Southend Manor – survivor16b

S22-23 Match Report: Southend Manor 1 – 5 FC Clacton (Sat 5 Nov) [ESL 22-23 5.11.22]

Essex Senior League – Premier Division

Venue: Southchurch Park

Attendance: 45 (Est)

2022-23 Season: Match 24

Saturday 5th November 2022 – 2pm KO

Manor: Yellow & Black Shirts, Black Shorts, Yellow Socks

Clacton: White & Red Shirts, Blue Shorts, Blue Socks

Clacton power to big win at Manor to stay second

Southend Manor 1 – 5 FC Clacton

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

The Non-League journey finally returned after an unexpected fortnight away, as FC Clacton visited Southend Manor, in an Essex Senior League match which saw both sides wanting the points, but for very different reasons. Clacton were second pre-match, while Manor were still looking for their first win this term. Recently-appointed gaffer Alex O’Leary named loanee stopper Harry McKie in goal, with a defence comprised of full-backs Joe Burton & Kevin Toualeu and centre-backs Charm Dube and skipper Tobi James. Adalberto Pinto was in central midfield, alongside Mo Kamara. Ben Bayoko and Billy Knott were the wingers in support of forwards Deimar Queni and Harrison Day.

Clacton by contrast are having a very good start to the season but lost out last week at home to Takeley. Manager Tom Austin fielded Luke Avenell between the posts for Clacton, with a backline of centre-backs Chris Ribchester and utility player Charlie Thompson, with full-backs Jenson Mulqueen and captain Billy Wales. Their central midfield included Toby Harms & Charlie Collis, with brother Teddy Collis and Jake Clowsley on the flanks. Mekhi McKenzie led the forward line here, with support from Jack Johnson.

Jake Clowsley [#7] about to pass ball forward for FC Clacton in 1st half

The conditions really highlighted the onset on winter but then again it is November now, and Clacton started the stronger of the two sides, showcasing their possession game pretty without creating an avalanche of chances. However, that latter detail was soon sorted out as Tom Austin’s side surprised no-one by taking a 15th-minute lead. The assist went to centre-back Chris Ribchester as his lofted ball in from just outside the penalty area found forward Mekhi McKenzie and his low finish gave home stopper Harry McKie little chance. The Seasiders had scored 25 league goals prior to today’s match and that clinicial finishing was shown again five minutes after the opening goal, as winger Jake Clowsley’s fine cross from the right flank found McKenzie and after his initial attempt was blocked, his finish went high into the net to double the lead.

Manor were decent in getting their passes from defence to midfield but their final ball was not good enough to pierce the resolute Seasiders backline and therefore test goalkeeper Luke Avenell. Forwards Deimar Queni and Harrison Day were both willing runners but there was very little for them to latch on to. It could’ve been worse for Alex O’Leary’s side before the interval as Clacton winger Teddy Collis made a fine run down the left wing, evading two defenders before playing in Clowsley with the latter’s powerful strike being well parried away by McKie.

HT: Manor 0 – 2 Clacton

Unsurprisingly, the hosts rung the changes after the interval with three substitutions made. Darby, Manyewe and Attwood all entered the action in place of James, Bayoko and Knott. There was a distinct need of a change of fortune and it nearly cropped up four minutes into the half. A fine free-kick from the right by central midfielder Adalberto Pinto found the run of full-back Kevin Toualeu and his powerful header wasn’t far wide of the right-sided post. But before they could build-up any momentum, Clacton grabbed a third goal on 52 minutes. McKenzie was in the action again as patient build-up from a set-piece saw skipper Billy Wales loft the ball into the far post area and McKenzie’s well-directed header found the net for his treble here and an 11th league goal of the season.

Chris Ribchester (centre) heads the ball away for the Seasiders

That goal really made the challenge more difficult for Manor, and this time Clacton were not in any frame of mind to concede territory. Charlie Collis’ free-kick was parried over by the over-worked McKie before the hour mark though Clacton finished the match strongly to take the points. Firstly, a good darting run by substitute Reuben Cowler ended with a fine low finish on seventy-five minutes before a Teddy Collis spot-kick made it five seven minutes later. Manor did get something from the game with moments remaining as replacement Joe Darby was played in well by O’Leary’s pass and his low finish defeated Avenell to get a consolation. Even so though, the Seasiders were comfortable winners and all credit to them.

Wales (#3 – left) puts in cross for McKenzie’s 3rd goal for Clacton

Full-Time: Southend Manor 1 – 5 FC Clacton

In summary, Clacton were comfortable for the vast majority of this match and their resolute defending gave a resounding answer as to what the outcome was going to be in this game. Manor unfortunately could create enough chances to test Seasiders custodian Luke Avenell, despite the occasional decent forward move. Clacton’s finishing & final ball were far superior as they remain in second spot after this match.

Several visiting players stood out today. Forward Mekhi McKenzie had another really influential match, scoring three good goals, provided a constant threat and also showed high work rate. Congrats to him. Also, Chris Ribchester had another fine game in defence for Clacton, with full-back Jenson Mulqueen bursting down the flank from right-back, putting in some good crosses & lastly Jake Clowsley once again showed his quality from the right flank, putting in fine passes to create chances well.

For Manor, forward Deimar Queni stuck to his task and showed a high work rate, and made some good darting runs down the channels as well. Full-back Kevin Toualeu also did well, showing high energy and made good tackles. Midfielder Mo Kamara also had an alright game & a word for substitute Joe Darby who showed good finishing to claim his late goal.

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

Teams

Southend Manor | Player-Manager: Alex O’Leary | Assistants: Kudus Oyenuga & Jack Morris

Starting XI (Subs): 1 Harry McKie (GK), 2 Joe Burton, 3 Kevin Toualeu, 5 Charm Dube (16 Murphy Duncan 75′), 6 Tobi James (Capt) (17 Rgee Manyewe 46′), 4 Adalberto Pinto, 7 Ben Bayoko (15 Niall Attwood 46′), 8 Mohamed Kamara, 9 Deimar Queni, 10 Harrison Day (14 Alex O’Leary 75′), 11 Billy Knott (12 Joe Darby 46′)

Goal-scorers: Joe Darby [89′]

Booked: Kamara | Subs Not Used: None

FC Clacton | Manager: Tom Austin | Assistant: Ryan Salter

Starting XI (Subs): 1 Luke Avenell (GK), 2 Jenson Mulqueen (16 Fletcher Hanna 76′), 3 Billy Wales (Capt), 5 Chris Ribchester, 6 Charlie Thompson, 4 Toby Harms, 8 Charlie Collis (15 Adam Tilson 68′), 7 Jake Clowsley (14 Rueben Cowler 58′), 9 Mekhi McKenzie (12 Jordan Lartey 68′), 10 Jack Johnson (17 Joe Hillier 76′), 11 Teddy Collis

Goal-scorers: Mekhi McKenzie [15′, 20′ & 52′], Reuben Cowler [75′], Teddy Collis [pen 82′]

Booked: None | Subs Not Used: None

Referee: Daniel Ripton

Assistants: Gary Telling & Ray Parmenter

S22-23 Match Report: Southend Manor 1 – 3 White Ensign (Fri 16 Sept) [ESL 22-23 18.9.22]

Essex Senior League – Premier Division

Venue: Southchurch Park

Attendance: 142

2022-23 Season: Match 14

Friday 13th September 2021 – 7.45pm KO

Manor: Yellow & Black Shirts, Black Shorts, Yellow Socks

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

Ensign secure hard-fought win in fractious derby at Manor

Southend Manor 1 – 3 White Ensign

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

The Non-League journey continued with an interesting & rare Friday night battle at Southchurch Park, which saw Southend Manor host White Ensign in a keenly-contested local derby. Manor were still looking for their first win of the League campaign and that is a task made ever harder but a few squad departures in the last week or so. They fielded young stopper Harry McKie in goal, with a defence of full-backs Ben Sargent & Callum Ferris allied with centre-backs Mitchell Arthur and Keanu Hill. Skipper Daniel Okah was in an anchor midfield ole, along with Ope Mosuro in central midfield. Forwards Ben Allen and Luca Frankis were supported by Kieran James and Lewis Risk. Ensign are still transitioning their squad following their huge rebuild over the summer. Aaron Bloxham fielded Adam Seal in goal, with a defence of Max Drury, Ollie Jenkins & Daniel Monk. Their forward line was led by Tony Jacobs & Charlie Portway, with chief support coming from Billy Bonham-Dare & Owen Dixie.

