Redbridge – survivor16b

S22-23 Match Report: Stanway Rovers 0 – 1 Redbridge (Sat 25 Mar) [ESL 22-23 26.3.23]

Essex Senior League – Premier Division

Venue: Hawthorns

Attendance: 175

2022-23 Season: Match 50

Saturday 25th March 2023 – 6.30pm KO

Stanway: Yellow Shirts, Black Shorts & Yellow Socks

Redbridge: Red Shirts, Red Shorts, Red Socks

Redbridge again battle hard to claim another important win at Stanway

Stanway Rovers 0 – 1 Redbridge

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

The second match this weekend to mark Non-League Day was a rare visit to the Hawthorns to see hosts Stanway Rovers take on promotion-chasing Redbridge in another Essex Senior League Premier match, which was also my 50th match of the campaign. Redbridge were playing their third match in five days here, the perils of still being in two Cup competitions you may say. George Christou’s team had an understandable air of squad rotation about it, but goalkeeper Connor Wheatley started, with a defence comprised of centre-back pair Joe Elliott & Nathan Okoye, and full-backs Bradley Bennett & Tayo Olukolu. Captain Jack Chawner was alongside Jerrold Cobblah and Reuben Campbell in midfield, with George Purcell & Tony Martin leading the attack, with support from Joey May. Stanway are in transition, and have not had an easy campaign being where they are in 13th place. Former Colchester Utd legend Karl Duguid took the team here, and named Alfie Marigliani as their stopper, with full-backs Sean Bartlett & Emmanuel N’Daw and centre-backs Olumide Akinode & Freddy Cooper comprising their backline. Jordan Barnett, Joe Debell & Max Sherlock were the central midfield three, with Harry Thomas, captain James Crisell and Nathaniel Mardell the forward three.

The early stages of this game were entertaining to watch as Rovers looked to pile the pressure on the visitors. Forward Nathaniel Mardell made two enterprising runs down the right flank in these early stages, but couldn’t quite find the final pass or a finish respectively to significantly challenge visiting custodian Connor Wheatley. Midfielder Jordan Barnett also had decent strike just wide of the left-side post. George Christou’s team did push forward, perhaps sensing the need to wrestle momentum back and after one of several good runs made in the match by energetic midfielder Reuben Campbell, his effort was off-target but served as a warning for Rovers to not be too expansive going forward. To their credit though, Stanway responded well and a fine strike by centre-back Freddy Cooper just inside the eighteen-yard box was well-denied by Motormen stopper Wheatley.

What ended up being the decisive goal came on twenty-four minutes as centre-back Nathan Okoye took advantage of indeterminate marking on a set-piece to plant his header into the net at the near post. One of the better phases of the game for the second-placed side also saw in-form forward George Purcell head over the goal frame. Stanway were not fazed by their deficit and skipper James Crisell’s goal-bound effort required another decent save from Wheatley as the visitors had to do their share of defending, with centre-backs Joe Elliott & Nathan Okoye characteristically miserly in clearing the ball away in an efficient way.

HT: Stanway 0 – 1 Redbridge

The second half was a more restrained contest, with less chances cropping up for both teams. Mardell had again fired wide for Rovers in a rare glimpse at goal. Redbridge had a few chances, chiefly an acrobatic strike by substitute Tendi Quamina from just outside the area, which had to be cleared off the goal-line.

Campbell also fired wide for a Redbridge side which still showcased their game management skills to good effect here, and also their lead was slender, they were not extensively pressured in the latter stages and claimed a vital win, which saw them jump back up above FC Clacton into second place, with a key ‘promotion six-pointer’ at Enfield set for Wednesday night.

Full-Time: Stanway Rovers 0 – 1 Redbridge

In summary, Redbridge turned up and battled to their third win in just five days in all competitions which in itself in some going. Their forward play was decent at times, but credit also has to go to Stanway who were able to restrict the promotiobn-chasing side’s chances through exhuberant defending and also showed enough going forward to stay in the contest, even though their finishing wasn’t clinical and they also found Blues stopper Connor Wheatley in good form here. All in all though, Stanway’s youthful side did show that in time, they may improve.

The stand-out mentions starts with victors Redbridge. Forward George Purcell led the line well and brought others into play effectively as the focal point in attack. Right-sided midfielder Reuben Campbell made the most of space to make several good breaks down the channel and also put in some fine crosses which forced the intervention of the home defence. Lastly, centre-back Nathan Okoye got the telling goal & was his usual composed self in defence, making a number of good interceptions both in the air and on the deck.

For Stanway, rapid winger Nathaniel Mardell really contributed to his team’s attacks right from the get-go, and also had a couple of decent chances himself, utilising his good pace and movement too. Full-back Emmanuel N’Daw also put in a good display, being decent in defence and also pushing forward down the left side, pustting in some good balls into the penalty box. Lastly, centre-back Freddy Cooper had a good game, competing well with the visiting forward line, making some good interceptions and pushed forward as well, being a threat from set-plays too.

I’ll close this report by passing on my thanks to Stanway Rovers for their hospitality pre-match.

Teams

Stanway Rovers | Interim Manager: Karl Duguid | Assistant: Stuart Nethercott |

Starting XI (Subs): 1 Alfie Marigliani (GK), 2 Sean Bartlett, 3 Emmanuel N’Daw, 5 Freddy Cooper, 6 Olumide Akinode, 4 Jordan Barnett, 8 Joe Debell, 7 Max Sherlock (16 Harrison Smith 84′), 9 Harry Thomas (15 Sonny Bastone 63′), 10 James Crisell (Capt), 11 Nathaniel Mardell (14 Sonny Dutton 72′)

Booked: Barnett | Subs Not Used: Lines

Redbridge | Manager: George Christou | Assistant: Jack Toghli

Starting XI (Subs): 1 Connor Wheatley (GK), 2 Bradley Bennett (17 Michael Pindy 90′), 3 Tayo Olukolu (16 Dean Hall 46′), 5 Joe Elliott, 6 Nathan Okoye, 18 Jack Chawner (Capt), 4 Jerrold Cobblah, 7 Reuben Campbell (15 James Barlow 72′), 19 Joey May (8 Tendi Quamina 58′), 9 George Purcell (11 Loui Hazelwood 84′), 10 Tony Martin

Goal-Scorer: Nathan Okoye [24′]

| Subs Not Used: None

Referee: Kola Adeyemi
Assistants: Robert Collins & Jozef Buda

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Senior Lge (Fri 24/Sat 25 Feb)

Image from Romford v Barking on Friday night [Image from Scott W]

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

Hello & welcome to the latest of my occasional series, looking at the Essex Senior League – Premier Division programme that took place on the weekend of Friday 24/Saturday 25 February.

