Sporting Bengal Utd – survivor16b

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: Sporting Bengal Utd 0 – 2 Athletic Newham (Wed 26 Jan) [ESL 21-22 27.1.22]

Essex Senior League – Premier Division

Venue: Mile End Stadium

Attendance: TBC

2021-22 Season: Match 52

Wednesday 26th January 2022 – 7.45pm KO

S Bengal: Blue Shirts, Blue Shorts, Blue Socks

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

Action still from the first half at Mile End

Energetic display from Newham gains another win at Sporting Bengal

Sporting Bengal Utd 0 – 2 Athletic Newham

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

The Non-League road continued on Wednesday night with a return to Mile End to see Sporting Bengal welcome play-off chasing Athletic Newham in the Essex Senior League. Sporting Bengal narrowly lost out at Hoddesdon Town four days prior to this match and named Kevin Rrushi in goal, with a midfield of Todor Germanov, Louie Maxwell and Djibril Cante, with a forward line of Yaya Jau, Gianfranco Mici and Mark Nwokeji, who played for Dagenham & Redbridge some twelve years ago. Their options from the bench included forward Quincy Roberts, Daniele Paoloni, Stany Mongha and Ajani Bryan-Wilson. Newham have a few games to catch up on due to their superb FA Vase run to date and named Wilkinson Boateng as their goalkeeper, a midfield of Benjamin Bodipo, Anderson Baro, Abdul Shobowale and Jacques Leurs. In atttack, the league’s leading scorer in Richard Kone was joined by Joel Appiah and Rasheed Salau. From the sidelines, their substitutes included the experienced Simon Bamidele, Babs Sonupe and Best Toke.

The match got underway with the visitors looking to assert themselves in possession and put the Bengal defence under pressure. After only three minutes, Bengal custodian Kevin Rrushi was alert to claim a deflected free-kick from tricky Newham midfielder Anderson Baro. Chris Davis’ side did continue to have more ball retention in the early stages of the contest, with Abdul Shobowale making good runs down the left channel and putting in some good crosses from that side. Richard Kone was occupying defenders from fairly early on as well and after evading his marker, Rrushi did well reach down low to deny Kone’s strike on fourteen minutes.

Newham were finding their rhythm going forward at this point in proceedings, and a well-struck overhead kick by captain Joel Appiah needed the fine intervention of Rrushi to claw the ball onto the far side post. Bengal’s counter-attacks were fairly rare in the first half, with forward Yaya Jau unable to unnerve visiting goalkeeper Wilkinson Boateng & instead fired well over the goal frame. By the midway point of the half, you felt it was a case of when Newham would score rather than if, and defender Perez Goumou’s good header from Baro’s corner was gratefully gathered by Rrushi.

At the other end, Boateng was largely untroubled at this point, with a decent strike by centre-back Daniel Udanoh from just inside the eighteen-yard area eventually being gathered. Unfortunately for the hosts, the closing minutes of the half proved to be somewhat costly. Five minutes before the break, a fierce strike from Benjamin Bodipo evaded the grasp of Rrushi and went low into the net to give Athletic Newham a deserved lead.

Newham made the most of this good spell as another well-worked move three minutes later allowed forward Rasheed Salau to finish from close range to ultimately give the visitors the lead they deserved for their approach play and their chances created.

Half-Time: Sporting Bengal 0 – 2 Athletic Newham

Bengal manager Steve Clark made a change at the interval, bringing on Ajani Bryan-Wilson for central midfielder Djibril Cante and to their credit, they did show work rate, spirit and defensively they held firm as they looked to get back into the contest. That being said, Newham were unlucky not to put the match beyond doubt midway through the half as another Baro set-piece was headed onto the crossbar by Salau. Moments later, midfielder James Runham’s powerful strike was well saved by Rrushi and soon after, Kone got past the impressive Udanoh but the angle on goal was narrow and he could only fire off-target.

Newham were pretty comfortable defensively, although Gianfranco Mici did find half a yard of space before striking at goal, though the strike lacked the power to bypass Boateng, who claimed the ball well. Appiah also drifted a effort wide of goal although he did have a good game here, leading his side well.

In the latter stages, Bengal did make some good runs down the flanks with Bryan-Wilson and full-back Karmani Collington being willing runners though in the end, they couldn’t create enough in the way of chances to really merit any points in the match. The final whistle blew and Newham can feel happy with a good performance earning them another win, which takes them back into fifth spot, ahead of Saffron Walden on goal difference, with Newham travelling to Catons Lane at the weekend.

Full-Time: Sporting Bengal Utd 0 – 2 Athletic Newham

In summary, Newham put in a characteristic display of high work rate and good possession though if their finishing was more clinical, they would have would have won this tie much more convincingly. Bengal did show spirit, particularly in the second half, with decent approach play though ultimately Newham goalkeeper Wilkinson Boateng had a largely stress-free evening.

There were several notable performances from both sides in this match. First up for victors Newham, skipper Joel Appiah put in a fine display, building attacking moves alongside rapid forward Richard Kone who occupied defenders and on another day would have had at least one goal. Also, full-back Perez Goumou had a good all-round match making good defensive clearances and showing good energy and passing. Finally, technical midfielder Anderson Baro also again looked good on the ball and showed his ability to put in good crosses and free-kicks. Baro also did a good share of defensive work for his side to assist his team. For Bengal, centre-back Daniel Udanoh had a really good game, making good clearances when his defence was under considerable pressure, alongside the influential Freddy Tandon, who also had a really good match. Goalkeeper Kevin Rrushi pulled off several good saves to keep his side in the game in the first half and lastly, substitute Ajani Bryan-Wilson also made a difference down the right flank in the second half, looking to get involved in good forward moves.

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

Teams

Sporting Bengal Utd | Manager: Steve Clark

Starting XI (Subs): 1 Kevin Rrushi (GK), 2 Darius Maxime, 3 Kamarni Collington, 4 Todor Germanov, 5 Freddy Tandon, 6 Daniel Udanoh, 7 Louie Maxwell, 8 Djibril Cante (17 Ajani Bryan-Wilson 46’), 9 Yaya Jau (12 Quincy Roberts 65’), 10 Gianfranco Mici, 11 Mark Nwokeji (14 Daniele Paoloni 57’)

Subs Not Used: P Paul, Mongha

Athletic Newham | Manager: Chris Davis

1 Wilkinson Boateng (GK), 2 Perez Goumou (12 Best Toke 86’), 3 Louis Hiobi, 4 James Runham, 8 Benjamin Bodipo, 11 Jacques Leurs (7 Babs Sonupe 70’), 15 Anderson Baro, 14 Rasheed Salau, 10 Joel Appiah (Capt), 17 Richard Kone, 16 Abdul Shobowale (19 Simon Bamidele 80’)

Goal-scorers: Benjamin Bodipo [40’], Rasheed Salau [43’]

Subs Not Used: Owootomo, Gaye

Referee: Sam Everitt

Assistants: Royan Campbell & Adrian Vernica

S21-22 Match Report: Sporting Bengal Utd 2 – 2 Sawbridgeworth Town (Sat 23 Oct) [ESL 23.10.21]

Essex Senior League – Premier Division

Venue: Mile End Stadium

Attendance: 50

2021-22 Season: Match 35

Saturday 23rd October 2021 – 3pm KO

S Bengal: Blue Shirts, Blue Shorts, Blue Socks

Sawbo: Red Shirts, Red Shorts, Red Socks

Fine comeback by Bengal denies Sawbo an important win at Mile End

Sporting Bengal Utd 2 – 2 Sawbridgeworth Town

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

This weekend’s match saw a return to Mile End Stadium to see a big match at the bottom of the table, as bottom two sides Sporting Bengal Utd and Sawbridgeworth Town faced each other. Bengal are now under the management of Shipon Miah and he named Kevin Rrushi in goal, with a defence of Nazrul Ahmed, George Turner, Ehizojie Onoabhagbe and the returning Kamarl Duncan, who impressed in his previous spell at the club. Redon Abazi and Arinze Ossai led the forward line here, with support from the flanks from Oshun Lewis and Joshua Carr. Tariq Fowler skippered the side, with goal-scoring forward Gianfranco Mici on the bench here, alongside fellow forwards Shiblu Miah and Oscar Onuorah. Sawbridgeworth are jointly-managed by Kieran Amos & Alex Salmon these days and Jimmy Parker was their goalkeeper, with a defensive unit of Rowan Dorling, Lewis Wicker, Billy Stewart and captain Cory Rider. They had a forward three of Teddy Hall, Harry Davison and Morgan Arnold, with experience on the bench in Prince Alozie, Daryl Doolan and James Falaise, who joined the club this week.

