Ryman League Division North

Ryman League Division North Round-up – Saturday April 22nd 2017

Scott W reporting (Follow me on Twitter: @ScottMHC14)

Hello & welcome to another round-up of action that took place on the final weekend of the Ryman League Division North league season on Saturday (22nd April) & after the results, check out the final table to see where your side finished at the end of the league season.

UPDATE: Including the play-off semi-final Results & goal-scorers.

AFC Hornchurch 1 – 4 Bowers & Pitsea Attendance: 247

Bowers came from behind to end a memorable season with a thumping win at Bridge Avenue. Hornchurch started well by opening the scoring on 17’ thanks to Leon McKenzie’s goal. Eight minutes later, Callum Leahy levelled for Rob Small’s men. Six minutes after the break, hot-shot Brad Warner put Bowers ahead before Lewis Manor doubled the lead on 57 minutes. Warner grabbed his second late-on to give the visitors a big win though they fell a point short of the play-offs, though 6th place still shows Bowers have had a brilliant first season in Ryman North. Hornchurch finish 4th and will face Thurrock away in the play-offs next week.

Cheshunt 2 – 2 Brightlingsea Regent Attendance: 152

Cheshunt held champions Brightlingsea to a creditable draw at Theobalds Lane. Robbie Rees put Regent ahead on the quarter-hour before Jason Hallett levelled for the home side nine minutes later. Just after the hour mark, Billy Hunt once again gave Regent the lead, before a late goal from Tom Bruno meant that Cheshunt ended a run of three straight league defeats here, finishing in 10th spot, eight points off the top five. Regent continued their long unbeaten run away from home, and go up to the Isthmian Premier Division with a total of 103 points in a brilliant campaign for James Webster’s side.

Dereham Town 2 – 3 Tilbury Attendance: 158

Tilbury edged to victory at Aldiss Park in what was long-serving Dereham manager Matt Henman’s final match in charge. The Dockers took the lead through Emiel Aiken nine minutes before the break. With 13 minutes remaining, substitute Reece Conway doubled the visitors’ lead. Dereham reduced their arrears two minutes later when hot-shot Ryan Crisp struck. Tilbury were reduced to ten men with nine to go after Arinse Uade saw red for two bookings. Aiken struck with moments left to double Tilbury’s advantage. Crisp grabbed his & Dereham’s second of the afternoon just before the final whistle came, Dereham end the season winless in eight league matches, in 18th place. Tilbury finish unbeaten in their last five league matches, in 12th spot.

Great Wakering Rovers 1 – 4 Bury Town Attendance: 118

Wakering waved goodbye to the Ryman North with a disappointing defeat at Burroughs Park. A four-goal blitz in 12 minutes before half-time sealed it for Bury Town. Josh Mayhew put Town in front on 33 minutes. Only five minutes later, Mayhew grabbed his & Bury’s second of the match. As Half-time approached, Luke Read struck a quick-fire double to all but win it for Ben Chenery’s side. Wakering did pull one back through Neil Richmond with 20 minutes left though they finish the season bottom of the table and will go into the Essex Senior League next season hoping for a swift return. Bury finish the season unbeaten in their last six matches, in 11th place.

Haringey Borough 2 – 1 Norwich Utd Attendance: 122

Haringey picked up the positive result they needed late on to secure the final play-off-spot at Coles Park. Haringey opened the scoring only five minutes in, thanks to an OG by Norwich’s Andy Wilton. Norwich Utd levelled through Christy Finch midway through the first-half. Haringey secured the points late on thanks to hot-shot Rolston Gabriel, their third straight league win. Haringey finish 5th, and take on Maldon & Tiptree away in mid-week.

Heybridge Swifts 3 – 2 Phoenix Sports Attendance: 231

Heybridge produced a stirring comeback to avoid the drop at Scraley Road. Phoenix took the lead on the quarter-hour thanks to Kweku Ansah’s goal. Zak Bryon doubled their advantage ten minutes later. Four minutes after the break, Heybridge started their comeback as Lewis Godbold struck. Only five minutes afterward, George Cole levelled for Swifts. The home side’s survival mission got harder when they had Reece Grant sent off with 25 minutes left. Though Heybridge would not be denied as Godbold got his second goal 11 minutes from time to ensure his side stay up on goal difference. Heybridge finish 21st, while Phoenix finish a very creditable 9th.

Romford 0 – 0 Aveley Attendance: 102

Romford ended their season with this shut-out at Ship Lane. Romford had to play 29 minutes with ten men as Greg Akpele was sent off for two bookable offences. Romford finish in 16th place with 56 points, while Aveley finish 7th, thanks largely to a nine-match unbeaten run in the league and much to look forward to next season as they move into their new Parkside home.

Soham Town Rangers 4 – 3 Maldon & Tiptree Attendance: 183

Soham produced a brilliant display at Julius Martin Lane to secure their place in the division next season, edging out Maldon & Tiptree. Hot-shot Sam Mulready put Soham ahead on 22 minutes, before Joshua Pollard levelled for the visitors two minutes later. Eleven minutes after the re-start, substitute Kieran Bailey gave Maldon the lead though they were pegged back just two minutes afterwards by Soham’s Lloyd Groves. Maldon re-took the lead thanks to hot-shot Sam Newson on 68 minutes. Though two goals late on from Mulready and Groves, both getting their braces sealed the win Robbie Mason’s side needed to survive, they finished in 19th spot. Maldon finish in 2nd spot with 91 points and entertain Haringey Borough in the play-offs in mid-week.

Thamesmead Town 1-2 Brentwood Town Attendance: 100

Brentwood continued their excellent form with the win in what was Thamesmead’s final match at Bayliss Avenue before they start their ground-share with Dartford next season. Leon Gordon put the Blues ahead on 21 minutes. Archie Johnson levelled for the Mead nine minutes before the break. Brentwood’s ‘Player of the Year’ Lamar Reynolds polished off a fine season with the winner five minutes after the re-start to give his side their 4th straight league win. Brentwood finish in 14th place, while Thamesmead finish 17th.

VCD Athletic 2 – 0 Ware Attendance: 125

VCD sent Ware to despair at Oakwood with this victory. Mitch Hahn gave Keith McMahon’s side the lead five minutes before the break. Just past the hour, Derek Duncan sealed the points for the home side, which ultimately sent Ware down. VCD finish 15th, whilst Ware finish 22nd, relegated despite their recent upturn in form.

Witham Town 2 – 1 Waltham Abbey Attendance: 70

Witham picked up the win over strugglers Waltham Abbey at Spa Road. Scott Kemp put Witham ahead just past the quarter-hour mark. Jack Daveney put Abbey on terms just before the half-hour. Moments later, Luke Mallet got what would be the winner to give Town all three points. Witham finish in 13th place, while Abbey finish 20th, only surviving the drop on goal difference.

Wroxham 0 – 2 Thurrock Attendance: 120

Thurrock picked-up the win in Wroxham’s swansong match in the division at Trafford Park. Substitute Michael Pindy put the visitors ahead just after the hour, before Jack Barham struck late on to seal the points for Mark Stimson’s side and give their 4th straight league win. Thurrock take on AFC Hornchurch at home in mid-week, thanks to their 3rd place finish. Wroxham finish 23rd and relegated, though their rebuilding job starts now ahead of the new season.

Here’s a look at the final Ryman North table…

Position	Team	P	W	D	L	GD (+/-)	Points
C	Brightlingsea Regent	46	32	7	7	+57	103
2 (P/O)	Maldon & Tiptree	46	29	4	13	+56	91
3 (P/O)	Thurrock	46	27	8	11	+45	89
4 (P/O)	AFC Hornchurch	46	24	13	9	+36	85
5 (P/O)	Haringey Borough	46	2	6	15	+34	81
6	Bowers & Pitsea	46	23	9	14	+36	78
7	Aveley	46	21	13	12	+11	76
8	Norwich Utd	46	24	6	16	+10	75
9	Phoenix Sports	46	22	9	15	-1	75
10	Cheshunt	46	20	11	15	+13	71
11	Bury Town	46	20	9	17	+8	69
12	Tilbury	46	17	13	16	-6	64
13	Witham Town	46	16	11	19	-3	59
14	Brentwood Town	46	17	5	24	-14	56
15	VCD Athletic	46	15	11	20	-23	56
16	Romford	46	15	11	20	-31	56
17	Thamesmead Town	46	16	6	24	-8	54
18	Dereham Town	46	15	9	22	-19	54
19	Soham Town Rangers	46	14	11	21	-16	53
20	Waltham Abbey	46	14	9	23	-16	51
21	Heybridge Swifts	46	13	12	21	-17	51
22	Ware	46	15	6	25	-18	51
R	Wroxham	46	6	7	33	-61	25
R	Great Wakering Rovers	46	6	7	33	-72	25

Here’s how the play-offs Semi-Finals shape up:

Wednesday 26th April KO: 7.45pm

Maldon & Tiptree 5 – 4 Haringey Borough Venue: Park Drive Attendance: 412

Nash 6′, (pen) 12′, 20 Richards 14′, Gabriel 49′, 76′

Newson 51′, Mills 83′ Benjamin 90′

Thurrock 1 – 0 AFC Hornchurch Venue: Ship Lane Attendance: 481

Sutton 12′

Play-off Final takes place on Sunday 30th April

Maldon & Tiptree v Thurrock Venue: Park Drive KO: 3pm

Thank you for reading these round-ups this season, hope you enjoyed it.

