Ongar Town Res – survivor16b

S21-22 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League (Sat 2 Apr) [EOFL 21/22 4.4.22]

Archive Image – Matt Tonking [#9] steps up to take FK for OS v Hutton

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

Hello all and welcome to my round-up of the action in the Essex Olympian League, on Saturday 2 April. The focus this week is on the League action and we have additional sections on Divisions Four & Five. Thank you for reading.

Essex Olympian Lge – Saturday 2 April

EOFL Premier Division, Divisions One & Two

In the Premier Division, Rayleigh Town got the big win this weekend to stay in the title hunt, as they got a 3 – 1 triumph over rivals Hutton at London Road. Will Baldry, Liam Oliver and Harry Talbot all netted for Paul Higgins’ side as they stayed second. Stephen Judge got the reply for the visitors. Fellow Non-League writer Pete Dudley was there and his report can be viewed here: http://pedroslocalfootiefix.blogspot.com/2022/04/rayleigh-town-3-hutton-1.html

Elsewhere, Basildon Town remain third after a 3 – 1 victory over Kelvedon Hatch at Gardiners Lane. The trio of Graham Harrison, Rhys Fatt and James O’Brien got the goals for Marcus Bowers’ team there. They still have two games in hand on the top two with a four point deficit to make up. Sidney Walker netted for Kelvedon , who are in fifth spot. Leaders Ongar Town remain three points clear at the summit after a 5 – 1 success at bottom side Harold Wood Athletic. Joe Lilly netted twice for Richard Ponsford’s side here, with Harry Rawlins, Brandon Wood and an OG accounting for the other goals. Max London responded for Ath but they have six games left to overhaul a nine point deficit to third-bottom Galleywood. Speaking of Galleywood, they got a big 2 – 1 victory at Shenfield AFC, with Harry Bond and Tyler Tredgett netting for ‘Wood there.

Also, Leigh Ramblers got a massive three points by overcoming Old Southendian 3 – 0 at Belfairs. George Moxon, Tom Franks and Ryan Lowe (on his 200th appearance for the club) all netted for Mark Hunter’s team here. They have four games left to gather as many points as possible as all the sides below them have matches in hand on them. OS remain seventh. Finally, Catholic Utd had goals from Tom Elliott and replacement Joe O’Kane to thank for a 2 – 0 success at home to Bishop’s Stortford Swifts, which keeps them in sixth spot and a chance of a top-five finish. Swifts remain tenth.

In Division One, the only match was a big one which saw Epping Town grab a 3 – 2 triumph at rivals Beacon Hill Rovers, thanks to a fine treble by Joe Rickett. The win takes Epping six points clear of the bottom two. Rovers will need at least one win from their last two matches to avoid a bottom-two finish.

Moving into Division Two now, Hutton Res drew 1 – 1 with AS Rawreth in a big battle at the bottom of the division. Both teams remain in the bottom three, with Rawreth having one more match to play. There was a walkover win for Manford Way also, over bottom side Rochford Town which saw them rise back up to third spot. It’s worth noting also that all of the top four sides have three matches remaining.

EOFL Divisions Three, Four & Five

Into Division Three, Hashtag Utd Dev took a big step towards the title with a huge 10 – 1 triumph at Toby Res. The ensemble cast of goal-scorers for Denis Simpson’s included doubles for Shaun Warren, Matthew Gauci and Josh Jarvis with Samuel Pratt, Chandler Wray, Jake Smith and Bradley Bunker all adding one each to take them to the top, with three matches left. Also, Hullbridge Sports Res drew 3 – 3 with Corinthians Res at Lower Road. Jay Knight got two goals for Sports here, with Owen Barrett also scoring for the hosts.

Moving into Division Four, Springfield Res got a important 3 – 1 victory over Leytonstone Utd to remain second, with two games in hand on nearest rivals Ongar Town Res, who also got three points after a 2 – 1 victory at Southend Manor Dev, in a match played at Cupid’s. Hudson Lawrence scored for Manor’s side there. Elsewhere, Old Chelmsfordians Res secured a 3 – 2 win at home to Galleywood Res, thanks to Timothy King who struck two twice for OC’s second side, with Shane Pritchard also finding the net. Oliver Sadler and Lee Judd responded for the visitors but they remain third-bottom. There are as many as four teams who could finish in second spot and the OC side and Roydon have the most matches left (four each) to play.At the bottom, Canning Town Res rounded out their campaign with a 3 – 1 win at home to Shenfield AFC Res, to record their second win this term but it is most likely they will still finish bottom of the table.

In Division Five, Old Barkabbeyans drew 4 – 4 with top four side Herongate Athletic Res at Barking Abbey. The point means the hosts go up to sixth, but this was their last match of the season so they could yet be caught by the two teams immediately below them in the standings. Herongate have two matches left. There was a walkover win for Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res as well over Runwell Sports Res, which sent Swifts top by two points and ended the Runwell team’s season, in which they will finish fifth.

EOFL Cups

EOFL Senior Lge Cup – Semi-Finals

Harold Hill 1 – 2 Canning Town

Sungate p1 – 1 Corinthians ( Sungate won 6-5 on penalties)

EOFL Reserve Lge Cup

Wakering Sports Res 6 – 1 Chingford Athletic Res

EOFL Res Lge Trophy

May & Baker A 2 – 1 Leigh Town Res

EOFL Denny King Cup

Runwell Sports 2 – 1 Collier Row

Snaresbrook p1 – 1 Wakering Sports (Snaresbrook won 7 – 6 on penalties)

Thanks again for reading.

S21-22 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League (Sat 26 Mar) [EOFL 21/22 21.3.22]

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

Hello all and welcome to my round-up of the action in the Essex Olympian League, on Saturday 19 March. This weekend saw a promotion all but confirmed in Divisions Two & Four. The focus remains on the League action and we will have additional sections on Divisions Four & Five. Thank you for reading.

Essex Olympian Lge – Saturday 26 March

Image from Wakebury v Harold Hill earlier this campaign

EOFL Premier Division, Divisions One & Two

In the Premier Division, Basildon Town gained ground on leaders Ongar Town (who were not in action this weekend) by claiming a narrow 2 – 1 victory at Sungate, with Rhys Fatt grabbing both goals for Marcus Bowers’ team. They are four points behind Ongar with two matches in hand. Rayleigh Town were held 1 – 1 by battling Leigh Ramblers at Belfairs, with Ryan Lowe netting for the Rams, and George Vile equalised from twelve yards for Town. Rayleigh remain second, but are three points adrift of the leaders, while the Rams rise one place to twelfth, but are one of four sides still in relegation danger. Another match with ramifications at both ends of the table saw Hutton emerge with a 4 – 1 triumph at Harold Wood Athletic, in another game played at Robert Clack 3G. Luke Ricketts struck twice for Matt Singh’s side, with James Gardner and replacement Abraham Eze also on target as they stayed fourth but in the title hunt with matches in hand. Harold Wood remain bottom, six points adrift of the third-bottom Galleywood.

Elsewhere, Old Southendian won their local derby with Catholic Utd 3 – 2, with Callum Ludlaim scoring two goals at Garon Park 3G, and Nick Henesy also netting as they went up to seventh spot with six matches remaining. Utd got their goals via Jack Thompson and player-boss Simon Thomas and stay ahead of their opponents by goal difference only, in sixth. Also, Springfield drew 2 – 2 with Canning Town in the early kick-off at Arun Park. Ryan Kelland and Reece Simpson scored for the hosts but Canning responded to claim a precious point and stay in touch with their rivals. Finally, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts drew 0 – 0 with Kelvedon Hatch, which means Swifts stay tenth and Kelvedon remain in fifth, twelve points clear of Catholic Utd and Old Southendian.