The match got underway with a early effort from home full-back George Turner from 35 yards which went narrowly over visiting custodian Jimmy Parker’s crossbar on three minutes. Sawbridgeworth responded well with forward Harry Davison flashing a strike wide of goal, before strike partner Teddy Hall had a chance denied by Bengal stopper Kevin Rrushi. The visitors were finding their fovus going forward, with full-back Rowan Dorling and midfielder Grant Webb combining well down the right in a move which ended with forward Morgan Arnold slotting narrowly wide of Rrushi’s left-side post.

At this point in proceedings, Sawbo were having more of the ball and constructing more chances with it as well. Hall sent in a powerful strike from thirty yards which sailed wide of the far post. Fortunately for Kieran Amos & Alex Salmon’s side, they did make the most of good period midway through the half. Davison was played in well and he finished well with a low strike into the right corner. As we hurtled towards the interval, Sporting had to defend deep at times, but they were led well by Kamarl Duncan, who denied the opposition several times through good positioning and strong clearances.

Bengal stopper Kevin Rrushi was called into action again on 32 minutes and he denied another effort from Teddy Hall from close range. Sawbo were unable to get themselves clear in this match and conceded more possession in the last ten minutes of the half , which allowed Shipon Miah’s side a couple of promising moves, involving Oshun Lewis and Redon Abazi in the channels. Unfortunately for the hosts, their final ball was missing which meant they didn’t test Sawbo ‘keeper Parker on a regular basis.

Half-Time: Sporting Bengal 0 – 1 Sawbridgeworth Town

The visiting forwards still kept up the initative after the break, as Bengal brought all three of their substitutes on before the hour mark. Gianfranco Mici came on at the start of the second half and you sensed he would give Sawbo a different challenge, gathering the ball from deep and dribbling on past players. Sawbo did have another glimmer of a chance through Davison but the effort was gathered by Rrushi. The visitors certainly needed a second goal and on 56 minutes, it turned up in some style with midfielder Billy Purdy’s powerful strike finding the left corner from 25 yards with Rrushi beaten.

The scale of the task for Bengal got harder as centre-back Duncan had to hobble off on the hour, meaning they had to play the last third of the match with ten men. Even so, the momentum started to come for the home side, as Gianfranco Mici capped off a decent move with a well-struck strike that fizzed off the right-side post with Parker beaten. Sawbridgeworth responded as they hit the woodwork on 71 minutes, with Davison unlucky to see a fine curling drive come back off the goal frame.

The substitutes for Bengal were having an impact with Mici’s driving runs proving hard to stop for the visiting defence, and Oscar Onuorah was also stretching the Sawbo backline down the left channel. This was probably Bengal’s best phase of the match and they soon halved the deficit. With eleven minutes remaining, substitute Shiblu Miah ended a decent counter-attack with a fine strike high into the net to really add to Sawbo’s nerves.

All of a sudden, it was Sawbo’s turn to feel the pressure and it affected them going forward, with some decent approach play scuppered by them unable to find that telling final pass. Bengal did complete a rousing comeback four minutes from time as Onuorah struck home into the left corner after finding a half-yard of space past the tiring visiting defence. It was a frenetic end to the match but neither side could pinch a winner in the several minutes of added time played, so it ended in an entertaining draw.

Full-Time: Sporting Bengal Utd 2 – 2 Sawbridgeworth Town

In summary, this was a tense encounter which was understandable given both sides badly needed the points as they the bottom two sides in the division. There was some neat play from both sides though Sawbridgeworth will be disappointed that they couldn’t see the match out, having been two goals ahead with fifteen minutes remaining. Bengal though will be happy to have got something out of the match, although their defensive vulnerability remains and that may prove costly as the season goes on. All in all, this was a good match to watch.

In terms of stand-out performances here, we’ll start with Sawbo. The front three of Harry Davison, Teddy Hall and Morgan Arnold caused problems for the home defence with good movement, pace and in Davison’s case, good finishing as well. I also thought midfielder Grant Webb had a decent match as well, asisting in building his side’s attacking moves. For Bengal, full-back George Turner had a good game, showing good intent to get forward and start forward moves from the left channel and defended well too. Centre-back Kamarl Duncan had an excellent game, making several fine interceptions and really kept his team in the game, before he had to hobble off on the hour mark. Also, winger Joshua Carr showed good movement and pace and substitute Gianfranco Mici lifted the team after his introduction, showing good dribbling, movement and pace.

Best wishes to both teams for rthe rest of the season.

Teams

Sporting Bengal Utd | Manager: Shipon Miah | Assistant: Rui Costa

Starting XI (Subs): 1 Kevin Rrushi (GK), 2 Nazrul Ahmed, 3 George Turner, 4 Kamarl Duncan, 5 Ehizojie Onoabhagbe, 6 Djibril Cante, 7 Oshun Lewis (16 Oscar Onuorah 54′), 8 Tariq Fowler (Capt), 9 Redon Abazi (15 Shiblu Miah 57′), 10 Arinze Ossai (14 Gianfranco Mici 46′), 11 Joshua Carr

Goal-scorers: Shiblu Miah [79′], Oscar Onuorah [86′]

Booked: Cante | Subs Not Used: Omobdi, Ntueba

Sawbridgeworth Town | Joint-Managers: Kieran Amos & Alex Salmon

Starting XI (Subs): 1 Jimmy Parker (GK), 2 Rowan Dorling, 3 Lewis Wicker, 17 Billy Stewart, 5 Cory Rider (Capt), 4 Billy Purdy, 7 Grant Webb, 8 Jake Skeet, 9 Teddy Hall (14 Daryl Doolan 75′), 10 Harry Davison (19 Jack Walker 84′)), 11 Morgan Arnold

Goal-scorers: Harry Davison [24′], Billy Purdy [56′]

Booked: Dorling | Sub Not Used: Potoczek, Alozie, Falaise

Referee: Joseph Sach
Assistants: John Caunt & Kebba Malcolm-Mayenda

S21-22 Match Report: West Essex 8 – 1 Sporting Bengal Utd (Sat 14 Aug) [ESL 21/22 14.8.21]

Essex Senior League – Premier Division

Venue: Wadham Lodge Stadium

Attendance: 61

2021-22 Season: Match 10

Saturday 14th August 2021 – 3pm KO

West Essex: White Shirts, White Shorts, White Socks

Sporting Bengal: Blue Shirts, Blue Shorts, Blue Socks

Awesome West hit eight in dominant win over Sporting

West Essex 8 – 1 Sporting Bengal Utd

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

This weekend’s match saw me return to Wadham Lodge to see new tenants West Essex face Sporting Bengal. I had a feeling that we would have goals in this match but the match itself was played at a very high tempo. Onto the line-ups then and West named Dan Russell in goal with regular stopper Jack Coker still suspended. The back four was comprised of full-backs Michael Morris and Joel Lamb alongside centre-backs Emmanuel Oluwole and skipper Reece Clarke. The presence going forward has altered in the close season but Symeon Taylor, Cameron Gray and Samraj Gill were the forward three here, supported by the classy Callum Bloss. On the bench were club stalwart Sanchez Hardy alongside recent recruits in Frangeskides, Bell and Ogunsanya. Bengal were also missing several of their key players, with George Parkin between the goalposts, a defence of Lennox Forster, Raul Gazi & centre-backs Jerry Sheehan and Salam Amoako. Skipper Tanvir Ahmed faced his old club in a driving central midfield role, with Samir Ali, Bradley McDonald and Terry Amoafo leading the line. From the sidelines, nanager Imrul Gazi’s options included Abu Bakar, Isaiah Anjorin, Abid Haque & Ousman Ndure.