Ryman League Division North Round-up – Saturday April 15th 2017

Scott W reporting (Follow me on Twitter: @ScottMHC14)

Hello & welcome to another round-up of action that took place in the Ryman League Division North today (Sat April 15th) & one result from Good Friday. After the results, check out the latest table to see where your side is, going into the last two matches of the campaign.

Good Friday (14.4) Result

Witham Town 0 – 5 Brightlingsea Regent Attendance: 402

Champions Brightlingsea powered to a thumping win at Spa Road. It was goalless at the break, though after it, Regent improved as Billy Hunt opened the scoring on the hour. Two goals in the next five minutes from strike pair Tom Richardson and Aaron Condon made the points safe though late goals from Condon and substitute George Doyle added to a punishing night for the home side. Witham are lost their last three consecutive league matches and remain in 13th spot. Regent are only one point shy of the big 100, after their 6th win on-the-bounce.

Saturday’s Results

AFC Hornchurch 4 – 1 Phoenix Sports Attendance: 238

Hornchurch secured a big win at Bridge Avenue to keep up their claim to finish 3rd in the table. Ex-Billericay midfielder Abs Seymour gave the home side the lead six minutes in, before Phoenix hot-shot Theo Fairweather-Johnson levelled for the visitors on 18 minutes. Urchins forward Leon McKenzie put his side back in-front a minute later, before Kenzer Lee increased the lead six minutes before the break. Lee grabbed his second on 74 minutes to secure the points for Jimmy McFarlane’s men. Hornchurch have now won four of their last six league matches, remaining 3rd with a two-point lead over Thurrock in 4th. Phoenix’ second defeat in-a-row sees them drop to 6th, level on points with Haringey Borough in 5th spot.

Cheshunt 1 – 2 Aveley Attendance: 169

Aveley kept their play-off chances alive with a great win at Theobalds Lane. Jordan Peart put the visitors ahead on 34 minutes. After the break, a penalty from Tom Bruno levelled things for Cheshunt before on-loan hot-shot Mason Bloomfield gave the visitors the win just before the hour mark. Cheshunt’s play-off charge is all but derailed after their winless run of five league matches now, dropping to 10th spot, five points away from the top 5 with just two matches left. Aveley by contrast have snuck back into contention, rising to 8th spot, three points off the top 5 after a now 7-match unbeaten streak in the league.

Dereham Town 1 – 3 Thurrock Attendance: 185

Thurrock secured a play-off berth with a fine win at Aldiss Park. Thurrock took the lead on 53’ thanks to Richard Halle, before substitute Jack Barham doubled the lead 14 minutes later. Ryan Crisp pulled one back for Dereham on 71’ before Ronnie Winn’s goal sealed the points for Mark Stimson’s men with ten minutes left. Dereham are now winless in six league matches but remain in 15th place. Thurrock’s unbeaten run stretches to five league matches as they stay 4th.

Great Wakering Rovers 1 – 3 Brentwood Town Attendance: 114

I watched this match which saw Brentwood pick up a battling win at Burroughs Park. For the full match report – follow/copy this link: survivor16b.wordpress.com/2017/04/15/match-report-great-wakering-1-3-brentwood-ryman-north/

Haringey Borough 5 – 4 Bowers & Pitsea Attendance: 159

Haringey edged a real cracker at Coles Park. The home side went ahead on 7 minutes thanks to Scott Olu Durojaiye’s goal. Just five minutes later, hot-shot Rolston Gabriel doubled the lead. Just before the half-hour, Brad Warner grabbed one back for Rob Small’s side. Haringey went into the break 3-1 up though as Anthony MacDonald struck ten minutes before half-time. MacDonald grabbed his second on 53’ to put his side 4-1 up and perhaps they may have thought the points were safe. Not today though Lewis Manor got another for Bowers on 72 minutes. Substitute Chris Benjamin put the hosts 5-2 up with eight minutes left. Though late goals from Warner and Martyn Stokes for Bowers made it a nervy end for Tom Loizou’s side. Haringey go back into the top 5, ahead of Phoenix Sports on goal difference. Bowers stay 7th, three points behind Haringey in 5th as their winless mini-run extends to three league matches at a crucial time.

Norwich Utd 2 – 2 Heybridge Swifts Attendance: 86

All the goals came in the first-half in this stalemate at Plantation Park. Reece Grant put Heybridge in-front on 13’ before just a minute later Tim Henery levelled for Utd. Grant put Jody Brown’s side back ahead on 19’. Just before the half-hour, a Liam Jackson penalty levelled once again for the Planters and both sides had to settle for a point. Norwich Utd rise to 9th place, four points off the last play-off spot. Heybridge drop to 21st, level on points with Ware in the drop-zone as their winless run now sits at three league matches.

Romford 2 – 6 Maldon & Tiptree Attendance: 114

Maldon powered to victory in an enthralling match at Ship Lane. Ayodeji Olukoga gave Romford a surprise lead after five minutes. Sam Newson levelled for Maldon with 19 minutes on the clock, before Jeremiah Kamanzi put Maldon ahead eight minutes later. After the break, James Ishmail put the home side on terms, before Ryan Mallett was sent off with ten minutes left. This was a turning point as late goals from Adam Mills, an OG from Tom Potter and Newson grabbed two in injury-time to complete his hat-trick gave the Jammers the points. Romford have now lost their last three league matches, though they remain 14th. Maldon stay 2nd, unbeaten in their last four league matches.

Soham Town Rangers 1 – 1 Tilbury Attendance: 128

Tilbury fought back to grab a point at Julius Martin Lane. Soham took the lead just past the half-hour thanks to hot-shot Sam Mulready. With 14 minutes left, a Kurt Smith penalty put the Dockers on terms. Both sides finished the match with ten men as Ashley Bankole was sent off for the hosts late on for two bookings and substitute Danny Smith saw red for Tilbury. Soham are now unbeaten in five league matches though still drop to 20th place, just a point clear of Ware in the last relegation place. Tilbury stay 12th, though they are unbeaten in three league matches now.

Thamesmead Town 0 – 1 Waltham Abbey Attendance: 75

Waltham grabbed a vital win over fellow strugglers Thamesmead at Bayliss Avenue. Romaric Logon got the only goal, from the penalty spot just before half-time. Thamesmead are now winless in their last five league matches, though stay 17th. Abbey rise to 18th, three points clear of danger.

VCD Athletic 0 – 0 Bury Town Attendance: 86

VCD held mid-table Bury Town at Oakwood. VCD have only lost one of their last six league matches, residing in 16th spot though still need two points to be mathematically safe from the drop. Bury have only lost two of their last seven league matches themselves, and will finish no worse than 11th at season’s end as Tilbury cannot catch them now.

Wroxham 2 – 3 Ware Attendance: 116

Ware kept up with the pack above them with a great win over relegated Wroxham at Trafford Park. An early salvo put Ware three up by 18 minutes, Gareth Price on 5’ and 17’ then Ahmed Mohammed a minute later put the visitors 0-3 up. After the break, Wroxham fought back with goals from Tom Rampling past the hour mark and a late goal from Ross Gilfedder ensured a very nervy finish for the Blues, but they held on. Wroxham stay 23rd, while Ware stay 22nd, though are level on points with Heybridge just above them.

