Step 8 – survivor16b

S22-23 Match Report: Harold Wood Athletic 1 – 0 ACD Utd (Sat 13 May) [EOFL 22-23 14.5.23]

Essex Olympian League – Division One

Venue: Harold Wood Park

Attendance: 60 (Est)

2022-23 Season: Match 64

Saturday 13th May 2023 – 1pm KO

Harold Wood: Sky Blue Shirts, Claret Shorts & Socks

ACD: White Shirts, Black Shorts & White Socks

Harold Wood claim promotion with gritty win over decent ACD Utd

Harold Wood Athletic 1 – 0 ACD Utd

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

The final match for me in the Essex Olympian this season saw a nice return to Harold Wood Park, for this EOFL Division One match between promotion-chasing Harold Wood Athletic and mid-table ACD Utd, who also played their last game this season here. ‘Wood Manager John Field has done a fine job in keeping his team in the running for the top-two & his team have led the table for large parts of the campaign. Here, they had Jack Moore as their goalkeeper, a defence of Perry Robinson, skipper Zach Holding, Daniel Spittle and Jack Baines. Louis Bazely, Ben Woolven and Connor Sheehan were in midfield and Leroy Griffiths led the attack, supported by Tyrone Scarlett and Max Shepherd. ACD have had another decent season and boss Jack Munns named Tyler Richards as their goalkeeper, with a backline of captain Jamie Alexandrou, Alex Bessent, James Bell and Ollie Williams. Their midfield featured Jake Noble, Shaun Farrow and Billy Wren, with the forward line being comprised of Jacob Dingli, Samuel Payne and Scott Perkins.

In the early-going here, it was the visitors who settled slightly better and they certainly were up for the battle. Moments later, an early drive by Wood forward Tyrone Scarlett was comfortably gathered by ACD stopper Tyler Richards and Jack Munns’ team soon pushed on again. Ollie Williams was making the most of some space down the left flank, and his cross was half-blocked by Wood’s Ben Woolven but the ball eventually found Billy Wren & his strike needed the intervention of Wood goalkeeper Jack Moore to tip it over although there was an ACD player off-side in the same move. The visitors were certainly competing well and Harold Wood did not find it easy to retain possession in midfield, with Louis Bazely and Connor Sheehan having to work hard to restrict the flowing ACD forward moves.

ACD midfielder Jake Noble breaks forward in 1st half

Harold Wood did have a goal chalked off for off-side, as Shepherd’s low effort didn’t count while ACD defender Alex Bessent headed off-target. At this stage, it was looking more likely that the visitors would break the deadlock but one piece of oppurtunistic quality altered that perception. Three minutes before the break, as a defensive clearance went awry for ACD but just outside the 18-yard area, Wood forward Leroy Griffiths judged the ball coming out of the air superbly and his fine first-time strike sailed over Richards and high into the net. Certainly a goal to savour that one was.

Half-Time: Harold Wood 1 – 0 ACD Utd

As we resumed after the break, the visitors brought on Billy Rungay and Shaun Goddard. Again, ACD were a threat down the channels four minutes into the half as another good run & cross by Williams found Rungay at the back post and he headed narrowly wide, under pressure. As we approached the hour mark, Harold Wood Athletic were starting to have more ball time and were testing the visiting defence a bit more readily. A good ball in from Griffiths found defender Perry Robinson but his header couldn’t test Richards. As they often did, ACD responded well moments later, as first Samuel Payne’s strike was cleared off the goal-line by a covering defender and seconds later, Rungay’s shot was gathered by the well-positioned Moore.

The tension was growing somewhat here as we went into the last twenty minutes of this one, as Utd substitute Warren Taylor fired over the woodwork from a decent position. Quick forward Max Shepherd was finding more space down the right flank as the game went on & his strike was narrowly wide. ACD certainly didn’t back off as we entered the last five minutes of normal time, as another good strike by Billy Rungay needed the intervention of Moore as he pulled off another good save, before Bessent’s decent strike required another good save from the Harold Wood custodian.

Max Shepherd breaks down left side for Wood in 2nd half

The four minutes of added time may well have seemed longer to the Harold Wood players but soon enough, referee Richard Wilsher blew his whistle for the last time today & the celebrations could begin for a understandably chuffed home side.

Full-Time: Harold Wood Athletic 1 – 0 ACD Utd

Given the significance of the match for the hosts, this was going to be a nervy one but their second half display made it harder for ACD to create chances, after Jack Munns’ side had put in a good first-half display to not only stifle the hosts but also in creating several chances themselves. Wood had to grind it out towards the end, assisted by a tough backline & a few good saves by young custodian Jack Moore. Congratulations again to all at Harold Wood, as they join champions Old Chelmsfordians in getting promoted to the Premier Division next term.