The hosts started the match in a lively way, with both Callum Bloss and full-back Joel Lamb looking to make telling runs to get in good positions to strike and cross the ball respectively. Bengal had an early warning four minutes in as a good ball in found forward Cameron Gray, but his header lacked the power to bypass visiting custodian George Parkin, who gathered. Kwame Kwateng’s re-modelled side did not have to wait long though to break the deadlock. On 13 minutes, a neat passing move involving Bloss and Gray ended up with the centre finding fellow forward Samraj Gill who struck home with a smart, composed finish past Parkin. From that point on, the Stags sensed that they could get themselves into a commanding position. Only four minutes later, it was a two-goal lead for the hosts as a fine low finish by Callum Bloss into the left-side corner. Before Bengal could really recover, it was a three-goal deficit they had to face as Bloss again found enough space to fire accurately into the net on nineteen minutes.

The visitors needed a spell of ball retention themselves to build attacks and a rare foray forward saw a good cross from the right by winger Munir Hadi find forward Samir Ali but good positioning by right-back Michael Morris saw him block the attempted chance well at the near post. Before the half-hour, West stormed forward again with purpose though a fierce strike by left-back Joel Lamb was well parried away by Parkin. And wiith half-time approaching, West spurned a chance to be further ahead again with midfielder Oliseh Okuganu starting a move, finding Lamb before the latter crossed in to Bloss who could only fire over the goal-frame.

It really wasnt going Bengal’s way at all on this day as they had to bring on two substitutes before the break with Abu Bakar replacing winger Munir Hadi before the half-hour and Abid Haque coming on for Bradley McDonald before the break. Add to that the half-time change of forward Samir Ali having to go off, replaced by Isaiah Anjorin and you could understand boss Imrul Gazi’s frustration.

Half-Time: West Essex 3 – 0 Sporting Bengal Utd

After the break, you could’ve understood if the hosts wanted to protect their lead. As it happened, that particular instruction was not amongst Kwateng’s half-time team talk. Any doubt over the hosts’ intent was answered barely a minute into the second period as a well-directed free-kick by centre-back Reece Clarke found Bloss who was able to shrug off his marker and fire home to complete his treble and surely put the result beyond doubt. Bengal showed willingness to run and battle for each other but they were made to look very ordinary by free-flowing, rapid West forward breaks. Just short of the hour, West got their fifth goal as a fine ball in by Morris found forward Symeon Taylor who struck a fine low finish past the helpless Parkin. It was at this point that you were concerned for the visitors as to how many they would concede.

Parkin in the Bengal goal was called into action again on the hour to deny a decent strike by Samraj Gill but the visiting backline had further pain to endure yet. Moments later, it was six for the home side as substitute Demetris Frangeskides (who had just come on for Jewers) started yet another quick forward move, with the ball falling to Gill who powred another strike past Parkin, to grab his second of the match.

By this stage, West Essex were absolutely in their rhythm and made it seven on sixty-eight minutes as another fizzing goal-bound strike by Lamb was spilled by the unfortunate Parkin, which allowed Gray to finally get on the score-sheet having missed a good chance or two earlier. To their credit though, Bengal did start to have more possession in the latter fifteen minutes, with another driving run by skipper Tanvir Ahmed finding forward Terry Amoafo but his strike lacked the power required to defeat West custodian Dan Russell, who calmly took hold of the ball.

West were still not done with their goal-scoring exploits though as they nabbed an eighth goal with twelve minutes left. Substitute David Bell did well to nick the ball off a Bengal defender before finding Gray who finished very well to grab his second goal on what was a memorable afternoon for his side.

Moments after Parkin did well to deny substitute Jon Ogunsanya’s effort on goal, Bengal did get on the score-sheet. The ball was played in to the advancing Terry Amoafo and his superb 20-yard power strike beat Russell’s desparing dive and went high into the net off the woodwork.

All in all, this was a really strong match of attacking football. You do have to wonder what the ability level is of this developing West side and if they can keep this form up, they may well again surprise a few in the top-half of the Essex Senior this season. My thanks to both teams & to the hosts for their kind hospitality.

Full-Time: West Essex 8 – 1 Sporting Bengal Utd

In summary, this was one of the best performances West have put on for some time and not many teams in the Essex Senior League would’ve been able to cope with it. Sometimes you see teams with a hefty advantage drop a couple of gears in the latter stages but Kwame Kwateng’s side were relentless until perhaps the last ten minutes. Bengal were simply unable to match the energy levels, passing ability and finishing and they did deserve something for keeping on going in the latter stages and Amoafo’s goal late on was high-quality.

In a performance of such sustained quality, it’s hard to pick out players but support forward Callum Bloss had a terrific match for the hosts, grabbing a treble and assisting his side’s many attacking moves here. Full-back Michael Morris also had a good game, making the most of the chance to get forward to support his team’s attacks, as did forward Samraj Gill who scored two goals and was a pivotal figure in his team’s forward line. Fellow forward Symeon Taylor also made a number of good runs down the left channel and deserved his well-taken goal.

Bengal had goalkeeper George Parkin to thank for four good saves today and understandably was frustrated with his defenders. Skipper Tanvir Ahmed made a number of surging runs through the middle from midfield to raise his side, while full-back Lennox Forster made number of good interceptions.

Finally, I’d like to wish both teams a good campaign. I doubt there will be many better matches than this one for rest of the season across the Leagues I see.

Teams:

West Essex | Manager: Kwame Kwateng | Assistant: Josh Rogers

Starting XI: 13 Dan Russell (GK), 15 Michael Morris, 3 Joel Lamb, 12 Reece Clarke (Capt), 5 Emmanuel Oluwole, 6 Oliseh Okuganu, 8 James Jewers (7 Demetris Frangeskides 63′), 9 Symeon Taylor (20 David Bell 70′), 10 Callum Bloss (19 Jon Ogunsanya 72′), 11 Cameron Gray, 22 Samraj Gill

Goal-scorers: Samraj Gill [13′, & 63′], Callum Bloss [17′, 19′ & 46′], Symeon Taylor [58′], Cameron Gray [68′ & 78′]

Booked: Jewers, Morris | Sub Not Used: Hardy

Sporting Bengal | Manager: Imrul Gazi | Assistant: Sarosh Ali

Starting XI: 1 George Parkin (GK), 2 Lennox Forster, 3 Raul Gazi, 4 Jerry Sheehan, 5 Salam Amoako, 6 Aaron Lesta, 7 Munir Hadi (12 Abu Bakar 28′), 8 Tanvir Ahmed (Capt), 9 Samir Ali (14 Isaiah Anjorin 46′), 10 Bradley McDonald (16 Abid Haque 38′), 11 Terry Amoafo

Goal-scorers: Terry Amoafo [82′]

