Leigh Ramblers Res – survivor16b

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 Match Report: Leigh Ramblers 1 – 2 Springfield (Sat 18 Mar) [EOFL 22-23 19.3.23]

Springfield have a set-piece in first half

Essex Olympian League – Premier Division

Venue: Belfairs Park

Attendance: 40 (Est)

2022-23 Season: Match 47

Saturday 18th March 2022 – 1pm KO

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

Springfield: Red Shirts, Red Shorts, Red Socks

Springfield show grit to edge to vital win at Belfairs

Leigh Ramblers 1 – 2 Springfield

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

This weekend’s foray into Non-League was a rare pair of matches with the focus of the day being an well-poised battle between top-five side Leigh Ramblers and relegation-battlers Springfield in the Essex Olympian League’s Premier Division. The visitors have have started to gain important points under the new management team of Matt Cardy & Daniel Blewett and they knew that a win here could well take them out of the bottom two. The Rams were also seeking to fortify their position in the top five to crown off a fine season for Mark Hunter’s team. The hosts were somewhat depleted but fielded Oscar Baines in goal, with a defence comprised of centre-backs George Moxon and Owen Reynolds, with the full-backs being Kevin Mustali & Patrick Cannon. The midfield had stalwart Ole Hunter, Chido Mutsvairo & Abraham Eze in a hard-working three. The forward line featured Kevin Matthew, Charlie Batchelor and captain Matt Brinklow. Springfield named a strong starting team, with Joshua Woodrow as their goalkeeper, with a backline of full-backs Lewis Chapman & Joe Gurie plus centre-backs Ben Perry and skipper Reece Latimer. Robbie Norris, Yaw Danso & Ben Morley were the experienced central midfield, with the forward line led by promising forward Finlay Dorrell, Harry Kateley and Will Wheeler.

Both teams needed time in the early stages to gauge the opposition threat and the slippery conditions, not helped by further rain showers which began shortly before kick-off. There were a few chances in the first half hour, as the visitors showed their neat forward play, with Will Wheeler’s effort on 15 minutes not being powerful enough to bypass home custodian Oscar Baines, who gathered. At the other end, Leigh Ramblers were a threat from set-pieces and midfielder Abraham Eze made good runs from deep, but his strike was comfortably stopped by visiting stopper Joshua Woodrow. The visitors responded almost immediately as a good turn by forward Harry Kateley ended with a well-struck effort which narrowly went over the woodwork. The Rams were finding it tricky to breach the visitors’ solid central midfield, but tricky midfielder Chido Mutsviaro did well to create space to have two chances at goal, which were off-target.

The crucial period in the half came right on the half-hour mark as from a good set-piece by Robbie Norris, forward Finlay Dorrell was found at the far post and the in-form Dorrell headed in from about four yards, with Baines beaten. Matt Cardy’s side then really made the most of this period by doubling their lead only two minutes later, with Dorrell’s fine, low strike sailing into the left corner, giving Baines little chance to deny him. The frustration of the hosts were starting to show, given they were conceding possession too often, though enterprising forward Kevin Matthew also had a decent chance denied by the visiting backline.

Half-Time: Leigh Rams 0 – 2 Springfield

After the break, the tempo was raised as the hosts commendably sought to get back on terms, having brought on forward Tony Da Silva shortly before half-time. Matthew was in the action again after doing well to find an angle to get his strike away, but the ball cannoned off a post and away. At the other end, Springfield were still looking lively, from a set-piece the ball arrowed in to find centre-back Reece Latimer and his decent header needed the intervention of Baines, who pushed the ball away well, under pressure in a congested penalty area. The hosts brought on their substitutes in the last 25 minutes, with the direct running of Scott Clark adding a different threat for the visiting defence to deal with.

One of Clark’s good runs into the 18-yard area was abruptly halted with sixteen minutes left, and referee Stuart Nixon pointed to the penalty spot. Ole Hunter duly stepped up and blasted the ball home past Woodrow, to add to the nerves of the Springfield side as they knew how important this potential win was. Ramblers gave it their all in the latter stages, with replacement Harry DaCosta’s strike only finding the side-netting and then Clark headed not far over in added-time. When the final whistle came, the relief was palpable for Springfield, but they came here and performed well in tough conditions.

Full-Time: Leigh Ramblers 1 – 2 Springfield

To sum up then, Springfield showed their desire to get out of their precarious situation well, showcasing their skill going forward and being tough in midfield and defence. It was scrappy at times in the first half, but the Rams couldn’t find the final ball as much as they would’ve liked and two quick-fire goals altered the momentum in the favour of Matt Cardy’s team. Despite the hosts finding more rhythm after the break & making it a nervy last ten minutes for Springfield, they held on well to claim the points which sends them out of the bottom two.

We start the stand-out mentions with victors Springfield. Forward Finlay Dorrell got both goals and linked-up well with forward partners Wheeler & Kateley, as well as showing good pace and work rate. Full-back Joe Gurie also made a good contribution, making good runs down the channel & put in a number of good passes too. Central midfielder Robbie Norris also put in a good shift and was a threat with his set-pieces too. Lastly, a mention for commanding defender Reece Latimer, who led his defence well & made several important clearances too.

For the Rams, George Moxon did very well playing in central defence here, showing good positioning & tackling throughout. Forward Kevin Matthew contributed well after being drafted into the starting side late on, and Matthew got into good positions, passing well & had a few decent chances. Midfielder Chido Mutsvairo also worked very hard and competed well with a fired-up visiting midfield, showing good movement and passing. Finally, full-back Kevin Mustali deserves a mention for in a hard-working shift, in defence and supporting the attack, also showing good alertness.

Before we end this report, the second game of this double saw the Leigh Ramblers Ressie side defeat Wakering Sports A 4 – 0, with Luis Bracci, Cameron Jarvis, Taylor Stewart & Jacob Mead goals sealing a fine second-half showing to keep them in the promotion reeckoning in Division Four. Thanks for reading.

Teams

Leigh Ramblers | Manager: Mark Hunter | Assistants: Nathan Dewberry & Josh Snell

Starting XI: 1 Oscar Baines (GK), 2 Patrick Cannon, 4 Owen Reynolds, 5 George Moxon, 3 Kevin Mustali, 6 Ole Hunter, 7 Chido Mutsviaro, 10 Charlie Batchelor, 8 Abraham Eze, 12 Kevin Matthew, 11 Matt Brinklow (Capt)

Goal-scorer: Ole Hunter [pen 74′]

Subs On (Time): 9 Tony Da Silva [37′, replaced Batchelor], 20 Scott Clark [62′, replaced Eze], 14 George Unwin [64′, replaced Cannon], 16 Harry DaCosta [69′, replaced Matthew], 15 Thomas Franks [79′, replaced Brinklow]

Booked: Mutsviaro | Subs Not Used: None

Springfield | Manager: Matt Cardy | Assistant: Dan Blewett

Starting XI: 1 Joshua Woodrow (GK), 2 Lewis Chapman, 5 Reece Latimer (Capt), 6 Ben Perry, 3 Joe Gurie, 4 Robbie Norris, 7 Yaw Danso, 8 Ben Morley, 9 Finlay Dorrell, 10 Harry Kateley, 11 Will Wheeler

Goal-scorers: Finlay Dorrell [30′ & 32′]

Subs On (Time): 14 Jonnie Gurie [62′, replaced Wheeler], 17 Elliott Hutchinson-Khupe [76′, replaced Joe Gurie], 15 Sam Loomes [85′, replaced Jonnie Gurie]

Booked: Kateley | Subs Not Used: Kassanda, Denyer

Referee: Stuart Nixon

S22-23 Round-up’s: Essex Olympian Lge & Cups (Sat 11 Feb) [EOFL 22-23 13.2.23]

Image from Corinthians v Harold Hill in D1 this weekend

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

Hello & welcome to the latest edition of the Essex Olympian League round-up. This week, we look at the action in all divisions & Cups from Saturday 11 February, as the weekend’s action in all six divisions was bolstered by Cup ties. Also includes the midweek EOFL Premier game this week at the start of that section.