In Division One, the solitary match saw Toby grab a 3 – 0 win against strugglers Leigh Town in Newbury Park. The trio of Harry Barham, Albert Perry and Ben Picton all netted again for Mark Jones’ side to ensure the win which means a point in their last game next month will ensure a top-two finish, but a win would give them the title.

Moving into Division Two now, and ACD Utd took a big step towards the title after a narrow 1 – 0 win against May & Baker A at Westlands. Michael Wade’s 23rd league goal this term ensured the win which takes them five points clear at the summit, needing only five points to mathematically seal the league championship. That was because Harold Hill were held 3 – 3 at Shoebury Town. Player manager Garry Johnson, Kyle McAlindon and Cassidy Day all scored for Shoebury who rose to fifth with this decent result. AS Rawreth also got a vital win to aid their battle against relegation as they won 3 – 2 at home to Wakebury. Harry Kateley and Shaun Lewis-Evans replied for the Berries but their chances of a top-two finish took a dent here. Rawreth climb one spot to second-bottom after this victory.

Finally, Hutton Res were held 2 – 2 by Harold Wood Athletic Res at Polo Fields. Josh Portway got both strikes for the visitors there, who will probably be safe provided they grab one more win in their last three matches. The Hutton side will need as many points as possible as Rawreth behind them have an extra match left to play.

EOFL Divisions Three, Four & Five

Into Division Three, and Wakering Sports Res have moved right into contention for a top-two finish after a brilliant 6 – 2 victory at leaders Catholic Utd Res. Scott Clark took his season’s goal tally to fourteen with a double here, with Ashley Sexton also netting two along with one goal each for the division’s top-scorer Connor Fardyga and Ciaran Sweeney. Daniel Williams got both goals for Utd’s second side as they will likely need to win their last three games to stay in contention. Third-placed Hashtag Utd Dev were held 3 – 3 at a spirited Basildon Town Res. Jack Main got two goals for Bas, with Nathan Fisher also on the score-sheet. Matthew Gauci, Tommy Green and Samuel Pratt’s 16th league goal this term meant that Denis Simpson’s side claimed a point which importantly keeps them only two points away from the top two and have one game in hand on both of them. Town will finish fourth after playing their last league game here and have a 12-point lead on their nearest challengers Pitsea Athletic.

Speaking of the newcomers, Buckhurst Hill U23 continued their fine form by defeating Pitsea Athletic 3 – 1 at Roding Lane, which meant Darren Gosnell’s side rise up to sixth spot, with three matches left to play. Also, Collier Row ended their campaign with a fine 2 – 1 win at Leigh Town Res. Despite this result, they will finish in the bottom two and will likely face relegation.

Now into Division Four, and Chingford Athletic Res sealed the title (for all intents & purposes) in style with a 7 – 2 win at nearest challengers Roydon. Nader Benzid and substitute Jack Bayley-Etheridge got the goals for Roydon here. The Ath second-side will be in Division Three next term and Springfield Res might yet join them there after a 5 – 2 triumph over Canning Town Res in the late kick-off meant they went level on points with Roydon but stay third. The ensemble cast of scorers included Liam England, Jordan Denyer, William Roe, substitute Reece Simpson and fellow replacement Thomas Bloomfield. The Town side look set for a demotion as they will be unable to avoid finishing bottom.

Elsewhere, Leytonstone Utd had a James Medlock goal to thank for a 1 – 0 success at home to Galleywood Res. The result means they have a decent chance of avoiding a bottom two finish but their rivals have matches in hand. Also, Ongar Town Res defeated Wakering Sports A 2 – 1 to go up to fourth in the table.

In the sixth tier, the season is rapidly approaching its conclusion, and leaders Leigh Ramblers Res ended their campaign with a narrow 1 – 0 victory at Runwell Sports Res. Alex Goodson’s seventh league goal gave them the win which for now keeps them at the summit, although they could yet be overhauled. One of those sides in prime position to do that is Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res, who won 3 – 0 at Wakebury Res. Callum Blair Park, Henry Harnack and Lewis Wake got the goals here which means one more win for the Swifts second-side will secure them the Division Five title. The Wakebury side will finish bottom as they completed their campaign here and after the game, Reece Upcraft stood down from his role as Wakebury Res boss, I’d like to wish him well for the future, he will be replaced next season by Joe Creak (Source: Wakebury’s Twitter).

Elsewhere, Herongate Athletic Res got a terrific 7 – 2 win against Collier Row Res at Billericay Road. Lee Glynn scored twice here, with the array of other scorers being Jack Sparrow, Kurt Smith, Thomas Northwood, Jonathan Packer and substitute Benjamin Clarke. Ath went up to fourth spot with this win and still have a chance of a top-three finish as they have three matches left. Emmanuel Akinte and Mark Lee scored for the Row side here. Also, Snaresbrook Res defeated AS Rawreth Res 5 – 0 at Nutters Lane to go up to sixth in the standings, while Epping Town Res got a walkover win against Old Barkabbeyans, meaning they will finish ninth as this was their last game of the term as well.

EOFL Denny King Cup Result

Old Chelmsfordians 1 – 2 Manford Way

Thanks again for reading.

S21-22 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League (Sat 5 Mar) [EOFL 21/22 7.3.22]

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

Hello all and welcome to my round-up of the action in the Essex Olympian League, on Saturday 5 March. This weekend saw a large number of postponements, unsurpriningly down to the miserable weather Essex has had this week. As ever, there was a number of competitions being played (the EOFL Senior Cup, Reserve League Cup, Ressie Trophy, Denny King Memorial Cup & Essex Premier Cup), our focus remains on the League action. This week, EOFL clubs were grateful for the virtue of artificial pitches with several matches moved, We have action from the top three tiers, plus we have sections on Essex Premier Cup & Division Five.

Main Image is from my featured match this week: Rochford Town 0 – 2 Manford Way, a link to that report is mentioned later. Many thanks for reading.

Essex Olympian Lge – Saturday 5 March

EOFL Premier Division, Divisions One & Two

In the top-tier, all three games that got played were on artificial pitches. At Garon Park, Basildon Town got a fine 5 – 2 win over Old Southendian. Rhys Fatt and Graham Harrison both scored two goals each and Ryan Scougall also netted for Marcus Bowers’ side, who went up to fourth spot – four points adrift of leaders Ongar with three matches in hand. OS got their goals from Mitchell Ali and Jack Lelliott, but this loss meant they dropped one place to ninth.

Both of the other games were rare goalless draws for this division. Hutton were held 0 – 0 by Kelvedon Hatch in a match moved to Hannakins Farm Community Centre 3G. Hutton fell to fifth but still have two games more to play than the leaders to catch up the four point deficit. Shenfield AFC were also held 0 – 0 by Bishop’s Stortford Swifts, which saw AFC move up to eighth while Swifts are five points clear in eleventh.

Division One saw just the one match irrespective of the weather, as Beacon Hill Rovers climbed out of the bottom two with a 2 – 1 triumph over Herongate Athletic. Lee Henry netted for Herongate in what was their final league game of the campaign, their rivals in Rovers, Leigh Town and Snaresbrook all have four games to overhaul their tally of 17 points, which does make Herongate vulnerable to demotion.

