley Blackburn also on the score-sheet in a resounding win for Neil Blackburn’s team.

Match OFF: AS Rawreth  P – P  Rochford Town   |

 

Senior Division Three

An explosive day of Senior Three action saw 37 goals scored in just five matches. Wakebury remain four oints clear at the summit after a 4 – 2 triumph at White Ensign Res. Charlie Little got another brace for Matt Cardy’s side, with Liam Jarrett and Harry Kateley also on the scorer’s sheet to make it four straight wins though with five matches remaining to play, the onus will soon turn to their rivals as they seek to gain ground on the EOFL newcomers. ACD Utd still lead the chasing pack in second place, after an enthralling 6 – 4 win over Basildon Town Res at Westlands. Player-boss Michael Wade got a treble here, with Connor Lambert also netting twice and Sam Payne also chipping in. Grant Cumming hit two for Bas, with Ryan Morgan and Lewis Wynne also on target though they remain second-bottom.

Corinthians Res also got back to winning ways with a narrow 4 – 3 win at bottom side Hullbridge Sports ‘A’. Max Hall’s hat-trick and one from Ashley Webb was enough to outdo home goals from William Bray, Tom Ranger and replacement Joseph Darby and remain third, six points ahead of Collier Row. Lakeside Res got their third win in their last four games with a 4 – 2 success at mid-table Toby Res. Salem Said got a brace, with Brandon Booty’s spot-kick and Damilola Olusanya also contributing. Toby’s second-side responded through Dean Maguchu and Marc Porter-Brown strikes though it is four losses on-the-bounce for them as they stay fifth, 11 points adrift of ACD in second.

Also, Buckhurst Hill Res rose to seventh with a 5 – 3 victory over fellow mid-table side Leigh Town Res. Tommy Fraine grabbed a treble to keep up his impressive form in front of goal, with Landry Gogoa also netting for the Hill second-side.

 

Senior Division Four Results

Canning Town Res   1  – 4   Old Chelmsfordians Res   |

Chingford Athletic Development  0 – 1  Forest Glade   |

Leytonstone Utd  2 – 0  Galleywood Res |

Ongar Town Res  P – P Shenfield AFC Res |

Roydon  9 – 1  Laindon Orient Res |

Senior Division Five Results

Herongate Athletic Res  P – P  Shoebury Town Res

Leigh Ramblers Res  2 – 0  Roydon Res

Old Barkabbeyans 4 – 3  Collier Row Res

Runwell Sports Res  2 – 0  Springfield Res

Wakering Sports Development  0 – 1  Newbury Forest Res

 

Round-up: Essex Olympian League (Sat 18 Jan) [EOFL 19/20 19.1.20]

Written by Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMCHC14]

Hello and welcome to this week’s round-up of a weather-affected Essex Olympian League weekend, from Saturday 18 January. Thanks for reading.

Premier Division

In the three matches that survived more incessant rain this week, Sungate extended their lead at the summit to seven points with a 1 – 0 home win over Old Southendian. Scott Truman got the crucial strike which secured ‘Gate’s fifth consequtive victory whereas OS are without a win in their last four and sit second-bottom. Kelvedon Hatch got a fine 2 – 1 win at high-flying Springfield with Anthony Aylett and Thomas Mann on the score-sheet to end their eight-match winless stretch. Darius Egualeonan hit back for Springfield though they fell to defeat and remain fifth. Finally in the Premier, Leigh Ramblers got a fine 3 – 1 win at bottom side Shenfield AFC. Dan Williams, Pat Cannon and Jack Gardner were the scorers for Wayne Seal’s side, with Ben Absolon notching again for AFC.

 

Matches OFF (Due to Waterlogged Pitches)

Harold Wood Athletic  P – P  Catholic Utd   | Harold Wood Park

Hutton  P – P  Bishop’s Stortford Swifts   | Polo Fields

Rayleigh Town  P – P  Canning Town   | London Road

 

 

EOFL Senior One

In Senior One, Chingford Athletic were surprisingly held 5 – 5 by in-form Shoebury Town at Town Mead. Alex Gordon led the scorers for Ath with a brace, with Will Gleeson, Sam Coe and Jack Yates also on target. Manford Way got their first win in seven matches with a great 2 – 1 success over Old Chelmsfordians. Paul Marjason and replacement Olajide Yusuff netted for Manford as they strengthened their position in eighth. Also, Toby were denied their first win of the season as they drew 4 – 4 with Rayleigh Town Res in Newbury Park. Paul Morris, Jake Hinkley, James Braithwaite and James Nottage all scored for Lee Bunn’s side as they remain sixth. Toby remain bottom, three points adrift of Snaresbrook.

 

Matches OFF:

Ongar Town  P – P  Galleywood    | Fyfield Village Hall

Ramsden Scotia  P – P  Runwell Sports  | Nursery Sports Ground

Snaresbrook P – P  Herongate Athletic  | Nutters Field

 

EOFL Senior Two

Moving into Senior Two, May & Baker Res won 2 – 0 at strugglers AS Rawreth with Luis Khimji and Ricardo Teixiera getting the goals as Jimmy Donald’s team made it five wins on-the-trot to remain fourth in the table. Epping Town also got back to form with a massive 7 – 1 win over Ryan at Stonards Hill. Eden Nelson and James Odhiambo both got doubles plus Daniel Garfinkle and Glen Warwick also struck, helped by an OG. Old Southendian Res also triumphed, 2 – 1 at home to Harold Wood Athletic Res at Garon Park. Oliver Tatton-Bennett and Dave Stubbs scored for Ben Manley’s team who stay level on points with leaders Leigh Town, thanks to their sixth win in their last seven matches. Brad Foley scored for Ath’s second-string who stay ninth.