EOFL Premier Division

We begin with the first of what could be several midweek EOFL matches as the season comes to its run-in. Catholic Utd got a narrow 2 – 1 victory at Old Southendian on Wednesday night at Garon Park 3G. James Warder & Michael Sammut got the important goals to outdo replacement Nico Dubouchet’s reply for OS. The win took Utd up to second after the weekend’s action. For more on this match, check out Peter Dudley’s match report here: https://pedroslocalfootiefix.blogspot.com/2023/02/old-southendian-1-catholic-united-2.html

In the weekend’s top-tier action, there were some key results at the bottom of the table. None more so than Galleywood‘s narrow 1 – 0 victory over Toby at Slades Lane. Kaiyun Reeves got the decisive goal there to grab their second win this term & go level on points with rivals Springfield, who drew 1 – 1 with Sungate at Arun Park. Lewis Chapman got the hosts’ goal in the opening game of the new era there, under new boss Matt Cardy, formerly of Division Two side Wakebury. Bishop’s Stortford Swifts went up to fourth-bottom with a gritty 1 – 0 win at Kelvedon Hatch. Substitute Harley Merry’s strike saw Swifts go above Hatch in the table but both these sides & Toby are precariously close to the bottom two, which are likely to be the relegation spots in three months’ time.

Elsewhere, Rayleigh Town renewed their rivalry with Old Southendian before coming away with a 3 – 1 success at Thames Road. Nick Henesy netted for OS while Harry Talbot, George Vile’s penalty & an early OG accounted for the hosts’ goals, with the win taking them back up to third, albeit they are 14 points adrift of leaders Hutton. Catholic Utd & Leigh Ramblers look to be their nearest challengers for that coveted second-spot. Finally, Leigh Ramblers drew 1 – 1 with Shenfield AFC. Luke Williamson got AFC’s goal and Andrew Webster netted for the Rams at Belfairs Park

EOFL Divisions One & Two

Division One again saw some big results. We begin with Old Chelmsfordians‘ 4 – 0 victory at home to Wakering Sports. The ensemble cast of Shane Pritchard, Joe Murphy, Ryan Baxter & substitute Billy Duke got the goals which sees the OC’s retain third spot & reduce the deficit to Epping in second to only one point. Manford Way edged a truly marvellous match as they won 6 – 4 at Epping Town. The defeat leaves Town further vulnerable to being caught by both Old Chelms & Corinthians, who battled to an important 3 – 2 victory at home to Harold Hill at Stambridge. Brodie Horne netted two good goals & an early OG proved enough to outweigh goals from Harry Watkins & Troy Tizard-Cleghorn’s spot kick. For much more on this game, here’s my report: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2023/02/11/s22-23-match-report-corinthians-3-2-harold-hill-sat-11-feb-eofl/

Also, Harold Wood Athletic were held 1 – 1 at ACD Utd. Leroy Griffiths scoed for Wood, with Matthew Taylor levelling the match for Utd. Harold Wood’s lead at the summit inches further to five points now, with four wins likely to be enough to secure the title. ACD remain sixth & are not out of the running for a top-four spot yet.

Into Division Two now, and leaders Shoebury Town remain four points clear at the summit after a fine 3 – 1 victory at May & Baker. Lewis Hunt, Oliver Chew & Timi Tinubu goals sealed their 11th win this term. Wakering Sports Res remain their nearest challengers after a 3 – 0 win at home to Catholic Utd Res. Connor Fardyga again found the target, as did substitutes Eben Rowledge & David Watson to confirm the points.

Elsewhere, Harold Wood Athletic Res are back up to third spot after a good 3 – 0 triumph over out-of-form AS Rawreth at Harold Wood Rec. Matt Harris, Kieron Moynihan & an OG meant that the Wood side are still in the running for promotion.

EOFL Divisions Three, Four & Five

In Division Three, leaders Basildon Town Res extended their lead to ten points after a 4 – 1 win over Springfield Res at Basildon Sports Club. Anthony Aylett notched twice here for the hosts to reach seven league goals this term, while Louis Hill & replacement Ola Ogunjobi also scored to confirm the win. Pitsea Athletic are up to second, following an excellent 4 – 0 success at home to Hullbridge Res. Sean Devlin, Reece Stone, Jason Warner & Joe Berry all got goals there for Trevor Wickens’ side, who are now in prime position for that second promotion spot. In the other game this weekend, Chingford Athletic Res fortified sixth spot with a 6 – 1 triumph over Corinthians Res at Town Mead 3G. Luke Dimond netted a fine treble to reach 12 league goals this campaign thus far, allied with two for Sonny Clarke & one from Jack Smith confirmed the points for Carl Gregory’s side. Corinthians Res need a minimum of three wins from their last five matches to avoid a likely relegation to Division Four.

In Division Four, the top two were not in league action, which allowed Leigh Ramblers Res to retain third spot & reduce the gap to leaders Roydon to six points as they won 2 – 0 at Leytonstone Utd. Joe Howson & Jacob Meads got the goals at Forest Row. Also, Herongate Athletic Res are well-placed in fourth now, after a 4 – 0 success over Wakering Sports A at Billericay Road. Thomas Lambourne & Byron Brackett both scored to get the hosts going before further strikes by replacements Kieron Wilson-Fowler & Joe Coldham secured the points.

Lastly in this division, Ongar Town battled with Galleywood Res to a goal-less draw at Marks Hall Centre. the point sees Ongar rise to sixth and Galleywood remain third from bottom, still needing points to secure their place in this division next term.

In Division Five, Collier Row Res are back in second spot, following a impressive 7 – 3 victory at Wakebury Res. Harry Potts netted five goals himself to double his tally to ten goals this term for the Ressie side. Jake Griffin & Raheem Bravo’s penalty added further ache to the hosts. Joe Creak’s side replied through a brace from Ross Barnes & one from Arry Hardy. The other results saw Shoebury Town Res win 4 – 0 at AS Rawreth Res and Sungate Res triumph 3 – 1 at Canning Town Res.

Cups

We start the Cup action with mentions of the two Senior Cup games. First up, it was predictably tight in the all-Premier Division clash in Beckton as Hutton defeated Canning Town 3 – 2. Lewis Scott & substitutes Will Marlowe & Billy Chilcott got the decisive goals for Matt Singh’s side who may well mark this potentially pivotal season with a Cup Final appearance as well. Joining them in the next round will be Catholic Utd, who won 3 – 0 at Division Two side Hashtag Utd Development. Tom Elliott, Harrison Day and Tom Kearney got the goals for Simon Thomas’ side at Barleylands.

Moving on to the other Cup competitions now. Firstly in the Reserve Cup, and Basildon Town A got an upset on spot-kicks, after drawing 1 – 1 with Division Two side Hutton Res at Polo Fields. Donnel Kujinga again netted for the Division Five side, and they won 5 – 4 on penalties to see them through. There was nearly another upset in the Denny King Cup tie this weekend as Division One side Beacon Hill Rovers also needed penalties to progress, after a 1 – 1 draw at Division Four leaders Roydon. Nader Benzid got the hosts’ goal, with Charles Fitt’s late goal meaning a shoot-out was needed. Rovers won that 4 – 2 but credit does go to Roydon, who are continuing to show they may well be alright, should they complete the job & gain promotion for next term.

We end this week with two ties in the Reserve Trophy. Firstly, Manford Way Res narrowly got the better of Leigh Town Res, as Manford won 3 – 2 to send the Division Three team out. Luke Bennett’s double, allied with Charlie Ewing’s strike outdid strikes by Zack Walker & Spencer Izatt for Leigh to send the Division Five side through. Also, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res also prevailed, following a 2 – 0 victory at home to Shenfield AFC Res, with Matthew Allen & David Falzon strikes securing the win at Silver Leys.

End

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian Lge & Cups (Sat 4 Feb) [EOFL 22-23 6.2.23]

Archive Image – Shoebury Town v AS Rawreth earlier this term

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

Hello & welcome to another edition of the Essex Olympian League round-up. This week, we look at the action in all divisions & Cups from Saturday 4 February, as the weekend’s action in all six divisions was bolstered by Cup ties.