It would be fair to say that this match did have a rather tepid start, though given the importance on the points on offer here, that was perhaps understandable. However, the game did soon liven up and the pendulum did swing towards Manor after goalkeeper Harry McKie did snuff out a possible chance in the offing as he gathered Ensign midfielder Joe Hunter’s cross into the path of experienced forward Charlie Portway. Manor’s own Luca Frankis also headed narrowly wide of Adam Seal’s goal on the twenty minute mark.

Ensign were starting to put their passing game together, but it was Manor who marginally had the better of the game and they took the lead on 31 minutes. The impressive Kieran James dodged his marker well before taking a turn and fired home past Seal to give James Wakeling’s side a priceless lead.

Ensign roared back though at the other end, and Manor custodian McKie did well to hold his composure as he denied both Owen Dixie and Tony Jacobs in seperate attacks, with both Ensign players only having the stopper to beat. That being said, White Ensign did get their hugely important equaliser two minutes before the break, as full-back Daniel Monk started the move which ended up with forward Billy Bonham-Dare playing Monk in and the defender showed little hesitation to stroke home his low finish into the right corner.

Visiting goalkeeper Adam Seal about to fire another set-piece forward

Half-Time: S Manor 1 – 1 White Ensign

The second half was when the said pendulum shifted towards Ensign. Manor found it more difficult to get the ball through the thirds of the pitch, although substitute Jack Unwin did make some good runs and passes. That being said, the frustrations were starting to tell as Ensign’s more experienced players were taking their time and winning fouls and the like to pass the pressure back to the hosts.

The big moment came on sixty-three minutes when Ensign took the lead. A fine cross from the right flank found the head of Charlie Portway and that header was well-directed and found the net, giving McKie little chance. Manor did their utmost to put themselves about to get themselves back into the match but they couldn’t give the ball enough to their biggest outlet in Kieran James and substitute Eamon Payne did his bit to tighten up the visiting backline as well along with Ollie Jenkins.

Ensign push forward in the last few moments of the match as Manor defend

As the match entered its last fifteen minutes, Ensign poured forward looking for that crucial third goal to diminish any hope for Manor in this contest. Deep into added time, that third goal did come. Two of the substitutes combined as winger Luc Harpon put in a superb cross from the right side which found fellow replacement Jack Allen and his header found the net, which brought wild celebrations from the visiting dug-out.

Full-Time: Southend Manor 1 – 3 White Ensign

In summary, Manor started fairly well but as Ensign grew into the match, the home side found it harder to create sustained pressure, particularly after the break. Ensign’s experienced players did make a difference and the longer the second half went on, the more they grew in confidence.

For this match’s stand-out performances, we start with victors Ensign. Forward Billy Bonham-Dare played his part in their forward moves and assisted Daniel Monk for his goal. Monk also had a good game, showing high energy levels, good passing and was up for the battle throughout. Midfielder Ethan Evison again showed why he is an important presence for this Ensign team and a word for Ollie Jenkins as well who steadied his team’s defence well in second half.

For Manor, Kieran James had a really good game and made the most of the half-chance he gad to take his goal well while also showing decent pace and movement. Keanu Hill had a good match in central defence, clearing well when put under pressure. Harry McKie had an excellent match in goal, making two decent saves low down just before Ensign’s equaliser. Lastly, I thought midfielder Lewis Risk had a good game too down the left side, putting together some good passes and showed decent work rate as well.

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

Teams

Southend Manor | Manager: James Wakeling | Assistant: Ryan Frost

Starting XI (Subs): 1 Harry McKie (GK), 2 Ben Sargent, 3 Callum Ferris (11 Jack Unwin 61′), 5 Keanu Hill, 6 Mitchell Arthur, 4 Daniel Okah (Capt), 14 Lewis Risk (18 Jonnie Gurie 86′), 8 Ope Mosuro, 9 Luca Frankis (7 Jonathan Evans 39′), 10 Ben Allen (16 Joseph Gurie 86′), 22 Kieron James (12 Luke Jackson 83′)

Goal-scorers: Kieron James [31′]

Booked: Hill, Okah | Subs Not Used: None

White Ensign | Manager: Aaron Bloxham | Assistant: Nick Wilbrow

Starting XI (Subs): 36 Adam Seal (GK), 33 Max Drury (5 Eamon Payne 57′), 6 Ollie Jenkins, 3 Daniel Monk, 4 Ben Summers (2 Jack Davies 74′), 8 Ethan Evison (Capt), 7 Joe Hunter, 11 Owen Dixie (16 Tommy Dixon 68′), 10 Tony Jacobs (17 Luc Harpon 82′), 19 Charlie Portway, 9 Billy Bonham-Dare (14 Jack Allen 80′)

Goal-scorers: Daniel Monk [43′], Charlie Portway [63′], Jack Allen [90’+6]

Booked: Hunter, Bonham-Dare, Evison | Subs Not Used: None

Referee: Alan Steward
Assistants: Adeolu Adeyemi & Joe Lannon

S22-23 Match Report: Southend Manor 1 – 0 Cockfosters (Sat 6 Aug) (FAC EPR 7.8.22)

The Emirates FA Cup – Extra Prelim Round

Venue: Southchurch Park

Attendance: 110 (Est)

2022-23 Season: Match 5

Saturday 6 August 2022 – 3pm KO

Manor: Yellow & Black Shirts, Black Shorts & Yellow Socks

Cockfosters: Red Shirts, Red Shorts, Red Socks

Last-gasp winner sends Manor through to the Prelim Round of FA Cup

Southend Manor 1 – 0 Cockfosters

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

The new season’s FA Cup roared back into being this weekend with former Essex Senior side Cockfosters (now part of the Spartan South Midlands Premier) travelling to face Southend Manor, who are still among the ESL ranks. This Extra Prelim Round tie had Manor field Luca Collins in goal, with a central defensive three of Montel Shonubi, skipper Daniel Okah and Ope Mosuro, with Josh Devlin and Finlay Gregory in central midfield. Ben Allen and Ayo Awosika were the chief support for forward Robbie Farrell. Cockfosters had Charlie Mann in goal, with a defence of Kenny Norbrega, Prince Madu, Nick Barrett and Aiden Read. Skipper Matt Thomson was alongside Joe Entwistle in central midfield. Recent signings Jervon Campbell and Chikosi Basden joined stalwart forward George Beattie in attack.

This match took a little while to get going, as it was quite cagey from the get-go. Manor had early chances as Robbie Farrell and Ben Allen had early glimmers at goal, while at the other end, ‘Fosters winger Jervon Campbell was a good outlet on the right flank, using his pace to get past the Manor defence. Campbell also sent in a good cross from the right channel which Manor skipper Daniel Okah did well to clear.

Both sides were competing well, although the visitors were slightly more adept at retaining possession, however they couldn’t quite create the chances they would have liked, and their threat mostly came from set-pieces throughout the first half. Midway through the half, there was a good bit of awareness by Manor centre-back Ope Mosuro who sent in a lob which only just cleared visiting custodian Charlie Mann’s crossbar.

With half-time rapidly approaching, Mann was called into action as a fierce strike by Farrell needed a superb save by the Cockfosters goalkeeper to claw the ball away from going in the top right corner of the net. The visitors responded as midfielder Joe Entwistle send in a deft lob which was narrowly off-target, with home stopper Luca Collins being watchful.

Half-Time: Manor 0 – 0 Cockfosters

The second half began with the level of tension rising, as it became increasingly likely that this was going to be one tight Cup tie. Manor had a setback just short of the hour mark, with Mosuro receiving his second booking for holding an opponent. Even though they had the numerical advantage, ‘Fosters still could not create the sheer number of chances to really put their hosts under sustained pressure.

There was a big moment for the visitors on 78 minutes. Visiting forward George Beattie did really well to get past his marker on the left side of the penalty area, but his low strike trickled agonizingly wide of Collins’ right-side post. Manor also had a chance with four minutes remaining, which saw Ben Allen send a header straight at Mann when well-placed to score.