There was two matches this week in Division Two. ACD Utd extended their lead at the summit to six points with a comfortable 3 – 0 victory at May & Baker A. Michael Wade’s 22nd league goal of the season allied with strikes by Warren Taylor and Ollie Williams meant they left Dagenham with the win. Greg Knock’s side know they need a maximum of ten points from their remaining four matches to confirm the Division Two title. Also, in a match reversed to Rochford Recreation Ground, Manford Way had to work hard to grab a 2 – 0 victory against Rochford Town in the match I saw this weekend. Harry Davison and Salum Said got the goals to seal the win that keeps Manford in the hunt for a top-three finish at least. If you’d like more on this match, here’s my report: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2022/03/05/s21-22-match-report-rochford-town-0-2-manford-way-sat-5-mar-eofl

EOFL Senior League Cup – Canning Town 2 – 2 Epping Town (Canning won 4 – 3 on penalties)

Essex Premier Cup – Semi-Finals

In what features a crossover with the Essex Alliance League, we now know who will contest the Final of the EPC on April 13th. There was guaranteed to be an Olympian League representative and Catholic Utd emerged with a hard-fought 2 – 1 victory at Sungate. Strikes by Harrison Day and Jay Nash meant that Simon Thomas’ team will make it to the Premier Cup Final once again. Their opponents will be EAL Senior Division side Woodford East, who got an impressive 3 – 1 win at Clapton CFC. It is right to respect also what has been a superb run to the last four for CFC, but a James Briggs penalty wasn’t enough to get the Middlesex County Premier Division side back into the contest. The Final will be played at Billericay Town’s New Lodge, it should be a fascinating match. Congrats to both finalists.

EOFL Divisions Four Results

Canning Town Res 0 – 1 Ongar Town Res

Chingford Athletic Res 4 – 1 Southend Manor Dev

Leytonstone Utd 3 – 2 Wakering Sports A

Shenfield AFC Res 5 – 3 Sungate Dev

EOFL Division Five

In Division Five, Old Barkabbeyans are chasing a top-five finish now after a 3 – 1 victory at home to AS Rawreth Res. Lucas Winzar netted for Rawreth, but strikes by Jay Elliott, Jordan Mullings and Sean Doyle ensured Old Barks gained ground on the sides above them, with three matches remaining.

EOFL Reserve League Cup

Finally, in the Ressie League Cup, Wakering Sports Res went through after a 4 – 1 home win over Rayleigh Town Res at Cupid’s. The ensemble cast of Connor Fardyga, Scott Clark, Ciaran Sweeney and Charlie Smith all netted for the Sports second-side.

Thanks again for reading.

S21-22 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League (Sat 11 Dec) [EOFL 21/22 13.12.21]

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

Hello all and welcome to my round-up of the action in the Essex Olympian League, on Saturday 11 December. This week, the league action takes centre stage, despite a reduced amount of action this weekend due to Weather. Also includes results from Division Four & Five at the end of the article.
Many thanks for reading.

Essex Olympian League Round-up – Saturday 11 December

EOFL Premier Division

Five matches survived in the Premier Division, with Leigh Ramblers grabbing an important 3 – 1 victory at out-of-form Old Southendian. Barv Waiwaiku, Nathan Dewberry and Matt Brinklow all netted for Mark Hunter’s side, with the win taking them up to 12th, four points clear of the bottom two. Mitchell Ali replied for OS here. Bishop’s Stortford Swifts also got a big 2 – 0 success at home to mid-table Sungate. Strikes by James Baughurst and Eugene Sago saw Craig Glashan’s side go up to ninth, above Shenfield AFC.

Also, Kelvedon Hatch made it five consecutive league wins with a 3 – 1 triumph over Shenfield AFC at New Hall. The trio of Drew Klessa-Smith, Chris Denham and James Burt all netted for Darren Hunt’s side to fortify fifth spot and they are only three points adrift of the top three. Hutton went up to second spot after a 2 – 1 win at Canning Town in Beckton. Brad Freeman and replace Will Marlowe got the goals to see Matt Singh’s side to a third straight victory and keep the gap to leaders Basildon Town to four points. Bas Town themselves got a narrow 1 – 0 success at top-four side Rayleigh Town, with substitute Jamie Bradbourn getting the crucial goal for Marcus Bowers’ side.

Matches Postponed: Galleywood P – P Springfield

Harold Wood Athletic P – P Ongar Town

EOFL Division One

In the second-tier, Runwell Sports got a 2 – 1 win over Snaresbrook at St Luke’s Park to extend their lead at the summit to three points. Chingford Athletic rose to second spot following a 3 – 0 home win against Wakering Sports who now drop to fourth. Toby were held 2 – 2 by fellow top six side Corinthians at Stambridge, with Luis Ruiz and Chris Cox goals for Toby being cancelled out by strikes from Bailey Moss and Jake Hodder by the hosts, who have now drawn four of their last six league matches.

Elsewhere, Leigh Town drew 3 – 3 with Herongate Athletic at John Burrows Recreation Ground. This result ends both sides’ losing runs and gave new Herongate boss Kurt Smith a decent start in his new role. We wish him well for the rest of the season.

Match Postponed: Epping Town P – P Beacon Hill Rovers

EOFL Divisions Two & Three

In Division Two, it was a rare blemish for the top two as they both suffered defeats away from home. Rochford Town got a huge result, defeating Harold Hill 2 – 1 at Rochford Recreation Ground. Matt Welsh and Own Pedder supplied the goals to push them up above AS Rawreth on goal diference at the bottom of the table. James Hughes got the solitary response for Hill. Shoebury Town got the better of ACD Utd at Cupid’s, with Town grabbing a 4 – 0 victory to lift Garry Johnson’s team up to sixth thanks to the ensemble cast of scorers comprising of Steven Valente, Kian Bradshaw, Tyler Boosey & Luke Bull. Town are now four points adrift of Manford Way in fourth. Manford Way defeated Rayleigh Town Res 3 – 1 at London Marathon Sports Ground, with James Dobson scoring twice and Mohammed Bouzeryouh also on target for them.

Elsewhere, May & Baker A went up to seventh place after a comprehensive 5 – 0 success against Harold Wood Athletic Res. Alagi Juwara scored another two goals for Steve Hogg & Matt Guidera’s side, and was joined on the score-sheet by Rowan Newland, Abraham Jairette and Nuno Espadaneira.

With only one match surviving this weekend in Division Three, the top two duked it out as leaders Catholic Utd Res drew 3 – 3 with second-placed Hashtag Utd Dev at St Thomas More Sch. Kai Warren netted a fine treble for the visitors to reach twelve league goals so far. New recruit Daniel Williams, Joe O’Kane and Alasdair Grant-Browning goals responded for the hosts retained their three-point lead at the summit and also their unbeaten record in the Division thus far.

Matches Postponed (Div Two): Hutton Res P – P AS Rawreth

(Div Three): Buckhurst Hill U23 P – P Leigh Town Res

Pitsea Athletic P – P Corinthians Res

EOFL Divisions Four & Five Results

Division Four

Canning Town Res 3 – 4 Chingford Athletic Res | Bobby Moore Pavilion

Leytonstone Utd 2 – 4 Roydon | Moved to Robert Clark Sch 3G

Old Chelmsfordians Res 3 – 0 Wakering Sports A | Lawford Lane

Shenfield AFC Res 2 – 2 Galleywood Res | Warley Playing Fields (Pitch 1)

Springfield Res 3 – 1 Southend Manor Dev | Slades Lane

Sungate Dev 2 – 6 Ongar Town Res | Ilford Wanderers RFC

Division Five

AS Rawreth Res 3 – 5 Collier Row Res | The Warren

Leigh Ramblers Res 2 – 2 Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res | Belfairs Park

Snaresbrook Res 3 – 0 Runwell Sports Res | Nutter Lane

Wakebury Res 6 – 3 Epping Town Res | Nursery Sports Ground

Match Postponed: Herongate Athletic Res P – P Pitsea Athletic Res

S21-22 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League & EJC (Sat 2 Oct) [EOFL 21/22 3.10.21]

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

Hello all and welcome to my round-up of the action in the Essex Olympian League, on Saturday 2 October. This weekend saw some huge scorelines and some surprising results in matches played in inclement weather conditions. This week, the focus is on the top four divisions with results from Divisions Four & Five and the one Essex Junior Cup second round tie involving an EOFL side.