EOFL Premier Division

In the top-tier, Hutton continue to bolster their chances of the Premier title & promotion, as they defeated Toby 2 – 0 at Chadfields. Stephen Judge & substitute Kyle Linzell goals were enough to see the Reds to 40 points in just 14 matches. Old Southendian are up to second spot after a 3 – 0 win at Leigh Ramblers, securing their third straight League win. Catholic Utd are up third place after securing a comeback 3 – 1 victory over Runwell Sports at the Len Forge. Gianni Frankis’ goal had put Runwell ahead but strikes from Liam Oliver, Aaron Baldwin (on his 100th appearance for the club) & Tom Elliott sealled the win, ahead of a very hectic last three months of the campaign (which sees them still have 15 league games left, starting with a trip Old Southendian in midweek). Shenfield AFC’s decent season continues after they defeated Canning Town 1 – 0 at St Martins 3G. Sam Lock got the only goal there to send them up to eighth spot, while Galleywood battled to a 1 – 1 draw at Kelvedon Hatch. Freddie Bartram got the ‘Wood goal, with Charlie Nichols replying for Darren Hunt’s team. Galleywood still need at least two wins from their upcoming games to draw other teams into the relegation battle.

EOFL Divisions One & Two

Division One saw some potentially big results. First, a mention for strugglers Wakering Sports who battled to their maiden victory this term, as they defeated Manford Way 1- 0, with Nathan Roche scoring the only goal there. Epping Town held promotion rivals Harold Wood Athletic 1 – 1 at home, with Joe Rickett netting for Town & Ben Woolven doing so for Ath, who remain four points clear at the top. Beacon Hill Rovers got an important 2 – 0 success over Corinthians, which sends Hill up to 8th, and dampens the Stambridge-based side’s promotion aspirations, as they stay fourth. Finally, Herongate Athletic are only two points adrift of fourth spot, following a 3 – 0 win at home to Harold Hill. Alfie Yeend, Thomas Lambourne & George Godfrey goals made the most of their chances & notch a fine three points.

Into Division Two, Wakering Sports Res reduced the deficit to leaders Shoebury to four points after a 5 – 2 triumph at Rayleigh Town Res. Substitute Ciaran Sweeney netted twice, with Connor Fardyga, Charlie Smith & Steven Valente also on target for the enterprising Sports side. May & Baker are up to third after a fine 5 – 0 win at AS Rawreth, with Alfie Horan & Kane Messenger notching doubles each, with Jack O’Connor’s fine strike confirming the points. Hutton Res got a battling 1 – 0 victory at Hashtag Utd Development, with Jack Greenwood’s goal enough to push them up to ninth place, a point clear of the bottom two. Lastly, Old Southendian Res drew 1 – 1 with Catholic Utd Res. Both teams are some way off the top six, following that result.

EOFL Divisions Three, Four & Five

Moving now to Division Three, the top two were not in action but Buckhurst Hill U23 gained ground on them with a superb 7 – 1 success over Corinthians Res at Roding Lane. Ayomide Ademokun netted a treble, with Harvey Woods adding a brace, plus Jacob Richards & replacement Bailey Allen also netted for Darren Gosnell’s side, who are well-set in third. Pitsea Athletic are only a point below them in fourth after they defeated Chingford Athletic Res 5 – 0. Both of these teams have the most matches to play in the division remaining, at eight each.

In Division Four, Roydon put themselves back in pole position for the title with a 2 – 1 victory over rivals Collier Row. Connor Presland & Ross Bourke both scored for the hosts who went a point clear at the summit, with three matches in hand on nearest rivals Row. Leigh Ramblers Res are also in the promotion shake-up after a fine 4 – 0 win at Shenfield AFC Res. Jacob Meads netted twice for the Rams, with Dominic North & substitute Taylor Stewart also on target at Warley Fields in a win which keeps them third. Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res had a real battle before coming away with a 4 – 3 victory at Galleywood Res. The hosts got goals through Ebenezer Fasoranti, Aryan Tathgar and Ashley Merritt but they were outdone by Matthew Allen’s brace for Swifts, compiled with strikes from Archie Gerard & Jordan Trott to give the visitors another three points and they remain fourth.

Lastly in this division, a big day for Leytonstone Utd as they notched their first win of a tough campaign, winning 3 – 2 against Ongar Town at Forest Row. The trio of James Medlock, Billy Wallace & George Welsh got the crucial Leytonstone goals. Ongar got goals from Jude Collins, and replacement James McLean but it wasn’t enough to prevent Utd from finally savouring a win – they are only four points behind Wakering Sports A & Galleywood Res directly above them.

In Division Five, Basildon Town A edged to a 3 – 2 victory over Collier Row Res at Basildon Sports Club. Donnel Kujinga netted yet another double to further endorse his good season, while Alex Smith got the other goal, the win takes them up to fourth place. Also, Runwell Sports Res are into second place after a resounding 8 – 0 victory at home to AS Rawreth Res.

Cups

We start the Cup action with mentions of the two Senior Cup games. First, Sungate ended Rayleigh Town’s run in the competition as the ‘Gate had a Arif Mustapha goal to thank in their 1 – 0 win. Also, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts were given a stern test before coming through 4 – 3 on spot-kicks, after a 0 – 0 draw at Silver Leys, In the Denny King Cup, ACD Utd progressed with a narrow 1 – 0 victory over Basildon Town Res, with Jamie Alexandrou getting the only goal there.

Moving on into the Reserve Cup, and Herongate Athletic Res triumphed with a 5 – 1 win at Springfield Res. Kemston Allen got a super treble, added to very well by Habeeb Apatira’s double to see the visitors through. Finally, in the Reserve Trophy, Old Chelmsfordians Res progressed with a 3 – 0 victory at home to Pitsea Athletic Res and Harold Wood Athletic Res sailed through with a 4 – 1 success at Wakering Sports A. Max London netted twice for Wood, with Thomas Butler & Kieron Moynihan also on target for them. Carl Sutton replied for Wakering, but their attention focuses now on remaining in Division Four.

End

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian Lge (Sat 28 Jan) [EOFL 22-23 30.1.23]

Archive image – Runwell Sports v Shenfield AFC from earlier this term

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

Hello & welcome to the another edition of the Essex Olympian League round-up. This week, we look at the action in all divisions & Cups from Saturday 28 January, as the weekend’s action was for the most part restored following the restrictive weather conditions in the ladt month.

EOFL Premier Division

In the top-tier, Hutton retained their 14 point lead at the summit, following a 5 – 1 victory at Galleywood. Substitute Matthew Price netted twice here, with Luke Ricketts, Joshua Seal & Connor Hammond also scoring for Matt Singh’s side. Ronnie Edwards replied for ‘Wood, who remain three points adrift at the bottom. Rayleigh Town produced a terrific display in an 8 – 0 success over Bishop’s Stortford Swifts at Thames Road. There were trebles for Jack Long and George Vile, along with strikes for William Vile and substitute Lewis Robson to give Town a much-needed win, given the race for second spot in gathering pace. They went back into second after Toby defeated Leigh Ramblers 2 – 0 at the Nursery Sports Ground. Sonny Leeks’ brace confirmed a big win for Mark Jones’ side, which takes them five points clear of the bottom two.

Elsewhere, Old Southendian are up to fourth spot following a fine 5 – 1 victory over Kelvedon Hatch at Garon Park 3G. Callum Ludlaim had arguably his best day this season, scoring a fine treble, with Mitchell Ali & Nico Dubouchet also scoring for Altar Ali’s side. Joe Newson netted reply after coming off the bench for Darren Hunt’s side, who drop to 11th. Catholic Utd had a battling 2 – 1 victory at Canning Town, with Joe O’Kane & Louie Hay goals sending them sixth, with several games in hand on most of the teams around them. Shenfield AFC remain ninth after a 3 – 0 victory at Springfield, with Jack Maleary, Ben Absolon & Ben Carroll all scoring for AFC. Springfield boss Allan Fenn has also elected to step down, and I wish him well for the future.

Finally, Runwell Sports stay eighth after an excellent 4 – 2 success at Sungate. James Dalton netted two goals for Rob Hodgson’s side, with Gianni Frankis & Owen Barratt adding further goals. Runwell are now ten points clear of the bottom two, as they seek to have a second consecutive campaign at Step 7.