Nick Barrett (6) clearing for Cockfosters

Added time was a tale of two big chances. Firstly on 92 minutes, a fine angled corner by Thomson found the head of full-back Prince Madu but his header was centimetres over Collins’ crossbar. Barely a minute later, the hosts delivered a powerful reply on the counter-attack as after a fine surging run through the middle by Farrell, he had the presence of mind to find substitute Kai Haysman who displayed composure to get past his marker and strike the ball into the right-side corner, past Mann and before the defenders could get back to the goal-line to block. Haysman’s goal was well-taken and the jubilation of his team-mates and the home crowd was palpable.

Visiting skipper Matt Thomson (4) about to strike a free-kick

Full-Time: Southend Manor 1 – 0 Cockfosters

In summary, this was a competitive match although the decent crowd in attendance did have to be patient for the chances to crop up, for either side. ‘Fosters will be disappointed that they couldn’t create enough chances, particularly when they had the numerical advantage for about half hour of this tie. Manor will play better than this but you also have to respect the steel & the feel-good factor they have and boss James Wakeling and his staff have to take their share of credit for that.

There were some good performances as ever. For Manor, forwards Ben Allen and Robbie Farrell were tenacious and full of running, with Allen doing well to give his team an option and also tracked back well defensively. Farrell brought a superb save out of vising stopper Charlie Mann, right on half-time before in added-time, making the fine surging run that led to Haysman’s winning goal. Centre-back Montel Shonubi had a good afternoon, making several important interceptions to stifle Cockfosters’ enterprising approach play at times while I thought Josh Devlin also put in an all-action performance to keep things tight too.

For Cockfosters, winger Jervon Campbell was their stand-out attacking threat for large parts of the game, getting space on the right flank and put in some good crosses as well. Nick Barrett did well at the centre of their defence too, making several good aerial clearances, while Joe Entwistle had another good game in central midfield. Finally, a word for Charlie Mann who made a few smart saves to deny most of the few chances that the hosts had.

Manor have won £1,125 in prize money with this win (Source: The FA website) and will entertain Shefford Town & Campton in the Prelim Round. Congrats to them and best wishes to Cockfosters for rest of their campaign.

Lastly, thanks to our sporting pal Martyn, who watched his former club prevail along with me today.

Teams

Southend Manor | Manager: James Wakeling | Assistant: Ryan Frost

Starting XI (Subs): 1 Luca Collins (GK), 2 Ben Sargent, 18 Montel Shonubi, 17 Opeoluwa Mosuro, 4 Daniel Okah (Capt), 12 Josh Devlin, 7 Jonathan Evans (5 Keanu Hill 58′), 8 Finley Gregory, 9 Ayodele Awosika (23 Kai Haysman 58′), 10 Ben Allen, 22 Robbie Farrell

Goal-scorer: Kai Haysman [90’+3]

Booked: Farrell, Okah, Shonubi | Sent Off: Mosuro (two bookings)

Subs Not Used: Ferris, Johnson

Cockfosters | Manager: Gavin Kelsey | Assistant: Glenn Draper

Starting XI (Subs): 1 Charlie Mann (GK), 2 Kenny Norbrega, 3 Prince Madu, 5 Aiden Read, 6 Nick Barrett, 4 Matthew Thomson (Capt), 7 Daniel Ferrigno (15 Craig Arnott 65′), 8 Joe Entwistle (14 Archie Jolly 85′), 10 George Beattie, 11 Chikosi Basden, 19 Jervon Campbell (18 Denzil Effah 80′)

Booked: Campbell, Barrett

Subs Not Used: Finch, Donaghue (GK), Ugbomah, Constanti

Referee: Matthew Charles

S21-22 Match Report: Sporting Bengal Utd 0 – 3 Southend Manor (Wed 23 Mar) [ESL 21/22 24.3.22]

Essex Senior League – Premier Division

Venue: Mile End Stadium

Attendance: TBC

2021-22 Season: Match 64

Wednesday 23rd March 2022 – 7.45pm KO

Bengal: Green Blue Shirts, Red Shorts, Green Socks

Manor: Blue & White Shirts, Yellow Shorts, Yellow Socks

Late rally sees Manor claim important victory over Bengal at Mile End

Sporting Bengal Utd 0 – 3 Southend Manor

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

The match got underway with an understandable array of nerves from both sides as neither team could break down the oppsition’s defence. Louie Maxwell and Freddy Tandon did an admirable job in central defence for Bengal, while Montel Shonubi, Perry Dunn and Sam Richardson did the same for Manor as they were keen to keep things level and build well from the back. For the smattering of spectators attending, chances were not forthcoming on a regular basis in the first half, though midfielder Josh Devlin’s free-kick wasn’t far off-target, while the oppurtunistic Ben Allen narrowly drilled a strike wide as well in the first twenty minutes. For Bengal, they were finding it hard to bypass the solid Manor backline, though forwards Ricardas Milasius and Troy Cleghorn had some promising moments and keot the visiting defence alert too.

As the first half moved into the midway stages, Bengal winger Reinaloo Araujo had a glimmer of a chance at the far post but couldn’t test Manor stopper Christian North as it fizzed wide. At the other end, the first gilt-edged chance came for Manor youngster Sam Richardson as his fine header drew a good save out of Bengal goalkeeper Christian Villanucci, who parried the ball away well.

We got to the interval with no goals but a fair amount of intrigue as to where the points would be heading by full-time.

HT: Manor 0 – 0 Sporting Bengal

In fairness to Sporting Bengal, they did have the edge in terms of ball time in the early part of the second half. Eight minutes after the restart, Araujo made a good run down the left before finding Milasius who in turn struck a fierce effort which Manor stopper North sprawled across to make a good save and claw the ball away from the top right corner. Bengal centre-back Maxwell also nodded wide from a decent set-piece as well. Manor had to raise their game and maintain their focus, as they were getting drawn into making poor challenges at times.

However, in the last twenty minutes of the game, Southend Manor came back into the match and in some style. Moments after coming off the bench, forward Isaac Acquah finally broke the deadlock on seventy-two minutes as he found half a yard of space before netting from close range past Villanucci. The match as a whole badly needed a goal by this stage but it was only going to get harder for Steve Clark’s team.

Manor made this telling spell count in a big way as only three minutes afterward, the influential Allen took advantage of the hosts switching off in defence to fire the ball confidently into the left side corner to put James Wakeling’s side two goals ahead in the space of four minutes. Manor were really in the ascendancy in the close minutes, as forward Cesario Mendes narrowly hit off-target and a speculative effort by midfielder Daniel Brock cannoned off the crossbar with Villanucci beaten. Manor did get a third goal right on the ninety-minute mark as a fine run by Allen, weaving round his marker with some skill in the penalty area before slotting home well to crown off a fine finish to a game that harboured some tough moments for the improving Manor team.

Full-Time: Sporting Bengal Utd 0 – 3 Southend Manor

In summary, some may look at the scoreline and think this was a comfortable win for Manor. It wasn’t quite like that as Bengal defended well in the first hour or so, but the main problem for the hosts was the lack of consistent goal threat. Manor goalkeeper did need to make two good saves but his side ended the match in a strong way, which breeds optimism for the future.

In terms of stand-out performances, Manor forward Ben Allen was a good outlet for his team, showing good passing and pace and took his goals very well. Manor full-back Ben Sargent also was a key player in the attacking moves, showing good energy and movement while skipper Perry Dunn marshalled the refence well as ever. For Bengal, forward Ricardas Milasius had good pace and movement as well, forcing a good save out of North. Centre-back Louie Maxwell made a lot of good clearances to aid his team plus winger Reinaloo Araujo also stretched the visiting defence utilising his pace and good crossing ability.

Best wishes to both teams for the rest of the campaign.