Many thanks for reading.

EOFL Premier Division

We begin as ever in the Premier Division, and Ongar Town are the new leaders after a 2 – 0 home win over Galleywood. Richard Ponsford’s side have now accrued six wins in their seven games and lead second-placed Hutton by two points. Matt Singh’s side were held 2 – 2 by Bishop’s Stortford Swifts at Polo Fields. Stephen Judge & an OG accounted for the home side’s goals while a double from Sam Chaney took his tally to six league goals for Craig Glashan’s side, who go up one place to 13th. Basildon Town had a frustrating afternoon as they were held 3 – 3 by Shenfield AFC at St Martin’s Sch. Mitchell Day, Sam Coombes and substitute Vincent Clarke were all on target for the hosts, with Jamie Bradbourn and James O’Brien among the scorers for Marcus Bowers’ third-placed side. Shenfield are tough to beat at the moment and reside in ninth spot.

Meanwhile in Beckton, Canning Town got their first win of the campaign, defeating Harold Wood Athletic 2 – 1. James Pottle netted for Gary Willis’ side but Town responded to take the points. Rayleigh Town’s top-six clash with Sungate had to be abandoned on 71 minutes due to a serious injury to a Sungate player, who sustained a bad knee injury. I wish the player concerned a swift recovery. Elsewhere, Catholic Utd got back to winning ways as debutant James Warder netted twice in a 2 – 1 triumph against local rivals Old Southendian. Callum Ludlaim had put OS ahead but this defeat saw them drop below Utd into eighth.

Finally, Leigh Ramblers got a fine 4 – 0 win at Springfield with Nathan Dewberry scoring twice to complete a welcome return for Mark Hunter’s side. Jack Gardner and Ole Hunter also netted for the visitors. Sadly, after the game Springfield boss Dan Williams announced he was stepping down from the role citing family reasons and I’d like to wish Dan well for the future.

EOFL Division One

In the second-tier, two of the top three sides faced off at Billericay Road where leaders Wakering Sports made a stirring comeback to draw 3 – 3 at hosts Herongate Athletic. Billy Cove’s Ath side launched into a three-goal lead thanks to goals from Izaih Antoine, Robbie Farrell and Thomas Turner but Mitchell Gleeson’s side showed their spirit again and left with a point thanks to a brace from replacement Alfie Fossett and one from Connor Burrows. Old Chelmsfordians also got their first win this term with a 3 – 1 triumph over Chingford Athletic at Lawford Lane. Max Johnson, Mason Naylor and Brad Ross all scored for Ryan Fleming’s side here.

Toby got their third win of the campaign as late goals saw them to a 2 – 0 win at Snaresbrook. Marc Porter-Brown and Albert Perry goals saw Mark Jones’ team to the points at ‘Brook’s first-team new home at the Hackney Marshes centre. Epping Town also grabbed a fine away win, winning 4 – 2 at Runwell Sports. Joe Rickett, Chris Gormley, Jamaine Belle & an OG saw Stuart Hoskins’ team to the points which took them up to seventh. An OGo of their own & Charlie Little saw Rob Hodgson’s side take an early lead but they succumbed to defeat and lost ground on leaders Wakering Sports, who now hold a three-point lead.

Also, Corinthians got a memorable victory as they hit ten goals in a huge 10 – 3 victory at Beacon Hill Rovers. Recent recruit Bailey Moss got six goals himself here to take his tally up to 14 league goals already. Jake Hodder added another two goals with Leo Clarke and Cameron Glover also netting for a jubilant Chris Stoneham’s team, who are now only two points adrift of Runwell Sports in second.

EOFL Division Two

Moving into Division Two now, and ACD Utd maintained their 100% start to the season with a 5 – 0 triumph at AS Rawreth. Ollie Williams led the way here with a treble, with Samuel Payne and Shaun Goddard also on target for Greg Knock’s side. Harold Hill are adapting very well to life back in the EOFL as they won 3 – 2 at Manford Way. Peter Tyler, Ronnie Hobbrough and Siddy Clarkson all netted for Mark Ellis’ side in this one, they are now six matches unbeaten and sit level on points with the leaders. Wakebury are another side who are in decent form after a fine 3 – 2 win at Old Southendian Res. William Wheeler now has seven league goals already this term after notching twice again at Garon Park, with Lewis Francis also netting for Matt Cardy’s side. Nico Dubouchet and Jack Cripps resonded for Josh Bambury’s team but they fell to a fourth consecutive loss. Rayleigh Town Res also got a good win on the road with a 2 – 1 success at Shoebury Town. Byron Down kept up his decent season thus far with a double here for Dave Barker’s side. Kian Bradshaw replied for Jason Doyle’s side but their mini-revival is over.

Elsewhere, Rochford Town picked up a crucial 2 – 1 victory over Hutton Res at the Rec. Owen Pedder and replacement Matt Welsh both netted to give James Cooper’s side their opening win this term. Thomas Price scored for the visitors but they are yet to win this season. Lastly in this division, Harold Wood Athletic Res got another three points, thanks to a 3 – 2 win over May & Baker A. Harvey Cooper, substitute Freddy Shepherd and a penalty from Thomas Butler all assisted Steve Hubbard’s side to the points which takes them up to fifth.

EOFL Division Three

In Division Three, Leigh Town Reserves got their 2nd win of the campaign after a 2 – 1 triumph at home to Buckhurst Hill U23 at John Burrows Recreation Ground. Strikes by Chris Pope and Max Whitehead saw Antony Lane’s side to the win, which sees them rise to sixth. The Hill second-side are second-bottom after their fourth loss in six matches. In the other action in the division, Catholic Utd’s Ressie side retained their six point lead at the summit after a 3 – 2 success at home to Pitsea Athletic. Paul Gunn and replacement David Newcomb netted for the visitors but they drop down to seventh.

Hashtag Utd Development are the nearest challengers in second spot, after they defeated Basildon Town Res 2 – 0 at Barleylands. Toby Res are up to third after dispatching bottom side Corinthians Res 5 – 0 in Newbury Park. Finally, Hullbridge Sports Res made it two wins thus far this season with a 2 – 1 win away at Collier Row, with Jay Knight among the scorers there for the visitors.

Cups

Essex Junior Cup R2 – Hawkwell Athletic 3 – 5 Wakering Sports Res

Herts Junior Cup – Rio Rovers 0 – 3 Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res

EOFL Division Four

Results

Canning Town Res 1 – 2 Roydon | Bobby Moore Pavillon, Beckton

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

Galleywood Res 0 – 3 Wakering Sports A | Clarkes Field

Shenfield AFC Res 3 – 4 Springfield Res | Warley Playing Fields

Southend Manor Dev. 2 – 0 Old Chelmsfordians Res | Southchurch Park

Sungate Dev 3 – 2 Leytonstone Utd | Ilford Wanderers RFC

EOFL Division Five

Results

Collier Row Res 2 – 9 Old Barkabbeyans | Forest Row Centre (Pitch 2)

Leigh Ramblers Res 2 – 1 Herongate Athletic Res | Belfairs Park

Pitsea Athletic Res 3 – 3 Snaresbrook Res | Basildon Sporting Village

Wakebury Res 4 – 3 AS Rawreth Res | Nursery Sports Ground

S21-22 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League & EPC (Sat 18 Sept) [EOFL 21/22 19.9.21]

Archive Image – Rayleigh Tn are now leaders of EOFL Premier

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

Hello all and welcome to my round-up of the weekend’s action in the Essex Olympian League, on Saturday 18th September. This weekend, we saw the start of the Essex Premier Cup campaign so the focus this week is the top three tiers of the EOFL & the EPC, with results from Divisions Three, Four & Five. The EPC is a competition which teams from the Essex Olympian, Essex & Suffolk Border League and Essex Alliance League compete (all are Step 7 divisions), along with sides in the Essex Senior Reserve division.