EOFL Divisions One, Two & Three

Division One this week saw some key results. First, Epping Town battled hard before securing a 5 – 3 victory over Herongate Athletic at Billericay Road. Joe Rickett’s superb treble was added to by goals from Scout Bown & Abdul Kamara as Stuart Hoskins’ side remained three points clear in second. Alfie Yeend scored twice for Ath, with Thomas Lambourne also scoring. Old Chelmsfordians remain third at this juncture, following a 2 – 1 win at home to Beacon Hill Rovers, with Jack Walker netting for Rovers. Manford Way also got an important victory, 2 – 1 at home to Corinthians. Dawid Potoczek & replacement Harry Davison both scored for Colin Dobson’s team, who go up to sixth, while their opponents lost ground on the top three.

Into Division Two now and the stand-out result saw Catholic Utd Res defeat Hashtag Utd Development 3 – 1 at St Thomas More Sch. James Warder’s brace & a goal for Daniel Williams secured a win that takes them four points clear of the bottom two. Hashtag’s youth side lost ground on the top two and are also vulnerable to being caught by Harold Wood Athletic Res, who have matches in hand. Leaders Shoebury Town are now seven points clear, following a comeback 4 – 2 win at Wakebury. Finlay Dorrell & Louis Yuille both netted for Matt Cardy’s team but a double for Jack Woodham plus goals for Mechack-Kisoka Asuka & Enoch Gyimah secured Town’s 10th win this term. Finally for this division, Rayleigh Town Res also notched an important 5 – 0 success at home to AS Rawreth.

Now into Division Three, Basildon Town Res emerged with a terrific 8 – 0 win at Corinthians Res, with Louis Hill scoring a hat-trick, added to by Jamie Bradbourn’s brace and one each for Keith King, Daniel Okah and replacement Harry Johnson. Town remain eight points clear at the summit now. Buckhurst Hill U23 also got the three points, with a 3 – 1 victory over Pitsea Athletic at Roding Lane. Harvey Woods struck twice for Darren Gosnell’s team, plus Joe Marjason’s additional goal which secured the win which takes them above Pitsea & into fourth. Elsewhere, Chingford Athletic Res narrowly defeated Springfield Res 3 – 2 at Town Mead 3G. Conor Medhurst’s double & Luke Dimond’s strike outdid goals by Liam England & replacement Adam Jackson for the visitors. Finally, Leigh Town Res got a 2 – 1 win over Toby Res at John Burrows Rec, with Chris Pope and Spencer Izatt the scorers for Josh Burrage’s side, who rise to second spot.

EOFL Divisions Four & Five

Moving into Division Four, and Leigh Ramblers Res grabbed a convincing 7 – 0 triumph at home to Galleywood Res. Charlie Batchelor notched twice for the Rams second-side, with Joe Howson (pen), Luis Bracci, Dominic North, Ethan Nunn & substitute Cameron Jarvis all also scoring here. That result takes them up to fourth & strengthens their chances of being in the promotion race. Ongar Town also won this week, with a 2 – 0 success over Herongate Athletic Res at Marks Hall. Jude Collins & Mason White both netted for Tony West’s team. Also, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res drew 1 – 1 with Roydon at Silver Leys. Matthew Allen netted for Swifts, and Connor Riddoch replied for Roydon. The visitors there dropped to second by virtue of Collier Row’s Walkover win over Pitsea Athletic Res, which takes Row two points clear but they have played three games more.

In Division Five, Basildon Town A went back up to fifth after a 6 – 0 victory against Shoebury Town Res. Donnel Kujinga led the scorers with a fine treble, with Jamie Miller scoring two & replacement Bradley Pike also notching in this win which takes them up to fifth. Also, Manford Way Res extended their lead to seven points at the summit after a 7 – 2 win at Canning Town Res.

Cups

There were three Cup matches this week. Firstly, in the EOFL Reserve Cup, Hutton Res prevailed with a 4 – 1 victory over Runwell Sports Res at Polo Fields. Rodney Wilson, Luke Haydon & substitutes Thomas Price & Ronnie Richardson-Cook got the goals for the hosts there. In the Reserve Trophy, Sungate Res progressed with a 4 – 2 success at AS Rawreth Res. Justin Burrell & Bradley Giles got the goals in reply for the AS side.

Finally, Wakering Sports powered to a 5 – 0 victory over Leytonstone Utd at Cupid’s, in the Denny King Cup. Ryan Curtis & Paul Wines both netted doubles here for Sports, with Mekhi Weekes adding the other goal there.

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League & Cups (Sat 7 Jan) [EOFL 22-23 9.1.23]

Archive Image – OS v Rayleigh Town from last month

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

Hello & Happy New Year to the readers of this column. Welcome to the first edition of the Essex Olympian League round-up series in 2023. This week, we look at the action in all divisions from Saturday 7 January, plus the Cup ties this week.

EOFL Premier Division

Firstly in the top-tier, Hutton extended their seemingly unassailable lead at the top to 14 points after a 5 – 0 victory at Springfield. David Johnson netted twice here for Matt Singh’s side, with Jude Keeling, Tom Stephens and substitute Connor Hammond also netting here. The hosts remain second bottom, two points adrift of Toby. Sungate are in third on goal difference, despite being held to a goal-less draw by Bishop’s Stortford Swifts. Leigh Ramblers are up to fourth after a gritty 1 – 0 victory at home to Runwell Sports at Belfairs. Scott Clark again got a crucial goal for Mark Hunter’s team.

Meanwhile, Catholic Utd started the calendar year with a 4 – 1 triumph at home to Kelvedon Hatch at the Len Forge 3G. James Burt scored for Hatch, but a team effort turned the tide as Franklin Craik, Aaron Baldwin, Tom Kearney and replacement Harrison Day all scored to keep Simon Thomas’ side in sixth, but are only two points adrift of Sungate in third. Shenfield AFC also picked up a big home win, as they triumphed 4 – 0 over Galleywood at St Martin’s Sch 3G. Jack Maleary, Ben Absolon, Jack Panons & Ben Carroll all netted here to send them three points clear in ninth, with matches in hand over most of the teams around them. ‘Wood’s tough season continues, as they are five points adrift of exiting the bottom two. Finally, Old Southendian got back to winning ways in some style as they won 6 – 0 at home to Toby at Garon Park, which sent them up to fifth on goal difference in what is a very tight chasing pack.

EOFL Divisions One & Two

Division One only saw three matches this week because of the weather but Epping Town got a huge 6 – 1 victory over strugglers Wakering Sports. Scout Bown netted four goals here for Stuart Hoskins’ team, to take his season’s league goal tally to 16. Edirin Eghwrudje and Abdul Kamara also scored here to add to the visitors’ pain and reduce leaders Harold Wood Athletic’s lead at the summit to four points. Beacon Hill Rovers also got a cucial victory, defeating Herongate Athletic 3 – 2 at Wickham Bishops. Bertie Whymark took his goal tally to seven this term with a double here, with William Strutt also netting for the hosts. Manford Way also drew 1 – 1 with Old Chelmsfordians, with Daniel Demain coming off the bench to score for the hosts there, with the point gained seeing them up to seventh in the table.

Into Division Two, there were some big results for the top four sides. Leaders Shoebury Town are four points clear at the top after an important 3 – 0 victory over Hashtag Utd Development, who dropped to third. Mechack-Kisoka Asuka scored another two goals to take his league goal tally to 13 this term. Substitute Enoch Gyimah added the other goal for Garry Johnson & John Galley’s side here. Wakering Sports Res are up to second spot after a 5 – 0 win against AS Rawreth at Cupid’s. May & Baker‘s Olympian side had to battle hard before completing a 4 – 3 victory at Catholic Utd Res, in a match moved to Waterside Farm Centre on Canvey. Carl Patten struck twice for Josh Lowbridge & Antony McDonald’s side, with Darren Seymour and Alfie Horan also scoring for the visitors there, who stay sixth but are only four points behind Wakering Sports Res in second, which endorses how tight the top half of the table is.

Elsewhere, Hutton Res moved up to eighth following a big 3 – 2 win at Wakebury. Thomas Price, Billy Chilcott and Ronnie Richardson-Cook all netted here for the visitors. Finlay Dorrell & Ben Perry responded for Matt Cardy’s team here but they lost ground on the top two. The other result saw Old Southendian Res win 4 – 2 at Rayleigh Town Res.