Thank you for reading, hope you enjoyed it. Check back here early next week for a bonus edition of the round-up, covering Bank Holiday Monday (17.4) action in the Ryman League Division North. For other articles including recent match reports & previous Ryman North round-up’s, please go to survivor16b.wordpress.com

Here’s a look at the updated Ryman North table…

Position	Team	P	W	D	L	GD (+/-)	Points
C	Brightlingsea Regent	44	31	6	7	+55	99
2 (P/O)	Maldon & Tiptree	44	28	4	12	+56	88
3 (P/O)	AFC Hornchurch	44	24	13	7	+40	85
4 (P/O)	Thurrock	44	25	8	11	+41	83
5	Haringey Borough	44	23	6	15	+31	75
6	Phoenix Sports	44	22	9	13	+2	75
7	Bowers & Pitsea	44	21	9	14	+30	72
8	Aveley	44	20	12	12	+10	72
9	Norwich Utd	44	23	5	16	+8	71
10	Cheshunt	44	20	10	14	+16	70
11	Bury Town	44	19	8	17	+5	65
12	Tilbury	44	15	13	16	-10	58
13	Witham Town	44	15	11	18	-3	56
14	Romford	44	15	10	19	-29	55
15	Dereham Town	44	15	9	20	-16	54
16	VCD Athletic	44	14	11	19	-22	53
17	Thamesmead Town	44	15	6	23	-9	51
18	Waltham Abbey	44	14	9	21	-13	51
19	Brentwood Town	44	15	5	24	-16	50
20	Soham Town Rangers	44	13	10	21	-17	49
21	Heybridge Swifts	44	12	12	20	-17	48
22	Ware	44	14	6	24	-19	48
R	Wroxham	44	6	7	31	-57	25
R	Great Wakering Rovers	44	6	7	31	-66	25

Match Report: Great Wakering Rovers 1 – 3 Brentwood Town (Ryman North)

Ryman League Division North

Venue: Burroughs Park

Attendance: 114

Date: Saturday 14th April 2017 3pm KO

Great Wakering Rovers : Green & White Striped Shirts, Green Shorts, Green Socks

Brentwood Town : Burgundy Shirts, Burgundy Shorts, Burgundy Socks

Scott W reporting (Follow me on Twitter: @ScottMHC14)

On a sunny, pleasant afternoon at Burroughs Park, relegated Great Wakering Rovers took on fellow strugglers Brentwood Town in a Ryman League Division North encounter. The visitors badly needed the win to stave off resurgent Ware who were just two points behind them in the drop-zone at kick-off.

The match started with both sides trading chances, Brentwood forward Andy Freeman curling a shot wide and Wakering midfielder Harley Kee also shooting wide in the opening five minutes. Brentwood were more assertive with the ball and kept pouring forward, knowing the onus was on them. Town forward Lamar Reynolds was denied at point-blank range by home ‘keeper Rees Hawkins, who was busy for most of the match.

The visitors did open the scoring with livewire forward Andy Freeman slotting past Hawkins just after the quarter-hour. Wakering had chances to level, though Kee and forward Neil Richmond couldn’t beat visiting ‘stopper Anthony Page.

As the half-hour approached, a strike from Brentwood forward Freeman was parried away for a corner by Hawkins. Soon afterward, Richmond saw a shot go over the bar after being played in by full-back Jason Ring. Wakering did get the crucial equaliser just before the break, with captain Nikki Beale blasting a lovely volley from 20 yards past Page, good technique from the central defender.

Half-Time: Great Wakering Rovers 1 – 1 Brentwood Town

The second half began with a flourish from the home side, Wakering having several chances in the opening 20 minutes. Forward Jake Gordon headed over the bar, substitute Billy Johnson twice hitting the woodwork, and Richmond was denied by ‘keeper Page.

It was getting rather tense for the visitors, and relief came on 69’ when they re-took the lead, forward Reynolds with a tap-in after an unselfish pass by substitute Harrison Georgiou. Brentwood saw a third goal chalked off by the linesman’s flag as Ryan O’Rawe’s goal was disallowed for pushing.

Wakering got ever deeper in defence as substitute Georgiou curled a shot which was well-parried by Hawkins for a corner. Wakering then burst forward themselves with about ten minutes remaining, with strikes from Gordon and Richmond blocked by the Brentwood defence. Wakering almost grabbed a slightly-freakish leveller with minutes left, as defender Scott Pethers launched a long free-kick forward though it almost caught out Page to sail into the net, but the ‘keeper gathered his bearings and the ball before that happened.

Brentwood were not to be denied the win though as deep in stoppage-time, Reynolds once again popped up to curl home a good effort from inside the box after Andy Freeman’s initial effort was saved by Hawkins.

Brentwood will be mighty pleased with the win, though Wakering really made them work for it, and on another day the result may well have been different. Brentwood rise to 19th spot though they are still just two points above the drop-zone. If Great Wakering can keep most of these players next season, they may be one of quite a few sides who could do well in the Essex Senior League next season.

FT: Great Wakering Rovers 1 – 3 Brentwood Town

Beale 42’ Freeman 16’ , Reynolds 69’, 90’ +4

Teams:
Great Wakering Rovers Manager: Iain O’Connell	Brentwood Town Caretaker Manager: Craig Shipman
1 Rees Hawkins (GK)	20 Anthony Page (GK)
2 Charlie Seaden	18 James Pugsley
3 Jason Ring	3 Luke Foster
4 Louis Robinson	4 Nick Hilder
5 Nikki Beale (C)	5 Ryan O’Rawe (C)
6 Scott Pethers	6 Brendan Cavalier
7 Stephen Butterworth (Subbed 78’)	7 Ruben Duarte (Subbed 70’)
8 Ricky Evans (Subbed 46’)	8 Billy Rees (Subbed 61’)
9 Jake Gordon (Subbed 90’ +4)	9 Andy Freeman
10 Neil Richmond	10 Shad Ngandu (Subbed 56’)
11 Harley Kee	11 Lamar Reynolds

Substitutes:
12 Elliott Warren	12 Leon Gordon
14 Kye Jude	14 Matt Hall (On 61’)
15 Billy Johnson (On 46’)	15 Kieran English (On 70’)
16 Franklin Craik (On 78’)	16 Harrison Georgiou (On 56’)
17 Rhys Fatt (On 90’ +4)	17 Sam Owusu

Booked: Evans, Gordon, Kee	Booked: Hilder, Rees, O’Rawe

Referee:	Michael Robertson-Tant
Assistant Referees:	Christopher Hastings David Feline

Ryman League Division North Round-up – Saturday April 8th 2017

Scott W reporting (Follow me on Twitter: @ScottMHC14)

Hello & welcome to another round-up of action that took place in the Ryman League Division North today (Sat April 8th) & one result from Friday night. After the results, check out the latest table to see where your side is, going into the final weeks of the season.

Friday Night (7.4) Result

Thurrock 2 – 0 Witham Town Attendance: 176

Thurrock fought to an important win at Ship Lane. After a goal-less first half, Ronnie Winn put the hosts ahead on the hour mark, before a penalty from Jordan Clark two minutes from time sealed the win. Thurrock are now unbeaten in their last four league matches, remaining in 4th spot, needing only two points to confirm their play-off position. Witham drop to 13th after Saturday’s results.

Saturday’s Results

Aveley 3 – 0 Heybridge Swifts Attendance: 303

Aveley pulled off an excellent win over strugglers Heybridge at the last Saturday 3pm KO at Mill Field, watched by a bumper crowd of just over 300. Just before the break, Hussein Jaffa put the home side ahead. After the break, the Millers wrapped up the points with goals from Michael Toner two minutes after the re-start and loanee Mason Bloomfield just past the hour mark. Aveley are now unbeaten in their last six league matches, remaining in 10th place. Heybridge’s third loss in their last six league matches sees them drop to 20th spot, just two points above the relegation zone.

Bowers & Pitsea 0 – 0 Thamesmead Town Attendance: 72

Bowers’ season may be just starting to peter out as they held by Thamesmead at the Len Salmon Stadium. Bowers have only won one of their last six league matches and they rise to 6th spot, three points off the play-off places as other results went in their favour. Thamesmead remain in 17th spot, six points clear of the final relegation place.

Brentwood Town 3 – 1 Haringey Borough Attendance: 98

Brentwood claimed an impressive win at the Brentwood Arena over play-off chasing Haringey. Ex-Redbridge forward Kieran English put the home side ahead on the quarter-hour, before Adrian Markus levelled for the visitors on 28 minutes. Just before the break, defender Ryan O’Rawe gave Craig Shipman’s side the lead again. With six minutes left, Andy Freeman’s goal secured three vital points for Brentwood. Brentwood’s third win in their last five league matches sees them remain in 21st spot, two points clear of Ware in the danger zone. Haringey’s first loss in their last seven league matches away from home sees them drop to 7th place, three points off the top five.