 

Leigh Town won 2 – 0 at Wakering Sports as their unbeaten run this term continued, as Sam Irvine and Kieron Crane struck to give Jack Pearman’s side a tenth win this season. Sports stay 8th after a run of only one win in seven matches.

 

Match OFF: Laindon Orient  P – P  Beacon Hill Rovers   | Ford’s Sports Club (Basildon)

 

EOFL Senior League Cup

In the one Senior League Cup tie this weekend, Premier side Buckhurst Hill survived a scare as they won 3 – 2 after extra time at impressive Senior One side FC Hamlets at Mabley Green 3G. Player-boss Ashley King and the returning Lawrence With netted for Hamlets though goals for Liam Foster, Nathan Sollosi and Sonny Shilling saw Hill through to the next round.

 

Essex Junior Cup – Bowers & Pitsea U23  6 – 5  Toby Res   | Len Salmon Sta [3G]

 

Essex Premier Cup

In the sole Essex Premier Cup tie this week, Olympian Premier side Basildon Town sent Essex Senior Reserve League side Barkingside Res out of the competition as Basildon won 4 – 0 in a match moved to Hannakins Community Centre 3G. Keith King got another brace here, with Kieron Case and Jamie Merritt also on target in a fine win for Gareth Cleverly’s side.

 

EOFL Senior Three

In Senior Three, Lakeside Res got their second win this term with a fine 5 – 3 win over Hutton Res. Daniel Damain, Salem Said, Brandon Booty, George Meaney & an OG completed a fine day for the hosts and send them up to 10th. ACD Utd won 2 – 0 at White Ensign Res to make six wins in succession. Michael Wade and substitute Billy Wren both netted as ACD stay second, five points behinds leaders Wakebury who won 4 – 3 at home to Collier Row. Charlie Little struck all four goals for Matt Cardy’s side as they made it six games unbeaten. My Non-League colleague Pete Dudley was there and here’s his report: https://pedroslocalfootiefix.blogspot.com/2020/01/wakebury-4-collier-row-3.html

Finally, Corinthians Res suffered a minor setback in their promotion bid as they were beaten 3 – 2 at home by Buckhurst Hill Res at Stambridge. Taner Dagyaran and Sonny Woodward hit the goals for Terry Rose’s side though they remain third, nine points behind Wakebury but with five matches in hand on them.

 

Match OFF: Leigh Town Res  P – P  Basildon Town Res

 

Senior Division Four Results

Forest Glade P – P  Roydon

Galleywood Res  P – P  Shenfield AFC Res

Leytonstone Utd  P – P  Catholic Utd Res

Old Chelmsfordians Res  P – P  Chingford Athletic Development

 

Senior Division Five Results

Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res  3 – 1  Wakering Sports Dev

Leigh Ramblers Res  3 – 4  Springfield Res

Newbury Forest Res  4 – 0  Shoebury Town Res

Roydon Res  P – P  Collier Row Res

Runwell Sports Res  3 – 1  Herongate Athletic Res

Round-up: Essex Olympian League (Sat 4 Jan) [EOFL 19/20 4.1.20]

Written by Scott W – Non-League & EOFL Writer

Hello and welcome to the last of my round-up’s on the Festive action in the Essex Olympian League action here on my blog, which is also the first of 2020. The impact of the weather is receding though a few sides may have a fixture backlog to contend with later this campaign.  To see last week’s round-up of the action (Sat 28 Dec), click here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2019/12/29/round-up-essex-olympian-league-sat-28-dec-eofl/

 

Saturday 4 January 2020

Premier Division

In the top division, Rayleigh Town ended their barren spell with a stirring comeback to win 3 – 2 at Leigh Ramblers. Harry Talbot and a brace from Jamie Blewitt saw Paul Higgins’ team to a much-needed win and extend their cushion in sixth to four points. Ramblers had led through Patrick Cannon and Dan Williams goals though they remain third, they are five points adrift of leaders Sungate. The ‘Gate won 4 – 1 at Catholic Utd in the top-two battle at the Len Salmon Stadium, which was their third straight win. Springfield stay fifth after a 4 – 2 triumph over Old Southendian with Dave Wareham getting another brace, assisted by goals from Joe Nathanson and replacement Alfie Halliday. Ed Gould’s spot-kick and a Nick Henesy strike were not enough for Connor Lane’s side who slide back into the bottom two.

Elsewhere, Canning Town won a showdown of the bottom two sides, with a 3 – 1 victory at Shenfield AFC. Bishop’s Stortford Swifts were held 2 – 2 by Hutton at Silver Leys with Brad Freeman and Thomas Price scoring for the South Essex side. Kelvedon Hatch continue to struggle to attain wins as they were held 1 – 1 by Harold Wood Athletic at New Hall. John Bradley struck for Ath, though replacement Lee Hamill netted for Hatch, who sit 7th but are only five points clear of bottom side Shenfield in a congested lower half on the table.