Teams

Sporting Bengal Utd | Manager: Steve Clark |

Starting XI (Subs): 1 Christian Villanucci (GK), 2 Tanvir Ahmed (12 Kamarni Collington 76′), 3 Ajani Bryan-Wilson, 5 Louie Maxwell (Capt), 6 Freddy Tandon, 4 Thami Mmakola, 8 Ben Bickford (17 Emmanuel Olu 42′), 7 Reinaloo Araujo, 9 Troy Cleghorn (14 Prashanta Paul 76′) , 10 Ricardas Milasius, 11 Hugo Amaral

Booked: Ahmed, Mmakola, Tandon | Subs Not Used: George

Southend Manor | Manager: James Wakelindg | Asstistant: Ryan Frost

Starting XI (Subs): 1 Christian North (GK), 2 Nathan Booty, 3 Ben Sargent, 5 Montel Shonubi, 6 Perry Dunn (Capt), 16 Sam Richardson, 4 Josh Devlin (9 Ryan Kenyon 71′), 8 Daniel Brock, 11 Cesario Mendes (18 Billy Richardson 78′), 10 Ben Allen, 14 Andre Embalo (7 Isaac Acquah 71′)

Goal-scorers: Isaac Acquah [72′], Ben Allen [75′ & 90′]

Booked: Dunn, Devlin, Brock | Sub Not Used: Bolger, J Allen

Referee: Nathan Kitteridge
Assistants: Olabisi Omotosho & Adrian Vernica

S21-22 Match Report: Southend Manor 1 – 0 Sawbridgeworth Town (Sat 26th Feb) [ESL 21-22 26.2.22]

Essex Senior League – Premier Division

Venue: Southchurch Park

Attendance: 37

2021-22 Season: Match 59

Saturday 26th February – 3pm KO

S Manor: Yellow & Black Striped Shirts, Black Shorts, Black Socks

Sawbridgeworth: Blue Shirts, Blue Shorts, Blue Socks

Image of the upgrades at Southchurch Park, new nets and in the distance, the new standing area & dug-outs

Manor edge relegation six-pointer with Sawbridgeworth at Southchurch Park

Southend Manor 1 – 0 Sawbridgeworth Town

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

The last weekend in February saw a return to Southend for this important relegation six-pointer in the Essex Senior League between Southend Manor and Sawbridgeworth Town at the recently upgraded Southchurch Park. Manor have picked up results of late under James Wakeling and Ryan Frost. They named Christian North between the posts, with a defence of Cesario Mendes, Ben Sargent, Montel Shonubi and skipper Perry Dunn. The forward line was led by Luca Frankis, Andre Embalo and Ben Allen. On the bench was defender Todd Bolger, forward Meschack Kisoka and U18 midfielder Marley Gunn.

Sawbo have also made a few signings recently and they named George Edgeworth in goal, with veteran James Falaise in central defence. Joshua Bardouleau, George Spillane and Billy Purdy were in midfield, with captain Teddy Hall, Harry Davison and Horace Ormsby leading the attack. On the sidelines was new recruit Ayub Kadiri, defenders Ryan Willsmer and Arley Barker plus midfielder Ethan Barton.

Before the game, I had a gut feeling that the gravitas or importance of this match was going to be in the players’ minds throughout and in the early stages, that probably would have been fair to say. Manor did have the more energetic opening to the game, with rapid forward Andre Embalo getting down the left side well, and his cross from said left channel did find fellow forward Ben Allen though his strike was narrowly wide of Sawbo stopper George Edgeworth’s left-side post. For Sawbo, midfielder Joshua Bardouleau and forward Teddy Hall were causing problems as the half wore on. Hall had some early sighters at goal as the home backline were kept ever alert by the swift counter-attacks.

In these types of gritty battles, it is hard to be over-critical though Southend Manor were not retaining the ball as they would have liked as we ticked through to the half-hour point. Sawbridgeworth were edging the match by this stage, keeping the ball better and having half-chances through forward Harry Davison and winger Horace Ormsby, though home custodian Christian North was equal to them. Both sides were finding it tough to get past the other’s defence and the visitors nearly broke the deadlock soon after the half-hour but both hall and Spillane sent headers narrowly over the woodwork. Manor could only reflect on what might been as a pacy centre from left side to the back post found captain Perry Dunn but he couldn’t alter his position in time to bundle it in from a yard out.

Half-Time: Southend Manor 0 – 0 Sawbridgeworth Town

So the first half was every bit as tense as you might have theorised, though the second half saw a couple of key moments that hurt the visitors. Firstly, the referee blew for a spot-kick after not particularly liking Sawbo’s last-ditch defending in the area. Ben Allen stepped up to take it and Sawbridgeworth goalkeeper George Edgeworth kept out the initial strike but was a tad unfortunate to see Allen pounce and convert the rebound, low into the net.

Kieran Amos & Alex Salmon’s team were also starting to concede set-pieces as well which added to the pressure their side was feeling at this point. Around the hour mark, with Manor having a decent spell, forward Luca Frankis slid the ball through to Allen though the latter’s effort on goal fizzled wide of Edgeworth’s right-sided post.

Manor skipper Perry Dunn (near right) clears the ball from any danger down left channel

Sawbo’s afternoon got ever harder after centre-back James Falaise was sent off for his second booking with twenty minutes remaining. Frankis and Embalo both also had half-chances around this stage to surely put the points beyond doubt though as I’ve seen them do myself before this term, Sawbridgeworth continued to work hard and scrap for every bit of possession they could get. Although substitute Meschack Kisoka had a late sight of goal which went off-target, a second goal for the hosts probably would have been too harsh on the visitors’ battling efforts, particularly in the earlier stages of the game.

Sawbo chase what would’ve been an important leveller late on

Full-Time: Southend Manor 1 – 0 Sawbridgeworth Town

In summary, Manor will be most pleased with the result and the spell they had in the second half where they arguably created the most in the way of the chances. Sawbridgeworth definitely had good spells as well, particularly in the first half and there was very fine margins in this game in this writer’s opinion that prevented it ending in a draw.

There were a number of good performances from both sides in this match, despite the nerves that understandably both teams felt in the ‘heat of a relegation six-pointer’. Firstly for Manor, forward Andre Embalo was the lead threat down the left channel for the hosts, displaying good pace, energy and work rate to create chances for his side. Fellow forward Ben Allen also played his part with good movement and passing, perhaps being unfortunate not to have scored himself. Also, centre-back Montel Shonubi had a good game making a number of important clearances, alongside the experienced Perry Dunn.

For Sawbo, forward Teddy Hall led the line well with verve and strength, certainly creating chances and on another day, would have had at least one goal. On a frustrating day for the team’s forward line, winger Horace Ormsby also had a good game also , being a good quick outlet for his team. Midfielder George Spillane also put in another hard-working performance to break up the hosts’ passing game and also get forward on occasions too.

Best wishes to both sides for the remainder of the season.

Teams

Southend Manor | Manager: James Wakeling | Assistant: Ryan Frost

Starting XI (Subs): 1 Christian North (GK), 2 Cesario Mendes (20 Marley Gunn 89’), 3 Ben Sargent, 5 Perry Dunn (Capt), 6 Montel Shonubi, 4 Josh Devlin, 8 Daniel Brock, 10 Ryan Kenyon (16 Todd Bolger 54’), 11 Ben Allen, 7 Luca Frankis (15 Meschack Kisoka 76’), 14 Andre Embalo

Goal-scorer: Ben Allen [52’]

Booked: None | Subs Not Used: Johnson, Allen

Sawbridgeworth Town | Co-managers: Alex Salmon & Kieran Amos

1 George Edgeworth (GK), 2 Matthew Thoma (16 Arley Barker 66’), 3 Morgan Arnold (15 Ryan Willsmer 70’), 4 Billy Purdy, 17 James Falaise, 6 Freddie Griffiths, , 7 Joshua Bardouleau, 8 George Spillane, 9 Teddy Hall (Capt), 10 Harry Davison, 11 Horace Ormsby (14 Ayub Kadiri 66’)

Booked: None | Sent Off: Falaise [70’] (Two Yellow Cards) | Subs Not Used: Parker (GK), Barton

——————-

Referee: Connor Cornell

Assistants: Alan Steward & Gary Telling

S21-22 Match Report: Southend Manor 0 – 4 Enfield (Tues 14 Dec) [ESL 21/22 15.12.21]

Essex Senior League – Premier Division

Venue: Southchurch Park

Attendance: TBC

2021-22 Season: Match 47

Tuesday 14th December 2021 – 7.45pm KO

S Manor: Yellow & Black Shirts, Black Shorts, Black Socks

Enfield: White Shirts, Blue Shorts, White Socks

Enfield garner comfortable win at Manor

Southend Manor 0 – 4 Enfield

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

The midweek match was a short trip to Southchurch Park to see Southend Manor face Enfield in an Essex Senior League encounter. Manor were looking to recover from a hefty loss at home to Walthamstow the previous weekend. Enfield were keen to gain the win after being held late on at home to Redbridge four days previously. The hosts were somewhat affected by players unavailable, and named Sean Campbell in goal, with a defensive four of full-backs Jaiden Odle & Ben Sargent plus centre-backs Montel Shonubi and the returning Ope Mosuro, who also skippered the side. Andre Embalo led the forward line, with support from Daniel Medina and Isaac Acquah. Enfield had commanding goalkeeper James Bransgrove between the sticks here, along with a back four of Tyler Corlett, captain Reece Conway and centre-backs George Essuman and Jack Grosvenor. Alex Warman and Dave Cowley were the attack-minded midfield, supporting forwards Louie Johnson, Dwade James and Samrai Gebrai.