Booked: Amoako | Sub Not Used: Ndure

Referee: Dwayne Uylett
Assistants: Simeon Joseph & Matthew Flowers

S20-21 Match Report: Cockfosters 4 – 0 Sporting Bengal Utd (Sat 12 Dec) [ESL 20-21 13.12.20]

Essex Senior League

Venue: Chalk Lane

Attendance: 100

2020 -21 Season – Match 20

Saturday 12th December 2020 – 3pm KO

Cockfosters: Red Shirts, Red Shorts, Red & White Socks

Sporting Bengal: Blue Shirts, Blue Shorts, Blue Socks

Second-half goal blitz sees ‘Fosters to victory over Sporting Bengal

Cockfosters 4 – 0 Sporting Bengal Utd

Match Report & Photos by Scott W (Twitter: @ScottMHC14)

With the continuing uncertainty this Football season, I decided to make the long trek to North London and Chalk Lane for this Essex Senior encounter between Cockfosters & Sporting Bengal Utd. Ryan Wade fielded Brad Robinson between the sticks with an attack-focused full-back pair of Luke Marshall and recent signing Vinny Durrant, with a front two of Carl Mullings and James Verney supported by George Beattie. A threadbare bench featured fellow recent signing Kyle Roberts and Matt Turpin, who scored in the London Senior Cup in midweek. Sporting Bengal have had a tricky start to the campaign and named skipper Rokib Choudhury at right-back, Tanvir Ahmed at left-back and D’Norfe Diaz Vaz and Chaka Barnett on the flanks, supporting Soulyman El Amri and lynchpin Joel Ramos in attack. Among their replacements were technical winger Carlos Hubner and defenders Raul Gazi and Manraj Gill.

The match got underway with a flourish from the hosts, with some early crosses giving the Bengal defence one or two nervy moments. Those nerves continued on five minutes as home full-back Vinny Durrant broke through the visiting defence and stroke home crisply from close range, with Sporting stopper Aires Ferreira unable to keep it out despite getting a hand to it. Bengal responded with forward Joel Ramos blasting over the goal frame from thirty yards out, but on the quarter-hour winger George Beattie played the ball in to Durrant but he twice couldn’t find the target, on his weaker foot. Sporting Bengal did find their way into the contest in the second part of the half as winger Chaka Barnett spurned a half-chance by shooting wide of home custodian Brad Robinson’s right-side post when in a promising position.

On twenty-six minutes, Ramos was in the action again as a free-kick from about thirty yards was well-struck and needed Robinson to superbly tip the ball onto the post as it was sliding in. Bengal’s speedy and good passing moves were gaining momentum at this point, with midfielder Gianfranco Mici also blasting wide from twelve yards when he could’ve done better. At the other end, eight minutes from time during another probing attack from the hosts, another fine centre from the right flank from Marshall found tall forward Carl Mullings though he was well thwarted by visiting skipper Rokib Choudhury’s challenge with the striker poised to strike.

Half-Time: Cockfosters 1 – 0 Sporting Bengal Utd

It was still well-poised at the interval though Ryan Wade’s side did need to ‘up the ante’ after the break. They certainly started the second half as they did the first. Moments into the half, ‘Fosters winger Rueben Campbell spotted a chance to chip from the right flank and it needed Ferriera to be alert and parry it over with Campbell’s effort arrowing towards the top right corner. Centre-back Marcus Crowther also headed powerfully off-target moments later which only endorsed the home side’s keenness to seal the points. With the hosts still strongly in command, forward James Verney played in strike partner Mullings though only a strong interception from Bengal centre-back Shayan Ghamarinezhad denied him. Perhaps it was the hosts’ day as just after the hour mark, a rare blemish from Robinson allowed Bengal substitute Carlos Hubner to rob him of possession by Hubner could not make him pay as he lobbed his strike over the crossbar.

The chances that Bengal had were to further highlighted as midway through the half, ‘Cockfosters doubled their goal tally. Mullings sprinted down the right channel and fed Beattie though Ferriera was able to block his close-range strike, only for Verney to be in ‘the right place at the right time’ to poke home from close range. ‘Fosters added a third goal only four minutes later as another fine cross by Marshall evaded everyone but found Mullings ghosting in at the far post to fire home well, past Ferriera to more or less seal the win there and then.

Wade’s side then added further pain on the visitors on seventy-one minutes as Beattie ghosted past the Bengal backline to slot home. It was harsh on Bengal but it underlines the fact that you can’t ‘switch off’ against this sort of quality for any period of time. To their credit, Bengal did not allow their heads to drop, with Ramos denied by substitute Charlie Morgan’s tackle with four minutes remaining. Verney then missed a decent opportunity soon after, clipping the ball wide at the near post. Then, with full-time approaching, Bengal replacement Abraham Richard-Tagoe breezed past the tackles of the home defenders but couldn’t get his strike away with any venom to test Robinson.

Full-Time: Cockfosters 4 – 0 Sporting Bengal Utd

In summary, Cockfosters deserved the win in the end on a tricky surface, although in parts of the game Bengal did show their speed and technical ability, particularly in attack. Unfortunately though for the visitors, defensive lapses cost them dearly here and conceding three goals in six second-half minutes absolutely snuffed out any chance of getting something from the game. Manager Imrul Gazi will know that you cannot gift chances to the calibre of players that the ‘Fosters have they can take positives from this encounter.

For my stand-out performers, the hosts were livened up by a strong front three of James Verney, Carl Mullings and chief support George Beattie who were a threat all match but really forced the pace after the interval. Right-back Luke Marshall also put in some superb crosses which added to the visiting defence’s problems and also showed good energy levels too. Lastly, custodian Brad Robinson made a terrific save before the half-hour when Sporting had a good phase of the match.

For the visitors, forward Joel Ramos was their chief outlet going forward and he also did well looking to stretch the home backline by going into the right-side channel and was unfortunate to not get on the score-sheet. Full-backs Tanvir Ahmed and Rokib Choudbury also showed good willingness to support their attacks and also made good individual interceptions under pressure. Midfielder Gianfranco Mici also showed some neat passing and finally, centre-back Shayan Ghamarinezhad also made some well-time tackles to stifle the strong home forward line at times.

Finally, I’d like to thank Cockfosters for their welcome, particularly Deputy Chairman Mike Bell. It was great to return to Chalk Lane, which is a ground with its own character and is good to visit. Was good also to catch up here with both management teams as well. I wish both sides well for the rest of the season.

Teams

Cockfosters | Player-Manager: Ryan Wade | Assistant: Nick Mountford

1. Brad Robinson (GK), 2. Luke Marshall, 3. Vinny Durrant (14 Charlie Morgan 58’), 4. Matty Thomson (Capt), 5. Danny Haigh, 6 Marcus Crowther, 7 Rueben Campbell, 18. Kaidyn Michael, 9. Carl Mullings (12 Kyle Roberts 73’), 10. James Verney, 11. George Beattie

Goal-scorers: Vinny Durrant [5’], James Verney [65’], Carl Mullings [69’], George Beattie [71’]

Booked: Mullings | Sub Not Used: Turpin

Sporting Bengal | Manager: Imrul Gazi

1. Aires Ferriera (GK), 2. Rokib Choudhury (Capt), 3. Tanvir Ahmed, 4. Anthony Murray-Bruce, 5. Lee Sharpe (17 Manraj Gill 66’), 6. Shayan Ghamarinezhad, 8. Gianfranco Mici, 14. Chaka Barnett (7 Carlos Hubner 60’), 9. Joel Ramos, Soulyman El Amri (12 Abraham Richard-Tagoe 73’), 11. D’Norfe Diaz Vaz

Booked: Ghamarinezad | Subs Not Used: R Gazi, Konjuvca

Referee: Alistair Potter

Assistant Referees: Andy Tregoning & Katie Dorling

S20-21 Round-ups: Essex Senior League (Sat 24 Oct) [ESL 20-21 24.10.20]

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

Hello and welcome back to another of my occasional round-up articles looking at the Essex Senior League for the Season 2020-21. This article tracks all the action from Saturday 24 October. Thanks for reading.