 

Senior ONE

 

In this week’s Senior One action, Chingford Athletic extended their lead at the summit to nine points with a 3 – 1 win over Snaresbrook. Alex Gordon struck twice for Dave Richbell’s side, with Lee Lashley grabbing the other goal for the hosts. ‘Brook remain third-bottom after their sixth match in succession without a win. Shoebury Town got a second win in as many weeks with a massive 6 – 3 win at Manford Way. Dominic Binns was back in the goals with a brace for Town, with Mitchell Odd also nabbing twice plus Matthew Smith and replacement Jake Byford were also on target for Shoebury, who leap up to seventh. Manford responded through strikes by Kevine Kinzonzi, Felix Onyango and substitute Kyle Matthew-Thompson though it is five matches without victory now for them.

 

Elsewhere, second-placed Old Chelmsfordians were held 1 – 1 by mid-table Galleywood at Lawford Lane, with Sam Donn getting the goal for the visitors. Runwell Sports were 3 – 0 winners at fellow strugglers Herongate Athletic while the bottom two faced off in Newbury Park as Toby drew 2 – 2 with Ramsden Scotia.

 

Match Off: Ongar Town P – P Lakeside | Fyfield Village Hall

 

Essex Premier Cup

 

In the two Essex Premier Cup ties  played this weekend, Basildon Town secured their progress into the next round with a 4 – 1 victory over Laindon Orient of Senior Two in a match moved to Waterside Leisure Centre’s 3G on Canvey Island. Keith King struck twice for the hosts with Brodie Horne and Kieran Case also on target for Gareth Cleverly’s side. Carlos Dias got the consolation for Laindon here though they went out. Also, Buckhurst Hill came from behind to power past Senior One hosts Rayleigh Town Res 5 – 2 at London Road. Braces for Fenti Falola and Tyer Jalland were added to late on by Eren Muti though credit has to go to Lee Bunn’s team for leading at the break.

 

EOFL Senior TWO

In the two surviving Senior Two matches this weekend, two of the high-flyers continued their good form. Leaders Leigh Town continued their unbeaten run with an impressive 4 – 2 win at Epping Town. The quartet of scorers for Leigh were Daniel Driscoll, Max Jones, Harry Payne and Sam Irvine. Epping responded through strikes by Glen Warwick and James Peagram though were hampered by a serious injury to goalkeeper Trevor Grace, we wish him well in his recovery. Take nothing away from Jack Pearman’s side though as Leigh are four points clear at the summit now. Corinthians also triumphed, 4 – 1 at strugglers AS Rawreth. Leo Clarke struck twice for Chris Stoneham’s side, with Nathan Dewberry and Ollie Brickwood also finding the net to push their side back into 3rd spot. Louis Hill notched again for Rawreth though it is ten straight losses for the bottom side now.

 

Matches Off:

Harold Wood Athletic Res  P – P  Beacon Hill Rovers  | Harold Wood Park (Pitch 1)

Old Southendian Res  P – P  Ryan  | Garon Park [3G] (Ryan unable to travel)

Rochford Town  P – P  Wakering Sports   | Rochford Rec Ground

 

Senior Three

In Senior Three, a full programme of six matches was played and it wasn’t a day for the away teams here. ACD Utd dispatched White Ensign Res 5 – 0 at Westlands, with the ensemble cast of Billy Wren, player-boss Michael Wade, Liam Porter, Connor Lambert and Charlie Munns all on target for the hosts in their fourth consecutive victory. Wakebury also won to remain three points clear at the top of the table with a 5 – 0 victory over Hullbridge Sports ‘A’ at Shoebury Park. Charlie Little struck four goals himself here with Ben Munday grabbing the other for Matt Cardy’s side.

 

Corinthians Res remain second after a comfortable 3 – 0 success over strugglers Basildon Town Res at the Stambridge Memorial Ground. Max Hall, Steve Solarin and Luke Smith were all on the score-sheet here as Terry Rose & Ben Adams’ side made it eight wins from their nine matches thus far. Lakeside Res finally got their maiden win this term with a very hard-fought 4 – 3 win at home to Collier Row. David Alele, Harry Davison, Salem Said and Daniel Damain all struck to move ‘Side’s second team above the bottom of the standings.

 

Also, Leigh Town Res defeated Buckhurst Hill Res 5 – 2 at John Burrows Rec to remain in sixth and Hutton Res also secured a home win, 3 – 0 over Toby Res with Sean O’Callaghan’s double and one from George Wickings seeing them to a fourth win on-the-trot.

 

Senior Four Results

Catholic Utd Res  0 – 3 Forest Glade  

Galleywood Res  5 – 0  Laindon Orient Res

Ongar Town Res  P – P  Old Chelmsfordians Res

Roydon  1 – 1  Chingford Athletic Development

Wakering Sports Res  2 – 1  Shenfield AFC Res

 

Senior Five Results

Collier Row Res   2 – 2  Roydon Res

Newbury Forest Res  1 – 0  Wakering Sports Development

Runwell Sports Res  1 – 6  Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res

Shoebury Town Res  1 – 6  Leigh Ramblers Res

 

Round-up: Essex Olympian League [Premier – Snr Div 3] (Sat 31 August) [EOFL 19/20 1.9.19]

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

Hello again & welcome to this week’s bumper Olympian League round-up, taking in the top four tiers of league action, one FA Vase tie and a Senior Challenge Cup tie as well. Thanks to the clubs for their assistance in this piece & to you for reading.