Essex Senior Lge – Friday 24 February

The weekend’s action begins with three games of Friday & another fine win for in-form Woodford Town, who defeated Stanway Rovers 3 – 0 at Ashton’s. Ernest Okoh, Luke Parrott & substitute Wale Odedoyin all netted for Shane Baptiste’s side, in a win which fortifies their position in fourth, after the weekend’s action. There was a gritty goal-less draw between Buckhurst Hill and Stansted, in front of about 200 spectators at Roding Lane. Hill are 13th, while the Airportmen are eighth. Lastly on Friday, there was a memorable match as the Mayesbrook derby ended with Barking winning 4 – 3 over Romford, in front of 135 fans. Luke Hirst’s treble & a super goal by Ronaldo Kapica overturned a fine Hassan Nalbant double & a Anthony Furlong goal and it saw the Blues rise to sixth. If you’d like more on this game, my report is here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2023/02/25/s22-23-match-report-romford-3-4-barking-fri-24-feb-esl/

On Saturday 25 February, leaders Enfield got a much-needed victory, as they won 3 – 0 at Takeley to stay two points clear at the summit. Alex Warman opened the scoring ten minutes in, before a first-half double for Louie Johnson secured the win for Jamie Cureton’s team. Also, Redbridge stay second after a 2 – 0 triumph over Halstead Town. Jamie Price & James Barlow got the goals to keep George Christou’s team six points clear of FC Clacton, who despatched Southend Manor 5 – 0 at the Austin Arena. The ensemble cast of Adam Tilson (2), Jordan Lartey, Teddy Collis and Mekhi McKenzie’s 22nd league goal this term secured the points for Tom Austin’s team.

Elsewhere, Athletic Newham are well-placed in ninth, with several matches in hand on their rivals as they won 2 – 1 at Little Oakley. Richard Kone notched both goals to reach 15 league goals this term. Danny Garrad responded for James Good’s side but they drop to seventh. White Ensign got another fine away result, as they won 1 – 0 at West Essex. Joe Gregory got the telling goal, to send Ensign up to 15th. Ilford won 5 – 0 at Clapton to see the Foxes up to 12th. The ensemble cast of Josh Boxall, Jack Zielinski, Conner Jones, Jake Chadwick and substitute Caleb Adomako-Mensah all scored to assist Richard Ponsford’s sude to the points. Lastly, Saffron Walden Town defeated Sawbridgeworth Town 3 – 0 in front of 321 at Catons Lane. Tom Skelton, Ryan Melaugh & Charlie Smith all scored for Terry Spillane & Michael Toner’s team, who rise to tenth now.

End

S22-23 Match Report: White Ensign 0 – 0 Redbridge (Sat 7 Jan) [ESL 22-23 8.1.23]

Essex Senior League – Premier Division

Venue: Burroughs Park

Attendance: 52

2022-23 Season: Match 34

Saturday 7th January 2023 – 2pm KO

Ensign: Red & Blue Shirts, Red Shorts, Red Socks

Redbridge: Blue Shirts, Blue Shorts, Blue Socks

Ensign secure hard-earned point and deny Redbridge a much-needed win

White Ensign 0 – 0 Redbridge

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

The opening match of 2023 saw a interesting tussle between second-placed Redbridge and hosts White Ensign, who have already secured some big results in the 2022-23 campaign in the Essex Senior. The conditions were windy and a tad slippery but considering the amount of recent rain, Burroughs Park was in good shape. With boss Aaron Bloxham away, assistant boss Nick Wibrow took the reigns here for the hosts and he named new loan signing Luis Shamshoum in goal, a defence comprised of Ben Sargent, Daniel Monk & Centre-backs Montel Shonubi and captain Mitchell Stuart-Evans. Their midfield featured Iyiola Adebayo, Joe Hunter and Kyle McAlindon, with the forward line being led by Charlie Portway, supported by Billy Bonham-Dare and Kian Bradshaw. Redbridge knew they needed the win here after leaders Enfield’s big win at Buckhurst Hill 18 hours prior and manager George Christou fielded Connor Wheatley as their goalkeeper, with a backline of Reuben Campbell, Joe Elliott and centre-backs Nathan Okoye and skipper Dean Hall. Jerrold Cobblah and Jack Chawner were their central midfield pairing. Michael Pindy and Joey May supported forwards Ibrahim Kehinde and Tony Martin.

The early stages of this match was interesting to watch, given that White Ensign succeeded somewhat in frustrating the opposition, who could not find their rhythm, particularly in attack. Defensively, Redbridge were more rigid as you would expect for a good side & where they are in the table at present, but Ensign still carved out a big chance in the first quarter of the game. Support forward Billy Bonham-Dare managed to evade his marker and slip through a good pass into forward Charlie Portway, but unfortunately for the hosts, his low effort trickled past visiting custodian Connor Wheatley and wide of the left-side post. As the half passed the midway point, the Motormen were starting to find their passing game, with forward Ibrahim Kehinde getting in good positions, but a combination of good defending and a lack of a final pass did frustrate both Kehinde and the visiting dug-out.

Joe Elliott fires in a long throw for the visitors

Full-back Joe Elliott’s long throws were also posing a problem for the home defence, and from one of those throw-ins, support forward Joey May’s header needed tipping over by loanee stopper Luis Shamshoum, a short-term signing from Frenford I understand. Forward Kian Bradshaw was also posing a threat down the right flank wth his pace, though his tame effort when in space in the penalty area was comfortably gathered by Wheatley. Redbridge pushed on towards the end of the first half, with Kehinde having a decent chance on goal which couldn’t bypass Shamshoum.

Half-Time: White Ensign 0 – 0 Redbridge

Reuben Campbell [#2] making a good surging run early in 2nd half for Motormen

I had a feeling that Motormen boss George Christou would utilise his substitutes soon after the resumption, and that would prove to be the case, with full-back Jack Roult, tricky winger Samraj Gill and midfielder Jamie Price all coming on before the hour, replacing Campbell, May & Cobblah respectively. Much to their credit, Ensign continued to be resilent in defence and occasionally made decent strides going forward as well, with midfielder Joe Hunter’s looping drive forcing Redbridge stopper Wheatley into action four minutes after the restart. Forward Ibrahim Kehinde also had a header which was well-gathered by Shamshoum after a good ball in by Elliott from the right flank. It was undeniable that the Motormen put pressure on the Ensign defence, though skipper Mitchell Stuart-Evans and full-back Daniel Monk led the way commendably to stifle an increasingly frustated visiting side.

Winger Samraj Gill did make a difference to the visiting forward line after coming on, as he put in several good crosses into the box, but Shamshoum and his defenders were equal to the task, with the Ensign stopper showing as much by palming away a dangerous ball in by Gill from the left flank late on, despite being under pressure from the advancing Jamie Price. Harry Kateley also had come on for Ensign and he also made a few good runs to give the Redbridge defence a couple of nervy moments alongside Bradshaw in the latter stages, but all in all, this was a good point for Ensign, hard-earned as it was. The result sees Ensign drop to 15th, because of Romford’s win at Sawbridgeworth, while the Motormen are now ten points adrift of leaders Enfield.