Brightlingsea Regent 4 – 1 Romford Attendance: 242

Leaders Brightlingsea secured the title & promotion to the Isthmian Premier Division with a big win at North Road. After just two minutes, Phil Kelly gave Regent the lead. With half-time approaching, Billy Hunt and hot-shot Aaron Condon put James Webster’s side in a very strong position. Hunt’s second goal, three minutes after the break sealed the win for a jubilant Brightlingsea. Romford did pull one back seven minutes from time through substitute Jack Browne-Sykes. Regent’s 9th win in their last ten matches seals the Ryman North title as they’re 11 points clear of nearest challengers Maldon with only three matches remaining. Romford remain 14th and can be proud of their achievements this season.

Bury Town 2 – 1 Cheshunt Attendance: 284

Bury Town defeated play-off chasing Cheshunt at Ram Meadow. Bury were two-up at the break thanks to goals from Noel Aitkens and Luke Read. Cheshunt got a late consolation through Joe Clemo. Bury Town are now unbeaten in their last three league matches, residing in 11th spot. Cheshunt remain 8th, though are five points off the top five as their winless run extends to four league matches.

Maldon & Tiptree 2 – 2 Dereham Town Attendance: 78

Maldon had to come from behind against a determined Dereham side at Park Drive. Daniel Beaumont gave the visitors the lead on 13 minutes. Seven minutes after the break, Joe Gatting doubled Dereham’s advantage. Though, Maldon rescued a point thanks to goals from Montel Agyermang and Sam Newson. Maldon have to settle for a run at the play-offs now after rivals Regent secured promotion today. They remain 2nd, three points clear of Hornchurch in 3rd. Dereham remain in 15th place, needing only a point to mathematically secure their place in the division next season.

Norwich Utd 4 – 1 VCD Athletic Attendance: 81

Norwich Utd are still in the play-off hunt following a thumping win over VCD at Plantation Park. Liam Jackson put Norwich Utd ahead mid-way through the first-half. After the break, Tim Henery doubled the lead before Jeffrey Imudia got one back for Keith McMahon’s side. Henery grabbed two more for Norwich on 71’ and 75’ to complete both his hat-trick and his side’s win. Norwich Utd’s first win in four league matches keeps them 9th, though they are five points off Phoenix Sports in 5th spot. VCD remain 16th, seven points above the drop zone, after their first loss in eight league matches.

Phoenix Sports 1 – 2 Soham Town Rangers Attendance: 96

Soham’s revival continued as they surprised play-off chasing Phoenix at the Phoenix Sports Ground. The home side took the lead thanks to hot-shot Theo Fairweather-Johnson on the hour mark. Soham’s Jon Kaye levelled seven minutes later before Sam Mulready grabbed the winner moments from time. Phoenix’ long unbeaten run is over, though they remain 5th, three points clear of their nearest play-off challengers Bowers & Pitsea and Haringey. Soham’s fourth consecutive win sees them rise to 19th spot, three points clear of the drop zone.

Tilbury 1 – 1 Wroxham Attendance: 50

Tilbury were held by Wroxham at Chadfields. Reece Conway put Tilbury ahead with 12 minutes left, before an OG by Kurt Smith levelled with three minutes remaining. Tilbury stay 12th, while relegated Wroxham rise to 23rd after their second draw in their last four league matches.

Waltham Abbey 0 – 1 AFC Hornchurch Attendance: 131

Waltham Abbey fell to defeat late-on against play-off chasing Hornchurch at Capershotts. With only five minutes remaining, Elliott Styles got the only goal to give Jimmy McFarlane’s side the points. Waltham Abbey remain 18th on goal difference, though are just three points clear of the drop zone. Hornchurch’s 6th win in their last seven away league matches helps them stay 3rd and confirms their spot in the play-offs.

Ware 1 – 0 Great Wakering Rovers Attendance: 62

Ware narrowly defeated relegated Wakering at Wodson Park. Alaa Oudji got the solitary goal mid-way through the first-half. Ware’s 2nd consecutive win sees them stay 22nd though still in touch with the sides above them as they’re only two points off Brentwood in 21st. Wakering’s 30th defeat of the season sees them drop back to the foot of the table.

Here’s a look at the updated Ryman North table… (Bold indicates confirmed position)

Position	Team	P	W	D	L	GD (+/-)	Points
C	Brightlingsea Regent	43	30	6	7	+50	96
2 (P/O)	Maldon & Tiptree	43	27	4	12	+52	85
3 (P/O)	AFC Hornchurch	43	23	13	7	+37	82
4	Thurrock	43	24	8	11	+39	80
5	Phoenix Sports	43	22	9	12	+5	75
6	Bowers & Pitsea	43	21	9	13	+31	72
7	Haringey Borough	43	22	6	15	+30	72
8	Cheshunt	43	20	10	13	+17	70
9	Norwich Utd	43	23	4	16	+8	70
10	Aveley	43	19	12	12	+9	69
11	Bury Town	43	19	7	17	+5	64
12	Tilbury	43	15	12	16	-10	57
13	Witham Town	43	15	11	17	+2	56
14	Romford	43	15	10	18	-25	55
15	Dereham Town	43	15	9	19	-14	54
16	VCD Athletic	43	14	10	19	-22	52
17	Thamesmead Town	43	15	6	22	-8	51
18	Waltham Abbey	43	13	9	21	-14	48
19	Soham Town Rangers	43	13	9	21	-17	48
20	Heybridge Swifts	43	12	11	20	-17	47
21	Brentwood Town	43	14	5	24	-18	47
22	Ware	43	13	6	24	-20	45
R	Wroxham	43	6	7	30	-56	25
R	Great Wakering Rovers	43	6	7	30	-64	25

Ryman League Division North Round-up – Saturday April 1st 2017

Scott W reporting (Follow me on Twitter: @ScottMHC14)

Hello & welcome to another round-up of action that took place in the Ryman League Division North today (Sat April 1st) & one result from Friday night. After the results, check out the latest table to see where your side is, going into the final weeks of the season.

Friday Night (31.3) Result

Aveley 2 – 2 VCD Athletic Attendance: 123

Aveley’s fading play-off aspirations were halted by this draw in the final Friday night match at Mill Field. Hussein Jaffa put the home side ahead just before the break. Jaffa struck again eight minutes after the re-start to double the lead for Terry Spillane’s side. Though, Richard Butler pulled one back for VCD after 64 minutes from the spot, before denying Aveley the win with another penalty on 89 minutes. Aveley are now unbeaten in their last five league matches, although three of those are draws, they sit 10th after Saturday’s results. Whilst VCD have drawn four of their last six league matches and sit in 17th place.

Saturday’s Results

Bowers & Pitsea 4 – 0 Dereham Town Attendance: 96

Bowers powered to a comfortable win at the Len Salmon Stadium. After just five minutes, Lewis Manor gave the hosts the lead. Fifteen minutes later, fellow forward David Knight doubled the advantage. Second-half goals from Brad Warner on the hour and a late fourth from defender Martyn Stokes secured a vital win in Bowers’ play-off chase. Dereham are now winless in four league matches, and are in 15th place – needing two points to be mathematically safe from the drop.

Brentwood Town 0 – 1 Soham Town Rangers Attendance: 141

Soham continued their recent revival with a narrow win against fellow strugglers Brentwood at the Brentwood Arena. Adrian Cambridge got the only goal for the visitors eight minutes before the break. Brentwood had to play 28 minutes with ten men after Nick Hilder was sent off for two bookable offences. This result leaves Brentwood hovering over the relegation line in 21st, just two points clear of the final relegation position, held by Ware. Soham’s third league win in-a-row helps them rise back above today’s opponents into 20th, three points clear of Ware.

Brightlingsea Regent 2 – 1 AFC Hornchurch Attendance: 330

Leaders Brightlingsea kept up the charge to the title with a good win at North Road. Billy Hunt put Regent ahead on the quarter-hour mark, before Phil Kelly doubled the lead on the hour. Hornchurch got a late consolation through Elliott Styles as the final whistle approached. Regent’s 4th league win on-the-trot maintains their 9-point lead over Maldon at the summit. Hornchurch remain in 3rd spot though will be looking for momentum ahead of a probable play-off berth.

Bury Town 2 – 0 Thamesmead Town Attendance: 465

Bury Town completed a good win over fellow mid-table side Thamesmead in front of a bumper crowd at Ram Meadow. Leon Ottley-Gooch put the hosts’ ahead midway through the first half, before Ollie Hughes doubled the lead three minutes before the break. This win is Bury’s first win in four league matches and they remain 11th. Thamesmead inconsistent form continues, they remain 16th though are eight points clear of the bottom three.