Many thanks for reading.

EOFL Premier Division

In the top-tier, Ongar Town got themselves into a fine position after a 2 – 1 home success over Bishop’s Stortford Swifts. Harry Rawlins and Frankie Goodhall got the goals for Richard Ponsford’s side. They will travel to London Road next week to face leaders Rayleigh Town, who got a superb 6 – 0 triumph at Canning Town. The ensemble cast of scorers included Sonny Coutts, Charlie Seaden, Jack Long, Liam Oliver, Paul Morris and Alfie Larkin to give Paul Higgins’ team a fourth consecutive victory.

Elsewhere, Hutton emerged with a narrow 1 – 0 win at Shenfield AFC which was the third straight win for Matt Singh’s side. Leigh Ramblers finally got their first win of the new campaign after a 3 – 2 success over Galleywood at Belfairs Park. Ben Smith scored twice for the visitors but the Rams were not to be denied here. Lastly, Catholic Utd were held 1 – 1 by improving Kelvedon Hatch at the Len Forge. Lewis Payne netted for the hosts, with Drew Klessa-Smith responding for Darren Hunt’s side.

EOFL Division One

Moving into the three matches played in Div One this week, and Wakering Sports got another victory with a 3 – 1 win at Snaresbrook. Ben Burrows, Paul Brennan and Alfie Fossett got the goals for Mitchell Gleeson’s team. In other results, Chingford Athletic got a fine 4 – 0 win at Beacon Hill Rovers while Runwell Sports got a fine away win, defeating Leigh Town 5 – 2 at John Burrows Recreation Ground.

Essex Premier Cup round-up

This weekend, the Essex Premier Cup campaign began, with some big wins for EOFL sides. First up, Premier side Basildon Town put in a terrific performance to hand Earls Colne a 5 – 1 defeat, with Adam Bessadi scoring twice, with Rhys Fatt, Jamie Bradbourn and Graham Harrison also netting for Marcus Bowers’ team. Division One side Herongate Athletic progressed with a 3 – 1 success at Div Two side Old Southendian Res. Antoine Fontaine, Robbie Farrell and Izaih Antoine bagged goals for Billy Cove’s side. Fellow Div One side Toby also won, 2 – 0 at home to Old Chelmsfordians, with Ben Picton and Albert Perry the goal-scorers there.

Corinthians also got a good 2 – 1 win over Halstead Town Res, with Bill Wilton and Bailey Moss netting for Chris Stoneham’s team. Two Division Two sides allso went through, with Shoebury Town defeating West Bergholt 4 – 0, thanks to a brace from Garry Johnson plus strikes by Luke Ball and Kian Bradshaw for Jason Doyle’s team. Finally, ACD Utd won 4 – 2 at Essex Senior Reserve side Takeley Res. Michael Wade and Billy Wren both netted twice for Greg Knock’s side, overcoming goals from Ezra Forman and Callum Leggett for the hosts.

Other Results in EPC

AFC Barnston 0 – 3 Sungate

Dunmow Town 4 – 4 Springfield (AET, Dunmow won 7 – 6 on pens)

Harold Wood Athletic 2 – 4 Tiptree Heath

Lymore Gardens 1 – 2 Epping Town

Old Southendian H – W Dedham Old Boys

EOFL Division Two

Back into League action now in Division Two, and May & Baker A got a rare big win as they won 6 – 0 at home to Hutton Res. Gabriel Odili and Abidemi Lamina both struck doubles, while Ryan Stowell and Rolan Newland also notched. Also, Wakebury edged to a hard-fought 3 – 2 success over Harold Wood Athletic Reserves at Nursery Sports Ground. Max Hall, Will Wheeler and Chris Gore all netted for Matt Cardy’s side, with the replies for ‘Wood coming from Ben-Paul Gibbons and Thomas Butler. Other results saw a big win for Manford Way as they defeated AS Rawreth 7 – 1, while Rayleigh Town Res were among the goals again, defeating Rochford Town 7 – 3 at London Road.

EOFl Division Three Results

Hullbridge Res 1 – 2 Basildon Town Res

Leigh Town Res 1 – 1 Corinthians Res

Pitsea Athletic 0 – 0 Collier Row

Wakering Sports Res 1 – 7 Catholic Utd Res

and Hashtag Utd Dev H – W Buckhurst Hill U23

EOFL Division Four Results

Canning Town Res 4 – 6 Springfield Res

Chingford Athletic Res 9 – 0 Old Chelmsfordians Res

Galleywood Res 5 – 4 Southend Manor Dev|

Leytonstone Utd 1 – 3 Ongar Town Res

Roydon 3 – 1 Sungate Dev

Shenfield AFC Res 0 – 0 Wakering Sports A

EOFL Division Five Results

AS Rawreth Res 1 – 4 Epping Town Res

Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res 3 – 2 Wakebury Res

Herongate Athletic Res 2 – 1 Old Barkabbeyans

Leigh Ramblers Res 4 – 1 Collier Row Res

Runwell Sports Res 3 – 2 Snaresbrook Res

S21-22 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League (Sat 11 Sept) [EOFL 21/22 12.9.21]

Archive image: Rayleigh Tn v Leigh Ramblers (early September 2021)

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

Hello all and welcome to my round-up of the action in the Essex Olympian League, on Saturday 11 September. This weekend saw some high-scoring matches and some surprise results as ever. As usual, the focus is on the top four divisions with results from Divisions Four & Five.

Many thanks for reading.

EOFL Premier Division

In the Premier Division, leaders Basildon Town have a slender one-point lead after being held to a goalless draw at Harold Wood Athletic. Sungate missed a chance to leapfrog them after succumbing to a 1 – 2 loss to Kelvedon Hatch, with Drew Klessa-Smith and Oliver Pettit scoring for Darren Hunt’s side. Sonny Rossington responded for ‘Gate but they stay second in the standings. With Ongar Town and Old Southendian not in action this weekend, Rayleigh Town went up to fifth after a good 2 – 0 win over Catholic Utd at London Road. Jack Long and Liam Oliver’s penalty were enough to claim the points for Paul Higgins’ side.

Elsewhere, Hutton moved to seventh place with a fine 3 – 2 triumph at Springfield. Charlie Nichols and Mitchell May got the goals for Dan Williams’ team but a stirring comeback from Hutton saw Will Marlowe, Jim Gardner and Billy Chilcott’s fine strike secure a good away-day win for Matt Singh’s side. Galleywood moved into the top ten with a 3 – 0 success against Bishop’s Stortford Swifts, with a brace from Thomas Watling and one from Sam Donn enough to give Mark O’Sullivan’s team a good win.

Finally, Leigh Ramblers’ pursuit of a win this term goes on after they were held 3 – 3 by visitors Shenfield AFC. Jack Gardner got two goals and Andrew Webster got the other for Mark Hunter’s team but the visitors scored three of their own to claim a point.

EOFL Division One

Moving now into Division One, and Runwell Sports are the new leaders on goal difference after a 5 – 2 win over Old Chemsfordians at St Luke’s Park. Strikes from Joe Olley, Korede Odumosu, Samuel Adebayo, Matt Tapley and an OG saw Rob Hodgson’s side to their third win this term. Epping Town also got their first win this term, winning 2 – 1 at Chingford Athletic with Andrew Smith and David Limber getting the goals for Stuart Hoskins’ side at Town Mead.

Also, Corinthians got a big 5 – 1 success over Snaresbrook at Stambridge Memorial Ground. Bailey Moss struck four goals here for Chris Stoneham’s side, with Bill Wilton getting the other goal. Finally for this division, Leigh Town emerged from a stern test with a 2 – 0 win at Herongate Athletic, with Brodie Horne and Max Jones goals proving the difference here for Jack Pearman’s side and they go into fourth spot after inflicting the first loss of Herongate’s campaign.