My thanks to Matt North [@MattNorth_] for the photo

Essex Senior – Saturday 24 October

Clapton 1 – 5 Enfield | Terry Mac |

The E’s moved out of the bottom three with a big win over nine-man Clapton at the Terry Mac. Olly Miles struck twice for Jamie Cureton’s side here, with Lewis Francis, Joseph Boachie and a spot-kick from Joe Thomas crowned off an important away win for Enfield and consign the Tons to their sixth loss in ten matches thus far, they remain second-bottom.

Hashtag Utd 1 – 1 Southend Manor | Len Salmon Stadium [3G] | Att: 252

In front of another large crowd at the Len Salmon, Hashtag came from behind to secure a point against fellow in-form side Manor. Luca Frankis had put Craig Waters & Garry Pond’s side ahead though Jay Devereux’s side piled on the pressure after the break and got some reward for it as Albert Keith’s levelled things on 52 minutes. Despite dropping points at home for the first time this term, the Tags remain five points clear at the summit, whereas Manor’s unbeaten run sits at three matches now and they reside in sixth place, four points adrift of the top three.

Ilford 3 – 0 Woodford Town | Cricklefield | Att: 60

Ilford ended their five-match winless run with a comfortable win over Woodford at Cricklefield. Two goals in seven minutes saw Adam Peek’s side on their way with Dimitri Christou’s strike [16’] and Yemi Adelani netting his sixth league goal this season seven minutes later. A wonder strike from defender Steve Sylvester in the last few moments ended a good day’s work for the Foxes and sees them up to 14th while the Town remain winless in nine matches this season.

Saffron Walden Town 0 – 1 Walthamstow | Catons Lane | Att: 296

Walthamstow emerged from another battle with rivals Saffron Walden with the three points, thanks to Dwade James’ spot-kick late on. Player-manager Max Mitchell’s side got their fifth win in their last six matches which sees them in fourth spot currently. Walden’s luckless run goes on as they fell to eighth place.

Sawbridgeworth Town 0 – 2 Hoddesdon Town | Crofters | Att: 54

Hoddesdon got their third win in their last five games with a hard-fought win at Sawbridgeworth. Harry Andic broke the stalemate right on the half-hour to put the Lilywhites ahead, before substitute Harrison Rookard sealed the points with three minutes remaining. Simon Riddle’s side rise up to fifth place while Sawbo drop to 13th, five points clear of the bottom three.

Stansted 1 – 1 Cockfosters | Hargrave Park | Att: 110

Stansted came out of a tough encounter with fellow top-three side Cockfosters with a point at Hargrave Park. After a goalless first period, Connor Hammond’s free-kick gave the hosts the lead on 65 minutes. But that lead scarcely lasted three minutes before Ned Clarke levelled following good work by former Stansted player Carl Mullings. With neither side able to force a winner, both sides go on to twenty points, with the ‘Fosters in second on goal difference.

Sporting Bengal Utd 1 – 0 West Essex | Mile End | BCD

Bengal got a third win in their last five matches by edging this contest with the Stags at Mile End. Rachid Qist’s spot-kick was the only goal but the visitors had a goal chalked off which mystified them somewhat. Imrul Gazi’s side go up to twelfth place, level on points with West who drop to tenth but both sides are among five sides who are on 13 points.

Takeley 5 – 0 St Margaretsbury | Station Road | Att: 94

Takeley continued their decent home form as they outclassed St Margaretsbury at Station Road. Elliott Long doubled his goal tally for the season with four goals in this contest to effectively seal the contest, before Ryan Lynch added a late fifth to make it twenty-four goals scored in seven home matches this season – an average of 3.42 per game! The hosts are up to ninth but St Mags’ winless run extends to three matches and are winless away from the Rec – they drop to third-bottom.

S20-21 Round-ups: Essex Senior League (Mon 12 – Wed 14 Oct) [ESL 20-21 15.10.20]

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

Hello and welcome back to another of my occasional round-up articles looking at the Essex Senior League for the Season 2020-21. This article tracks all the action from the midweek action from Monday 12 October to Wednesday 14 October. Thanks for reading.

My thanks to Matt North [@MattNorth_] for the photo

Essex Senior

Monday 12 October

Hashtag Utd 2 – 0 Woodford Town | Len Salmon Stadium [3G] | Att: 138

The midweek action started on Monday night as Hashtag got another valuable three points to go level on points with leaders Cockfosters, prior to their match on Wednesday night. An early strike by Samraj Gill gave Jay Devereux’s side the lead, before George Smith got his fifth league goal already this term to confirm a decent win over winless Woodford, who remain four points adrift at the bottom.

Tuesday 13 October

Hoddesdon Town 4 – 2 Walthamstow | Lowfield |

Hoddesdon fought back from behind to claim a fine win over Walthamstow. It was the visitors who took the lead through a fine header from Jason Beck though the Lilywhites did get back on terms through Frazer John’s close-range finish. Simon Riddle’s side led at the interval thanks to Kardan Campbell’s effort from a set-piece. After the break, Hoddy extended their lead thanks to Ben Quarrington-Carter and Cyrus Babaie to make the points pretty much safe, despite a late goal from Connor Scully for ‘Stow who fell to their third loss in seven games, as they drop to sixth. Hoddesdon go above their opponents into fourth, five points away from the leaders.

Saffron Walden Town 1 – 1 Enfield | Catons Lane |

This gritty encounter ended in a draw at Catons Lane. Walden conceded a spot-kick midway into the half but Enfield’s Olly Miles’ spot-kick was well-denied by commanding goalkeeper James Bransgrove. Eight minutes before the break, centre-back Luke Wilson’s effort was ruled out for a foul on an Enfield player in the build-up. The deadlock was broken eight minutes after the resumption, with Miles successful in striking past Bransgrove to give the E’s the lead. That lead only lasted five minutes though before Gavin Cockman equalised. With no further goals forthcoming, Walden inch up to eighth spot, and Enfield rise to 15th before Wednesday’s action.

Sawbridgeworth Town 1 – 4 Redbridge | Crofters |

Redbridge continued their upward curve with a fine win at Sawbridgeworth. Darnell Bromfield netted four minutes before the break for his new side to give the Motormen the lead. Ayub Kadiri [67’] and James Barlow [73’] goals put George Christou’s side in command. Sawbo responded five minutes later but Redbridge secured the points late on through replacement Terry Amoafo as the visitors went into the top half. Sawbo fall below their opponents here into 11th.

Stansted 1 – 3 Sporting Bengal Utd | Hargrave Park |

Sporting Bengal recovered from their FA Vase exit on Sunday in some style with a fine comeback win at Stansted. Ryan Ramsay opened the scoring on 24 minutes after a spot-kick was saved by Bengal ‘keeper Luciano Junior. Imrul Gazi’s team responded strongly after the break as a goal from Mahdi Khan and a late brace from substitute Joel Ramos (who has now scored six goals in the league this term) secured a swift turnaround to give Bengal their second league win this term and move up to 13th. The Airportmen fell to only their second loss this term and drop to fifth.