Maldon & Tiptree 3 – 0 Wroxham Attendance: 121

Maldon secured a comfortable win against relegated Wroxham at Park Drive. Hot-shot Liam Nash put the home side ahead after 19 minutes, before Adam Mills struck two minutes from the break. A late goal from Sam Newson secured the points and Wroxham’s 30th defeat of a miserable season. Maldon stay 2nd, and look set for the play-offs. Wroxham remain bottom.

Norwich Utd 2 – 2 Cheshunt Attendance: 112

Both these play-off chasing sides had to settle for a point each at Plantation Park. Hot-shot Jason Hallett gave Cheshunt the lead midway through the first half, though Lee Mason levelled for the home side eight minutes later. Five minutes after the re-start, Christy Finch put Norwich Utd ahead. Though Cheshunt would grab a point late-on through substitute Luke Marshall’s goal. Norwich Utd are now winless in three league matches and are in 9th spot, 8 points off the top five. Cheshunt sit 8th, five points off the top five.

Phoenix Sports 3 – 2 Great Wakering Rovers Attendance: 76

Phoenix staved off a late comeback from Wakering to grab a important win at the Phoenix Sports Ground. Hot-shot Theo Fairweather-Johnson struck after just two minutes to give Steve O’Boyle’s side the lead. Three minutes after the break, Fairweather-Johnson struck again before completing his hat-trick just before the hour mark. Relegated Wakering showed their spirit once again though as substitute Billy Johnson grabbed a brace after 65 minutes and on the 90 mark respectively. Phoenix Sports’ 5th win in-a-row sees them remain 5th, three points clear of Haringey Borough. Wakering’s long winless run continues, they stay 23rd.

Thurrock 1 – 1 Haringey Borough Attendance: 123

Thurrock battled back to grab a point at Ship Lane against fellow play-off chasing side Haringey. Haringey hot-shot Ralston Gabriel put the visitors ahead just shy of the half-hour mark. After the break, Mark Onyemah grabbed a point for Mark Stimson’s men. Thurrock remain 4th in the table, whilst Haringey stay 6th, three points off the final play-off spot.

Tilbury 2 – 1 Romford Attendance: 93

Tilbury snatched a late winner at Chadfields. Emiel Aiken gave the Dockers the lead just six minutes in, before Greg Akpele levelled for Paul Martin’s side. With only minutes left, Michael Salako’s goal grabbed Tilbury’s first win in four league matches. Tilbury sit 13th in the table. Romford drop below today’s opponents to 14th after their 1st loss in 6 league matches.

Waltham Abbey 1 – 0 Heybridge Swifts Attendance: 92

Waltham Abbey battled to a narrow win at Capershotts. A solitary goal from Darelle Russell enabled the hosts to take all three points. Waltham rise above today’s opponents to 18th, while Heybridge drop to 19th, five points clear of the drop zone.

Ware 2 – 1 Witham Town Attendance: 102

Ware fought hard to grab a first win in their last ten league matches at Wodson Park. Lee White gave the home side the lead six minutes after the break. Witham levelled through Ryan Charles’ goal only four minutes later. Ware were not to be denied though as substitute Evandro Delgado got the winner, 15 minutes from time. Ware, who had the returning Kem Kemal back in the dug-out for the first time after replacing Anwar Uddin, remain 22nd though are only two points adrift of safety. Witham remain in 12th place, after their first defeat in six league matches.

Here’s a look at the updated Ryman North table…

Position	Team	P	W	D	L	GD (+/-)	Points
1	Brightlingsea Regent	42	29	6	7	+47	93
2	Maldon & Tiptree	42	27	3	12	+52	84
3	AFC Hornchurch	42	22	13	7	+36	79
4	Thurrock	42	23	8	11	+37	77
5	Phoenix Sports	42	22	9	11	+6	75
6	Haringey Borough	42	22	6	14	+32	72
7	Bowers & Pitsea	41	21	8	12	+32	71
8	Cheshunt	42	20	10	12	+18	70
9	Norwich Utd	42	22	4	16	+5	67
10	Aveley	42	18	12	12	+6	66
11	Bury Town	42	18	7	17	+4	61
12	Witham Town	42	15	11	16	+4	56
13	Tilbury	42	15	11	16	-10	56
14	Romford	42	15	10	17	-22	55
15	Dereham Town	42	15	8	19	-14	53
16	Thamesmead Town	42	15	5	22	-8	50
17	VCD Athletic	41	13	10	18	-20	49
18	Waltham Abbey	42	13	9	20	-13	48
19	Heybridge Swifts	42	12	11	19	-14	47
20	Soham Town Rangers	42	12	9	21	-18	45
21	Brentwood Town	42	13	5	24	-20	44
22	Ware	42	12	6	24	-21	42
R	Great Wakering Rovers	42	6	7	29	-63	25
R	Wroxham	42	6	6	30	-56	24

Ryman League Division North Round-up – Saturday March 25th 2017

Scott W reporting (Follow me on Twitter: @ScottMHC14)

Hello & welcome to another round-up of action that took place in the Ryman League Division North today (Sat March 25th)

AFC Hornchurch 2 – 0 Norwich Utd Attendance: 226

Hornchurch battled to win at Bridge Avenue to fortify their play-off position. Two goals in seven minutes from Martin Tuohy was enough for Jimmy McFarlane’s side to pick up their 6th win in eight league matches and remain 3rd, ten points clear of the pack chasing the play-off positions. Norwich Utd’s 3rd loss in their last five league matches sees them drop to 9th spot, five points off the top five.

Cheshunt 0 – 1 Thurrock Attendance: 151

Mark Stimson’s men ground out an important win against fellow play-off chasers Cheshunt at Theobalds Lane. Glenn Poole scored the only goal of the match on 8 minutes. As the final whistle approached, Cheshunt were reduced to ten men as Tom Bruno saw red. Cheshunt’s 5th loss in their last eight home league matches sees them remain in 6th spot, two points off Haringey in the final play-off spot. As for Fleet, they pull five points clear of Haringey but remain 4th.

Dereham Town 3 – 4 Phoenix Sports Attendance: 153

In-form Phoenix edged a cracker at Aldiss Park. Dereham took the lead through Joe Gatting midway through the first period. Just before the break, Michael Power levelled for the visitors. Phoenix then took the lead straight after the break, through hot-shot Theo Fairweather-Johnson. Fairweather-Johnson grabbed his second on the hour to extend Sports’ advantage. Six minutes later, Harley Black grabbed one back for the Magpies, before Rhys Logan levelled ten minutes after that. The vistors would not be denied though as Christie Pattison got the winner with five minutes left. Dereham are now winless in three league matches, falling to 14th place. Phoenix by contrast rise to 7th spot, two points off the top five after their sixth win in their last seven league matches.

Great Wakering Rovers 3 – 3 Waltham Abbey Attendance: 94

Wakering produced a blistering second-half comeback to grab a point at Burroughs Park, though relegation to the Essex Senior League was confirmed for Rovers. Waltham Abbey took the lead through Billy Holland just shy of the quarter-hour. Arian Retkoceri doubled the lead three minutes before half-time. Two minutes after the break, Romaric Logon put Abbey 3-0 up. Though the Wakering spirit showed once again, as Jake Gordon & Scott Pethers grabbed two back in a five-minute salvo just before the hour mark. Stephen Butterworth then got the equaliser with 17 minutes remaining. Though for Wakering, it wasn’t enough as their relegation was confirmed, 17 points adrift of Soham in 21st with just five matches remaining. Abbey are now winless in their last five league matches, dropping to 19th spot, six points above Ware in 22nd.

Haringey Borough 2 – 3 Brghtlingsea Regent Attendance: 177

Brightlingsea had to battle for an important win again in-form Haringey on the 3G at Coles Park. Josh Gould put Regent ahead just four minutes into the match, before Chris Benjamin levelled for Haringey two minutes shy of the half-hour mark. Gould struck again three minutes into the second period as Regent re-took the lead, before Billy Hunt put the league leaders 3-1 up. Haringey kept going though as substitute Adrian Markus grabbed another for them 12 minutes from the end. Haringey’s first loss in six league matches sees them remain 5th, though they lose ground on Thurrock above them. Regent’s 9th win in their ten league matches see them maintain a nine-point lead over Maldon at the top, only needing 7 points to wrap up the title & promotion to the Ryman Premier Division.