This match did have a bit of a slow start, with Manor starting quite well in defending their goal and making it hard for the E’s to make that telling pass into forwards Louie Johnson, Dwade James and Samrai Gebrai. Gebrai made a good darting run into the near post around ten minutes in, only to denied by the alertness of Manor full-back Jaiden Odle who got back to clear with Gebrai about to pounce. Enfield did have more of the ball, but were not creating a huge array of chances.

Tyler Corlett (#5) about to take a throw-in for Enfield

Midfielder Alex Warman was unfortunate to see his fine strike cannon back on the crossbar when it was heading for the top corner and centre-back Jack Grosvenor also headed not far wide from a set-piece. The hosts were sticking to their task quite well in limiting the E’s though going forward, they didn’t unduly trouble a strong physical Enfield backline. Andre Embalo led the line admirably but passes were going astray from the Manor midfield and they were having to cope with more & more pressure as the half went on.

With the interval approaching, two defensive errors were rather costly for the hosts. Firstly, on 38 minutes the E’s broke the deadlock with Gebrai breaking through down the left and finding a low pass which found James in prime position, with his firm strike going high into the net. It got worse just four minutes afterward for the home side, as Warman saw a glimmer of a chance at goal and duly made the most of it, launching a powerful strike from 20 yards out of the grasp of Manor custodian Sean Campbell. Certainly was the pick of the goals in this match.

Half-Time: Manor 0 – 2 Enfield

As we resumed proceedings after the break, the onus were on the hosts to build momentum but any such idea was thwarted seven minutes into the half as Manor ‘keeper Campbell fouled an Enfield forward in the area, which allowed James to step and convert the resulting penalty, although Campbell did get something on it, the ball still trickled over the goal-line. to give James his second goal of the evening.

The only concern of sorts really for the E’s here was that they didn’t put the game beyond any doubt in the next phase of the match. Just before the hour, with the impressive Gebrai involved in another good move, the ball again came to James, but this time his effort was narrowly over the woodwork. Louie Johnson also fired a free-kick over the goal frame although he did put in a good stint to assist his side here.

Ben Sargent (#3) launches a long throw for Manor

The visitors did get a fourth goal with seven minutes remaining. Manor switched off defensively as from a set-piece, Enfield skipper Reece Conway glanced home a fine header into the left corner to complete a good evening’s work for Jamie Cureton’s side. The visitors were much the better side as Manor need to rediscover their goal threat, with substitute Daniel Devey forcing the only real save for Bransgrove to make in the match from a header in the last twenty minutes or so.

Full-Time: Southend Manor 0 – 4 Enfield

To sum up this match, Enfield were comfortable winners and although they didn’t create masses of chances, their finishing was decent and they will be happy with the three points. Manor couldn’t create much in the way of chances, despite competing well in the first half hour or so, dealing with the possession play of their opponents. But two defensive errors before the interval made it an uphill task and they could not respond in the second period.

The stand-out performances for Enfield here were led by a fine match for creative forward Samrai Gebrai, who made several telling runs fown the left flank and put in good crosses, which directly led to at least one goal for the visitors. Dwade James again showed his hunger for goals & showed his importance to the team with his double here, also narrowly missing out on another treble. Tyler Corlett also had a good game in defence, making several well-placed interceptions. For Manor, forward Andre Embalo put in a hard-wrking display, making decent runs throughout and keeping the visiting defence alert, and was a little frustrated by his team’s inability to pick out passes to put Embalo in on goal. Right-back Jaiden Odle also had another good match, making good tackles and showed a high work rate, and midfielder Josh Devlin also worked hard to stifle the opposition’s passing game.

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

Teams

Southend Manor | Manager: Ryan Gordon | Assistants: Josh Hutchins & Callum Bolger

Starting XI (Subs): 1 Sean Campbell (GK), 2 Jaiden Odle, 3 Ben Sargent, 4 Montel Shonubi, 6 Ope Mosuro (Capt), 5 Cesario Mendes (14 Daniel Devey 26′), 7 Daniel Medina, 8Josh Devlin, 9 Andre Embalo, 10 Sha’mar Lawson (15 Troy Walters 57′, replaced by 13 Billy Harrison 72′), 11 Isaac Acquah

| Subs Not Used: O. Johnson (GK), Dominguez

Enfield | Player-Manager: Jamie Cureton | Assistant: Jim Duggan

Starting XI (Subs): 1 James Bransgrove (GK), 5 Tyler Corlett, 18 George Essuman, 6 Jack Grosvenor (17 Benji Crilley 73′), 8 Reece Conway (Capt), 2 Danny Palmer, 10 Dave Cowley, 4 Alex Warman (3 Toby Barlow 78′), 11 Louie Johnson (20 Hugo Vasconcelos 78′), 27 Dwade James, 14 Samrai Gabrai

Goal-scorers: Dwade James [38′ & pen 52′], Alex Warman [42′], Reece Conway [83′]

Subs Not Used: Murphy

Referee: Daniel Ripton
Assistants: Glenn Michaels & Nicholas Hodges

S21-22 Match Report: Southend Manor 0 – 1 Stansted (Sat 27 Nov) [ESL 21/22 27.11.21]

Essex Senior League – Premier Division

Venue: Southchurch Park

Attendance: TBC

2021-22 Season: Match 44

Saturday 27th November 2021 – 3pm KO

S Manor: Yellow & Black Shirts, Black Shorts, Black Socks

Stansted: Blue Shirts, Blue Shorts, Blue Socks

Stansted grab precious win in awful conditions at Manor

Southend Manor 0 – 1 Stansted

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

The weekend match was a short trip to Southchurch Park to see Southend Manor continue their search for points as they welcomed a Stansted side who hadn’t won in their last three matches in all competitions. Manor are now managed by Ryan Gordon, and he named ex-AS Rawreth stopper Ollie Johnson in goal, with a defensive four of Jaiden Odle, Ben Sargent plus centre-backs Shawn Coe and captain Jonathan Sanchez. The forward line was comprised of Daniel Devey, Michael Bareck and Andre Embalo. Options from the bench for Manor were Jack Frost and recent recruits Daniel Medina & Craig Heskey. Stansted had regular goalkeeper Jarvis Monk starting, with skipper Billy Coyne and Louis Monk the full-backs, Ashaan Siddik and Daniel Okah in midfield with a forward three of the returning Connor Hammond, Jack Mitchell and Michael Mignot. Their bench had forward Michael Salako plus midfielders Horace Ormsby and Finley Gregory.

The forecast was pretty grim and the conditions had an effect from the get-go, with sprawling winds and added rain making it very chilly for the dedicated spectators in attendance. In the early stages of the contest, chances were quite rare for both sides, though it was the Airportmen that kept the Manor defence alert, with full-back Jaiden Odle making a couple of good interceptions and skipper Jonanthan Sanchez marshalling the defence well, also making aerial clearances. Even so, it was Paul Pittuck & John Watters’ side that were looking the more likely to break the deadlock, with forwards Connor Hammond and Jack Mitchell not far away from having chances on goal, both down the channels and from the odd set-piece as well.

As it happens, the only goal of the contest did come from a set-piece. The hosts will feel disappointed at the outcome as Billy Coyne’s free-kick was delfected and bounced over the advancing Manor custodian Ollie Johnson, out of his grasp and trickled into the net, with centre-back Tom Massey also close by if a final touch was required, but on this occasion it was not. The visitors also had a goal chalked off for an assistant’s off-side flag before the interval.

Half-Time: Southend Manor 0 – 1 Stansted

After the break, Manor were keen to vanquish the slim deficit they had to deal with, and early in the half, full-back Odle made a superb run from his own half into the opposition’s before finding forward Michael Bareck well though Bareck could only drag his strike wide of Jarvis Monk’s left-side post. The weather was unrelenting which only increased the chances of players slipping on the turf. For the most part, the visitors defended well in their characteristic way of firm tackles and swift clearances from danger.