St Margaretsbury P – P Southend Manor | The Rec | Match OFF due to Waterlogged pitch

Takeley 5 – 1 Clapton | Station Road | Att: 49

Takeley added to the Tons’ pain defensively with a big win at Station Road. A goal-blitz in the first-half through braces from Lewis Deamer [16’ & 29’] and two goals in four minutes for Coby Miles on 37 and 40 minutes all but sealed the game before the half-time team-talks. Matthew Bentley struck again for Clapton three minutes after the break but the hosts held firm after that and replacement Ryan Lynch netted in the final moments to secure the win for Marc Das’ team, who go up to 12th. The Tons remain second-bottom.

West Essex 0 – 2 Hadley | Mayesbrook Park [3G] |

Hadley weathered tricky conditions and a tough trip to Barking with a decent win. Shaz Anwar and substitute Jordan Edwards got the goals to see the Bricks to another three points to keep pace with the leaders as they go up to third spot. The Stags drop to tenth but will be in action again at home on Friday night against Enfield.

Wednesday 14 October

Ilford 1 – 1 Cockfosters | Cricklefield |

In the solitary match on Wednesday, Adam Peek’s Ilford side held Cockfosters to a creditable 1 – 1 draw. Right on the quarter-hour mark, it was the Foxes who took the lead through the skilful forward Mo Kargbo, though Ryan Wade maintained his fine goal-scoring run to level for the ‘Fosters on the half-hour. Despite a good performance, the hosts couldn’t break through and had to settle for a point. The result keeps Cockfosters at the summit ahead of their top-of-the-table clash with Hashtag this weekend, while Ilford go above Enfield into 15th spot.

Season 2020-21: The FA Cup Extra Prelim Rd (ESL/EaSL Sides) [FAC 2020-21 3.9.20]

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

Hello all and welcome to the new season of blogs here, you’ll find blogs on the Essex Senior, Essex Olympian League divisions & maybe a little more besides during the course of the season too.

This initial blog is looking at the local sides that were in action this week, which saw eleven Essex Senior sides progress and one Eastern Senior South side. Thanks for reading.

Monday 31 August

Woodford Town 3 – 1 London Colney | The Harlow Arena | Attendance: 247

Woodford Town opened the round’s action with a fine comeback victory over London Colney at the Harlow Arena. Scott Knight had given Colney an early advantage though Luke Parrott levelled matters on the half-hour for Town. Rigert Rama then turned the tide in favour of the hosts as the match approached the hour mark, tapping home following a goalkeeping error before sealing the contest thanks to a fine strike by Parrott to seal his brace and cue wild celebrations from the excited Towners faithful. Woodford are rewarded with a trip to Capershotts to face Waltham Abbey in the Prelim Round.

Tuesday 1st September

Cockfosters 4 – 2 Stanway Rovers | Chalk Lane | Att: 221

The ‘Fosters made a miraculous comeback with ten men to overcome Eastern Counties Premier side Stanway at Chalk Lane. Stanway started well and took the lead after four minutes through debutant Dan Gilchrist’s strike. The ESL side responded through George Beattie’s 20th-minute goal but had a double set-back around the half-hour mark as combative midfielder Matt Thomson was dismissed and soon after, Rovers made the most of the man advantage as Harry Thomas bundled the ball over the line after a set-piece. The drama only escalated after the break though as three goals in 15 minutes swung the tie in favour of the hosts. First, new signing Carl Mullings levelled midway through the half after a defensive howler, then player-boss Ryan Wade powered home a spot-kick mere minutes later. Substitute Rueben Campbell provided the telling fourth goal with eleven minutes left to eventually seal a terrific victory.

Walthamstow 3 – 2 London Lions | Wadham Lodge | Att: 292 |

Cockfosters will face Walthamstow in the next round as ‘Stow fought back to deny London Lions progression into the Prelim Round. Max Kyte broke the deadlock for the Lions in the early stages on the contest and although ‘Stow got more threatening in front of goal, it took until after the break for them to level through substitute Michael Osei’s curling drive. Kyle nabbed his second for the visitors soon afterward, but goals from Connor Scully and Charncey Dash [for Peter: Dash! Dash!] sealed the win in front of Walthamstow’s biggest crowd since 1996.

Hullbridge Sports 0 – 2 Hadley | Lower Road | Att: 310

Another bumper crowd at Lower Road saw Hadley shock higher league opposition again with a fine win at Isthmian North side Hullbridge. Second-half strikes by that man Solomon Ofori and a Sam Edwards free-kick handed the impetus to the Bricks. ‘Bridge also had a penalty saved by Hadley ‘keeper Luke Ward which added to a frustrating evening for them on-the-pitch. Hadley will face FC Clacton away on Saturday week.

Stansted 3 – 2 Takeley | Hargrave Park | Att: 143

Stansted also had to fight back to secure their passage with a hard-fought win over local rivals Takeley at Hargrave Park. Luckless home skipper Billy Coyne headed into his own net five minutes in, but Jack Mitchell converted a spot-kick on 26 minutes to level things up. Paul Pittuck & John Watters’ side then took the ascendency on the score-sheet after the break as Mitchell struck again ten minutes after the break. Ash Siddik notched the Airportmen’s third in the last few minutes to effectively seal the tie. Substitute Samson Adelaja netted for Marc Das’ side deep into added-time but their focus turns now to the league opener at West Essex on Friday night. Meanwhile, the ‘Blue Brazil’ welcome Basildon Utd to Hargrave in the next round of the Cup.

Saffron Walden Town 4 – 2 Little Oakley | Catons Lane | Att: 286

Saffron Walden also progressed to the next round with victory over Eastern Senior League South side Little Oakley in another pulsating tie at Catons Lane. Oakley took the lead through Harry Mann before new signing Alfie Hilton levelled the match for the hosts. Oakley were not to be denied a second through as Jordan Heath made it 2 – 1 to Matt Carmichael’s team. More drama though was in the offing as Lewis Francis made his presence felt on his return to the Bloods in a big way. The forward came off the bench and struck a hat-trick to turn the match in favour of Jason Maher’s side and see them into the next round, in front of another hefty crowd. They face the trip to Welwyn Garden City.

Sawbridgeworth Town 2 – 1 Romford | Crofters | Att: 260

Sawbridgeworth pulled off one of the surprises of the round by knocking out Isthmian North side Romford at Crofters. Goals from Conor Clarke and Kieran Amos did the job on a terrific night for Lee Mackman’s side. Malaki Toussaint got one back for Romford midway through the 2nd half but Sawbo went through welcome fellow ESL side St Margaretsbury In the Prelim Round.

Clapton 2 – 2 Sporting Bengal Utd (Bengal won 6 – 5 on pens)

| Terrence MacMillan Stadium

Sporting Bengal edged to the next round on spot-kicks after a two-two draw with Clapton at the Terry Mac. David Tarawali netted to give Imrul Gazi’s side the lead, before Conor Okus equalised for his new club. Bengal re-took the lead soon afterward with Carlos Siegal Hubner slotting home smartly. The Tons forced a penalty shoot-out late on though as Shaun Gittleson once again levelled the match with minutes remaining. It was Bengal who held their nerve in the shoot-out, winning 6 – 5 on spot-kicks here and will travel to Harlow Town in the next round.

Wednesday 2nd Sept

Park View 1 – 2 Hashtag Utd | New River Sports Ground

On Wednesday, Hashtag made their debut in the competition at Park View & came from behind to progress. Kleon James had given the hosts a surprise lead, before George Smith equalised with a well-struck penalty. After the interval, recent addition Toby Aromolaran netted from close range to win the match and they will face Felixstowe & Walton Utd from the Isthmian North in the next round.