Heybridge Swifts 2 – 1 Ware Attendance: 218

Heybridge struck late-on to record a important win against fellow strugglers Ware at Scraley Road. Ware took the lead through Lee White just past the half-hour mark. Three minutes after the break, Adam Adeoye Yusuff levelled for Jody Brown’s men. With four minutes left, Reece Grant grabbed all three points for Swifts, who aren’t safe from the drop themselves yet, though they do rise to 18th spot,8 points clear of today’s opponents. Ware’s winless streak now stretches to nine league matches, and drop into the 22nd spot, three points behind Soham.

Romford 1 – 0 Bury Town Attendance: 84

Ten-man Romford edged to a good win against fellow mid-table side Bury Town at Ship Lane. On 56 minutes, hot-shot Chinedu McKenzie got the only goal of the game for the home side. Though Romford had to play the last 28 minutes with ten men as Jonathon Adebayo got a straight red card. With Paul Martin’s side grabbing their 4th league win in their last six matches, they rise to 13th place and out of any danger of the drop. Bury’s 7th loss in their last ten league matches keeps them in 11th place.

Soham Town Rangers 2 – 0 Bowers & Pitsea Attendance: 160

Soham picked up a huge three points at Julius Martin Lane. Just before the break, Sam Mulready gave Soham the lead. On 64 minutes, Luke Brown extended the home side’s lead. Soham rise out of the bottom three into 21st after back-to-back wins, three points clear of Ware. Bowers are now winless in their last three league matches, falling to 8th place, three points off the top five.

Thamesmead Town 0 – 1 Maldon & Tiptree Attendance: 102

Maldon edged to an important win at Bayliss Avenue. Maldon hot-shot Liam Nash got the only goal seven minutes in. Thamesmead now sit 16th in the table, 11 points clear of the bottom three. Maldon stay 2nd, two points ahead of Hornchurch in 3rd.

VCD Athletic 1 – 1 Brentwood Town Attendance: 65

Brentwood fought back to grab a point at Oakwood. VCD took the lead through Mitch Hahn with 12 minutes remaining. Though Brentwood hot-shot Lamar Reynolds salvaged a point for his side with a penalty, four minutes from time. VCD are now unbeaten in five league matches and reside in 17th spot, nine points clear of the relegation line. Brentwood are now unbeaten in their last four league matches, sitting in 20th spot, five points clear of the bottom three.

Witham Town 2 – 1 Tilbury Attendance: 95

Witham fought to a hard-earned win at Spa Road. Ryan Charles put the home side ahead six minutes shy of the break. From the penalty spot, Tony Martin levelled for out-of-form Tilbury just two minutes later. Witham’s Max Bradford struck with 20 minutes left to grab all three points for Adam Flint’s men. Witham’s unbeaten run now sits at five league matches, they remain in 12th place. Tilbury’s poor run continues as they drop to 15th place.

Wroxham 0 – 1 Aveley Attendance: 130

Aveley snatched a late winner at Trafford Park to confirm the end of the Ryman North adventure for the Yachtsmen. On-loan forward Mason Bloomfield got the only goal with ten minutes remaining. Wroxham 9th loss in their last ten league matches confirms their relegation from Ryman Division North as they are 18 points adrift with only five matches left. The Millers strengthen their bid for a top-ten finish with this win, and are seven points behind the top five.

Thank you for reading, hope you enjoyed it. I’m pleased to say this round-up of Ryman League Division North will now continue every Saturday until the end of the league season. Best wishes, S

Ryman League Division North Round-up – Saturday March 18th 2017

Scott W reporting (Follow me on Twitter: @ScottMHC14)

Hello & welcome to another round-up of action that took place Ryman League Division North today (Sat March 18th 2017)

AFC Hornchurch 1 – 1 Wroxham Attendance: 161

In-form Hornchurch were held by lowly Wroxham at Bridge Avenue. Martin Tuohy gave the Urchins the lead just shy of the half-hour mark. Though after the break, the Yachtsmen came back to level, thanks to recent signing Connor Deeks late on. Hornchurch remain 3rd, though they lose ground on leaders Brightlingsea. Despite this creditable draw which ended a run of eight straight league defeats, Wroxham are still 15 points from safety in 23rd place.

Bowers & Pitsea 1 – 1 Waltham Abbey Attendance: 126

Bowers fought back late-on to grab a point at the Len Salmon Stadium. Billy Holland put the Abbotts ahead after just eight minutes. Though the visitors job of defending that lead got harder after Daniel Rimmel was sent off just past the hour mark. Bowers levelled thanks to David Knight, nine minutes from time. Rob Small’s men are now unbeaten in five home league matches, though remain in 7th spot, three points off the play-off places. Waltham Abbey are still 18th, five points clear of the bottom three.

Brightlingsea Regent 1 – 0 Bury Town Attendance: 214

Regent battled to an important win at North Road against mid-table Bury Town. Regent hot-shot Aaron Condon got the goal mid-way through the second half. Brightlingsea’s 9th win in 10 league matches extends their lead at the top to 9 points now with six matches left.

Dereham Town 2 – 2 Aveley Attendance: 101

It was honours even between these two mid-table sides at Aldiss Park. Adam Smith gave Dereham the lead early on, before a Billy Coyne penalty levelled for Terry Spillane’s men. The home side re-took the lead six minutes into the second-half thanks to Jay Eastoe-Smith’s goal. Though Mason Bloomfield, signed by Dagenham & Redbridge this week though loaned back to Aveley until season’s end, grabbed a point with Aveley’s second goal just shy of the hour mark. Dereham remain in 13th spot, 14 points clear of the bottom three. Aveley reside in 10th place, though their play-off chances are fading as they’re ten points from the play-off positions.

Haringey Borough 5 – 2 Great Wakering Rovers Attendance: 93

Haringey powered to a commanding win against struggling Wakering at Coles Park. Dan Aristidou gave Borough the lead just four minutes in, before Scott Olu Durojaiye doubled the hosts’ lead just four minutes later. Wakering pulled one back on ten minutes through Jake Gordon. Though Haringey hit back as goals from Anthony McDonald on 18 minutes and hot-shot Ralston Gabriel just before the break made sure Haringey led 4-1 at half-time. Gordon grabbed his second for Wakering mid-way through the second-half, though Durojaiye’s second just before time added to a big win for Tom Loizou’s men. Haringey have now won five straight league matches and rise into the play-off positions, into 5th spot, two points clear of Cheshunt. Wakering fall to the foot of the table, 15 points from safety with just six matches remaining.

Maldon & Tiptree 0 – 1 Brentwood Town Attendance: 147

Brentwood dented Maldon’s promotion challenge with a fine win at the Wallace Binder Stadium. Blues’ hot-shot Lamar Reynolds got the only goal on 34 minutes to give Craig Shipman’s men their third straight league win. Maldon stay 2nd though are now 9 points behind leaders Brightlingsea. Brentwood remain 20th, four points clear of the bottom three.

Norwich Utd 2 – 1 Ware Attendance: 91

Norwich Utd grabbed another important win in their play-off challenge at Plantation Park. Christy Finch put the hosts ahead midway through the first half. Ware levelled on 31 minutes through Murat Karagul. Though unfortunately for the visitors, an OG from Alaa Oudji just after the break was enough to give the Planters the win. Norwich Utd’s 5th win in seven league matches sees them remain 8th, five points away from the play-off zone. By contrast, Ware’s 7th loss in eight league matches sees them remain in the thick of the relegation dogfight in 21st, only above Soham on goals scored.

Romford 3 – 3 Heybridge Swifts Attendance: 80

Romford struck late to snatch a point in this entertaining encounter at Ship Lane. The home side took the lead through David Fallah early on, before Reece Grant levelled for Heybridge. Lewis Godbold put the visitors ahead nine minutes before the break, then Adam Bolle made it 1-3 just before half-time. Romford kept going though and grabbed a point at the death thanks to late goals from substitute Ryan Mallett and James Ishmail. Paul Martin’s side are now unbeaten in four league matches, residing in 15th place. Heybridge remain in 19th place.

Soham Town Rangers 2 – 1 Thurrock Attendance: 120

Soham battled to a vital win against Thurrock at Julius Martin Lane. It started well for the visitors as David Cowley gave ‘Fleet the lead on 12 minutes. After the break though, a quick-fire double from Sam Mulready (the first from the penalty spot) on the hour mark gave Soham the three points. This was Soham’s first home win in 9 attempts in the league, though they are still in the bottom three on goal difference, in 22nd. Thurrock stay 4th, though they will need points to be sure of their play-off position.

Tilbury 0 – 2 Phoenix Sports Attendance: 88

Phoenix Sports’ fine run continued at Chadfields. First-half goals from Theo Fairweather-Johnson and Jack Barry were enough to give Sports’ their 5th win in six league matches. By contrast, Tilbury’s 6th defeat in seven league matches leaves them in 14th spot, 14 points clear of the bottom three. Phoenix stay 9th, just five points behind the top five.