To their credit, Manor did keep going well from defence to midfield, with Josh Devlin doing well in central midfield to assist his side in keeping possession. If there was one caveat to the above line, it was that they could not create that many clear oppurtunities to test Monk in the Stansted goal. There was one near-miss for the hosts with about twenty minutes remaining. Bareck was again was in a promising position after evading a defender before unleashing a powerful effort which narrowly went over the woodwork.

All in all though, Southend Manor couldn’t force a leveller as Stansted did well to hold firm and claim a morale-boosting win with a hard-working performance in the aforementioned awful conditions.

Ben Sargent (Manor #3) making surging run down the left flank

Full-Time: Southend Manor 0 – 1 Stansted

To sum up this match, both sides left everything out there on-the-pitch in the inclement conditions. Stansted did enough to deserve the points in a game of relatively few chances. Manor do have positives to take as well as they defended quite well at times and going forward they looked promising, apart from that telling final ball into the forwards to create a lot of chances.

The stand-out performances from this game start with Stansted. Defenders Bryn Thorpe and Billy Coyne had good matches with Thorpe playing centre-back here, and he did well alongside Tom Massey and Paul Clayton. Coyne’s set-pieces were a threat as ever, and Daniel Okah had a good game in midfield, showing his presence with good energy and tackling. Jack Mitchell was a good threat as well for the Airportmen with his movement and running as he looked to get beyond the last defender. For Manor, forward Michael Bareck was a good outlet for the re-modelled attack for the hosts, showing good energy and pace. Josh Devlin had a good game also, moving from defence to attack well and made several good passes. Full-backs Ben Sargent and Jaiden Odle also made good surging runs from their respective flanks and also made a few good interceptions.

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

Teams

Southend Manor | Manager: Ryan Gordon | Assistants: Josh Hutchins & Callum Bolger

Starting XI (Subs): 1 Ollie Johnson (GK), 2 Jaiden Odle (12 Jack Frost 77′), 3 Ben Sargent, 4 Shawn Coe, 5 Jonathan Sanchez (Capt), 6 Josh Devlin, 7 Cesario Mendes, 8 Isaac Acquah, 9 Daniel Devey (14 Daniel Medina 76′), 10 Michael Bareck (15 Craig Heskey 89′), 11 Andre Embalo

Booked: None | Subs Not Used: None

Stansted | Joint-Managers: Paul Pittuck & John Watters | GK Coach: Neil Tillotson

Starting XI (Subs): 21 Jarvis Monk (GK), 2 Billy Coyne (Capt), 3 Louis Monk, 4 Tom Massey, 5 Bryn Thorpe, 6 Paul Clayton, 7 Michael Mignot (14 Michael Salako 71′), 8 Ashaan Siddik (15 Finley Gregory 80′), 9 Jack Mitchell, 10 Daniel Okah, 11 Connor Hammond (12 Horace Ormsby 76′)

Goal-scorer: Billy Coyne [31′]

Booked: Thorpe, Monk | Subs Not Used: None

Referee: Benjamin Horne
Assistant Referees: Craig Wood & Ray Parmenter

S21-22 Match Report: Southend Manor 0 – 3 West Essex (Sat 18th Sept) [ESL 21-22 18.9.21]

Essex Senior League – Premier Division

Venue: Southchurch Park

Attendance: 13

2021-22 Season: Match 23

Saturday 18th September 2021 – 3pm KO

S Manor: Yellow & Black Striped Shirts, Black Shorts, Black Socks

West E: White Shirts, White Shorts, White Socks

West outplay Manor to grab a deserved win at Southchurch

Southend Manor 0 – 3 West Essex

Match Report & Photos by Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMHC14] – Non-League Writer

This weekend’s match was a short trip to Southchurch Park to see West Essex visit Southend Manor in another Essex Senior League match. Craig Waters’ home team were missing several players including the influential Jordan Chambers, defender James Hegarty and forwards Luca Frankis and Ethan Evison. Josh Harrison was the choice in goal, with a defence of full-backs Ben Sargent and Kiah Froud with the central defence being led by skipper Joe Elliott with Alex Jenkins alongside him. Teddy Rumsby and Josh Devlin were the wingers in support of forwards Harry Rogers and Conor Cobb, with defender Jean Paul Moke, and young forwards Jordan Russell and Kia Cody all options from the bench.

The Stags were also missing several important players such as goalkeeper Jack Coker, captain Reece Clarke and forwards Callum Bloss and Demetris Frangeskides all unavailable for Kwame Kwateng’s team. Dan Russell deputised in goal, with club stalwart Sanchez Hardy skippering the side, alongside Emmanuel Oluwole in central defence. Michael Morris and Joel Lamb were wing-backs here, assisting the forward line of Moyo Ajibade and Jon Ogunsanya. Their depleted substitutes bench was comprised of forwards Symeon Taylor and Mohamud Kaudeer.

The visitors looked to get their rhythm going early in the match here, with wing-backs Michael Morris and Joel Lamb and winger Samraj Gill looking good in possession as they looked to assist their side ‘s forward moves. For the hosts, Teddy Rumsby had a half-chance blocked by the visiting defence. On the whole though, it was West who really had the impetus and nearly broke the deadlock on twelve minutes as a good move down the left side ended with Gill sending in a good cross from the left flank, which was just over the head of advancing forward Jon Ogunsanya at the back post. The Stags were finding their passing range on the quarter-hour with central midfielder Sam McNally starting a fine move involving Morris and Gill, only for full-back Kiah Froud to intervene and clear away for a corner.

On a decent counter-attack, Manor forward Conor Cobb got into the eighteen-yard box before being tackled well by centre-back Sanchez Hardy. From the corner that resulted, Manor defender Alex Jenkins had a decent header blocked as West strived to clear the ball away. Manor did have one or two more set-pieces which didn’t quite find their targets but West responded with another driving forward move at the other end, with pacey forward Moyo Ajibade sending in a good centre which support forward David Bell could only blaze over the goal frame. It was another warning though for the home defence but West Essex did not have to wait long for a goal. With 29 minutes played, a good long clearance by custodian Dan Russell down the right side started the move, with Ajibade and Ogunsanya both involved and found Bell one-on-one with Manor stopper Josh Harrison and this time Bell planted a good finish into the opposite corner to give the visitors the advantage.

West doubled their lead on the counter-attack only four minutes later as Morris was involved once again showing good passing and composure with the ball finding Ogunsanya who evaded his marker before firing a low strike from about eighteen yards into the left-sided corner, just evading the grasp of Harrison. Manor were just not able to retain possession for long periods to build their attacks and went into the break needing to step up their own tempo.

Half-Time: Southend Manor 0 – 2 West Essex

Soon after the break, Manor did have a free-kick which Jordan Faulkner sent a header off-target. Bell had another decent curling strike for West travel over the crossbar but in a match of few positives for Manor at this point, they did have more ball retention with the likes of Rumsby, central midfielder Jack Frost, winger Josh Devlin and Jordan Faulkner, who was pushed up to lead the forward line at half-time showing their intent to get their side back in the match. In fairness, West were having to defend a bit more but they were keen to show that they were more than up to the challenge, with Hardy, Morris and centre-back Emmanuel Oluwole doing well to intercept the hosts’ attacks, with custodian Dan Russell not having to make a significant save.

West were still showing their promise going forward as well as with 71 minutes on the watch, another fine pass by Gill found Ogunsanya although his well-struck strike was straight at Harrison. Substitute Jean Paul Moke also did well for the hosts at centre-back since the interval but a deeply regrettable moment transpired with five minutes of normal time remaining. The referee had heard brought play to a stop with West in position to launch another promising forward move, and very soon after that the red card was out for defender Kiah Froud for what ref Edwards described directly as foul & abusive language. The incident certainly caused the West players to understandably react strongly and the situation needed both management teams to intervene and after several minutes, play resumed.

West did get a third goal at the beginning of an extended added-time period as substitute Symeon Taylor powered a fine finish high into the net with only Harrison to bypass. However, the Manor goalkeeper responded well to deny strikes by Taylor and Ogunsanya as the visitors finished the match well and more than earned the win here.

West GK Russell (right) about to clear..

Full-Time: Southend Manor 0 – 3 West Essex

In summary, West were the better side, particularly in the first half and fully deserved the points that their fast, enterprising play had given them. The home side simply could not match the pace, incisive passing and finishing that Kwame Kwateng’s side showed here. The events late on did irrevocably alter the atmosphere and referee Kirk Edwards did not hesitate to deal with the situation. Fact is you cannot condone language like that either.