Full-Time: White Ensign 0 – 0 Redbridge

Although there were no goals in this contest, there was a lot of endeavour, a few good chances and some good approach play. Overall, Ensign stuck to their task well & their confidence grew as the match went on. Redbridge were unusually slow to get into their rhythm & although they pushed hard at times, they couldn’t grab that decisive goal to lessen the gap to leaders Enfield.

Redbridge’s good performances here were led by forwards Michael Pindy and Ibrahim Kehinde, who both put in a good shift for their team. Pindy made several good runs down the right flank and showed good movement while Kehinde showed guile and good willingness to get in between defenders, although both were thwarted by a resilent home defence. Full-back Joe Elliott put in a good defensive display, as well as making a few good surging runs down the flanks. Lastly, substitute Samraj Gill heightened the pressure on a tiring Ensign defence in the last half hour, putting in several dangerous crosses into the penalty area in the latter stages.

White Ensign had several good individual displays here, led in my view by full-back Daniel Monk who made several important clearances, covered well defensively as well as putting in some good passes forward. Midfielder Iyiola Adebayo put in another good display in both boxes, distributing the ball well alongside Joe Hunter in central midfield and showed hgh energy levels. Captain Mitchell Stuart-Evans was a good anchor in defence as well, making several timely interceptions to frustrate the Motormen attack, while goalkeeper Luis Shamshoum was as assured presence, making a few decent saves and stayed alert well too.

I’d like to wish both teams a good remainder of the season.

Teams

White Ensign | Stand-in Manager: Nick Wilbrow | Assistant: Enrico Tiritera

Starting XI (Subs): 1 Luis Shamshoum (GK), 2 Ben Sargent, 3 Daniel Monk, 5 Montel Shonubi, 4 Mitchell Stuart-Evans (Capt), 6 Kyle McAlindon, 7 Joe Hunter (16 Teddy Rumsey 87′), 8 Iyiola Adebayo, 9 Billy Bonham-Dare (11 Harry Kateley 58′), 19 Charlie Portway, 10 Kian Bradshaw

Booked: Bonham-Dare | Subs Not Used: Ferris, O Jenkins

Redbridge | Manager: George Christou | Assistant: Jack Toghli

Starting XI (Subs): 1 Connor Wheatley (GK), 2 Reuben Campbell (Jack Roult 52′), 3 Joe Elliott, 5 Nathan Okoye, 6 Dean Hall (Capt), 4 Jerrold Cobblah (16 Jamie Price 58′), 8 Jack Chawner, 7 Michael Pindy (14 Tayo Joshua Olukolu 72′), 19 Joey May (20 Samraj Gill 58′), 9 Ibrahim Kehinde (15 James Barlow 72′), 10 Tony Martin

Booked: Cobblah | Sub Not Used: None

Referee: Alex Baker
Assistants: Gary Telling & Joe Lannon

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Senior League (Sat 26 Nov) [ESL 22-23 27.11.22]

Archive Image – Halstead Tn v FC Clacton earlier this term

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

Hello & welcome to the latest of my occasional series, rounding-up the full Essex Senior League programme that took place on the weekend of Saturday 26 November. We also include the Reserve Shield action & the solitary Ressie league match in Division Two.

Essex Senior League – Saturday 26 November

The weekend’s action starts with an important win for Barking as they powered past Stanway Rovers 5 – 1 at Mayesbrook Park 3G. Charlie Heatley’s first hat-trick inside the first hour led the way for Charlie MacDonald’s side, while Ahmed Abdulla and George Fairhead added further pain to Danny Slatter’s team, who replied through Will Crisell’s goal. At the Terry Mac, Clapton got another big three points as they fought back to defeat Romford 4 – 3. Khyreece Smith-Reid’s fifth league goal this term plus goals from Leon Wildman, Sharn Quinn’s spot-kick & an OG enabled Ross Weare’s side to move eight points clear of bottom side Southend Manor. Romford responded through strikes from Emmanuel Ogunrinde, Adalberto Pinto and Shomari Barnwell’s goal in stoppage time but they are now five points adrift of landlords Barking in tenth.

Takeley continued their recent good form, with a 4 – 0 victory at Southend Manor. Charlie Allum and George Frodsham goals inside the first ten minutes led the way for Marc Das’ side, then Jayden Gipson & Jordan Westcott goals added more anguish for Alex O’Leary’s side. At the summit, Enfield stay at the top on goal difference after a 3 – 0 victory at managerless Saffron Walden Town. Danny Norton, Louie Johnson’s penalty & a Usman Adeniji goal sealed the points for Jamie Cureton in front of 330 spectators at Catons Lane. Redbridge are second on the same points total (36) after a gritty 1 – 0 win at West Essex. Ibrahim Kehinde got the only goal there for George Christou’s side at Wadham Lodge. FC Clacton are now five points clear in third spot after a 2 – 1 success at White Ensign. Jake Clowsley & the league’s top scorer Mekhi McKenzie got the goals for Tom Austin’s side there, while Teddy Rumsby got the goal back for Aaron Bloxham’s team.

Elsewhere, Stansted remain in sixth after a 4 – 0 win at Halstead Town. The quartet of Ashaan Siddik, George O’Connor, Michael Mignot and Andre Embalo all netted for the Airportmen to add more concern for the Humbugs, who stay 16th. Buckhurst Hill got an important victory after the loss of two big players this week, as they won 4 – 1 over Sawbridgeworth Town at Roding Lane. Jake Knight had given Kieran Amos & Ben Taylor’s side an early lead, but Ezekiel Bademosi levelled the match just before the interval before a double from Hassan Nalbant and a late goal by replacement Jake Moss sealed the win for Mark Williams’ side, who reside in eighth. Athletic Newham are ninth after a 3 – 1 victory at Ilford, with Daniel Izekor notching another double and Abdul Shobowale also on target for Chris Davis’ team. Jack Zielinski got the reply for the Foxes there. Lastly in the top-tier, Woodford Town bagged a 1 – 0 away win at Little Oakley, thanks to Wale Odedoyin’s goal to spoil new manager James Good’s first league game in charge, after the resignation of Matt Carmichael this week – I’d like to pass on my best wishes to Matt & his family at this tough time.

Now into the Reserve Shield action, Barkingside Res edged through on Friday night, defeating White Ensgn Res 2 – 1 at Lakeside Sports Ground. Junior Mandeng-Fotabeng netted for the Ensign side, but strikes by Emmanuel Banahene & Kolade Oshun secured the hosts’ progression. Woodford Town Res joined them there after a 3 – 1 victory at Athletic Newham Res. David Avram, Albert James & replacement Izac Clarke all scored for Town in that game. The other two games needed spot-kicks to determine the victor and Billericay Town Res drew 1 – 1 with Frenford Res, before winning 4 – 3 on penalties. Redbridge Res also drew, 2 – 2 with West Essex Development but it was the Stags side who won 3 – 1 on penalties in that one.