 

EOFL Premier Division

We start off as ever with the top-tier and Bishop’s Stortford Swifts 2 – 1 away win at Harold Wood Athletic. John Clarke and James Richardson were the heroes for Swifts with Bradley Foley scoring for Wood as they fell to defeat.  Buckhurst Hill got back to winning ways with a 4 – 2 win at Kelvedon Hatch. Suley Zuhdu, Nathan Sollosi, Sam Sollosi and a second-half penalty by Josh Banfield effectively sealed the win for Mark Williams’ side, though Hatch finished strongly as Danny Gillard and Theo Ola both struck for Kelvedon here.

Springfield also triumphed this weekend as they defeated early strugglers Canning Town 2 – 0 thanks to an own goal and one from Joe Nathanson. Rayleigh Town went five points clear at the top with a 1 – 0 away win at Old Southendian. Paul Morris got the only goal in that local derby.

Elsewhere, Sungate were held 2 – 2 by the visiting Leigh Ramblers, with Rhys Fatt and Dan Williams on target for the Rams in that match. Shenfield AFC also drew, 1 – 1 at home to Hutton with Mitchell Day grabbing AFC’s goal.

 

FA Vase – First Round Qualifying

In their first-ever FA Vase match, EOFL Premier Division side Catholic Utd powered ESL side Clapton with a 6 – 1 win at Parkside. The ensemble goal-scoring cast were Brad Vaughan, Tom Kearney, Simon Thomas, Tony Jacobs, Max Bradford and Max Kent as Mick Jacobs’ team roared into the next round, where they are set to face Lopes Tavares of Eastern Senior League South.

 

EOFL Senior Division One

In Senior One, Rayleigh Town Ressies started with a bang as they won 6 – 1 against Herongate Athletic. Rodney Wilson and Billy Field each nabbed doubles while Lewis Lawrence and Ryan Scougall also netted as Dan Williams and Lee Bunn’s side got the points. Ongar Town won 4 – 2 at Runwell Sports with Harry Rawlins netting twice plus Joshua Boxall and Joe Lilly contributed to the visitors’ tally. Chingford Athletic continued their strong start with another 3 – 0 home win, this time over FC Hamlets at Town Mead. Tayo Olusanoye, Alex Gordon and Eric Kelly provided the goals for them in that victory.

Shoebury Town were held 2 – 2 by visitors Galleywood with Dominic Binns and Juan Rushton the scorers for the home side.  Also, Old Chelmsfordians won 2 – 0 at Toby.

 

EOFL Senior Challenge Cup

In the single Senior Cup tie, Lakeside of Division One defeated newcomers Wakebury 5 – 1 with talisman Drew Klessa-Smith grabbing another hat-trick plus Mason Iley and Luke Quinton also joined him on the score-sheet. Matthew Hubbard got the consolation for Wakebury though the hosts went through.

 

EOFL Senior Division Two

Corinthians started their season with an impressive comeback win, 4 – 1 over Laindon Orient. Orient led after just four minutes through Jasper Read though the hosts responded through John Bolton-Smith, Leo Clarke, Bill Wilton and Theo Cannon to take the points. Epping Town also started their campaign wit an away win as they triumphed 6 – 1 at AS Rawreth. Louis Hill netted for the hosts though Town got the points thanks to Alex Paraskeva’s double plus one apiece for Glen Warwick, Patrick Duggan, Joey May and Bradley Gayer. Both of these sides could be in for another good campaign this term.

Leigh Town made it two wins from two matches with a 2 – 0 win at Beacon Hill Rovers. Shane Cooper and Tom Byford goals meant they go top of the very early standings. Harold Wood Athletic Reserves won 2 – 0 at Rochford Town as Del Hawtin fired both goals in that contest for the Wood second-string. Finally for this division, Ryan made a winning start to their campaign with a 5 – 2 win over May & Baker Reserves at Wadham Lodge.

 

EOFL Senior Division Three

Into Senior Three now and we start with a massive win for Lakeside Reserves as they won 10 – 2 at Dagenham Utd. Substitute Ben Austin led the way with a treble, with David Alee and Damilola Olusanya both grabbing braces plus Dale Kenyon, Azeez Aileru and fellow replacement Alex Swan also getting on the hefty scorer’s sheet as they won their first match of the new season in some manner. Toby Res also got their opening win with a 5 – 1 triumph at Hullbridge Sports’A’ with Marc Porter-Brown the leading light with a hat-trick plus Rhys Willson and Matt Davies were also on target.

Corinthians Reserves also won this weekend, with a 4 – 2 success at White Ensign Reserves. Max Hall, Luke Smith, Sener Suavi and Sonny Woodward all struck for the Stambridge-based side and although they saw Charlie Carter dismissed, Ensign’s second-side couldn’t match them despite Zach Somerset-Butler’s brace of penalties for them. ACD Utd won their first match at Olympian level with a 2 – 1 win at Hutton Reserves. Brad Falco and substitute Sam Page did the job for the visitors, while Hutton responded through Josh Sumner’s goal.