West Essex 6 – 3 Crawley Green | Oakside | Att: 147

Finally in our focused ten matches, West Essex progressed in a richly entertaining tie as they powered past Spartan South Midlands Premier side Crawley Green at Oakside. Michael Mignot blasted a hat-trick inside the first 30 minutes before Phil Draycott pulled one back for the visitors six minutes before the break. West extended their lead and sealed the tie through Mignot’s fourth soon after the break. Symeon Taylor and Tom Woodbridge then added further strikes as the Stags saw out a big night for them. To their credit, Danny Watson and Tyler Ingham added late goals for Crawley Green but there was no mistaking the performance by Kwame Kwateng’s side, who are rewarded with a trip to New Salamis in the Prelim Round.

Other Results (ESL & EaSL South Sides) – Tues 1 Sept

Brantham Athletic 1 – 1 Benfleet (Brantham won 3 – 2 on Pens)

Tom Watkins Ben Foord

Harlow Town 5 – 1 Enfield | Harlow Arena | Att: 260

Christian Adu Gyamfi, Hugo Vasconcelos 75’

Craig Alcock,

Ahmet Biler,

Hector Mackie

Sam Taylor (OG)

Hoddesdon Town 1 – 2 FC Clacton |at Ware FC | Att: 129

Cyrus Babaie Mekhi McKenzie

Charlie Thompson

Redbridge 0 – 2 Harpenden Town | Oakside | Att: 134

Mulik Rickman 16’

Harvey Scott 55’

Southend Manor 0 – 5 Ware | Southchurch Park | Att: 200 |

Leigh Rose 15’

David Kendall 46’ & 60’
Louis Rose 74’

Albert Adu-Donyinah 76’

Wednesday 2nd Sept

Baldock Town 2 – 2 St Margaretsbury (St Mags win 4 – 2 on pens)

Scott Piggott Kyle Roberts (pen)

Josh Furness Jae Partridge

Ilford 1 – 3 Halstead Town | Cricklefield | Att: 280

Juan Cardona Joe Jones

Chris Harris x 2

Season Review 2019-20: Essex Senior League (Part 2 – Bottom half) [ESL SR 19/20 10.5.20]

Written By Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMHC14]

Hello and welcome to the second of a two-part blog looking back at the Essex Senior League 2019-20 season, as part of my Non-League ‘Season Review’ series.

In this concluding part, I look back at the sides in the bottom half of the division from the dry statistics perspective and my own thoughts on seeing them in action during the campaign, followed by the stats on Top Goal-scorers this season.

For The Top Ten sides in the ESL, add this URL: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2020/05/05/season-review-2019-20-essex-senior-lge-p1/ Thanks for reading.

Essex Senior League (as of season cut-off point of March 14th 2020)

As with most Football at or below Step 3 (Isthmian Premier Division in the local area), the season was halted in mid-March 2020 before eventually being curtailed several weeks later.

West Essex crest

Image from Sawbo v W Essex (ESL 12.10.19)

Beginning the bottom half in 11th are West Essex. The Stags had a season of transition with thirty-one points being gathered in their 24 matches. Their campaign was also blighted by weather-affected postponements though they still struck fifty-one goals (a goals per game average (GpG) of 2.125) and also shelled fifty-one in defence. They won five of their 12 matches away from their Mayesbrook Park home and their strong team ethos spread to their goal-scorers with Michael Mignot (10 league goals), Brad Russell (8) and Hakim Medfai (6) leading the way on that front. It is also notable that they have continued to encourage young talent into the first team this term. I saw them in action defeat Woodford in September, win well at Sawbridgeworth Town and narrowly lose at Cockfosters, the latter two matches both in October. Their attacking pace has continued from last term though I think for most of the season they have been that bit stronger defensively, despite suffering a few heavy losses this term. It may be that their counter-attacking style favours playing away from home, but I believe it is also about longer-term brick-building you feel for the club as they seek to strengthen the youth side of the club to build pathways through to Senior football.

Still from Stansted v Clapton (ESL 23.11.19)

Still from Stansted v Clapton ESL 23.11.19

Clapton logo

In 12th place were Clapton. The Tons had a very strong ‘end’ to the campaign to record thirty-one points also from their 27 matches. Five of their nine wins this term came in their last eight matches and Julian Charles’ side were nomads, playing at Parkside before finishing the campaign at Southchurch Park. They scored forty goals and conceded 59 in total, though their ten losses from seventeen away matches also impeded them. I saw them twice back in November where they lost at Stansted after a decent start and then gave Saffron Walden Town a test before falling to a loss at home to the Bloods. They struck me as a decent side on-the-pitch though their concentration did let down at times. Deimar Queni led the goal-scoring charts with six league goals so well done Deimar.

Ilford club crest

Still from Ilford v W’stow (ESL 29.1.20)

In 13th place are Ilford, with Jonny Fowell’s side gaining thirty points from their twenty-eight games. Stats will show that they scored only 31 league goals (a GpG of 1.11) which is the third-lowest in the division this term, though they did concede fifty times at the other end, which on balance is second-best of all the bottom-half sides. Cricklefield was their ‘fortress’ with all league eight wins this season coming from their 15 home games, with only five points coming away from home. Being positive, I have little doubt that Fowell and his strong coaching team will be aiming for a better season next time out. I saw them narrowly best Tower Hamlets at home back in August before giving it their all in a draw with Walthamstow in late January. I found them to be a determined outfit with some talented players who will improve with coaching & experience.

St Margaretsbury club logo

Still from S Manor v St Margaretsbury (ESL 4.1.20)

Still from S Manor v St Mags (ESL 4.1.20)

St Margaretsbury ended up in 14th spot with twenty-six points from their 28 games, after a tough end to the season which saw them gain one win in their last ten matches. Tony Wild & Ray Bartlett’s team had issues finding the net, as they scored 36 goals (a GpG of 1.28) whilst shelling forty-eight goals at the other end. Forward Kyle Roberts snared eleven league goals to lessen the threat of being caught in the bottom four. In one of those quirks, I saw them twice against Southend Manor this term. Firstly, in early September where they just edged to a win at home in a real helter-skelter high-scoring battle before Manor returned the favour at Southchurch Park in early January. When I saw them they played quite an open, attacking style and benefitted by having the likes of Ryan Reed on set-pieces too. But in defence, they could be got at, much the same as their rivals in that bottom half. It was announced post-season that Tony Wild has moved across to lead the Youth section next term, with Bartlett taking sole charge of the first team, I’d like to wish both well in their respective roles next season.

Sporting Bengal crest

Still from S Bengal v Redbridge (ESL 28.9.19)

Still from S Bengal v Redbridge ESL 28.9.19)

A point behind St Mags were Sporting Bengal Utd in 15th, having gathered twenty-five points from their 26 matches, after being deducted three points early on in the campaign. Imrul Gazi’s side have played a attractive style of football for several seasons now, though this term they were that bit more vulnerable defensively, having conceded 62 goals (a GpG of 2.38) this term. Curtley McIntosh led the way in attack with a very respectable twelve league goals, with support from Bobby Redwood who got seven. As mentioned in the previous part of this article, Bengal contributed hugely to a fine match in their draw with Redbridge at Mile End in late September and reminds us that they have a very capable side, even if the consistency isn’t quite there.

Enfield 1893

Into the bottom four now, starting with Enfield in 16th spot. Matt Hanning’s side had twenty-four points on the board from their 26 matches, thanks in part to a decent run of two wins and three draws in their last eight matches. Defensively they conceded sixty-six goals – the second-worst in the division but to their credit, in the last few matches they did tighten up at the back and had the season continued, they may have ended the season in a better position. One plus for them as well was their new home of Woodside (Bishop’s Stortford) and they got some fine results there, winning five of their 14 matches there this season. In 17th spot was Southend Manor who endured a tough season it has to be said. They gained twenty-three points from their 26 matches, with four of their six league wins coming at Southchurch Park. The principal issue for them was scoring goals, as they scored twenty-eight times during the entire season – the lowest in the division (a GpG of 1.07). When I saw them live though, they did have their moments (particularly in the midway point of the season as they held Sawbridgeworth in November and edged to victory of St Margaretsbury in early January) but earlier in the campaign, lapses of concentration & confidence showed in home losses to Redbridge and Cockfosters.