EOFL Divisions Three, Four & Five

In Division Three, Basildon Town Res are eight points clear at the summit after a 2 – 1 victory over local rivals Pitsea Athletic Res. Jamie Bradbourn’s brace sealed the points for the hosts, overturning Ath’s goal by substitute Carlos Dias. Ath fell to their first defeat this term & dropped to fourth. Hullbridge Sports Res are up to second after a comprehensive 8 – 0 victory at strugglers Corinthians Res. Jay Knight, Harry Mole and substitute George Mole all got doubles here, with Joe Tuskin and Joseph Gray strikes adding further gloss to the score-line.

Leigh Town Res are now third after a 5 – 2 success at home to Springfield Res at John Burrows Rec. Chris Pope netted twice here for Town, with Jack Pearman, Steve Birnie and Joshua Dalton all on target to render Liam England & William Roe goals for Springfield as consolation goals. Chingford Athletic Res grabbed a 4 – 1 victory at Old Chelmsfordians Res, with the ensemble cast of Luke Dimond, Bilel Benyoucef, George Miller and replacement Conor Medhurst all scoring for Ath.

Moving into Division Four, and Leigh Ramblers Res gained ground on second-placed Collier Row with a 1 – 0 victory at Forest Row. Luis Bracci got the decisive goal there, to raise his side up to third in the table. In the only other game in the division, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res were held 1 – 1 by Ongar Town at Silver Leys. Matthew Allen scored for Swifts, with Benjamin Adams responding for Ongar. Swifts drop to fifth, while Ongar are in eighth.

Finally for the League action this week, In Division Five the leaders are Manford Way Res, who won 4 – 1 at AS Rawreth Res. Callum Thomas, Luke Bennett, Charlie Ewing & Rakim Janneh all netted to extend their lead at the top to five points. Justin Burrell got the solitary goal back for the Rawreth team, who are three points adrift at the bottom. Wakebury Res moved into second spot following a 3 – 1 triumph over Basildon Town A at Shoebury Park. Ross Barnes’ treble saw Joe Creak’s side to their seventh win this term. Jamie Miller got the reply for Bas, who are now in sixth.

Elsewhere, Runwell Sports Res are up to fourth after they won 1 – 0 at home to Sungate Res. Daniel Hobbs got the only goal there at St Luke’s Park. The other result saw Shoebury Town Res draw 1 – 1 with Collier Row A at the Ekco Sports Club (Pitch 2).

In the Cup action this weekend, Canning Town emerged with a 4 – 3 win on penalties in the Senior League Cup after drawing 1 – 1 with Division One side Harold Hill in the early kick-off at Noak Hill 3G.

In the one match in the Reserve League Cup, Herongate Athletic Res got a morale-boosting 2 – 1 victory over Harold Wood Athletic Res, thanks to goals from Kemston Allen and replacement Jasper Stuckey. Josh Portway got the reply for Harold Wood’s Ressie side there but they exited the Cup here.

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian Lge & Cups (Sat 3 Dec) [EOFL 22-23 5.12.22]

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

Hello & welcome to the first edition in December of the Essex Olympian League round-up. This week, we look at the action in all divisions from Saturday 3 December, and we begin with the Cup competitions this weekend.

Essex Premier Cup – Round Four

This week we begin with the Essex Premier Cup fourth round. Premier Division side Toby defeated Essex Alliance League Senior side Kit Out London 3 – 0 at Nursery Sports Ground. Callum Mann, Jake Jones & Luis Ruiz all netted to seal progression to the last eight for Mark Jones’ side. Fellow top-tier side Rayleigh Town also went through after a 3 – 0 victory at Division One side Beacon Hill Rovers. Harry Talbot netted twice for Paul Higgins’ side here, with Jack Long again on target to seal the win. EOFL Prem leaders Hutton had a battle before winning 3 – 2 against Border League side Dunmow Town at Hannakins Farm, after extra time. Will Marlowe, Rodney Wilson & replacement David Johnson got the crucial goals there for the Reds. There was a win for Shenfield AFC in their local derby with Harold Wood Athletic, as another double for Ben Absolon secured a 2 – 1 win for AFC, with Zach Holding getting the solitary goal for the second-tier side.

Meanwhile, there was a real battle at Stambridge Memorial Ground which saw Division One side Corinthians narrowly defeat Premier side Leigh Ramblers 4 — 3. Bailey Moss’ treble & a goal for Bill Wilton secured an excellent victory for Chris Stoneham’s team, outdoing strikes for the Rams by Tom Franks, George Moxon and Matthew Brinklow. The lowest-ranked EOFL side in the competition – Division Two’s Wakering Sports Res , produced an excellent display to secure a 3 – 2 success against Essex Alliance League Senior Division side Chadwell Heath Spartans at Cupid’s. Connor Fardyga scored another two goals, and substitute Oliver Greene also netted for Sports. Joe Butcher & Jon Evans goals for the Spartans made it tight but it was a tough afternoon for Aaron Hunwicks’ side.

Finally, Catholic Utd put in a good performance to defeat Essex & Suffolk Border League Premier side Colne Athletic 5 – 2 at the Len Forge 3G, in the match I attended on Saturday. A brace for Aaron Baldwin added to goals by Louie Hay, Franklin Craik & a James Warder spot-kick to see the Super Hoops through & make it seven Olympian League sides in the quarter-finals this term, thus continuing the dominance by EOFL sides in recent years, in this competition.

If you’d like more on the win for Catholic Utd. my report is here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2022/12/04/s22-23-match-report-catholic-utd-5-2-colne-athletic-sat-3-dec-epc/

EOFL Reserve League Cup

Two matches to note in the Ressie League Cup. Firstly, Collier Row Res produced a fine performance to win 4 – 0 at Old Southendian Res, with Aloisio Dos Santos netting twice, along with goals from Charlie Quant & Ryan Costello to ensure the win for Mark Lee’s side. Leigh Ramblers Res joined them in the next round after a narrow 1 – 0 win in their derby with Leigh Town Res at Belfairs. Luis Bracci got the winning penalty with five minutes left to seal the tie.

EOFL Premier Division & Division One

In the top-tier this week, there was two vital wins for teams in the bottom three. Firstly, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts gained ground on the teams above them with a 5 – 0 triumph over Galleywood at Silver Leys. Mitchell Burr’s fine treble was added to by goals for Valter Simao & Edward Atkinson-Purse to ensure a fine win and leave ‘Wood three points adrift at the bottom. Springfield also got an important 2 – 1 victory at Runwell Sports, with Lewis Chapman & an OG ensuring Allan Fenn’s side got the win. Finally, Sungate had a Solomon Asomah strike to thank for a 1 – 0 win over Old Southendian which sees them rise to second spot.

In Division One, Epping Town cut the deficit to leaders Harold Wood Athletic to seven points after a 5 – 2 victory at home to Harold Hill. Chris Gormley let the way with a superb hat-trick, with goals from Abdul Kamara & Scout Bown adding to Hill’s pain. Old Chelmsfordians moved back up to third after a 6 – 1 win at home to ACD Utd, and Manford Way went up to seventh spot after a comprehensive 4 – 0 success at home to winless Wakering Sports. Daniel Demain, David Alele, James Dobson & an OG secured a good win for Colin Dobson’s team.

EOFL Divisions Two, Three, Four & Five

In Division Two, with leaders Shoebury Town not in action, the chasing pack all got important wins. Hashtag Utd Development remain second after a enthralling 8 – 1 victory at Rayleigh Town Res. Jay Knight got a fine treble, with an ensemble cast of Thomas Matthew, Josh Jarvis, Tony Stevens, Matthew Gauci & Tommy Green all grabbing a goal each for Denis Simpson’s team. Harold Wood Athletic Res are two points behind in third spot after a battling 3 – 2 win away at Hutton Res. Kieron Moynihan, Max London & Matthew Harris all scored for Steve Hubbard’s side there. Thomas Price & Ronnie Richardson-Cook both scored for the hosts there at Polo Fields.