VCD Athletic 3 – 0 Cheshunt Attendance: 59

VCD surprised in-form Cheshunt to record a much-needed win at Oakwood. Victor Zapata Caicedo put Keith McMahon’s side ahead just before half-time. After the break, recent re-signing Jamie Guy doubled the lead, then Caicedo added gloss to the scoreline just before time with his second of the afternoon. VCD are now unbeaten in four league matches, rising to 17th in the table, eight points clear of the bottom three. As for Cheshunt, only their 3rd loss in their last ten league matches leaves them 6th, two points behind Haringey Borough in the play-off zone.

Thank you for reading, hope you enjoyed it.

Ryman Premier Division & Division North Round-up – Saturday March 11th 2017

Scott W reporting (Follow me on Twitter: @ScottMHC14)

Hello & welcome to a round-up of action that took place in the Ryman League Premier Division & Ryman League Division North today (Saturday March 11th)

Ryman League Premier Division

Billericay Town 4 – 0 Burgess Hill Town

Billericay defeated Burgess Hill at the New Lodge with a splendid second-half display. After the break, braces from Rob Swaine and Billy Bricknell grabbed all three points for Glenn Tamplin’s side. ‘Ricay have now won six home league matches in-a-row and sit in 9th place, one of four sides on 57 points, six points behind the play-off spots. Burgess Hill’s 5th league defeat in six matches sees them drop to 19th spot, just two points ahead of the bottom four.

Canvey Island 3 – 1 Grays Athletic

The Islanders picked up a big win against fellow strugglers Grays at Park Lane. Grays took the lead just before the half-hour through Nathan Campbell’s goal, though Canvey responded as George Sykes scored two in just three minutes soon afterward. Frankie Merrifield secured the win right at the death. Danny Heale’s men rise to 18th place, four points clear of the bottom four after their 4th win on-the-trot. Grays stay bottom of the table, though are now 9 points from safety.

Dulwich Hamlet 5 – 0 Merstham

Dulwich powered to a thumping win at Champion Hill in front of more than 1,500 fans. Nathan Green put Hamlet ahead early-on, before Gavin Tomlin grabbed a brace to put the hosts 3-0 up at the break. After the break, goals from Dipo Akinyemi & Panutche Camara sealed the points. Gavin Rose’s men sit in 7th place, six points off the play-off spots & are now unbeaten in five league matches. Merstham fall to 20th spot after this heavy loss, just a point clear of AFC Sudbury in the relegation places.

Folkestone Invicta 1 – 0 Wingate & Finchley

A solitary goal from Joe Taylor early-on secured a big win for Invicta over play-off chasing Wingate at the Fullicks Stadium. Invicta rise to 15th place, five points clear of the bottom four after their first win in four league matches. Wingate are in 5th place, though have five teams closing in on them for that last play-off spot.

Harrow Borough 2 – 2 Worthing

Out-of-form Worthing came from behind twice to hold Harrow at Earlsmead. Francis Babalola put the hosts ahead early-on, before Charlie Williamson levelled for the Rebels. Marc Charles-Smith put Harrow back in-front just before the break. On the hour mark, Dan Summers once again levelled for Worthing as they grabbed a draw. Harrow drop to 17th place, four points ahead of the bottom four. Worthing stay 13th, ten points clear of the relegation zone as they ended a run of six straight league defeats.

Havant & Waterlooville 6 – 0 AFC Sudbury

Promotion-chasing Havant demolished struggling Sudbury at West Leigh Park. Ryan Woodford put the Hawks ahead just before half-time. After the break, Havant ran riot as Bradley Tarbuck and Theo Lewis put the home side 3-0 up by the hour mark. Tarbuck grabbed a further two in six minutes (one from the spot) to complete his hat-track late-on before Alfie Rutherford’s goal put more gloss on a big win for Lee Bradbury’s men. Havant go top of the table, a point ahead of Bognor Regis after their 5th win in 6 league matches. Sudbury’s 8th straight loss away from home in the league leaves them in 20th spot, a point from safety.

Leatherhead 3 – 2 Hendon

Jimmy Bullard’s men fought back to earn a hard-fought win at Fetcham Grove. An OG from Paul Semakula put Hendon ahead on 10 minutes, before Matt Ball doubled the visitors’ lead just before half-time. After the break, D’Sean Theobalds pulled one back six minutes into the second period. Striker Daniel Carr grabbed a five-minute brace (one from the spot) to turn the tables & grab all three points for the relegation-battling Tanners. Leatherhead rise to 22nd spot, still three points from safety. Fellow strugglers Hendon drop to 23rd, also three points from safety.

Leiston 1 – 1 Bognor Regis Town

Bognor struck late to grab a point at fellow high-flyers Leiston. Bognor were reduced to ten men as Chad Field saw red ten minutes from the end. Leiston took advantage & went ahead through Tom Bullard with six minutes left. Then right at the death, Jimmy Wild levelled to grab a point for Jamie Howell’s side. Leiston stay 6th in the table, four points away from the play-off spots. Bognor fall to 2nd, a point behind Havant though are six points ahead of 3rd-placed Needham Market.

Lowestoft Town 1 – 0 Kingstonian

Lowestoft continued their recent good form with a narrow win at Crown Meadow. Jake Reed’s early goal sealed the win in front of more than 500 fans. Lowie’s 4th league win in-a-row helps them sit in 11th spot, 9 points from the play-off places. Kingstonian’s 5th loss in seven league matches sees them fall to 16th spot, four points ahead of the bottom four.

Metropolitan Police 0 – 2 Harlow Town

Play-off chasing Harlow grabbed an important win at Imber Court. A second-half quick-fire double from Mario Noto and Alex Read made sure of the points for the Hawks. The Met Police stay 12th, 7 points ahead of the bottom four. Harlow are in 10th spot, six points off the play-off spots.

Needham Market 1 – 3 Enfield Town

Enfield grabbed a big win against out-of-form Needham Market at Bloomfields. The home side’s afternoon started badly as in the opening moments, an OG from Keiran Morphew put the visitors ahead, before Harold Joseph doubled the lead after just 12 minutes. The Towners were three ahead on the half-hour as Samir Bihmoutine struck. Needham pulled one back through defender Ian Miller just past the hour mark. Needham are in 3rd place, though are now 7 points off leaders Havant. Enfield are in 8th spot, six points off the play-offs after their first win in four league matches.

Staines Town 1 – 1 Tonbridge Angels

Mid-table Staines held play-off chasing Tonbridge at Wheatsheaf Park. The Swans went ahead on the half-hour through Jonanthan Hippolyte’s goal. Tonbridge levelled eight minutes into the second half, thanks to Nick Wheeler’s goal. Staines are now unbeaten in five league matches, and reside in 12th place, ten points clear of the bottom four. Tonbridge stay in 4th place, a point clear of Wingate & Finchley in 5th.

Ryman League Division North

Aveley 2 – 0 Soham Town Rangers

The Millers continued their impressive run at home against struggling Soham at Mill Field. Early on, Jeremiah Maja gave Aveley the lead. With 15 minutes left, Dan Odamo sealed the points for Terry Spillane’s side. Aveley are in 10th spot, 9 points off the play-off spots. As for Soham, their long winless run goes on & they now fall into the bottom three, into 22nd spot & a point from safety.

Brentwood Town 3 – 0 Dereham Town

Brentwood won their first match since (perhaps surprisingly) parting company with Tony Ievoli this week. Craig Shipman was in caretaker charge for the first time as they defeated mid-table Dereham at the Brentwood Arena. A penalty from Lamar Reynolds put the Blues ahead just past the half-hour. After the break, Andy Freeman doubled the lead on the hour mark, before another penalty from Reynolds late on secured a big three points. Brentwood rise out of the bottom three, into 21st spot & are a point clear of Soham in 22nd. Dereham drop to 14th place and barring a dire finishing run, look set to remain in this division next season.

Bury Town 2 – 1 Tilbury

Bury Town pinched the win at the death against fellow mid-table outfit Tilbury at Ram Meadow. Noel Aitkens put the hosts ahead early-on. With just four minutes left of normal time, Kurt Smith levelled and the Dockers may have thought they’d grab a point. Not to be though as well into injury-time, Ryan Jolland grabbed the winner. Bury stay 11th, though are 12 points off the play-off places. Tilbury drop to 13th spot, with any play-off challenge looking unlikely.