Finally, there’s one result in Ressie League Division Two, which saw Barking U23 go back to the summit after a thumping 7 – 0 victory at May & Baker Res.

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Senior League (Sat 5 Nov) [ESL 22-23 6.11.22]

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

Hello & welcome to the latest of my occasional series, looking at the Essex Senior League action, looking at all ten matches that took place on the weekend of Saturday 5 November. We saw 43 goals in the ten matches.

Essex Senior Lge – Saturday 5 November

The weekend’s action started on Friday night as Saffron Walden Town grabbed an impressive 4 – 1 victory at Halstead Town to bolster their top-five aspirations. The ensemble cast of Solomon Ofori, Dion Lewis-Kirwan, Palvy Manduakila and Stanley Leech all netted a goal each to render Jordan Blackwell’s goal for Halstead as mere consolation, in front of 425 spectators at Rosemary Lane. Also, Ilford got an decent 1 – 0 victory at Romford, with Paul Cox the scorer there for Richard Ponsford’s team who are 15th after the weekend’s action. Finally on Friday night, Woodford Town handed Clapton another loss as Town won 4 – 0, with Jaedon Phillips’ early double being added to by Luke Parrott & substitute Dimi Christou to keep the Tons second bottom.

On Saturday, Enfield remain five points clear at the summit with a comprehensive 6 – 0 victory over Sawbridgeworth Town at Woodside. Ibrahim Kehinde opened the scoring on 25 minutes for Jamie Curerton’s team, while Danny Norton added another two goals to reach nine leaguwe goals this term. Louie Johnson’s spot-kick, Samrai Gebrai & substitute Dwade James all added a goal each to make it 11 wins from 12 games for the E’s. Elsewhere, Redbridge are third after a 4 – 0 victory over White Ensign at Oakside. Joey May made a rare start & got the opening goal after five minutes. Bradley Bennett added another first-half goal before Solomon Ogunwomoju struck twice to secure the win. Little Oakley also got another good three points with a 3 – 2 win over Stanway Rovers at the Memorial Stadium. Harry Mann, William Crisell & Mason Ridgway-Lumley got the crucial goals for Matt Carmichael’s side to overturn strikes by Ernest Okoh and replacement Sanunur Bah Bah for Rovers.

FC Clacton got back to winning ways with an impressive 5 – 1 win at Southend Manor, in the match I attended this weekend. Mekhi McKenzie has so often been an important player for Tom Austin’s side and McKenzie showed that again with a treble, which was added to by strikes by Reuben Cowler & a penalty by Teddy Collis. Substitute Joe Darby got a late consolation for Manor but they remain bottom. My report is available here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2022/11/05/s22-23-match-report-southend-manor-1-5-fc-clacton-sat-5-nov/

Meanwhile, Athletic Newham welcomed back Richard Kone from injury and he bagged a fine treble as Newham defeated West Essex 4 – 0 at the Terry Mac. Daniel Izekor got the other goal as the hosts went up to ninth spot. Buckhurst Hill made the most of an early sending off for Barking to grab a 4 – 0 win over Charlie MacDonald’s side at Roding Lane. Ezekiel Bademosi got a brace for Mark Williams’ side, with Nathan Sollosi also netting and there was a late goal for Hassan Nalbant as well. Finally, Takeley got a fine 3 – 1 victory at Stansted, with Glenn O’Hanlon and George Wappett getting first-half goals for Marc Das’ team. Ashaan Siddik got a goal back for the Airportmen before the interval. Hodje Almeida-Joaquim added a third goal to give the visitors the points which saw them rise to 11th.

That’s all for this week, thank you for reading.

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Senior Lge (Fri 30 Sept/Sat 1 Oct) [ESL 22/23 2.10.22]

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

Hello & welcome to the latest Essex Senior League round-up, which is part of an occasional blog series this term, in addition to the many match reports on League matches this term. This article looks at the action from the weekend of Saturday 1 October.

Essex Senior – Saturday 1 October

We start the Saturday action with a huge win for Saffron Walden Town as they defeated Ilford 6 – 1 at Catons Lane, in front of 280 fans. Jason Hallett struck yet another hat-trick (two of them were penalties) to set Jason Maher’s side on the path to success, with Cameron Watson’s early goal allied with strikes by Craig Calver and Stanley Leech. Brandon Wood’s goal was little consolation for the Foxes as they fell to 15th spot. Walden are still outside the top half in 13th but they are only three points adrift of the top six, which shows how tight the table is at present.

Stansted are also finding their form as they outclassed Stanway Rovers 5 – 1 at Hargrave Park. The returning Connor Hammond hit two fine free-kicks to net a brace, with Michael Mignot also scoring two for Paul Pittuck & John Watters’ side here. Jack Mitchell got the other goal here, but there was no clean sheet here as substitute Ezequiel Franchi got a late reply for Danny Slatter’s team here. The Airportmen rise back up into the top, into 8th. Meanwhile, Little Oakley got another gritty 1 – 0 win away from home, this time at former leaders West Essex. Danny Garrad’s goal midway through the second period was the decisive moment and was enough for all three points as Oakley stay in third and three points adrift of the leaders.

Elsewhere, Takeley got a big 5 – 0 win at White Ensign, with an Oliver Jenkins OG, Glenn O’Hanlon and Jordan Westcott goals setting them on their way. Late goals from Hodje Almeida-Joaquim and Lewis Deamer gave Marc Das’ side a more than comfortable triumph to send them up to 14th. The North East Essex rivalry resumed at Rush Green Bowl as FC Clacton edged to a 3 – 2 victory over Halstead Town. Jake Clowsley, Reuben Cowler and Mekhi McKenzie’s spot-kick was enough to give Tommy Austin’s side the points, despite the Humbugs threatening a comeback thanks to goals from Alfie Cleal and Jordan Blackwell. The Seasiders broke into the top five with this win. Halstead remain third from bottom, two points clear of the bottom two.

Buckhurst Hill got the win they wanted as they won 3 – 1 at Southend Manor. Hassan Nalbant continued his superb scoring run with another double here, to which club stalwart Henry Day added a third to give Mark Williams’ side the points. Manor are in the process of a complete squad rebuild after recent events and gave the visitors a tougher game in the second half, shown by Will Atwill’s consolation goal. Buckhurst stay fourth while Manor are still without a win this term.

The big match on Friday for Redbridge saw them face second-bottom Clapton, which the Blues dominated on their way to a 6 – 0 triumph at Oakside. Substitute Tony Martin struck twice in the second half to add to first half strikes by Joe Elliott, Michael Pindy, Samraj Gill and Miles Peterkin. The Tons found it difficult to cope with the pace and passing of George Christou’s team and the hosts went top. I attended this match & if you’d like more on it, my report is here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2022/10/01/s22-23-match-report-redbridge-6-0-clapton-fri-30-sept-esl/ 

In the other match on Friday night, Woodford Town were denied a good win as a last minute leveller from Larry Akanbi saw them draw 2 – 2 with Sawbridgeworth Town.