There were a number of good performances from both sides in this match. Firstly for West, I felt right wing-back Michael Morris had a terrific match, showing excellent pace, composure and work rate throughout in both defence and going forward. Forward Jon Ogunsanya was also constantly involved in his side’s forward moves and took his goal well. Tricky winger Samraj Gill had another influential match, giving the hosts a tough afternoon with his passing, pace and dribbling. Finally, a mention for club stalwart Sanchez Hardy who led his team well from central defence and made several important interceptions.

For Manor, central midfielder Jack Frost had a good game as the home side’s midfield struggled to stifle the pace of the Stags’ counter-attacks. Joe Elliott again led the team well and made a number of good interceptions from centre-back. Jordan Faulkner was utilised as a stand-in forward after the interval and did keep the visiting defence alert. Finally, winger Teddy Rumsby also had some good moments on the right flank showing pace and energy on what was a tough day for them.

Best wishes to both sides for the remainder of the season.

Teams

Southend Manor | Manager: Craig Waters | Assistant: Garry Pond

Starting XI (Subs): 1 Josh Harrison (GK), 2 Ben Sargent, 3 Kiah Froud, 4 Alex Jenkins (13 Kia Cody 75’), 5 Joe Elliott (Capt), 6 Jordan Faulkner, 7 Teddy Rumsby, 8 Jack Frost, 9 Harry Rogers (12 Jean-Paul Moke 46’), 10 Conor Cobb (14 Jordan Russell 46’), 11 Josh Devlin

Booked: Devlin, Elliott | Sent Off: Froud

Subs Not Used: Waters

West Essex | Manager: Kwame Kwateng | Assistant: George Karsa

1 Daniel Russell (GK), 15 Michael Morris, 2 Sanchez Hardy (Capt), 5 Emmanuel Oluwole, 3 Joel Lamb, 4 Sam McNally, 10 Emmanuel Wazola, 18 Moyo Ajibade (9 Symeon Taylor 77’), 20 David Bell (21 Mohamud Kaudeer 61’), 19 Jon Ogunsanya, 22 Samraj Gill

Goal-scorers: David Bell [29’], Jon Ogunsanya [33’], Symeon Taylor [90’+1]

Booked: None | Subs Not Used: None

S21-22 Match Report: Southend Manor 3 – 4 Athletic Newham (Tues 24 Aug) [ESL 21/22 25.8.21]

Essex Senior League – Premier Division

Venue: Southchurch Park

Attendance: 36

2021-22 Season: Match 14

Tuesday 24th August 2021 – 7.45pm KO

S Manor: Yellow & Black Shirts, Black Shorts, Black Socks

Ath Newham: Blue & White Shirts, White Shorts, Blue Socks

Pre-match image as both teams prepare to get the match underway

Superb comeback from Newham claims the points at Manor

Southend Manor 3 – 4 Athletic Newham

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

The midweek main match was another visit to Southchrch Park to see Southend Manor face Essex Senior League newcomers Athletic Newham. Both sides exited the FA Cup three days previously and have been scoring goals – but also conceding them so was we in for more of the same here? Was we ever! Manor’s squad was again affected by injuries but could still field regular stopper Jack Allen in goal with a back four of Ben Sargent, Billy Harrison with James Hegarty and Alex Jenkins as centre-backs. Luca Frankis once again led the forward line alongside Josh Devlin, with Isaac Acquah and Jordan Chambers on the flanks in support. Options from the sidelines included forwards Conor Cobb and Harry Rogers and midfielder Jordan Russell for Craig Waters’ team. Athletic Newham brought a strong attack-minded team with Richard Kone, skipper Joel Appiah and experienced forward Tony Cookey making up their forward line. Alvaro Guerrero and Anderson Baro were part of a creative midfield and Wilkinson Boateng was once again selected as goalkeeper for Chris Davis’ side.

The match started well for Southend Manor who had an early sight of goal four minutes in as a free-kick from Alex Jenkins found Isaac Acquah in space at the far post but the latter was unable to turn his strike into the net. The hosts were keen to fizz crosses into the six-yard area with visiting goalkeeper Wilkinson Boateng electing to parry the ball away from danger in the early part of the match. Newham were swift on the counter-attack as ever though and ten minutes in, a great pass by playmaker Anderson Baro found the run of rapid forward Richard Kone who hammered a good strike which came back off the left-side goalpost with some pace. That was a warning for Manor which ultimately they didn’t heed but they could count themselves a little unfortunate in how they fell behind here. On fourteen minutes, a clearance from a home defender cannoned off full-back Ben Sargent and into the path of Kone who cut inside and struck home into the net past home custodian Jack Allen.

The home side were causing some nervy moments for Newham from set-pieces and six minutes after they went behind, Manor levelled from one said set-piece. Boateng clawed a cross away but didn’t get enough on it which allowed Manor forward Luca Frankis to pounce and head into the net from close range in a congested penalty area. With the half-hour mark approaching, forward Joel Appiah’s strike was well-saved by Allen, though the assistant’s flag would have denied him anyway. By this point, Newham were really in the match though in another twist, Manor took the advantage for the first time on 32 minutes. Another Jenkins free-kick managed to catch Boateng off his goal-line and the ball was lofted over him and into the net.

However, there was another swift change of fortune barely a minute afterwards as Newham showed all of their quality & skill to level the match again. Richard Kone powered home a fine strike which flew past Allen, low into the net on the left-side. Minutes after that, the tempo was building further as Jenkins had a half-chance gathered by Boateng and visiting forward Tony Cookey also had a decent chance saved by Allen following another good move.

Half-Time: Southend Manor 2 – 2 Athletic Newham

After the interval, it was the hosts who edged the opening moments of the second half as Acquah played in winger Jordan Chambers but the Newham defence denied him a clear chance at Boateng’s goal. Frankis also had another effort sail wide but three minutes later, it was Newham’s turn to feel frustrated. Another really good long pass by Anderson Baro found Kone again and after another good run, Kone blazed his effort wide of Allen’s goal. On the hour, Manor responded with a well-taken goal to give them the lead again, as good hold-up play by Chambers occupied the Newham defence, allowing right-back Ben Sargent to advance and Chambers managed to get a pass in, which Sargent fired home a good effort into the corner again. Newham defender Perez Goumou made a number of good interceptions for his side, which would prove important in the latter stages.

Both sides traded chances as we entered the last twenty minutes of the match, with midfielder Jordan Faulkner firing wide for Manor and Cookey also off-target for the visitors. However, the game turned late on as with nine minutes remaining, another terrific run down the left channel by Kone ended up finding Baro who struck his effort wide when in a really good position to score. At this point, Newham skipper Joel Appiah had been sent into the sin-bin by referee Leigh Ballinger. Frankis had to be substituted as well at this point, with Conor Cobb replacing him. Newham went into another gear to try and grab a point with Manor defending deep and Newham got a dramatic leveller on 89 minutes with Kone again involved in the build-up but it was defender Louis Hiobi who fired a good strike past Allen, much to the delight of the visitors.

Newham sensed that the comeback was on right there and barely a minute after replacing Cookey, substitute Reon Reid was well found again by Baro and Reid made no mistake with a good finish to break the hosts’ resolve and ultimately claim all three points in what was a brilliant match for the neutral.

Full-Time: Southend Manor 3 – 4 Athletic Newham

In summary, this was a really open, entertaining match and Chris Davis’ Newham side really showed they are a strong-willed team, as well as showing the quality they have, particularly in attack. Manor put so much into the match but their decision to defend deep in the latter stages ultimately didn’t go well for them in a match that had pretty much everything – great finishing, great chances created and an enthralling high tempo for most of the match. You have to give both teams a lot of credit for the type of match we saw here.

There were a number of good performances in this encounter. For victors Newham, forward Richard Kone was again the driving force for his team, scoring two goals and creating a lot of problems down the flanks with his movement and rapid pace. Playmaker Anderson Baro also had a good game, making some astute passes and looked to build quick attacking moves, with skipper Joel Appiah playing his part in the forward line and defender Louis Hiobi also made a number of good interceptions during the game, as well as the well-taken late goal. Manor’s stand-out players were led by forward Luca Frankis who took his goal well and generally gave the visiting defence a tricky evening with his physicality and movement. Winger Jordan Chambers had another fine match too, showing a big work rate down the flanks and played his part in his side’ third goal by occupying defenders. Defenders Alex Jenkins and James Hegarty also did well to clear their lines as often as they did but ultimately the pace and creativity of Newham’s counter-attacks did prove telling.