Leigh Town Reserves also tasted success with a 3 – 1 win at Basildon Town Reserves. Ben Forsyth’s spot-kick plus Miles Waddilove and Alex Hubbard strikes outdid a solitary goal from Grant Cumming for the hosts as Leigh took the points.  Meanwhile, Collier Row began life in Div Three with a 2 – 1 success at Buckhurst Hill Reserves. It’s worth noting that not one home side won in this division this weekend.

 

EOFL Senior Division Four (Results only)

Forest Glade  13 – 1  AS Rawreth Reserves

Laindon Orient Reserves  0 – 1  Chingford Athletic  Development

Leytonstone Utd 2 – 3  Shenfield AFC Reserves

Roydon  4 – 2  Canning Town Reserves

Wakering Sports Reserves  6 – 1   Ongar Town Reserves

 

 

2019-20 Season Preview: Essex Olympian League Senior Three (EOFL D3 31.7.19)

Written by Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMHC14] – EOFL Blogger

 

Hello and a warm welcome to the last of my mini-series of articles previewing the upcoming 2019-2020 Essex Olympian League season, division-by-division. We continue with Senior Three now which will have 13 sides competing in this division with sides getting promoted from both EOFL Senior Four and Senior Five, plus other sides have moved across from the now-defunct Under-21 division and it’s a progressive new era for two clubs making their way into the EOFL family this term. This is partly due to the number of clubs being promoted from this level to the divisions above.

With May & Baker ‘A’ folding in the close-season, there are no teams relegated from Senior Two, though that does not mean the division doesn’t have a ‘new look’ about it – it does. Here’s how it shapes up…

 

EOFL Senior Three Constitution (2019-20)

• ACD Utd (NEW)
• Basildon Town Res
• Buckhurst Hill Res (P)
• Collier Row (P)
• Corinthians Res (P)
• Dagenham Utd (P)
• Hullbridge Sports ‘A’ (NEW)
• Hutton Res
• Lakeside Res (P)
• Leigh Town Res (NEW)
• Toby Res (P)
• Wakebury (NEW)
• White Ensign Res

Starting with the sides remaining from last season, Hutton Res were the highest finishers in 7th, with White Ensign Res and Basildon Town Res immediately below them. Given that two sides (Roydon & Old Chelmsfordians Res) were relegated to Senior Four, these three sides are the only survivors from last year and are out-numbered by the five teams promoted from Senior Four & Five. The teams finishing 3rd to 6th in Senior Four are elevated so Dagenham Utd, Lakeside  Res, Toby Res and Buckhurst Hill Res respectively will face the step up.

Dagenham and Lakeside’s second-string both had very respectable campaigns last time out, and although Toby and Hill’s Ressies finished a smattering of points behind them, both clubs’ first teams are in the top two divisions (Hill in the Premier and Toby in Senior One) so they could adapt well to the climb.

Factor in the elevation of the top-two from Senior Five as well and you could have a tough division. Corinthians Reserves won Senior Five last term to complete a league-winning double for the First team (Senior Four) and the Reserves. Also, it’s good to see a name from the past return in Collier Row who got the runners-up spot in Senior Five in April. Hullbridge Sports have also entered an ‘A’ team in this division this term so it will be interesting how effectively their ‘third team’ will do here though it is a pathway up to the Reserve team I suspect.

Three sides have joined from other leagues as well. First, former Essex Alliance League (EAL) outfit ACD Utd are placed here and the Romford-based side will be looking to follow on well from finishing 2nd in the EAL’s top-tier last term.

Also there are two sides joining from the Southend Borough Combination Premier Division. Leigh Town Res finished third in that division last term and although the side currently play in neighbouring Hadleigh, Robert Hutchings-Spiller’s side will enjoy the journey this term after their upward progression. Joining them are Shoebury-based outfit Wakebury. They managed a very respectable fourth-place in the Southend Boro Combination Premier, finishing 13 points off league winners Shoebury Town Res, who interestingly will compete in Senior Five of the Olympian League this term.

To all the clubs, managers, players and many others who support them, have a good season everyone. I look forward to keeping tabs on the action and I hope that round-ups on Senior Three will join the sections from the top three tiers of the Essex Olympian League this term. Best, Scott

 

 

Fixtures for First Two Weekends of EOFL Senior Three (subject to change)

Saturday 24th August  – 2.30pm

Corinthians Res  v  Dagenham Utd  | Stambridge Memorial Ground

Hullbridge Sports ‘A’  v  Buckhurst Hill Res   | Lower Road

Lakeside Res    v   Basildon Town Res  | Lakeside Sports Ground (3G)

Toby Res  v  Leigh Town Res  |  Ford’s Sports Club, Newbury Park

 

Saturday 31st August – 2.30pm

Basildon Town Res  v  Leigh Town Res   |  Basildon Sports Club

Buckhurst Hill Res  v  Collier Row  | Roding Lane (Pitch 2)

Dagenham Utd  v  Lakeside Res  | Ford’s Sports Club, Newbury Park

Hullbridge Sports ‘A’  v  Toby Res  | Lower Road

Hutton Res  v  ACD Utd   |  Polo Fields

White Ensign Res  v  Corinthians Res  | Len Forge Centre (3G)

 

Round-up: Essex Olympian League (Sat 13 Apr) [EOFL 14.4.19]

Written by Scott W (Twitter: @ScottMHC14)

Hello & welcome to another of my round-up pieces, this time looking at the Essex Olympian League action on Saturday 13 April, from the top tier to the results from Division Four as the games slowly whittle down as we head for the end of the season.