Finally, in the FA Cup there was no dream ‘giant-killing’ for Romford as they gave Step 2 side Chelmsford City a tricky test before falling to a 5 – 0 loss at Mayesbrook Patrk 3G, in front of over 330 spectators. Khale Da Costa’s treble ensured Robbie Simpson’s side marched on, with Ade Oluwo’s strike on the hour plus a late Tom Blackwell goal added gloss to the score-line.

That’s all for this weekend, thank you for reading.

S22-23 Match Report: Redbridge 6 – 0 Clapton (Fri 30 Sept) [ESL 22-23 1.10.22]

Essex Senior League – Premier Division

Venue: Oakside

Attendance: TBC

2022-23 Season: Match 19

Friday 30th September 2022 – 8pm KO

Redbridge: Blue Shirts, Blue Shorts, Blue Socks

Clapton: White Shirts, White Shorts, Red Socks

Redbridge outclass Clapton to pick up big win at Oakside

Redbridge 6 – 0 Clapton

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

The first match of the weekend saw a welcome return to Oakside for an interesting Essex Senior League clash between second-placed Redbridge, against second-bottom Clapton. The visitors were looking to recover from a heavy loss at Buckhurst Hill last weekend in the League, whereas George Christou’s team were looking to continue their terrific start to the campaign. The Motormen have a pretty settled squad at present, but there were a few changes here. Connor Wheatley had the goalkeeper’s jersey, behind a defence comprised of Brad Bennett, Simon Bamidele and centre-back pairing Joe Elliott and Nathan Okoye. Jake Brocklebank skippered the side, with Jack Chawner alongside him in central midfield. The forward line was made up of Solomon Ogunwomoju, Miles Peterkin and Michael Pindy, with support from the creative Samraj Gill. Tayo Olukolu and Tony Martin were among the options on the bench.

Clapton fielded Alex Reed in goal, with a back four of Abel Yohannes, Ridwan Euba, Richard Kulschewski and Josh Hayward. James Walkinshaw was skipper and played in an anchor midfield role. Sharn Quinn and Daniel Enguru were also in the midfield, with Victor Ferrini, George Onwusonye and Khyreece Smith-Reid making up the forward line. The match began a little later than planned in terrible rainy conditions but we certainly got a lively start to it, and not one Ross Weare’s side would have wanted.

With barely 75 seconds on the watch, a set-piece arrowed in Samraj Gill was half-cleared to the edge of the 18-yard box, and centre-back Joe Elliott fizzed home a fine strike into the left corner, with all the poise of a centre forward. That was just the start George Christou’s team would have wanted and it got better on 13 minutes. A neat move among the rapid forward line involving Gill and forward Solomon Ogunwomoju ended with Michael Pindy being well-placed to pounce from close range after evading his marker.

Clapton did venture forward occasionally, and from a set-piece of their own, they did have a glimmer at goal. Centre-back Josh Hayward got in at the back post but could only strike wide in a crowded six-yard area. The hosts were sprinting forward with considerable purpose and the forwards were linking up well, and gave the Tons backline another nervy moment with 20 minutes gone. Forward Miles Peterkin glided past his defender well but could only fire wide of Reed’s goal frame.

Redbridge did unsurprisingly make it three-nil just short of the half-hour as another fine move ended with Pindy unselfishly playing in Gill who curled home a super finish past the unfortunate Reed into the left corner. It could have been worse for the Tons as Peterkin could’ve had a hat-trick by this point, but Hayward did well with a fine tackle to deny the forward a likely goal. That being said, Peterkin did get on the score-sheet four minutes before the interval to effectively close out the contest.

Peterkin got in behind his marker, evaded another defender and fired home without any hesitation utilising fine technique in the conditions to make it four for the hosts and you had to feel for Clapton stopper Alex Reed, who didn’t really have a chance at stopping any of the goals thus far.

Half-Time: Redbridge 4 – 0 Clapton

Michael Pindy surging forward again in 2nd half for Redbridge

As you might have surmised, the second half did drop off a bit in terms of tempo but the continuing inclement weather was also making the pitch somewhat slippery. Clapton did more time on the ball, and midfielder Sharn Quinn did look to get the ball forward to substitute forwards Djazton Vieira Mandica & Jermaine Baptiste, as well as Victor Ferrini. Midway into the second half, winger Max Murariu did well to break down the right flank and his fine cross found Ferrini but he couldn’t get in the right position to connect his header and test home stopper Connor Wheatley.

Again, Redbridge surged up the other end and made it five on 67 minutes. Substitute Tony Martin benefitted from more good build-up play and was in the right position at the right time to slot home confidently past Reed. The Clapton goalkeeper made one of several good saves with 14 minutes left as Gill sent in another good strike, which Reed dived full-length to sprawl over and parry away well.

Ultimately though, there was another goal that came in the closing moments as Martin again got past his marker and rounded Reed before coolly sliding the ball into the net to round off a good evening’s work for George Christou’s side and perhaps also showing the task that the Tons have to gather enough points to stay out of the bottom two.

Full-Time: Redbridge 6 – 0 Clapton

In summary, Redbridge were too strong in possession and made the most of it to score some classy goals and make this an unusually one-sided match. The Tons did have more ball time in the second half but they could only create a few half-chances which did not unduly trouble home stopper Connor Wheatley.

There were a number of great performances in this match. For Redbridge, forward Michael Pindy led the attack well and personified the difference between the sides, getting a good goal & an assist too. Creative midfielder Samraj Gill also had a really good game, with astute passing and a fine goal as well to add to his good evening’s work. Jake Brocklebank did well also in central midfield to build attacks well while forward Solomon Ogunwomoju remains an important part of the forward line for Redbridge, making several good runs down the left-side channel.

For Clapton, there were some good performances despite the scoreline. Centre-back Josh Hayward made several important clearances whilst under pressure and could have pinched a goal early on as well. Goalkeeper Alex Reed also made several good saves to keep his team in the match for longer while central midfielder Sharn Quinn also made some good forward passes and blasted a couple of decent strikes past the goal frame.

I’d like to wish both teams a good remainder of the season.