EOFL Division Two

In Division Two, ACD Utd remain at the summit after a resounding 9 – 2 victory over Harold Wood Athletic Res at Westlands. Jacob Dingli grabbed five of the goals himself for Greg Knock’s side, with a double for Michael Wade plus strikes for Billy Wren and replacement Sam Payne completing the scoring for the only unbeaten side remaining in the division. Derek Hawtin got both goals for the Wood’ side but their goal difference took a hammering here. Harold Hill remain 2nd, level on points with ACD having played a game more after a superb 6 – 2 triumph over Wakebury at Noak Hill. Max Hall and Daniel Buglione netted for Matt Cardy’s side but they ultimately fell to their first loss of the new season.

Shoebury Town went up to third spot after a narrow 1 – 0 win at AS Rawreth, with Garry Johnson once again on the score-sheet for Jason Doyle’s side. Elsewhere, May & Baker A got their first points of the season with a 2 – 0 triumph at winless Rochford Town. Rowan Newland scored again, with Jerry Jairette getting the other goal for Matt Guidera & Steve Hogg’s side.

Also, Manford Way got a fine 5 – 2 win at Hutton Res, with Thomas Price and Elliott Fraser goals not enough to stop Bill Stratford’s side avoid defeat at Polo Fields. Finally, Rayleigh Town Res got the result of their campaign thus far with a big 6 – 2 win over Old Southendian Res at Garon Park 3G.

EOFL Division Three

In Division Three, Toby Res went up to third place after a fine 5 – 1 success at home to Buckhurst Hill U23, with Oliver Dingli notching twice for Lee Glynn’s side, plus Justin Clarke, Myrie and Davies all joined in on the goals. Substitute Tyla Fenlon got the solitary reply for Alan Byers’ side. Pitsea Athletic went up to mid-table after a good 2 – 1 win over Hullbridge Sports Res at Lower Road. Rhys Davies and Louis Starkey goals secured the points for Trevor Wickens’ side. Bobby Badnall responded for Jason Mole’s team but it’s two wins from their four matches thus far.

Meanwhile, Leigh Town Res navigated a tough trip to Collier Row and recorded a 3 – 1 win at the Forest Row Centre. Strikes from Aaron Tyler, Max Whitehead and Chris Pope secured the first win of the new term for Antony Lane’s side. In other results, Wakering Sports Res remain top after a 5 – 0 home win over Shenfield AFC Res at Cupid’s while Catholic Utd Res hammered Corinthians Res 10 – 3 at St Thomas More Sch.

EOFL Division Four

Results

Old Chelmsfordians Res 5 – 0 Shenfield AFC Res | Lawford Lane

Ongar Town Res 2 – 1 Canning Town Res | Melbourne Park 3G, Chelmsford

Roydon 1 – 0 Galleywood Res | Roydon Playing Fields

Southend Manor Dev. 1 – 2 Chingford athletic Res | Southchurch Park

Sungate Dev. 3 – 6 Springfield Res | Ilford Wanderers RFC

Wakering Sports A 1 – 1 Leytonstone Utd | Cupid’s (Pitch 2)

EOFL Division Five

Results

Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res 4 – 1 AS Rawreth Res | Silver Leys

Collier Row Res 4 – 3 Wakebury Res | Forest Row Centre (Pitch 2)

Epping Town Res 1 – 4 Pitsea Athletic Res | Epping UC Rugby Club

Old Barkabbeyans 2 – 2 Runwell Sports Res | Barking Abbey Sch 3G

Snaresbrook Res 0 – 4 Leigh Ramblers Res | Nutters Field

S21-22 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League (Sat 4 Sept) [EOFL 21/22 5.9.21]

Rayleigh Res winger Byron Down about to launch curling pass forward [Image: Scott W]

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

Hello all and welcome to my round-up of the fourth weekend of action in the Essex Olympian League, on Saturday 4th September. This weekend saw a double-header of matches for me to see first-hand and some surprise results as ever. As usual, the focus is on the top four divisions with results from Divisions Four & Five.

Many thanks for reading.

EOFL Premier Division

In the Premier, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts ended Old Southendian’s unbeaten start to the season as Swifts won 5 – 2 at Silver Leys. Sam Chaney netted a treble with Archie Gerard and Toluwani Osiyemi also scoring for Craig Glashan’s team. OS responded with goals from Nick Henesy and Mitchell Ali but a hard afternoon for them saw them down to ten men. Drew Klessa-Smith notched another double as Kelvedon Hatch won 2 – 1 at Canning Town, in what was Hatch’s second win this term. Also, Basildon Town recovered from defeat last week with a 3 – 1 victory over Catholic Utd at the Len Forge Centre. Jamie Selby-Knight, Matt Brinklow and replacement Jamie Bradbourn were among the scorers for Marcus Bowers’ team there.

Elsewhere, Hutton got their first win since the opening day with a 2 – 0 triumph over Galleywood at Polo Fields. Jude Keeling and Will Marlowe got the win for Matt Singh’s side as they again look to get into the upper echelons of the standings. Shenfield drew 1 – 1 with Harold Wood Athletic at St Martins Sch, with Luke Williamson scoring for the hosts and James Pottle levelling for ‘Wood from twelve yards. Also, a dramatic match saw Sungate inflict a first loss of the campaign on promoted Ongar Town as the ‘Gate won 7 – 3 at Ilford Wanderers Rugby Club. The scorers for Sungate were Thomas Ward (2), Jaiden Odle (2) with Arif Mustapha, Scott Truman and Thomas Drayton chipping in as well. Ongar were up against it when they were reduced to nine men at one point, and responded through a double from Frankie Goodhall and one from Joe Lilly.

Finally, in the match I attended at London Road, Rayleigh Town put in a strong display to emerge with a 2 – 1 win over resilent Leigh Ramblers. Shaun Gittleson and Charlie Seaden got the goals for Paul Higgins’ team, with Dan Williams notching a late consolation for Mark Hunter’s side. If you’d like more on this match, my report is here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2021/09/05/s21-22-match-report-rayleigh-town-2-1-leigh-ramblers-sat-4-sept-eofl/

Leigh R skipper Ryan Lowe launching a long throw [Image: Scott W]

EOFL Division One

Moving into the three matches played in Div One, and Herongate Athletic saw their 100% start ended with a enterprising 2 – 2 draw with Chingford Athletic at Billericay Road. Robbie Farrell and Harry Watkins struck for Billy Cove’s side, with Andrew Omusi and Alex Gordon replying for Declan Murphy’s team.

Also, Runwell Sports got a fine 3 – 1 home win over Beacon Hill Rovers at St Luke’s Park. Matt Tapley got two goals here for Rob Hodgson’s side, with Kleshay Grant getting his first league goal as well here. And Wakering Sports defeated Corinthians 1 – 0 at Cupid’s with Aaron Marshall getting the decisive goal there.

EOFL Division Two

In Division Two, ACD Utd have three wins from their three matches now after a 6 – 3 win at Rochford Town. Michael Wade scored another terrific treble to make it to five goals this term, with Jacob Dingli, Paul Mangan and Warren Taylor also netting for Greg Knock’s side. Harold Hill made it three straight wins as they won 4 – 1 at Old Southendian Res. Hill were thankful to Peter Tyler, Baciro Bari, Siddy Clarkson and substitute Jack Suters for the match-winning goals. Jack Cripps’ goal was a mere consolation for Josh Bambury’s previous unbeaten side. Harold Wood Athletic Res also got a good win, 2 – 1 over the new Manford Way side. Ben Gibbons and Daniel Spittle scored for Steve Hubbard’s Wood team who earned their first win of the new season.