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

Teams

Southend Manor | Manager: Craig Waters | Assistant: Garry Pond

Starting XI: 1 Jack Allen (GK), 2 Ben Sargent, 3 Billy Harrison, 4 Kiah Froud, 5 James Hegarty, 6 Alex Jenkins, 7 Jordan Chambers, 8 Jordan Faulkner, 9 Luca Frankis (Capt) (15 Conor Cobb 82′), 10 Josh Devlin, 11 Isaac Acquah (14 Jordan Russell 66′)

Goal-scorers: Luca Frankis [20′], Alex Jenkins [32′], Ben Sargent [60′]

Booked: Sargent, Chambers, Harrison | Subs Not Used: Brocklebank, Frost, Rogers

Athletic Newham | Manager: Chris Davis | Assistant: Timothy Tejuoso

Starting XI: 1 Wilkinson Boateng (GK), 3 Louis Hiobi, 2 Perez Goumou, 7 Jeff Idemudia, 8 Alvaro Guerrero, 14 Akin Akinola, 19 Emmanuel Odunaike (6 Yousupha Gaye 68′), 15 Anderson Baro, 10 Joel Appiah (Capt), 17 Richard Kone, 9 Tony Cookey (11 Reon Reid 90′)

Goal-scorers: Richard Kone [14′ & 33′], Louis Hiobi [89′], Reon Reid [90′ +1]

Booked: Odunaike, Appiah (Sin-Bin) | Subs Not Used: Toke, Gbade, Barrow

Referee: Leigh Ballinger

Assistants: Elliott Hardcastle & Joe Lennon

S21-22 Match Report: Southend Manor 1 – 1 St Margaretsbury (Tues 10 Aug) [ESL 21/22 11.8.21]

Essex Senior League – Premier Division

Venue: Southchurch Park

Attendance: 52

2021-22 Season: Match 9

Tuesday 10 August 2021 – 7.45pm KO

S Manor: Yellow & Black Shirts, Black Shorts, Black Socks

St Margs: Red Shirts, Black Shorts, Red Shorts

Manor share the points in hard-fought encounter

Southend Manor 1 – 1 St Margaretsbury

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

This week’s midweek match saw a trip to Southend to see Manor welcome St Margaretsbury in the Essex Senior. Manor were again in action three days after their FA Cup progression at the weekend and were missing several players. They fielded a defensive four of Josh Brocklebank, Aaron Marshall, James Hegarty and captain Kiah Froud. They also started with the same front three as last time out with Josh Devlin and Jordan Chambers supporting focal point Luca Frankis. Among the options on the bench were forwards Harry Rogers and Luke Jackson plus midfielder Connor Cobb. Ray Bartlett’s St Margs side had on-loan Hullbridge stopper Christian North in goal, with a back four of skipper Andrew Greenslade, Joe Parmley and centre-backs Tom Hayden and Aiden Read. Ricardo Adewuyi and Sam Rogers were on the flanks, supporting front two Roddy Lemba and Kyle Roberts. The visitors’ options from the sidelines included Napier Brown and Marvin Wray.

Both sides were gradually working their way into the contest early on, as St Margaretsbury central midfielder Dan Palmer fired a strike over the crossbar a few minutes in. Manor had an early setback as forward Luca Frankis had to be withdrawn after just ten minutes, with Harry Rogers replacing him. The hosts couldn’t quite find their final pass in the opposition area, but forward Jordan Chambers was again posing a threat with his pace and movement. On eleven minutes, St Margs forward Roddy Lemba had a glimpse of Jack Allen’s goal but a good interception by home defender James Hegarty denied that potential chance.

It was a warning though for Manor, and they fell behind on eighteen minutes. A fine run down the right flank by teenage winger Sam Rogers ended with a great cross which found Ricardo Adewuyi at the back post who sent in a good header from close range. As it turned out, that lead only stood for five minutes as Manor levelled. A set-piece delivered in made its way in a congested penalty box to substitute Harry Rogers who prodded the ball home from close range after evading the visiting defence.

The match was getting increasingly open at this point as chances built up for both sides. On the stroke of the half-hour, a surging run by St Margs full-back Andrew Greenslade found Lemba who narrowly sent a powerful header over the woodwork. Again, the hosts responded with Aaron Marshall making good runs from left-back. Half-time was quickly approaching as the chances continued. Five minutes before the break, another good centre from Sam Rogers found Adewuyi whse effort was denied by Allen whilst at the other end, Harry Rogers couldn’t get enough power on his strike which allowed visiting goalkeeper Christian North to gather. Rogers had another chance for the hosts just before the interval after being found by a deep cross from Manor midfielder Jordan Faulkner but Rogers couldn’t direct his effort on goal.

Half-Time: Southend Manor 1 – 1 St Margaretsbury

The second half was set-up nicely but the chances weren’t quite as frequent. Two minutes after the restart, Manor’s Josh Devlin powered a twenty-yard strike at North’s goal but the ‘keeper was alert and gathered. Adewuyi was involved in another decent St Margs move as the hour mark was in sight, as Palmer again fired narrowly wide. The hosts did build up pressure on the visiting defence as the match entered its final twenty minutes. Manor substitute Luke Jackson did well to get a fierce strike in but North was equal to it. Manor centre-back Hegarty had a header wide of goal as well. St Margs also had a header from defender Aiden Read who went just over and a fizzing effort from forward Kyle Roberts which sailed wide too.

Unfortunately, for the visitors the match ended on a less positive note as full-back Joe Parmley was given a straight red card by referee Adam Miller for a hard tackle on Manor midfielder Ethan Evison, which left him needing treatment for several minutes. The challenge also brought about an ensuing melee for a couple of minutes after. After that had settled down, Manor had one chance in added-time as a good ball by Shawn Coe found substitute Connor Cobb who somehow skewed his strike wide.

Full-Time: Southend Manor 1 – 1 St Margaretsbury

St Margs probably will be pleased with a point although both sides had chances to put the match beyond their opponents. That being said, Manor are also harder to beat at present and will hope that continues. In my view, Manor midfielders Ethan Evison and Jordan Faulkner had good games here, showing good passing and movement. Kiah Froud led the home defence well again with a typically hard-working display, and forward Jordan Chambers also did well to stretch the opposition backline here. For St Margaretsbury, Tom Hayden had a really good game at the heart of their defence, while winger Sam Rogers showed a lot of energy and good passing for most of the game. Dan Palmer also did well in centre midfield plus forward Roddy Lemba was a good physical presence in attack and was unfortunate to not get on the score-sheet.

Thanks to both clubs for their assistance with this report & best wishes to them both for the season ahead.

Teams

Southend Manor | Manager: Craig Waters | Assistant: Garry Pond

Starting XI: 1 Jack Allen (GK), 2 Josh Brocklebank, 3 Aaron Marshall (15 Luke Jackson 65′), 4 Jordan Faulkner, 5 James Hegarty, 6 Kiah Froud (Capt), 7 Shawn Coe, 8 Ethan Evison, 9 Luca Frankis (11 Harry Rogers 10′), 10 Josh Devlin, 14 Jordan Chambers (16 Connor Cobb 76′)

Goal-scorer: Harry Rogers [23′]

Booked: Evison, Brocklebank | Subs Not Used: Frost, Acquah

St Margaretsbury | Manager: Ray Bartlett | Assistant: James Falaise

Starting XI: 1 Christian North (GK), 2 Andrew Greenslade (Capt) (17 Marvin Wray 76′), 3 Joe Parmley, 4 Dominic Wynter-Stephens, 5 Tom Hayden (16 Jake Hayden-Eley 66′), 6 Aiden Read, 7 Sam Rogers, 8 Dan Palmer, 18 Roddy Lemba, 10 Kyle Roberts, 11 Ricardo Adewuyi (14 Napier Brown 66′)

Goal-scorer: Ricardo Adewuyi [18′]

Booked: Lemba | Sent Off: Parmley

Subs Not Used: McPherson, Ali

Referee: Adam Miller
Assistants: Glenn Michaels & Robert Collins