Meanwhile, Wakebury are up to fourth after a 2 – 0 victory over third-bottom Catholic Utd Res at Cupid’s. Finlay Dorrell & Jordan Farrell both netted for Matt Cardy’s side there. And last but not least in this division, May & Baker EOFL secured another fine win with a 6 – 3 triumph over AS Rawreth. Jack O’Connor led the way for the hosts with a double, while Carl Patten, Kane Messenger, Darren Seymour & Alfie Horan all netted too to ensure they are eight points clear in sixth place. Billy Brown’s double & a goal from substitute Hamoud Salum accounted for the Rawreth goals here.

In Division Three, Basildon Town Res remain seven points clear at the summit after a fine 5 – 0 triumph at Springfield Res. Jamie Bradbourn’s double, allied with goals for Antony Aylett, Joe Fogarty & substitute Ashley Drury ensured the points went back with the visitors. Second-placed Pitsea Athletic look the most likely side to be able to catch the leaders, but had to settle for a narrow 1 – 0 home win against Buckhurst Hill U23. Hullbridge Sports Res lost ground on the top two after losing 1 – 3 to Old Chelmsfordians Res, who remain in seventh.

Moving into Division Four now, unbeaten leaders Roydon retained their three-point lead after a 4 – 0 win against Shenfield AFC Res at Roydon Rec. Nader Benzid, Connor Riddoch, Rene Pivarnik & Mike Hayes all scored for Nigel Jordon’s team in that game. Collier Row are eight points clear in second after a 3 – 1 victory over Leytonstone Utd in the ‘Forest Row derby’. Elsewhere, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res went three points clear in fifth spot after a 3 – 1 win at Herongate Athletic Res. Matthew Allen got a fine double here, with Archie Gerard also on target for the Swifts side. Finally, Galleywood Res defeated Ongar Town 2 – 0 at Slades Lane, with Ebenezer Fasoranti & Aryan Tathgar goals giving them only their second league win this term & also saw them rise out of the bottom two.

In Division Five, we have new leaders after Manford Way Res won 5 – 0 in their top-two clash at Basildon Town A. There were doubles for Luke Bennett & Callum Thomas, as well as a goal for George Green as Manford went two points clear at the summit. Wakebury Res also won as they defeated Sungate Res 5 – 1 at Shoebury Park.Liam Dunne & Riley Oliver both scored twice for Joe Creak’s side, with Charlie Canning’s goal sealing their fourth straight victory and a rise to third spot, three points behind Basildon Town A. In the other game, Canning Town Res got a comfortable 4 – 0 success over Runwell Sports Res to fortify their position in sixth.

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian Lge & Cups (Sat 12 Nov) [EOFL 22-23 14.11.22]

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 this Rememberance Weekend or Saturday 12 November, we look at the action in all divisions, plus an extra section on the various Cup competitions this weekend. Lest we forget.

AS Rawreth’s Sonny Newcombe (13) jostling for the ball v Shoebury this weekend

EOFL Premier Division

Firstly in the top-tier, Runwell Sports flew up into seventh spot with a 4 – 1 victory over visitors Bishops Stortford Swifts. Charlie Little & Gianni Frankis both notched doubles to see Rob Hodgson’s side to a big win. Alex Scott-Bell got an eventual consolation for Swifts, who remain a point clear of the bottom. Old Southendian got an good 2 – 0 win at Springfield, with Nico Dubouchet & Jack Lelliott both on target for Altan Ali’s side who for the moment go into sixth spot. Finally, Canning Town missed the chance to gain ground on the top two (who were in Cup action) as they lost 4 – 3 at Sungate, who rose to fourth, behind Canning by virtue of the latter scoring more goals.

Shoebury & Rawreth observe minute’s silence before KO

EOFL Divisions One & Two

In the only game in Division One this week owing to Cup action, second-placed Epping Town are seven points adrift of leaders Harold Wood Athletic after drawing 2 – 2 with mid-table Harold Hill. Scout Bown got both goals for player-boss Stuart Hoskins’ team there.

Moving into Division Two, Harold Wood Athletic Res kept up the pressure on the top two with a 5 – 1 triumph at Old Southendian Res. Chay Saggers scored for the OS side but Ath went three points clear in third, thanks to braces for Matt Harris & Thomas Butler, with Nazarij Bilanovszkij also on target. The bottom six clubs are seperated by only three points after Catholic Utd Res defeated Hutton Res 2 – 1 and Rayleigh Town Res held May & Baker EOFL 1 – 1, with Byron Down netting for the home side at London Road.

In the match I attended this week, Shoebury Town were given a test initially before powering to a 6 – 2 victory over AS Rawreth at Ekco Sports Club. Mechack-Kisoka Asuka netted a fine treble to lead the scorers, with captain Callum Merenda, Suhail Yasin & Ryan Galley all also scoring for John Galley & Garry Johnson’s side, who are now three points clear at the summit. Sonny Newcombe & captain Muntizir Hussain netted for Shane Bird’s side. If you’d like more on this match, my report can be viewed here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2022/11/12/s22-23-match-report-shoebury-town-6-2-as-rawreth-sat-12-nov-eofl/

EOFL Divisions Three, Four & Five

Into Division Three now, Basildon Town Res are five points clear at the top after a 4 – 1 success at Old Chelmsfordians Res. Keith King netted a fine treble, with Antony Aylett also on target to make it 35 league goals already this term (at an average of 3.88 goals per game) for Bas. Buckhurst Hill U23 are also well-placed, moving up to third after a 2 – 0 victory at Hullbridge Sports Res. Jacob Sember Richards & Olaobajuwan Olagbaju both scored for Darren Gosnell’s side. Finally, Springfield Res are up to fifth after a 3 – 2 win at Corinthians Res. Billy Headland, Edward Coggins & replacement Michael Loannou all scoring for ‘Field there.

In Division Four, Leigh Ramblers Res strengthened their fourth position with a 3 – 1 victory at Ongar Town. Alex Goodson, Dominic North & Ethan Nunn all netted at Marks Hall to leave Town in eighth. Galleywood Res got their first win this term, winning 3 – 2 at strugglers Leytonstone Utd. An OG, Alfie Hooper & Joshua Lapidus goals saw them to a vital win. Elsewhere, Roydon were held 1 – 1 by Herongate Athletic Res, with Nader Benzid getting the goal for the leaders. Collier Row are up to a second spot, a point behind Roydon after a 2 – 0 win at Shenfield AFC Res. Jake Skeet’s seventh league goal this term & substitute Freddie Donkor’s goal confirmed the points for Row. Finally, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res celebrated a big 6 – 1 triumph over Wakering Sports A at Silver Leys. Matthew Allen’s treble plus strikes by David Falzon, Ewan Rockell & Huey Reid saw them to victory & up to fifth. James Clark hot the solitary reply for the Sports’ third-side.

In Division Five, Wakebury Res became the first league side to beat leaders Basildon Town A & they did so in some style, winning 6 – 2 at Basildon Sports Club. Ross Barnes netted a hat-trick here for Joe Creak’s side, with Tommy Wolfe netting two more & Luke Abbott also ontarget. Luke Soley & substitute Alex Shields got replies for Bas but they now only lead the table on goal difference. That is because Runwell Sports Res got a 2 – 2 draw at Manford Way Res. Max Harrington & Benjamin See got the goals for Sports, while Manford’s goals came from Luke Bennett’s double. The other game in the division saw a huge win for Sungate Res as they won 8 – 2 at AS Rawreth Res, which earned them their first win this term.

Essex Premier Cup – Round Three

In the first of our ‘in-focus’ matches in the EPC, Shenfield AFC got back to winning ways with a hard-fought 3 – 2 victory over Essex Senior Reserve side White Ensign Res at St Martins’ 3G. Marlon Stratford, Luke Williamson & Courtney Justin got the goals for the home side in that tie as AFC went through. Catholic Utd also made the fourth round with a 2 – 0 victory over Heybridge Swifts Res at the Len Forge. Aaron Baldwin getting both goals for Utd with gives them a much-need confidence boost ahead of their other Cup fixtures this month. At Belfairs, Leigh Ramblers powered to a terrific 5 – 2 victory over Border League side Dedham Old Boys. Scott Clark continued his good season with a double here, while Callum Morris, Billy Field & an OG rounded out the scorers for the hosts.