Teams:

Redbridge | Manager: George Christou | Assistant: Jack Toghli

Starting XI (Subs): 1 Connor Wheatley (GK), 2 Brad Bennett, 16 Simon Bamidele (3 Tayo Olukolu 56′), 4 Jake Brocklebank (Capt), 5 Joe Elliott, 6 Nathan Okoye, 8 Jack Chawner (15 Daniel Okah 65′), 20 Samraj Gill, 7 Michael Pindy (18 Reuben Campbell 65′), 9 Miles Peterkin (11 Tony Martin 56′) 10 Solomon Ogunwomoju (19 James Barlow 80′)

Goal-scorers: Joe Elliott [1′], Michael Pindy [13′], Samraj Gill [29′], Miles Peterkin [41′], Tony Martin [67′ & 88′]

Booked: None | Subs Not Used: None

Clapton | Manager: Ross Weare | Assistant: Jack Caten

Starting XI (Subs): 1 Alex Reed (GK), 12 Abel Yohannes (2 Clinton Shodiya 29′), 4 Josh Hayward 5 Richard Kulschewski (6 Sheldon Dight 75′), 3 Ridwan Euba, 13 James Walkinshaw (Capt), 8 Sharn Quinn, 11 Daniel Enguru (19 Djazton Vieira Mandica 46′), 9 George Onwusonye (15 Jermaine Baptiste 46′), 10 Victor Ferrini, 7 Khyreece Smith-Reid (14 Max Murariu 46′)

Booked: Vieira Mandica, Ferrini | Sub Not Used: None

Referee: Adekola Adeyemi
Assistants: Olabisi Omotosho & Martin Quinn

S22-23 Match Report: Redbridge 2 – 1 Enfield (Tues 13 Sept) [ESL 22/23 14.9.22]

Essex Senior League – Premier Division

Venue: Oakside

Attendance: 55 (Est)

2022-23 Season: Match 13

Tuesday 13th September 2022 – 7.45pm KO

Redbridge: Blue Shirts, Blue Shorts, Blue Socks

Enfield: Yellow & Blue Shirts, Yellow Shorts, Yellow & Blue Socks

First half action still with Enfield pushing forward (Image by Scott W)

Redbridge forced to battle hard to ensure victory over Enfield

Redbridge 2 – 1 Enfield

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

The Non-League journey for this season re-commenced after the weekend’s shut-down with a intriguing match at Oakside between two unbeaten sides in Redbridge and Enfield in the Essex Senior League. George Christou named a strong side with George Martin the goalkeeper, with a defence of Bradley Bennett, Josh Olukolu and centre-backs Nathan Okoye and Joe Elliott. Skipper Jake Brocklebank was alongside Jack Roult and Jack Chawner in midfield. The forward line was comprised of Tony Martin, Solomon Ogunwomoju and Simon Bamidele. Enfield had the ever-present James Bransgrove in goal, with a three-man defence of Nnamdi Harold-Eagle, Tyler Corlett and Jack Grosvenor. Skipper Alex Warman was alongside Usman Adeniji and Samrai Gebrai in midfield, with Louie Johnson, Danny Norton and Adu Odukoya leading the forward line.

Before kick-off, both teams marked a fine minute’s silence in honour of the recent passing of Queen Elizabeth II (see image above).

Onto the match itself, and the match got underway with increasing amounts of rain descending down, which made pitch conditions a bit tricky. Enfield started strongly as the hosts had to soak up a fair wad of pressure defensively, with forward Louie Johnson firing wide and Danny Norton also sent a header narrowly over the goal frame. Redbridge did respond and were granted a spot-kick on 13 minutes as centre-back Nathan Okoye was brought down by opposite number Jack Grosvenor, which saw the E’s defender recieve a booking. Centre forward Tony Martin stepped up and duly converted the penalty, firing home into the left-side corner, giving visiting stopper James Bransgrove little chance to save it.

That was an important goal, given that the visitors had started well. Redbridge did have more impetus going forward, but Enfield’s momentum was also building, such was the small margins already present in this match. Johnson had another decent effort at goal, while fellow forward Ayo Odukoya also testing the Motormen defence, with full-back Brad Bennett and Okoye required to make several important clearances.

It was apparent that the hosts would need to increase their lead and they did so on the half-hour in some style. Full-back Josh Olukolu made a superb, fast run down the left before sending in a great centre which tracked the run of Martin in the six-yard area and Martin timed his run perfectly and struck home confidently into the far corner. Enfield did respond well and halved the deficit five minutes later as a floated corner was headed in very well at the near post by centre-back Tyler Corlett.

Both sides poured forward to grab another goal before the interval. Redbridge had a glimmer of goal from an angled set-piece found midfielder Jake Brocklebank who sent in a header narrowly over the woodwork. At the other end, good interplay by Samrai Gebrai and Johnson ended with the latter’s strike being deflected by Elliott which allowed Martin to gather. Moments before the break, Elliott sent a decent strike not far wide of Bransgrove’s goal frame.

Half-Time: Redbridge 2 – 1 Enfield

With the inclement weather getting worse, it added to the chance of errors being made. There were several good chances as the pace of the game didn’t drop. Forward Solomon Ogunwomoju had a good chance to really push the pressure on Jamie Cureton’s side but he fired narrowly wide. The visitors went back on the offensive as Johnson set up Odukoya but the powerful forward also couldn’t find the target.

Bransgrove did well to deny Ogunwomoju’s effort when one-on-one just short of the hour as the E’s also reacted by bringing on Dwade James, Jeffrey Cobblah and Kieran Bishop before the midway point of the half. As the game became increasingly fraught, James and Bishop also had half-chances to get that telling equaliser for Enfield but it wasn’t to be.

All credit to the visitors though as they made Redbridge work hard right until the final whistle. After about four minutes of added time, referee Gavin Bailey blew for the final time and Christou’s side could at last celebrate not only maintaining their unbeaten start to the league season, but also rising to joint-top of the Essex Senior table, behind Little Oakley on goal difference only.

By contrast, Enfield have seen their winning start to the season end but there was enough on display in their performance here to show that they will be up there in the promotion reckoning come March & April 2023. Both teams put on an very good match to watch, so kudos to them for that.

Enfield look to push on in 2nd half (Image by Scott W)

Full-Time: Redbridge 2 – 1 Enfield

To sum up this battle of a match, Redbridge had to defend for large parts of the second half after grabbing the lead before the break but respect to George Christou’s team in that they relished the battle. Enfield on another day would’ve got three or four goals but ultimately had a lot to do after conceding those two goals in the first half-hour. Their midfield took time to adjust to the conditions but they showed enough as a team to suggest they will win a lot of games this season.

For this match’s stand-out performances, we start with victors Redbridge. Tony Martin led the forward line well and showed clinical finishing to dispatch the penalty and showed good positioning throughout, most tellingly to make the run to score his & his team’s second goal. Wing-back Josh Olukolu had a very good game also, making several rapid runs and putting in a superb cross from the left flank for his team’s second goal. Joe Elliott had a fine game alongside Nathan Okoye at centre-back, with skipper Jake Brocklebank putting in a tireless display in anchor midfield, making several important block tackles.