EOFL Premier Division

In the Premier Division, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts ended their campaign with a 1 – 0 home win over second-placed Kelvedon Hatch. Sam Coe got the only goal as Swifts record their second win in their last five matches. Hatch’s hopes of that runners-up spot took a slight knock but one win in their last three games will secure 2nd spot. Meanwhile, Sungate won 2 – 1 at Manford Way with Chris Barry and Rory McKenzie on the scoresheet for ‘Gate while Sean O’Callaghan responded for Manford who ended proceedings with ten men. Sungate finish in 9th spot after six wins in their last ten outings.

Old Southendian slipped to tenth after a 4 – 2 home loss to mid-table Leigh Ramblers. Luke Moloney got both of the OS goals though Matt Allum’s brace plus strikes by Acer Wake and Justin Hazell made sure the Rams won this local derby and will therefore finish 7th in the table.

Senior League Cup – Semi-Final

Catholic Utd made it through to their third Cup final this term with a 4 – 1 triumph over Chingford Athletic at the Len Salmon. Jamie Salmon’s brace and strikes by Tony Jacobs and Tom Hollingsworth got the job done for Dan Trenkel’s side.

 

EOFL Senior One

Four matches in Senior One saw the promotion race take another turn. FC Hamlets defeated Old Chelmsfordians 3 – 2  to end OC’s seven-match unbeaten run. Sener Suavi’s 12th goal of the campaign, a thunder-bolt from Barv Waikwaiku and Keith King all struck for Town to overcome goals from Sam Adams and Jordan Boden for the visitors. Town rise to third while Oc’s stay 7th. FC Hamlets rose to fourth with a 4 – 1 win over rivals Ramsden Scotia, which ended Scotia’s promotion aspirations. Charlie Heatley struck his 13th league goal of the season plus Faron Smith, Aaron Glasgow and Ishmael Carter all netted to extend FC’s unbeaten stretch to five matches and remain in the hunt for elevation next term.

Rayleigh Town Res hopes of averting the drop are still intact as they held second-placed Snaresbrook to a 0 – 0 draw. Town need three points to definitely remain in Div One next term. ‘Brook must surely win their final match at rivals FC Hamlets to have any hope of staying where they are, though one win in their last five isn’t that promising. Elsewhere, Ongar Town beat May & Baker Res 3 – 2 with Ross Adams, Ross Carpenter & Ben Stone all on target for Town. Ernest Dunlop and Moises Kalukembi Da Silva goals for Baker’s made it tight but they fell to their 20th loss this term. Ongar rise to 9th.

EOFL Senior Two  – No action this weekend

 

EOFL Senior Three

In the only Senior Three match, Leigh Town won 4 – 1 over strugglers Basildon Town Res with Sam Irvine getting a double while Zac Mashford and Sam Gilmore both hit their 6th league strikes of the campaign to make sure Town will finish 6th. Tommy Green struck for Town though with two matches left, they can still finish 7th at best.

 

EOFL Senior Four

Finally in Division Four, Toby Res are finishing strongly as they won 6 – 2 at Canning Town Res. Peter Spicer struck four on his own to lead the way, with Ben Britton and Simon Bamidele also netting to see Toby back up to 7th in the standings. Lakeside Res also won away from home, 5 – 3 at Shenfield AFC Res. Harry Davison took his league tally to 14 for the season with a hat-trick as Daniel Damain and Ben Austin also netted here to keep ‘Side fourth., having won half of their 22 games this term.

Sadly, Old Barkabbeyans’ last match of the campaign with Galleywood Res didn’t take place so ‘Wood got a home walkover.

Round-up: Essex Olympian League (Sat 9 Mar) [EOFL 10.3.19]

Written by Scott W (Twitter: @ScottMHC14)

Hello & welcome to another of my round-up pieces, this time looking at the Essex Olympian League action on Saturday 9 March, from the top tier to the results from Division Four as some promotion & relegation issues are closer to being answered. Thanks for reading.

EOFL Premier Division

As always we begin in the Premier Division on what coud be a week with lasting consequences. On-the-pitch, Springfield got a huge win, 3 – 1 at Sungate to extend their cushion over nearest rivals Manford Way to eleven points. Manford were held 2 – 2 by Canning Town, who played their final game of their season. Alfie Walker got both of Manford’s goals though Suliaman Massaquoi’s 8th league goal of the season and Ricardo Texeria replied for Town who sit 11th at present. Manford’s survival chances have to ated as ‘unlikely’ given they have to win all four remaining matches by a hefty margin to have a chance of staying in the division next term.

Old Southendian’s match with Leigh Ramblers had to be abandoned due to a serious injury to the Rams’ Jack Deasy. We wish him well in his recovery.

Finally, there was also some sad news of another sort this week as Great Baddow announced they were unable to commit to playing their remaining fixtures and have resigned from the division. We wish the club well and hope, along with the other sides who have withdrawn this season, they return in some form next term.