Ellsewhere, Toby put in a clinical display to defeat Chelmsford City Res 5 – 0 at the Nursery Sports Ground. Jamie Simpkins & Oliver Dingli both got doubles, with Ben Picton getting the opener there for Mark Jones’ side. Harold Wood Athletic put in another excellent display to defeat Essex Alliance Senior side Frenford Development 4 – 3 at the Rec. Billy Gray, Billy Spencer, Mitchell Prue & Max Shepherd all notched as Ath progressed.

Rayleigh Town also progessed with a 6 – 0 trouncing of Galleywood at Slades Lane. Sonny Woodward netted a treble here to lead the way, with George Vile, George Aston & substitute Harry Talbot also netting. Wakering Sports Res also got a big 5 – 1 win ag home to Alresford Colne Rangers at Cupid’s, with Connor Fardyga again leading the scorers with a double here, with Billy Cottrill, Charlie Smith and a thunderbolt from David Watson adding more pain to the visitors. Finally for this section, Corinthians won 3 – 2 at Hashtag Utd Res, with a brace for Bailey Moss & one for Max Jones proving enough to win at Barleylands.

Other Results In EPC:

Colne Athletic 2 – 1 Old Chelmsfordians

Hutton 2 – 1 Kelvedon Hatch

May & Baker Res (EAL side) 1 – 1p ACD Utd (3 – 5 on pens)

Pitsea Athletic 1 – 2 Beacon Hill Rovers

EOFL Senior & Reserve Cups

In the single match in the EOFL Senior Cup, Wakebury progressed with a very good 4 – 1 victory over goal-hungry Chinford Athletic Res at Cupid’s. Finlay Dorrell again netted twice for Matt Cardy’s team, with Junior Lawrence & Isaac Bello also on target for the hosts. Leighton Hughes-Franklin got the reply for Ath but they exited the competition here.

In RLC: Shoebury Town Res 1 – 0 Toby Res

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian Lge & Cups (Sat 8 Oct) [EOFL 22-23 10.10.22]

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 8 October, we look at the action in all League divisions from Two to Five, plus an extra section on the Essex Premier Cup & the EOFL Reserve League Cup. Thanks as ever to all the regular readers of this column & to all the clubs.

No EOFL Premier Division & Division One action this week

EOFL Divisions Two & Three

We begin this week in Division Two, with a handsome win for Hashtag Utd Dev as they prevailed 12 – 1 at AS Rawreth. Samuel Pratt struck four goals here, with Matthew Gauci notching twice. There was a hefty ensemble of Josh Jarvis, Thomas Matthew, Jay Knight, Chandler Wray, Tommy Green & replacement Jake Smith who all scored as well. Wakebury also got a morale-boosting win, 5 – 2 at Catholic Utd Res. Will Wheeler, Mark Frostick, Ben Morley, Junior Lawrence & substitute Isaac Bello all netted for Matt Cardy’s side in that game. The other result saw Old Southendian Res draw 3 – 3 at May & Baker EOFL.

Moving now into the solitary match in Division Three, as Basildon Town Res got another big win, 7 – 0 at home to Corinthians Res. Harry Payne came off the bench to score a treble, with the supporting cast of Louis Hill, Antony Aylett, Jamie Miller & Billy Hutchinson all scoring too.

EOFL Divisions Four & Five

In Division Four, Roydon got a big 5 – 0 victory over Galleywood Res. Substitute Mike Hayes netted twice for the hosts, with Connor Presland, Lucas Riddoch & fellow replacement Lee Wicks secured the points. Herongate Athletic Res also got the points with a 2 – 0 success at Leytonstone Utd. Kieron Wilson-Fowler & substitute Kai Redmond got the goals there. The other result in the division was Ongar Town’s 3 – 1 victory against Pitsea Athletic Res at Marks Hall.

In Division Five, the top four sides all won. Basildon Town A are still top after a 4 – 0 victory at Canning Town Res. Daniel Kujinga got all four goals for the visitors as they stayed a point clear. Runwell Sports Res are in second place after a 9 – 1 victory over Shoebury Town Res at St Luke’s. Gianni Frankis scored four goals here, with Harry Ford scoring two goals as well as Luke Smith and substitutes James Clarke & Bryce Comer. Manford Way Res are in third after a 5 – 3 success at Sungate Res. Callum Thomas scored two goals for them, with Charlie Webb, Charlie Thomas & Bradley Wilkins all also on target.

Lastly for the League action, Collier Row Res are in fourth spot after a terrific 11 – 1 win over AS Rawreth Res. Jordan Lee & Raheem Bravo both scored trebles for the Romford-based side, with Eric Eze & George Coker netting twice each also, with Ryan Costello also on target.

Essex Premier Cup

In our additional section on the EPC this week, we start with ACD Utd progressing with a 6 – 1 victory over Springfield Res. Alex Bessent netted twice for Michael Wade’s side, with Jacob Dingli, Samuel Payne, Scott Perkins & substitute Connor Lambert all netting on a good day for them. Catholic Utd had a scare before joining ACD as they had extra time to deal with before winning 4 – 2 at Buckhurst Hill U23. Aaron Baldwin & Ben Burrows scored for Utd, with Harry Maslin & Harvey Woods scoring for Hill. Extra-time strikes by Tom Elliott & Adrian Maponga sealed the win for Simon Thomas’ side.

Frenford Development got a fine 3 – 2 win at fellow Step 7 side Canning Town. Edem Tetteh, Isima Iguisi & substitute Sebastian Ramirez goals saw the EAL Senior side through. EOFL Division One side Beacon Hill Rovers made a superb comeback as they won 4 – 3 at Middlesex County Premier side Clapton CFC. Greg Moorse, Fred Taylor & Reggie Nelson goals saw the Tons take the lead, but a treble from Karl Swanborough turned the tables & Bertie Whymark also netted for Rovers. Galleywood also got the win as they defeated Leigh Town Res 4 – 0 at John Burrows Rec. Ben Smith scored a treble with Jamie Lockwood getting the other goal.

Elsewhere, Rayleigh Town also went through following a 3 – 0 victory at Manford Way. George Vile, Jack Long & William Vile got the goals for Paul Higgins’ team. Harold Wood Athletic also won, as Jacob Roberts & Matty Donovan goals saw them to a 2 – 1 win at EAL team Oakside, after extra-time. Old Chelmsfordians defeated fellow EOFL Division One side Harold Hill 3 – 1 , thanks to a brace from Joe Kemp and one goal from Max Johnson. Troy Tizard-Cleghorn responded for Billy Cove’s team.

Meanwhile, Pitsea Athletic won with a 3 – 2 triumph over Hullbridge Sports Res. Kwadwo Asante, Reece Stone & Josh Ledger all netted there at Basildon Sports Club. Toby also booked their place in the next round withh a 2 – 1 success over Shoebury Town. Jamie Simpkins & replacement Oliver Dingli both scored for Mark Jones’ side. Leigh Ramblers also won through after a 3 – 1 triumph at Wakering Sports. Ryan Wyatt scored for Wakering, but goals from Scott Clark, Jack Gardner & an OG secured the win.

Our final two matches start with a excellent game which Alresford Colne Rangers progress with a 5 – 4 victory at Springfield. Josh Gray scored two goals for Rangers, but further goals from Finley Hughes, Sam Hume & Ryan Lewis sealed the win. Strikes by Mason Sprott, Harrison Elles, Cameron Brown & substitute Olle Gentry made it close but interim boss Cameron Scorer’s side went out. Lastly, there was a rare scoreline at St Martins Sch as Shenfield AFC trounced May & Baker Res 21 – 0. Substitute Alex Tredgett led the way with five goals, Jack Shaw & Luke Williamson also scored four goals each. Frankie Fealty & Ben Absolon netted two more goals apiece and the scorers were rounded out by Elliott Thompson, Ben Carroll, Samuel Lock & an OG.