For Enfield, forward Louie Johnson was their chief threat, having several chances that were narrowly wide of goal or had to be denied as well as making several piercing runs. Centre-back Tyler Corlett took his goal well and was a big physical presence in the E’s backline. Samrai Gebrai had a decent game as well down the left side and showed good understanding with Johnson. Lastly, captain Alex Warman grew into the game well and contributed to his team’s forward moves.

I’d just like to wish both sides a good remainder of the campaign.

Teams

Redbridge | Manager: George Christou | Assistant: Jack Toghli

Starting XI (Subs): 13 George Martin (GK), 2 Bradley Bennett, 3 Joshua Olukolu (19 James Barlow 85′), 5 Joe Elliott, 6 Nathan Okoye, 4 Jake Brocklebank (Capt), 7 Jack Roult, 8 Jack Chawner, 9 Tony Martin (14 Miles Peterkin 75′), 10 Solomon Ogunwomoju (11 Loui Hazlewood 89′), 18 Simon Bamidele (12 Reuben Campbell 66′)

Goal-scorers: Tony Martin [pen 13′ & 30′]

Booked: None | Subs Not Used: Gill

Enfield | Manager: Jamie Cureton | Assistant: Jim Duggan

Starting XI (Subs): 1 James Bransgrove (GK), 21 Tyler Corlett, 5 Nnamdi Harold-Eagle (7 Kieran
Bishop 67′), 6 Jack Grosvenor, 4 Alex Warman (Capt), 16 Usman Adeniji, 23 Danny Norton, 11 Samrai Gebrai, 18 Gavin Cockman (20 Jeffrey Cobblah 61′), 10 Louie Johnson, 19 Ayo Odukoya (27 Dwade James 58′)

Goal-scorer: Tyler Corlett [35′]

Booked: Grosvenor | Subs Not Used: Cousins, J Johnson

Referee: Gavin Bailey
Assistants: Kadir Nazif & Davide Scaraggi

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Senior League (Sat 13 Aug) [ESL 22/23 14.8.22]

Archive Image from Ensign v Little Oakley on 30 July [Image by Scott W]

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

Hello & welcome to the first of an occasional blog series this term looking at the action in the Essex Senior League this season. This weekend was the second round of matches for all clubs , with some important victories for clubs at either end of the very early standings.

Essex Senior League – Saturday 13 August

We begin this week with a superb result for West Essex as they impressively defeated Buckhurst Hill 6 – 1 at Wadham Lodge. A crowd of nearly 100 saw braces for Cameron Gray and Callum Bloss for the Stags, with David Bell and replacement Marlon Ortiz also adding to Buckhurst’s pain here. Max Nicholson got their only goal here but it perhaps is a reminder that Buckhurst are going to have ‘bad days’ this term. Enfield maintained their new season form, scoring another three goals in a 3 – 1 triumph at Clapton. Louie Johnson’s treble took his League goal tally to five already this term, while Kyreece Smith-Reid got a consolation for Ross Weare’s side.

Meanwhile, White Ensign got their first League win in some style with a nerve-jangling 5 – 4 victory at Ilford. Charlie Portway’s double plus strikes by Billy Bonham-Dare, Ethan Evison and Callum Morris’ late, late winner secured a precious three points for Aaron Bloxham’s side. Joe Lilly’s early penalty put the Foxes back into the game but even goals from Mitchell Mccabe, Harry Rawlins and Caleb Adomoko-Mensah could got give Richard Ponsford’s side a point. Stanway Rovers also got a good 2 – 0 win over Saffron Walden Town at the Hawthorns. Jordan Barnett and Ashley Colcough got the goals for Danny Slatter’s team, in front of eighty-five spectators.

Also on the winning trail this weekend was Redbridge as they edged to a 3 – 2 success at Romford. Tayo Olukolu and Solomon Ogunwomoju got the first goals for George Christou’s team, with George Cox and OG levelling things up. Miles Peterkin’s late goal sealed the points to make it two wins from two in the League. Woodford Town got a good 2 – 1 win at Takeley, with Ridwan Hussein and Georges Kebi both netting for Shane Baptiste’s side. George Wappett had levelled for Marc Das’ team prior to Kebi’s winner.

There were a few narrow wins also, as FC Clacton edged to a 1 – 0 win over visitors Stansted, with Mekhi McKenzie grabbing the decisive goal there. Also, Halstead Town had a spot-kick to thank for a 1 – 0 victory over Athletic Newham and mark their first win back at Step 5. Sawbridgeworth Town got a important 1 – 0 win at Southend Manor, while Little Oakley held Barking to a goal-less draw at the Memorial Stadium.

S21-22 Match Report: Stanway Rovers 0 – 2 Redbridge (Mon 18 Apr) [ESL PBT Final 21-22 19.4.22]

ESL Peter Butcher Trophy – Final

Venue: Catons Lane

Attendance: 181

2021-22 Season: Match 74

Monday 18 April 2022 – 3pm KO

Stanway: Yellow Shirts, Black Shorts, Yellow Socks

Redbridge: Blue Shirts, Blue Shorts, Blue Socks

The Silverware.. This is the Peter Butcher Memorial Trophy [Image by Scott W]

Early Action Still with Redbridge defending [Image by Scott W]

Redbridge secure another Trophy with hard-earned win over resilient Stanway

Stanway Rovers 0 – 2 Redbridge

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

Additional photos by Katie Dorling [for @EssexSenior], used with thanks. Thanks also to the ESL’s Ashley Leat.

The last match of the Easter weekend saw the first Essex Senior-related Cup Final of the campaign as we headed to Saffron Walden’s Catons Lane for an interesting battle between high-flyers Redbridge and mid-table side Stanway Rovers. Stanway had to bypass Sawbridgeworth Town, West Essex and Takeley to reach this occasion and named Harry Aldridge between the posts, with captain Jack Clampin and Danny Nesbitt in central defence. Jordan Barnett and Harry Norman were the central midfield, with Ernest Okoh and Ayo Oukoya leading the attack, with support from James Crisell and Sean Bartlett. Forwards Joel Older, Max Sherlock and Ezequiel Franchi were all options from the sidelines for boss Danny Slatter.

Redbridge had to lift themselves following a disappointing end to their League match on Good Friday but in this competition, they had defeated Southend Manor, St Margaretsbury, Walthamstow and Stansted en route to this Final. They named regular stopper George Martin in goal, with a back four of Bradley Bennett, skipper Jack Roult plus centre-backs Dean Hall and Nathan Okoye. Tony Martin led the forward line, alongside Ibrahim Kehinde and Timothy Ogunrinde. Jerold Cobblah and Michael Pindy were cup-tied & therefore unavailable. Their bench included forward Loui Hazelwood, midfielders Kwabena Yeboah and Tayo Olukolu and defender Joe Elliott.