Image from S Manor v Cockfosters ESL 9.11.19

Still from S Manor v St Mags (ESL 4.1.20)

Hamlets logo

Still from T Hamlets v Cockfosters ESL 2.12.19

Moving into the bottom two, and in 18th place were Tower Hamlets. They were a point adrift of Manor on 22 points from their 27 games played. I wouldn’t be too surprised if Hamlets had one of the youngest squads to play in the division, certainly this season if not going further back into the league’s history. One for the historians that is. On their day, their pace and exuberance was tough to stifle, but on the other end of that scale is that their inexperience cost them, defensively in particular. They shipped sixty-five goals (a GpG of 2.41) and they didn’t win any of their last ten league matches which did put them in the position that they finished, but ran the top-of-the-table sides close which did earn John Jatto’s side respect. Finally, bottom of the standings were Sawbridgeworth Town who won eight points from their 28 matches. Two league wins all season kind of sets the tone though what really leaps off the page was the unfortunate defensive record, conceding ninety-nine goals this term (a GpG of 3.53). Their league wins came against Cockfosters at home in mid-November and at Sporting Bengal in mid-February. I saw them lose out at home to West Essex in mid-October where they had promising parts of the game but not enough end product. When I saw next saw them battle hard for a point at Manor at the end of November, there were signs they were tightening up and their attacking promise was evident too. Ultimately though, you’re forced to concede that it was a very harsh campaign for Sawbo and one they can scarcely afford to see again.

Sawbridgeworth club badge

Still from S Manor v Sawbo ESL 30.11.19

Finally, here’s the Leading Goal-scorers in the Essex Senior League 2019/20

(Source: essexseniorleague.co.uk)


		Club/s	League Goals	Total Goals (All Comps)
1	Dwade James	Walthamstow	27	40
2	George Smith	Hashtag Utd	19	26
3	Solomon Ofori	Hadley	18	25

4	Gavin Cockman	Saffron Walden Town	16	20
5	Suiabo Balde	Tower Hamlets	15	15
6	Lewis Francis	Walthamstow/ Saffron Walden Town	13	17

=7	Taylor Tombides	Redbridge	12	19
	Curtley McIntosh	Sporting Bengal Utd	12	16
	Issac Marfo-Jacobs	Hoddesdon Town	12	15

=10	Kyle Roberts	St Margaretsbury/ Hadley	11	15
	Connor Hammond	Stansted	11	13

=12	Michael Mignot	West Essex	10	15
	Manny Hammond	Hadley	10	12
	Ned Clarke	Cockfosters/ Hadley	10	10

=15	Charlie Cole	Saffron Walden Town	9	28
	Bryn Thorpe	Takeley	9	15
	Alfie Bartram	Hadley	9	12
	Hassan Nalbant	Redbridge	9	11
	Cameron Ferguson	Hadley	9	9

Round-up: Essex Senior League (Fri/Sat 31 Jan/1 Feb) [ESL 19/20 2.2.20]

Written by Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMHC14]

Hello and a warm welcome to another of my semi-regular round-up pieces looking at this weekend’s Essex Senior League action, from Friday 31st January & Saturday 1st February.

Essex Senior

Friday 31 January

Redbridge 2 – 7 Clapton | Oakside | Att: 49

Clapton put in an outstanding showing to batter the Motormen at Oakside on Friday night. Deimar Queni, Jaydon Charles and Nana Boakye-Yiadom all got braces for the Tons, to which Asher Modeste added a goal so Clapton led 7 – 0 before a late double from Hassan Nalbant and substitute Charlie Portway spared the hosts from a heavier loss. The Tons’ recent form continues to impress as its five wins from their last seven matches which sees them in 11th. Redbridge fell to their second loss in their last five though remain eighth.

Saturday 1 February – Essex Senior

Hashtag Utd 2 – 2 Takeley | Chadfields | Att: 139

Hashtag fought back twice to claim a share of the points at Chadfields. An OG put Marc Das’ side ahead on the quarter-hour, though Kris Newby got the Tags back on terms four minutes into the second half. In an encounter that was getting increasingly fraught, Reece Barrett put the visitors back in front on 55 minutes and it looked as though they may eke out the win though it wasn’t to be. Tom Anderson kept up his knack of scoring goals with a late equaliser to preserve the unbeaten run at five matches for Jay Devereux’s team. Takeley remain 5th while Utd go up to second with rivals Walthamstow in Cup action this weekend.

Sawbridgeworth Town 0 – 1 Enfield | Crofters | Att: 40

Enfield left it late before getting a crucial win at fellow strugglers Sawbridgeworth. Prince Adeyemi’s 90th-minute goal was enough to give Matt Hanning’s team an important three points, their first in eleven games to gain ground on rivals Tower Hamlets in the bottom three. Sawbo’s losing run extends to eight matches now and they are now 14 points adrift at the bottom with twelve matches remaining.

Southend Manor 1 – 0 Hoddesdon Town | Southchurch Park | Att: 21

Manor emerged with a narrow win over Hoddesdon, thanks to Ruben Kennedy’s strike seven minutes before the end to obtain their first win in four games and leap up above Tower Hamlets into 16th and they are only three points off Sporting Bengal in 12th spot. Hoddesdon’s top-five aspiration this term is slipping as their winless run extended to four as they remain in ninth.

Stansted 3 – 2 West Essex | Hargrave Park | Att: 68

The Airportmen made it ten straight league wins with a battling win over West Essex at Hargrave Park. Ryan Ramsay got the opener for the hosts inside a minute, though West have shown they are fired up in recent matches and levelled the match after 12 minutes through Izzy Ogedi-Uzokwe. The game was well-poised into the second-half though Paul Clayton turned the game in a big way with a brace [70’ & 87’]. The Stags were depleted through illness and suspension though still got one back in added-time through Hakim Medfai though Paul Pittuck & John Watters’ side held on to remain sixth though they went four points clear of Cockfosters in 7th.

My Non-League colleague Matt North was at the game and here is his report: mattnorthfootball.wordpress.com/2020/02/01/match-report-stansted-3-2-west-essex-esl-19-20-01-02-20/

Tower Hamlets 0 – 2 Sporting Bengal Utd | Mile End ‘derby’ | Att: 30

Bengal got their second Mile End ‘derby’ win of the season as they got a much-needed three points. Curtley McIntosh got the opener for Imrul Gazi’s side five minutes before the break and Bobby Redwood ended up securing the win midway through the second-half to give Bengal their second win in their last six to rise up to 12th spot. Hamlets’ quest for a win goes on and they drop to third-bottom after a winless stretch which now sits at eight matches.

News: In better news for Hamlets, starlet Ali Omar signed for EFL Championship side Barnsley this week so plaudits have to go to the Essex Senior side for the project they have instigated this term and best wishes go to Ali as he continues his football development at Oakwell.

Errington Challenge Cup : Quarter-Final

Walthamstow 0 – 2 Cockfosters | Wadham Lodge | Att: 40

The new dawn at Walthamstow began with defeat as Cockfosters made the last four of the Errington Cup. First-half goals by Ceykan Karagozlu [20’] and Harley Haag five minutes before the break ensured that Ryan Wade’s team got the win though for ‘Stow, it is arguably more important that new boss Max Mitchell & his new signings get settled quickly as the club seeks to maintain its promotion challenge this season.