Other Results

Harold Wood Athletic Res 2 – 3 Dedham Old Boys

Hashtag Utd Res 4 – 0 Hutton Res

Herongate Athletic 1 – 4 Barnston

Hutton 1 – 0 Rayleigh Town Res

Oakside 1 – 2 Harold Wood Athletic (AET)

Old Chelmsfordians Res 1 – 4 Colne Athletic

Old Southendian 2 – 3 Woodford East

Wakering Sports Res 2 – 1 Frenford Res

West Bergholt 6 – 1 Toby Res

EOFL Reserve League Cup

In the Ressie League Cup, Leigh Ramblers Res went through after a 3 – 0 victory over Wakering Sports A. Jacob Meads scored twice & Charlie Batchelor got the other goal at Belfairs Park. Also, Wakebury Res also won, getting a surprise 4 – 1 win over EOFL Div Four side Shenfield AFC at Shoebury Park, Ross Barnes netted twice for the hosts, with Luke Abbott and Jamie Oates also on target for Joe Creak’s team. Jack Panons got the solitary reply for AFC’s second team.

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

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

Match Photos by Scott W

Hello & welcome to the round-up from the action in the Essex Olympian League. This week on Saturday 17 September, we look at the action in all six divisions, plus an extra section on the Essex Premier Cup which also got underway once again this weekend. The above image is taken from a fine minute’s silence observed to mark Queen Elizabeth II, at Rayleigh Town v Leigh Ramblers as was the case at all EOFL matches and elsewhere this weekend.

EOFL – Saturday 17 September

Still from Rayleigh Town v Leigh Ramblers this weekend

EOFL Premier Division & Division One

We start this week in the top-tier with Toby‘s 3 – 2 win over Bishop’s Stortford Swifts at the Nursery Sports Ground. Jamie Simpkins, Oliver Dingli and Luis Ruiz’s spot-kick were enough to send Mark Jones’ team to victory, overhauling goals from Jordan Robertson and Jack Clarke for Swifts to confirm the points. Hutton had a Stephen Judge goal to thank for a 1 – 0 win over Old Southendian at Chadfields which keeps them top by three points.

In the match I saw myself at Thames Road, Rayleigh Town left it late to secure a comeback 4 – 3 win over Leigh Ramblers in a superb match. Frank Hession-Harris, Will Baldry, Harry Talbot and substitute Philip Anunwa’s strike overturned a brace from Andrew Webster and a stunner from Scott Clark to grab the points. If you’d like more on this match, my report is available here:

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

Finally in the Premier, Springfield were held 2 – 2 by Canning Town. Emmanuel Etcheri and Arinze Ossai both netted for Franco Zabotti’s side.

In Division One, Harold Wood Athletic continued their fine form with a 5 – 0 victory over Wakering Sports at Cupid’s. James Pottle netted twice again here, with the supporting cast of Leroy Griffiths, Billy Gray and Connor Sheehan all netting for John Field’s team, who are three points clear at the summit. Corinthians sit second after a 4 – 2 success at home to Herongate Athletic. Bailey Moss netted another fine treble here for Chris Stoneham’s team, with Max Jones adding the other after coming off the bench. Both the top two remain unbeaten.

Still in the second-tier, Manford Way got their first win of the new term in some style as they won 5 – 1 at home to Leigh Town. David Alele, Richard Kadima, Dawid Potoczek, Alfie Smith and substitute Samuel Oramadike all scored to secure the win. Zack Walker got the consolation goal in what proved to be boss Antony Lane’s last game in charge, I’d like to wish him well for the future.

EOFL Divisions Two & Three

In the only Division Two match this week, Harold Wood Athletic Res were too strong on this day as they defeated May & Baker EOFL 5 – 2 at Harold Wood Rec. Thomas Butler scored twice here for the hosts, with substitutes Del Hawtin, Lennie Milton-White & Sam Tampkins all netting as well.

In Division Three, Hullbridge Sports Res were a rare side who handed Bickhurst Hill U23 a defeat at home, with Hullbridge winning 3 – 2. Joe Tuskin scored twice for the Sports’ developmental side, and Jay Knight was once again on the score-sheet. Stefanos Ladoukakis and Jack Barnes goals made it tight but ultimately the Buckhurst developmental side fell to defeat. Also, Leigh Town Res were 2 – 0 winners at Old Chelmsfordians Res, with Chris Pope and substitute Nathan Cox on target for Josh Burrage’s side. Lastly in Division Three, Pitsea Athletic were 3 – 1 victors over Springfield Res at Basildon Sports Club. Liam Jeffrey netted twice here, with replacement Carlos Dias adding his name on the score-sheet. Harrison Elles responded for the visitors.

EOFL Divisions Four & Five

Moving into Division Four now, Roydon continued their decent start with a 1 – 0 win away at Shenfield AFC Res. Rene Pivarnik was the hero as they celebrated another welcome win. Leigh Ramblers Res also got a huge win with an 8 – 0 triumph over Ongar Town at Belfairs. Substitute Temi Adebayo struck three goals here, with Luis Bracci adding two goals plus there was one goal each for Taylor Stewart, Matthew Pooley and replacement Cameron Jarvis. Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res also got maximum points with a 4 – 1 win over Galleywood Res at Silver Leys. Substitute Matt Kemp led the charge with two goals, with Henry Harnack and Matthew Allen adding to the visitors’ pain.

Elsewhere in Division Four, Herongate Athletic Res got all three points with a 4 – 0 victory over Pitsea Athletic Res at St Clere’s 3G. Kai Redmond scored twice here, with Kemston Allen and Kieron Wilson-Fowler also finding the net in this good win. The other game saw Collier Row grab a huge 7 – 1 victory over Wakering Sports Res at Forest Row Centre.

In Division Five, Basildon Town A got a big 7 – 0 triumph at AS Rawreth Res, with Harry Payne scoring a treble, Scott Read adding two goals and Rodney Wilson getting the other strike. Wakebury Res also got three points, as they won 2 – 1 at Shoebury Town Res. Tommy Wolfe got both goals for Joe Creak’s team there. The other result saw Runwell Sports Res defeat Epping Town Res 5 – 0 at St Luke’s Park. Benjamin See and substitute Wallace Hoyi both netted twice here, with Alex Gray grabbing the other goal.

Essex Premier Cup R1

So the EPC got underway with the various leagues at Step 7 of the pyramid (Essex Olympian, Essex Alliance, Essex & Suffolk Border etc) facing each other as well as some Reserve sides. We begin our in-focus look at seven matches with Shoebury Town‘s superb 5 – 1 victory over Olympian League local rivals Old Southendian Res. Kyle McAlindon came off the bench to score twice for Garry Johnson & John Galley’s team here, with Kian Bradshaw, Aaron Marshall and Enoch Gyimah also finding the net. Jack Pagett’s goal for the OS side did little to inspire them unfortunately.

In the lunchtime game, Catholic Utd negoiated a tricky trip to Barking U23 as Utd prrevailed 4 – 0 at Mayesbrook Park 3G. Louis Robinson, Franklin Craik, Ben Burrows and James Warder all netted for Simon Thomas’ team as they progressed. Beacon Hill Rovers went through thanks to a 3 – 2 win over Saffron Walden Town Res with Charles Brewer, Ashley Hill and Jack Walker all netting for the victors there. Harold Hill also had a good day, as they defeated fellow Olympian side AS Rawreth 4 – 1. Robbie Farrell, Charles Georgiou, Joe Killingback and Freddie Madle all score to see Billy Cove’s side through.

ACD Utd also went through after despatching Belle Vue SC 4 – 1 at Westlands. Jacob Dingli scored twice here for Michael Wade’s team, with Scott Perkins and an OG accounting for the other goals. Galleywood were made to work hard for their 3 – 2 victory over West Essex Development, with Roman Sparks’ double leading the way and Ben Smith also notching for the hosts there. Lastly for this week, Old Chelmsfordians progressed with a 3 – 1 success over Takeley Res. The trio of Max Johnson, Shane Pritchard and Greg Strong were all on target to see the hosts through. Alfie Nicholls got the solitary reply for the ESL Reserve side.

Other Results in EPC:

Alresford Colne Rangers 5 – 0 Runwell Sports

Chingford Athletic EOFL 3 – 4 Wakering Sports Res

Clapton CFC H – W Corinthians Res (Home Walkover)

Colne Athletic 1 – 0 Sungate

Dagenham Utd 2 – 1 Catholic Utd Res

Epping Town 3 – 4 Stanway Rovers U23

Hashtag Utd Dev 2 – 3 Tiptree Heath

Wakebury A – W Kelvedon Hatch (Away Walkover)