Essex Premier Cup: Semi-Finals

The Essex Premier Cup semi-finals took place this weekend. First, Catholic Utd had a Tom Hollingsworth brace to thank for a 2 – 1 victory at Hutton. In the other match, Buckhurst Hill made the final with an impressive 4 – 0 success at Kelvedon Hatch. Steve Townsend opened the scoring for Hill, before a late hat-trick from Nathan Sollosi ensured they will face the ‘Super Hoops’ at Billericay Town’s New Lodge on Wednesday 10th April.

EOFL Senior One

In Senior One, Shenfield AFC smashed Rayleigh Town Res 7 – 2 at St Martins’ School’s 3G pitch, with Mitchell Day leading the way with a hat-trick. James Bigmore and Ronnie Hobbrough got doubles each as well as AFC extended their unbeaten run to seven matches whilst retaining their three point lead at the summit, although they only have two games left to play.

Snaresbrook also won, 5 – 0 at stuttering Ongar Town. Scott Hill powered a treble, with John Blount and Ryan Barker-Francis also netting to give ‘Brook a five-point cushion in second. FC Hamlets returned to form as well with a hefty away win of their own, 7 – 1 at mid-table Herongate Athletic. Charlie Heatley continued his fine form in front of goal with another treble, while Ishmael Carter also struck a hat-trick and Darren Sarrano-Ishmael also netted to keep FC in the hunt due to still having seven matches to play. Ben Warren got a fleeting consolation for Ath, they sit 8th with two games remaining.

Meanwhile, Galleywood defeated May & Baker Reserves 2 – 0, which confirmed the latter’s relegation after a winless season thus far. Luke Osborne and Sam Donn strikes saw ‘Wood to their fourth straight triumph in the league.

Finally, Ramsden Scotia gave their slim promotion chances ‘a shot in the arm’ with a fine 4 – 2 victory over fellow contenders Basildon Town. Town finished the match with ten men after Scott Keys was dismissed. Brodie Horne and Sener Suavi got their goals.

EOFL Senior Two

In Senior Two, leaders Toby ended their campaign with four wins on-the-trot, after a 2 – 0 win in their top-two clash with Runwell Sports. David Major and James Coleman got the all-important goals to extend their lead to six points, although Sports have three matches yet to play.

Chingford Athletic are the only other side who can challenge the top-two now for promotion, after their 2 – 1 success at mid-table Beacon Hill Rovers. Alex Gordon and Will Gleeson got the goals in a match which was delayed for an hour, due to a player injury.

Also, Ryan secured their Division Two status by edging a spectacular home match, 5 – 4 over Shoebury Town, whose promotion hopes ended with this result. The ramifications of this also mean that after reprieves in the last two seasons, Rochford Town will join May & Baker ‘A’ in the relegation places this term.

EOFL Senior Three

In Senior Three, Laindon Orient are finishing the campaign strongly as they won 6 – 1 at relegated Old Chelmsfordians Res. Samuel Lake bagged a hat-trick, while Jason Purewal struck twice and Michael Bottone also chipped in. Old Southendian Ressies maintained their shot at elevation with a fine 4 – 2 at leaders Westhamians. Ben Jones got both goals for the hosts though David Stubbs got a brace of his own for OS, with Ben Franklin and Greg Smith also on target here. Westhamians need three wins to make sure of the title at this point.

Lastly for Senior Three, Wakering Sports edged to a 1 – 0 win at local rivals Leigh Town to remain in the ‘box seat’ for promotion.

EOFL Senior Four

Finally, in Senior Four, with leaders Corinthians not in action, Epping Town knew a win would put them in a very strong state for promotion. They made no error, recording a 6 – 0 success at home to Canning Town Res. Alex Paraskeva passed the 20-goal mark this season with a hat-trick here and Jack Leachman grabbed two while Eamon Payne got his 5th goal this term as well here. Billy Cove’s side need only to avoid defeat at Lakeside Res next weekend to ‘seal the deal’.

That is the situation as Lakeside Res won 3 – 1 at Leigh Ramblers Res. Lewis Kelsey got the Rams goal though strikes from Ben Christie, Daniel Damain and Ifedayo Kayode ensured the visitors left with the points. Ramblers ended their season here and have an anxious wait to see if their rivals overhaul them in the last weeks of the campaign and sent them down.

Finally, Dagenham Utd are doing their best to secure a top-three finish as they won 4 – 1 at basement side Old Barkabbeyans. Ashley Retter and Michael Frostick opened the scoring for Utd before Jacob Dingli got back on the score-sheet with a brace to seal the win. Old Barks need to win at least three of their last four matches you feel to avoid the drop themselves and pull other teams back into the drop-zone at the same time.

Round-up: Essex Olympian League (Sat 16 Feb) [EOFL 17.2.19]

Written by Scott W (Twitter: @ScottMHC14)

 

Hello & welcome to another of my round-up pieces, this time looking at the Essex Olympian League action on Saturday 16th February, from the top tier to the results from Division Four plus one match in the Senior League Cup.

EOFL Premier Dvivision

Starting off as ever in the Premier Division, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts fell to a home loss to improving Sungate. Ciaran Kelly’s double outweighed Josh Osunde’s strike for Swifts as the visitors got their third win in their last four to rise to 11th spot. Swifts dropped to fourth because Kelvedon Hatch won their match, 2 – 1 at Springfield. Substitute Anthony Aylett got both of the Kelvedon goals, though fellow substitute Ryan Batchford struck for the hosts, who ended the match with ten men.