Also, Wakebury had to fight hard in their 4 – 2 success at May & Baker A, with Max Hall scoring a double for Matt Cardy’s side here, with Ibrahim Kagbanda and Will Wheeler also on target for the visitors. Meanwhile at Cupid’s, Shoebury Town played out a superb 4 – 4 draw with Hutton Res, which saw both sides finish the match with ten men. Harvey Yellop’s brace coupled with goals from James Gardner and substitute Bailey Morris accounted for the visitors’ goals. Shoebury responded through the exsemble cast of stalwart Garry Johnson, Kian Bradshaw, Kirk Hudson and Oliver Chew to claim a decent point.

Finally, in the match I saw at London Road, AS Rawreth fought back late on to draw 2 – 2 at Rayleigh Town Res. John Hanrahan’s penalty and Robbie Allen both netted for Dave Barker’s side, while Tom Binks and Danny Carr responded for Rawreth. If you’d like more on this match, my report is here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2021/09/05/s21-22-match-report-rayleigh-town-res-2-2-as-rawreth-sat-4-sept-eofl/

EOFL Division Three

Finally for this week’s main section, in Division Three, Hashtag Utd Development made it three wins from four league matches with a comfortable 5 – 0 victory at Corinthians Res. Replacement Tommy Sykes struck two goals here for Denis Simpson’s team, with Bradlery Bunker, Jake Smith and an OG accounting for the other goals. Toby Res also put in a superb performance, comprehensively defeating Collier Row 7 – 1. Oliver Dingli led the way with a hat-trick , assisted by Thayne Myrie, Rhys Willson and Ben Picton, who were all amongst the scorers here for Lee Glynn’s side.

Basildon Town Res were held 2 – 2 by Buckhurst Hill U23 with Joe Barrett and James O’Brien netting for the Town second-side. In other results, Catholic Utd Reserves edged a nine-goal encounter, winning 5 – 4 against Leigh Town Res at St Thomas More Sch. Plus Wakering Sports Res pulled a brilliant 8 – 2 win at Pitsea Athletic, held at Basildon Sporting Village.

EOFL Division Four Results

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

Galleywood Res 0 – 4 Ongar Town Res |

Leytonstone Utd 0 – 2 Southend Manor Dev. | Forest Row Centre (Pitch 1)

Old Chelmsfordians Res 4 – 1 Sungate Dev. | Lawford Lane

Shenfield AFC Res 1 – 1 Canning Town Res | The Drive

Roydon P – P Wakering Sports A

EOFL Division Five Results

AS Rawreth Res 0 – 2 Leigh Ramblers Res

Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res 2 – 1 Collier Row Res

Epping Town Res 1 – 3 Herongate Athletic Res

Pitsea Athletic Res 1 – 4 Runwell Sports Res

Old Barkabbeyans 2 – 3 Snaresbrook Res

S21-22 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League (Sat 28 Aug) [EOFL 21/22 29.8.21]

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

Hello all and welcome to my round-up of the third weekend of action in the Essex Olympian League, on Saturday 28th August. This weekend saw some high-scoring matches and some surprise results as ever. As usual, the focus is on the top four divisions with results from Divisions Four & Five.

Many thanks for reading.

EOFL Premier Division

As ever we begin in the Premier, and Old Southendian maintained their 100% record with a 3 – 2 win over Kelvedon Hatch at Garon Park. Craig Paton, Mattias Tonking and Taylor Turner all scored for Altar Ali’s side as they held on for a good victory. Sungate also shone this weekend with a 5 – 1 success at Galleywood, with Ciaran Kelly, Ben Absolon and Thomas Drayton among the scorers for the visitors there. Jack Chatterway got the solitary response for ‘Wood in that game. Elsewhere, Springfield edged to a late 2 – 1 victory over Basildon Town at Springfield Hall Park. Strikes from Jack French and Aiden Brown were enough to overturn an earlier Antony Aylett leveller for Marcus Bowers’ side and complete a surprise win.

Meanwhile, Rayleigh Town got back to winning ways with a good 2 – 1 triumph at Bishop’s Stortford Swifts. Paul Morris and Jack Long both scored for Paul Higgins’ side, with Sam Chaney responding for Craig Glashan’s new side. Catholic Utd also got a second successive win as they defeated Harold Wood Athletic 2 – 1 at Harold Wood Park. Pablo Passenda and Max Kent got the goals for Simon Thomas’ team, while Matt Donovan replied for Gary Willis’ side.

In other action in the division, Shenfield AFC managed a comfortable 3 – 0 win over Canning Town at St Martins School 3G. Ben Carroll, Pelumi Adedokun and replacement Alex Broadbridge got the goals here in what was a much-needed win for them. Finally, Ongar Town continued their 100% record with a hard fought 2 – 0 win over Hutton at Lakeside Sports Ground, thanks to goals from Frankie Goodhall and Ayodele Awosika.

EOFL Division One

Moving now into Division One, with Herongate Athletic sitting as early front-runners as they made it three wins from three games with a 2 – 0 victory over Runwell Sports at Billericay Road. Another brace from Robbie Farrell made it five goals already for him this term, as Billy Cove’s side sit three points clear. Toby won their top-of-the-table clash, impressively defeating Wakering Sports 3 – 1 at Cupid’s. A brace from Albert Perry and thunderbolt from Mitch Grace gave Mark Jones’ side the win as they went second. Substitute Alfie Fossett scored for Mitch Gleeson’s side here. Snaresbrook got their first win of the new campaign, winning 3 – 2 at Epping Town. Ife Ogunbayo, Daniel Tesfay and Max Catherall all netted one each to outdo strikes by Andrew Smith and Joe Rickett for Town and ultimately give Rob Caine’s side the points.

Also, Beacon Hill Rovers won 2 – 1 at home to Old Chelmsfordians and there was a hugely entertaining match for the neutral at least at Stambridge where Corinthians came from three goals down to draw 4 – 4 with Leigh Town. Bailey Moss struck twice for Chris Stoneham’s side, with Jake Hodder and Damian Siemienczuk also on target.

EOFL Division Two

In Division Two, it is newcomers Harold Hill who are at the summit on goal difference after a 4 – 0 win at home to Rayleigh Town Res. In second spot are ACD Utd after they won 5 – 2 at Hutton Res. Jacob Dingli and Jamie Alexandrou both got doubles for Greg Knock’s team, with replacement Shaun Goddard also finding the net. Jack Shaw got both of the hosts’ goals here. Also on six points are Old Southendian Res as they made two wins from two following a 2 – 1 win at Shoebury Town. Jack Cripps and Nico Dubouchet got the goals for Josh Bambury’s side, with Jason Doyle’s team responding through club stalwart Garry Johnson.

Meanwhile, AS Rawreth are the last of the four teams at the top end of the table on six points after a 1 – 0 win over Rochford Town at The Warren. Tom Binks got the all-important goal for Josh Hutchins’s team here.

EOFL Division Three

In Division Three, the early leaders are Basildon Town Res after a 2 – 0 triumph over Collier Row at Basildon Sports Club. Jamie Miller and Nathan Fisher saw Tony Bowers’ side to the points. Buckhurst Hill U23 got their maiden win this term with a 4 – 0 victory over Corinthians Res at Roding Lane. The ensemble cast of Buttrint Iecaj, Jason Gomes, Nicolas Chramiec and Flynn Toye got the goals that saw Alan Byers’ team get their season underway in earnest. A hat-trick from perennial goal-getter Joseph Darby saw Hullbridge Res to a 3 – 0 home success over Leigh Town Res at Lower Road.

Elsewhere in the division, Hashtag Utd Development got another victory as they defeated PItsea Athletic 5 – 0 at Barleylands. Samuel Pratt netted twice for Denis Simpson’s team, with Bradley Bunker, Kai Warren and Jake Smith also on the scorer’s sheet. Also, Catholic Utd Res joined them on six points after a resounding 7 – 1 success at Toby Res.