The Stanway team pre-match [Image by Katie D]

The Redbridge Starting XI pre-match [Image by Katie D]

This match had a cagey start, perhaps reflecting the long & arduous season that both sides have had. It is understandable that the teams were mentally tired more than anything but the match did find its way into gear on ten minutes as Redbridge pushed forward and Robbie Norris’ header forced a decent save from Rovers custodian Harry Aldridge. Stanway had given the Motormen defence a few nervy moments in the early minutes, with forwards Ernest Okoh and Ayo Odukoya proving a good duo with good movement and strength. They couldn’t quite create the chances they needed though as the Blues did get the better of the midfield battle. On twenty-five minutes, a set-piece was angled into the penalty box, which centre-back Nathan Okoye got onto but his header was not powerful enough to trouble Aldridge, who gathered.

Stanway were commendably strong in defence but couldn’t quite find the telling passes to the forwards often enough as they were frustrated by a good Motormen backline. Rovers had a warning on thirty-three minutes when a good one-two passing move involving Martin and Timothy Ogunrinde ended with Ogunrinde firing wide of the right-side post, with Kehinde making a surging run in the centre of the penalty area.

Redbridge looking to get forward in first half [Image by Scott W]

The game was starting to drift towards the interval, needing a goal and one duly arrived nine minutes before the break. Good build-up play saw a good cross-field ball find Ibrahim Kehinde on the left flank, before the wily forward turned past his marker and sent a superb cross in to the far post, finding Tony Martin who powerfully headed home into the far post with Aldridge helpless to prevent it. George Christou’s side were having the better of the chances but they were not plentiful.

So at the Interval, Redbridge had a slender lead but they had to stay alert to shake off the threat posed by Odukoya and Okoh in particular while Rovers had to step up the tempo to further stretch & test the Redbridge defence.

Redbridge looking to counter-attack in 1st half with Stanway skipper Jack Clampin (5) marking [Image by Katie D]

Half-Time: Stanway Rovers 0 – 1 Redbridge

Redbridge looked to regain the momentum early in the second half but Kehinde was unable to make the most of two half-chances, first firing off-target and then shortly afterwards, his effort was saved by Aldridge, who was having a decent game. Stanway were still finding it tricky to create clear chances, with Okoh having the only effort of note off-target ten minutes after the restart. Max Sherlock came off the bench for Danny Slatter’s team to replace Sean Bartlett and immediately gave Rovers an injection of pace and energy down the left flank, which added to the threat the Motormen defence had to face.

At the other end, fellow substitute Loui Hazelwood was also causing problems for the Rovers backline as a surging run ended with Aldridge doing well to deny his effort as well. Stanway came back into proceedings well in the latter stages though as Okoh was denied by Motormen stopper George Martin before Sherlock got hold of the rebound and saw his strike blocked by the well-placed covering defenders. Redbridge were searching keenly for that telling second goal and Hazelwood so nearly had it, sending a curling strike from left side of penalty box which Stanway captain Jack Clampin did very well to clear off the goal-line.

Stanway put another dangerous ball into the box [Image by Scott W]

Rovers were still piling forward looking for that crucial leveller and were leaving gaps in their defence on the counter-attack. Redbridge did just that a minute before the ninety was up, with Hazelwood doing well making another run before playing in skipper Jack Roult but his strike went narrowly wide of Aldridge’s left-side post. That ended up being the last let-off Rovers had as a minute later, Redbridge finally got a second goal to seal the Peter Butcher Trophy.

A searing run by the impressive Kehinde down the right channel got the better of the Stanway defence before coolly playing in Hazelwood who struck home well with a looping finish to send the Redbridge contingent into raptures.

Stanway’s Ayo Odukoya being marked by Redbridge’s Robbie Norris [Image by Scott W]

Rovers had little time to mount a fightback as the final whistle went soon afterwards, though I must pay respect to the performance that they put in here. They put in a hard shift defensively but ultimately it wasn’t enough to claim the Trophy here.

Full-Time: Stanway Rovers 0 – 2 Redbridge

In summary, Redbridge were the stronger of the two sides going forward but Stanway made it tough with a resilient defensive display and the Motormen’s one goal lead going into the latter stages was precarious. That and Stanway looked more lively in attack after the interval meant there were nervy moments but George Christou’s side scored a superb second goal which secured more silverware, their second Trophy in two seasons.

There were several fine performances from both sides In this Final. For victors Redbridge, forward Ibrahim Kehinde once again impressed, showing high energy and good running down the channels as well as good passing and two good assists and was named Man of the Match during the presentation post-match as well. Jake Brocklebank had a good game in central midfield, as did centre-back Nathan Okoye who made several important interceptions at the heart of the Motormen backline. Finally, a word too for energetic forward Loui Hazelwood who did cause problems in the last half-hour with his movement and trickery after coming off the bench. He capped a memorable day for the club with a well-taken second goal.

Stanway also had some good performers on the big occasion, with Ernest Okoh leading the line well alongside Ayo Odukoya. His work rate and movement did give the Blues defence some nervy moments, particularly early on. Centre-back & captain Jack Clampin typified their resolve with some good clearances under pressure, assisted by full-back Daniel Smith who also put in a determined performance in defence and also sent in a few good crosses into the penalty area too. Finally, substitute Max Sherlock made a difference after coming on, on the hour mark as well. His pace and passing really gave Rovers some impetus as the Motormen’s lead was perilously thin. Commiserations to Danny Slatter and his team, they’ve had a decent season.

Here are your winners of the Peter Butcher Trophy for Season 2021-22, Redbridge!!

Teams

Stanway Rovers | Manager: Danny Slatter | Assistant: Jack Wignall

Starting XI (Subs): 1 Harry Aldridge (GK), 2 Daniel Smith, 3 Olumide Akinode (15 Ezequiel Franchi 76’), 5 Jack Clampin (Capt), 18 Danny Nesbitt, 4 Jordan Barnett, 8 Harry Norman, 7 James Crisell, 9 Ernest Okoh (14 Joel Older 82’), 10 Ayo Odukoya, 11 Sean Bartlett (12 Max Sherlock 61’)

Booked: Akinode, Odukoya | Subs Not Used: Skinner (GK)

Redbridge | Manager: George Christou | Assistant: Jack Toghli

Starting XI (Subs): 1 George Martin (GK), 2 Bradley Bennett, 3 Jack Roult (Capt), 5 Dean Hall, 6 Nathan Okoye, 4 Jake Brocklebank, 8 Robbie Norris (16 Joe Elliott 86’), 18 Jack Chawner, 9 Ibrahim Kehinde, 10 Tony Martin (7 Loui Hazelwood 61’), 11 Timothy Ogunrinde (12 Kwabena Yeboah 80’)

Goal-scorers: Tony Martin [36’], Loui Hazelwood [90’]

Booked: Bennett, Brocklebank, G Martin (GK) | Subs Not Used: Olukolu, Grace (GK)

Referee: Lukas Wood

Assistants: Ben Compton & Lee Jarvis

Fourth Official: Reece Pinchback