Leaders Buckhurst Hill showed no signs of relenting in their titled quest, as they secured a 5 – 1 home win over Rayleigh Town. Suley Zuhdu grabbed a double with Steve Townsend, Sam Sollosi and Nathan Sollosi also finding the ‘onion bag’. Harold Wood Athletic also failed to get a win as they were held 3 – 3 by out-of-form Hutton. Michael Burton, Reiss Kingsley and Robert Whitnell all found the net for Ath, though the visitors secured a point through strikes by Brad Freeman, Keelan O’Donovan and substitute George Nash. Ath remain second though their title chances are slim given they have played more games than either Buckhurst Hill or Hatch.

Meanwhile, Old Southendian won 3 – 1 at home to Canning Town to stay 10th. A brace from Ryan Stillwell and one from substitute Ed Gould outdone a consolation from Abdul Shobawale for the visitors, who stay 8th.

Senior League Cup

In the one SLC quarter-final played this weekend, Catholic Utd won 3 – 0 at Great Baddow. Simon Thomas nabbed a double with Aaron Baldwin getting the other goal.

 

EOFL Senior One

Moving into Senior One, Basildon Town roared into the top three with a 10 – 1 demolition at strugglers Rayleigh Town Res. Sener Suavi struck four goals himself, Alfie Phillips secured another hat-trick plus Brodie Horne’s double and one from substitute Levi Harbour sealed a big win to leave Town five points off the top spot with games in hand on all the sides around them. Rayleigh have games in hand on rivals Frenford Res, Old Chelmsfordians and Ongar Town though have points to make up as well.

Also in a crucial relegation six-pointer, Old Chelmsfordians narrowly won 1 – 0 at home to Frenford Res, who ended their season here. Substitute Paul Tiffen got the decisive goal to send OCs five points clear of the bottom two. May & Baker Ressies will also finish in the bottom two this term.

At the other end of the table, Shenfield AFC opened up a three-point lead at the summit, following a 2 – 1 triumph at fellow high-flyers FC Hamlets. Ashley King struck for the hosts though Jordan Elliott and Ronnie Hobbrough scored for AFC here to give them the win. Finally in this division, Galleywood defeated Ramsden Scotia 2 – 1, thanks to Matthew Buckingham and Luke Osborne strikes while Ryan Scott got one back for faltering Scotia, who dropped to fourth. ‘Wood sit seventh after their fourth win in their last nine.

 

EOFL Senior Two

In Senior Two, the top two sides furthered their promotion credentials with away wins. Toby won 6 – 0 at May & Baker ‘A’ with Des Gallen getting a brace plus Dan Mackin, Dan Cunningham, Paul Carr and Ross Dipple all also on the score-sheet to keep their three-point lead at the top. Runwell Sports won 3 – 0 at mid-table at Beacon Hill Rovers thanks to goals from Joe Young, James Lakey & substitute John Smithwick to go back into second spot.

Two other promotion-chasers went toe-to-toe at Town Mead’s 3G surface where Chingford Athletic drew 1 – 1 with Shoebury Town. Jack Yates got the goal for Ath though Dominic Binns levelled things for Town who had Lee Turner sent off.

 

 

EOFL Senior Three

In Senior Three, Academy Soccer got the eye-catching result of the day, with a 9 – 1 home success over bottom side Old Chelmsfordians Res. Luis Ruiz and substitute Alfie Sayers both grabbed trebles, with Jake Jones nabbing a brace and Luke Jones got the other strike as Academy remain third, four points off the summit.

Hutton Res defeated Westhamians 1 – 0 to go six points clear of the bottom two and end the visitors’ unbeaten league season. Jack Shaw got the only goal of the game there. Wakering Sports had a fine day with a 3 – 0 success at Roydon, with Harry Groves grabbing a double and Jamie Brown getting the other goal. Roydon are slipping into relegation contention as they are only two points clear of the bottom two after a fourth straight defeat.

Meanwhile, White Ensign Res had a setback as they lost 3 – 2 at home to promotion-chasing Leigh Town. A brace of spot-kicks from Zach Somerset-Butler was outdone by strikes by George Darby, Zac Mashford and Rhys Mosedale for Town, who rise to fourth.

 

EOFL Senior Four

And now into Senior Four, which saw the two of the front-runners have fine away wins. Corinthians had another good win, 4 – 2 at Buckhurst Hill Res. Theo Cannon led the way with a brace with Leo Clarke and Bill Wilton also notching. The Stambridge-based side lead the division by four points from Epping Town, who won 5 – 2 at Canning Town Res. Daniel Garfinkle shone with four goals, while Jack Leachman got the other goal as Billy Cove’s side rise to second.

Meanwhile, Leigh Ramblers Res won the battlers of the strugglers with a 4 – 0 home win over Old Barkabbeyans. Andrew Webster grabbed two goals plus Seb Allen and Pat Cannon also netted. Lakeside Res defeated Toby Res 1 – 0 thanks to Ben Christie’s strike. Catholic Utd Res rose to mid-table with a fine 6 – 2 victory at Shenfield AFC Res.