EOFL Division Four

Results

Chingford Athletic Res 5 – 2 Galleywood Res | Town Mead [3G]

Leytonstone Utd 1 – 2 Springfield Res | Forest Row Centre (Pitch 1)

Ongar Town Res 3 – 2 Roydon | Melbourne Park 3G, Chelmsford

EOFL Division Five

Results

Collier Row Res 0 – 2 Epping Town Res | Forest Row Centre (Pitch 2)

Old Barkabbeyans 5 – 6 Leigh Ramblers Res | Barking Abbey Sch 3G

Pitsea Athletic Res 6 – 2 AS Rawreth Res | Basildon Sporting Village

Runwell Sports Res 5 – 2 Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res | St Luke’s Park

Wakebury Res 0 – 2 Snaresbrook Res | Nursery Sports Ground

S21-22 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League (Sat 14 Aug) [EOFL 21/22 15.8.21]

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

Hello all and welcome to the first of a new season of weekly round-up articles on Essex Olympian League divisions, The first weekend of action from Saturday 14th August saw a myriad of teams adjust to new divisions, and before the action is described I’ll put in a short listing of which sides are in each division. As ever, the focus is on the top four divisions with results from Divisions Four & Five.

Many thanks for the support and for reading.

EOFL Premier Division

Teams (15): Basildon Town, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts, Canning Town, Catholic Utd, Galleywood, Harold Wood Athletic, Hutton, Kelvedon Hatch, Leigh Ramblers, Old Southendian, Ongar Town, Rayleigh Town, Shenfield AFC, Springfield, Sungate

In the Premier Division, Basildon Town overcame a spirited performance by their visitors as they defeated Rayleigh Town 4 – 3, in their first match at landlords Basildon Utd. Player-boss Marcus Bowers led the way with a brace for the hosts, with new signing Rhys Fatt also notching twice for his new team. Rayleigh responded through goals from Paul Morris, Shaun Gittleson and Liam Oliver but ultimately they fell to defeat. Old Southendian got a win on the opening day as they defeated Canning Town 2 – 1 at Garon Park. Sam Adcock and substitute Craig Paton got the important strikes there for the hosts.

Meanwhile, Kelvedon Hatch began their new campaign with a 3 – 2 win at promoted Galleywood. Drew Klessa-Smith nabbed a terrific treble for the visitors and that outshone strikes by Matthew Buckingham and Jamie Lockwood for Galleywood to give Darren Hunt’s side the win. Hutton also got a welcome three points as a Stephen Judge strike was enough to give them a 1 – 0 success over Catholic Utd at Polo Fields. Harold Wood Athletic let a two-goal lead slip before being held 3 – 3 by a new-look Springfield side at Harold Wood Park. Strikes by Jacob Roberts, James Pottle and Harry Clifford put Gary Willis’ side ahead but a double from replacement Jordan Sargeant and one from Charlie Nichols saw Dan Williams’ team make a good comeback and left with a point.

Also, Ongar Town began their season at Step 7 with a superb 4 – 1 home win over Leigh Ramblers. Jack Gardner got the goal for Mark Hunter’s visitors but the winning feeling continued for Richard Ponsford’s side, thanks to a brace from Frankie Goodall, plus strikes by Harry Rawlins and Rodney Wilson. Finally, Sungate won 2 – 1 at Shenfield AFC with Ben Carroll scoring for the home side.

EOFL Division One

Teams (11): Beacon Hill Rovers, Corinthians, Chingford Athletic, Epping Town, Herongate Athletic, Leigh Town, Old Chelmsfordians, Runwell Sports, Snaresbrook, Toby, Wakering Sports

Moving now into Division One, and Toby got a superb 4 – 0 triumph over Epping Town in Newbury Park. Albert Perry, Marc Porter-Brown, Louis Hill and new recruit Harry Barham all netted as Mark Jones’ team started strongly. Wakering Sports also grabbed an impressive 5 – 1 success against Old Chelmsfordians at Cupid’s, with Connor Burrows netting twice, alongside Ben Burrows, Matthew Catlin and Aaron Clark goals for Mitchell Gleeson’s side.

The new era at Herongate Athletic under Billy Cove also began with a victory as they defeated Snaresbrook 3 – 1 at Billericay Road. Robbie Farrell’s brace and one from Izaih Antoine did the job for the home side. Elsewhere, and Runwell Sports began life under boss Rob Hodgson with a creditable 1 – 1 draw with Chingford Athletic at St Luke’s Park. Dylan Hawley netted for Runwell, with Lewis Watson scoring for Ath. Also, Leigh Town began their journey as a second-tier club with a fine 3 – 1 victory at fellow promoted side Beacon Hill Rovers.

EOFL Division Two

Teams (12): ACD Utd, AS Rawreth, Harold Hill, Harold Wood Athletic Res, Hutton Res, Manford Way (fmrly Res), May & Baker A, Old Southendian Res, Rayleigh Town Res, Rochford Town, Showbury Town, Wakebury

In Division Two, ACD Utd got their first win as a third-tier club as they won 2 – 1 at new club Harold Hill. Player-boss Michael Wade got both goals for the visitors as they negotiated a tricky test well. Elsewhere, Shoebury Town started strongly in their new division as they won 4 – 1 against visitors Harold Wood Athletic Res at Cupid’s. Steven Sharpe struck twice here for Town, with Daniel Brooker and an OG accounting for the other goals. Ben Rowe responded for the Wood second-team.

In other action, AS Rawreth got their new era under Josh Hutchins started with a good 2 – 1 home win over May & Baker A. Alex Salmon and Ryan Kenyon provided the goals as they began the season well.

EOFL Division Three

Teams (12): Basildon Town Res, Buckhurst Hill U23/Res, Catholic Utd Res, Collier Row, Corinthians Res, Hashtag Utd Dev, Hullbridge Sports Res, Leigh Town Res, Pitsea Athletic, Toby Res, Wakering Sports Res

Finally for this week, in Division Three, newcomers Pitsea Athletic began their EOFL campaign with a decent 3 – 0 win over Leigh Town Res at Basildon Sports Village. Ben Challis’ fine treble was enough to seperate the sides there. Elsewhere Basildon Town Res drew 1 – 1 with Toby Res. Matthew Keiller struck for Town, with Brandon Richmond netting for the East Londoners.

Collier Row started the new season with a 3 – 2 home win over Corinthians Res. Jay Knight and replacement Finlay Grant scored for Ben Adams’side but it wasn’t enough to claim a point. Also, Wakering Sports Res claimed a big 9 – 0 victory over Buckhurst Hill U23 and Hashtag Utd Development won 2 – 0 at home to Hullbridge Sports Res at Barleylands.

EOFL Division Four

Teams (12): Canning Town Res, Chingford Athletic Res, Galleywood Res, Leytonstone Utd, Old Chelmsfordians Res, Ongar Town Res, Roydon, Shenfield AFC Res, Southend Manor Dev., Springfield Res, Sungate Res, Wakering Sports A

Results

Ongar Town Res 7 – 1 Shenfield AFC Res | Melbourne Park

Southend Manor Dev. 2 – 0 Roydon | Southchurch Park

EOFL Division Five

Teams (12): AS Rawreth Res, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res, Collier Row Res, Epping Town Res, Herongate Athletic Res, Leigh Ramblers Res, Old Barkabbeyans, Pitsea Athletic Res, Runwell Sports Res, Snaresbrook Res, Wakebury Res

Results

Collier Row Res 0 – 5 Herongate Athletic Res

Pitsea Athletic Res 6 – 2 Wakebury Res | Basildon Sporting Village

Thank you for reading, this column will be running throughout the season as much as I can.