Cheshunt 3 – 1 Maldon & Tiptree

Play-off chasing Cheshunt picked up a huge win against high-flying Maldon at Theobalds Lane. After the break, Liam Hope put the hosts ahead, before Jason Hallett doubled the lead just before the hour mark. Hallett grabbed his second to make the points safe. Maldon got a consolation on 90 minutes through Kyle Hammond. Cheshunt 8th win in ten league matches sees them stay 5th, a point clear of Haringey Borough. Maldon stay 2nd but are now six points behind leaders Brightlingsea.

Great Wakering Rovers 1 – 3 Witham Town

Struggling Wakering endured another difficult afternoon against mid-table Witham at Burroughs Park. The visitors took the lead through Nathan Koranteng just past the half-hour. Scott Kemp doubled Witham’s advantage, six minutes from half-time. Wakering’s task got even harder as they were reduced to ten men as Stephen Butterworth saw red just before the break. Kemp made the points safe just three minutes after the interval. Witham were also reduced to ten men as Tim Monsheju got his marching orders just past the hour. Wakering got a consolation through Harley Kee though their long winless stretch continues. Rovers stay 23rd, though are now 13 points from safety and look bound for the Essex Senior League next season. Witham’s 1st win in 5 league matches sees them rise to 12th spot.

Heybridge Swifts 1 – 4 Haringey Borough

In-form Haringey pulled off a convincing win at Heybridge. Anthony McDonald put the visitors ahead on 19 minutes. Just before the break, Chris Benjamin nabbed a quick-fire brace to put Tom Loizou’s side 3-0 up. Luke Hornsley pulled one back for the hosts four minutes into the second half. Late on, substitute Gabriel Royston put further gloss on a great win for the Borough. Heybridge stay in 19th place, six points ahead of the bottom three. Haringey rise to 6th spot, just a point behind the play-off spots after their 8th win in ten league matches.

Phoenix Sports 1 – 0 Bowers & Pitsea

Phoenix Sports narrowly defeated Bowers to pick up their 4th league win in five matches. The hosts were reduced to ten men just past the hour as Jack Hopkins saw red. Though despite this, a late winner from Ashley Probets grabbed all 3 points for Steve O’Boyle’s side. Phoenix are in 9th place, six points off the top five. Bowers fall to 7th spot, two points off the top five.

Thamesmead Town 2 – 2 VCD Athletic

VCD came from behind to hold Thamesmead in the battle of the sides in lower mid-table. After the break, Victor Zapata Caicedo put the visitors ahead. Just shy of the hour mark, Alex Teniola levelled for ‘Mead before Paul Vines grabbed the lead for the hosts on 65 minutes. Caicedo struck again late on to snatch a point. Thamesmead fall to 16th spot, 14 points clear of the bottom three. VCD rise to 17th, 8 points clear of the bottom three.

Thurrock 0 – 1 Norwich Utd

Play-off chasing Norwich Utd picked up a big win at Ship Lane. Christy Finch got the only goal, just past the half hour. Thurrock drop to 4th place. Norwich Utd are in 8th spot, six points away from the top five.

Waltham Abbey 0 – 3 Brightlingsea Regent

Brightlingsea picked up what could be a crucial win at Capershotts. Billy Hunt gave Regent the lead mid-way through the first half. Waltham’s task against the leaders got harder when Jack Daveney saw red for two bookings before half-time. After the break, goals from hot-shots Aaron Condon and Tom Richardson sealed the win. Waltham Abbey drop to 18th place, seven points clear of the bottom three.

Ware 0 – 2 AFC Hornchurch

In-form AFC Hornchurch grabbed another win at Wodson Park. First-half goals from Leon McKenzie & Kenzer Lee sealed the points for Jim McFarlane’s side. Ware are now winless in seven league matches and remain 20th, just three points clear of the bottom three. The Urchins’ 5th win in six league matches sees them rise to 3rd spot, 9 points off leaders Brightlingsea.

Wroxham 1 – 2 Romford

Romford came from behind to pinch a win at struggling Wroxham. Connor Deeks put Wroxham ahead on 20 minutes. Two minutes after the re-start, Boro’ hot-shot Chinedu McKenzie levelled for Paul Martin’s side. Then with just moments remaining, Ayodeji Olukoga grabbed all three points. Wroxham have suffered seven straight league defeats and remain bottom, 14 points from safety. Romford rise to 15th place, 15 points clear of the bottom three and should remain in this division next season.

Thank you for reading, hope you enjoyed it.

Match Report: Great Wakering Rovers 2 – 2 Soham Town Rangers

Ryman League Division North

Venue: Burroughs Park

Attendance: 112

Date: Saturday 25th February 2015 3pm KO

Great Wakering Rovers : Green & White Striped Shirts, Green Shorts, Green Socks

Soham Town Rangers: Yellow Shirts, Yellow Shorts, Yellow Socks

gw-rovers-clubhouse-pitch-25-2-17 — The Wakering clubhouse & pitch before KO.

Scott W reporting (Follow me on Twitter: @ScottMHC14)

On a fairly chilly afternoon at Burroughs Park, Great Wakering Rovers took on fellow Ryman North strugglers Soham Town Rangers in Iain O’Connell’s first match of his second spell as manager.

Soham started the game the brighter, with player-manager Rob Mason and winger Joe Carden having chances to take the lead as Wakering looked a little nervy in front of a decent crowd. Soham had a goal chalked off early on.

Wakering forward Jake Gordon spurned a rare first-half opening for the hosts on the quarter-hour, blazing his shot over though probably off-balance to be fair. Wakering’s fortune didn’t improve as forward Jamie Guy limped off just 21 minutes in, being replaced by Michael Ogboin.

Soham kept the pressure up with several corners being pinged into the Wakering box though lacked that finishing instinct, though Rovers took the lead just before the half-hour as substitute Ogboin found a promising opening and made no mistake, slotting past visiting ‘keeper Niall Conroy.

Though that advantage only lasted six minutes as Soham captain Simon Swinton’s free-kick found its way through a crowded penalty area and past home ‘keeper Ashley Harrison for a deserved equaliser.

Half-Time: Great Wakering Rovers 1 – 1 Soham Town Rangers

The second half began in a different vein as only four minutes in, Ogboin popped up again for Wakering, shrugging off the last defender and calmly slotting past Conroy to once again give Rovers the lead.

At this point, the match got rather feisty, with tackles and challenges flying in, some of them being better than others. Wakering though took the attack to the visitors, with combative midfielder Scott Pethers looking to start attacking moves, as did winger Steve Butterworth. Butterworth and Gordon had further chances, Gordon’s effort being well-saved by Conroy. Ogboin was causing a fair degree of havoc in the Soham defence with his strength and hold-up play.

Soham did keep going though, as substitute Cemal Ramadan blazed over a rare second-half chance with ten minutes left. The visitors then were reduced to ten men as Mason was sent-off for two bookable offences, the second being a dangerous tackle. Wakering may have thought ‘that would be that’ but it wasn’t to be.

Soham substitute Peter Maina piled in a good effort which sailed low into the right corner in injury-time to deny Wakering the vital win they needed. The reaction of the Wakering players at full-time spoke volumes. Dejection -personified.

Full-Time: Great Wakering Rovers 2 – 2 Soham Town Rangers

Ogboin 28, 49 Swinton 34, Maina 90 +2

Teams:
Great Wakering Rovers Manager: Iain O’Connell	Soham Town Rangers Player-Manager: Rob Mason
1 Ashley Harrison (GK)	1 Niall Conroy (GK)
2 Jason Ring	2 Callum Russell
3 Jimmy Nottage	3 Jonathan Hall
4 Harley Kee	4 Simon Swinton (C) (Subbed 67’)
5 Kye Jude	5 Joe Tennent
6 Nikki Beale (C)	6 Lloyd Groves
7 Steve Butterworth	7 Joe Carden
8 Ricky Evans	8 Ryan Horne (Subbed 71’)
9 Jake Gordon	9 Rob Mason
10 Jamie Guy (Subbed 21’)	10 Sam Mulready (Subbed 71’)
11 Scott Pethers	11 Charley Barker

Substitutes:
12 Michael Ogboin (On 21’)	12 Cemal Ramadan (On 71’)
14 Ryan Burt-Allen	14 Jack Mochalski
15 Rhys Fatt	15 Jonthan Kaye (On 67’)
16 Jon Nzenago	16 Peter Maina (On 71’)
17 Jamie Age	17 Ashley Bankole

Booked: Nottage, Gordon	Booked: Swinton, Barker
	Sent Off: Mason
Referee:	Z Ellis
Assistant Referees:	A Lashchikov J Nazari