The stand-out mentions start with victors Harold Wood. Centre forward Leroy Griffiths led the line well and his physical presence was tough for a resolute ACD side to deal with, and his goal was a super piece of technique. Max Shepherd made a number of good runs down the right flank & made some neat passes as well as tested the visiting defence, also getting back to defend well when needed. Powerful central midfielder Connor Sheehan also put in a hard shift for his team, was good aerially & also made some good interceptions. Lastly, a mention for goalkeeper Jack Moore who made some criticial saves in the latter moments of the game to thwart a talented ACD forward line. Congrats to him.

For ACD, I felt defender Alex Bessent had a very good game and made it tough for the hosts to get into any particular rhythm in the first half-hour, making good tackles & showing good defensive awareness. Ollie Williams also gave it everything & put in a number of good crosses from the left side, stretching the Harold Wood backline well. Midfielder Billy Wren also put in a good shift as Jack Munns’ side put in a good display going forward & retained the ball for good parts of the game. Finally, forward Scott Perkins contributed well, making several good runs and had a few chances to really make it a different game as well as putting in some good passes too.

Teams

Harold Wood Athletic | Manager: John Field | Assistant: Rod Edwards

Starting XI: 1 Jack Moore (GK), 2 Perry Robinson, 11 Zach Holding (Capt), 8 Daniel Spittle, 3 Jack Baines, 6 Louis Bazely, 17 Ben Woolven, 18 Connor Sheehan, 9 Tyrone Scarlett, 10 Leroy Griffiths, 7 Max Shepherd

Goal-scorer: Leroy Griffiths [42′]

Subs ON [Time]: 12 Thomas Butler [68′, replaced Robinson], 5 Jacob Roberts [77′], 16 Freddy Shepherd [89′, replaced Sheehan]

Booked: Griffiths, Butler, Moore | Subs Not Used: Harris & Sykes

ACD Utd | Manager: Jack Munns |

Starting XI: 1 Tyler Richards (GK), 23 Jamie Alexandrou (Capt), 5 Alex Bessent, 40 James Ball, 3 Ollie Williams, 36 Jake Noble, 15 Shaun Farrow, 47 Billy Wren, 32 Samuel Payne, 9 Jacob Dingli, 20 Scott Perkins

Sub ON (Time): 2 Billy Rungay [46′], 14 Shaun Goddard [46′], 19 Warren Taylor [68′]

Booked: None | Subs Not Used: None

Referee: Richard Wilsher

S22-23 Match Report: Corinthians 2 – 3 Beacon Hill Rovers (Sat 6 May) [EOFL D1 7.5.23]

Essex Olympian League – Division One

Venue: Stambridge Memorial Ground

Attendance: 20 (Est)

2022-23 Season: Match 63

Saturday 6th May 2023 – 2pm KO

Corinthians: Sky Blue & White Shirts, Black Shorts & Socks

Beacon Hill: Red Shirts, Black Shorts & Socks

Rovers edge to late win as Corinthians spurn several chances

Corinthians 2 – 3 Beacon Hill Rovers

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

The second match of the weekend saw a welcome return to Stambridge for this Essex Olympian League Division One match between Corinthians and Beacon Hill Rovers. The hosts have been frustrated in recent weeks as recent results have seen them drop out of the race for the top-two. Manager Chris Stoneham still named a strong side for their last home game of the term here, with Nathan Warren in goal, a central defence of Daniel Frimley, Alfie Knight and captain Connor Summerhill. Their wing-backs were Charlie Marden and Mark Frostick, with Jake Hinkley and Jordan Stoneham in central midfield. Mike Edgar was the attack-minded midfielder in support of forwards Brodie Horne and Jake Hodder. Beacon Hill have got good results in recent weeks which has seen them retain their second-tier status for next season and they had Charles Fitt as their custodian, William Strutt and William Ritchie in central defence and Ben Prentice and George Sapsford as full-backs. Joshua Jones, skipper Charles Brewer and George Bass were their central midfield, with the forward line being comprised of Jack Walker, Karl Swanborough and Adebolu Adeyemi.

The early stages of this match were a bit reminiscent of an end-of-tern match but the hosts did have the early glimmers at goal, as wing-back Charlie Marden’s pass found forward Jake Hodder and his strike was well tipped over the woodwork by visiting goalkeeper Charles Fitt. Fitt was called into action moments later, denying Hodder’s effort after this time being well picked out by wing-back Mark Frostick’s pass. Corinthians were gathering momentum but still had to be alert at the other end as former Burnham Ramblers midfielder Charles Brewer headed over the crossbar when well-placed in a busy penalty area. The hosts’ frustrations only grew as wily Karl Swanborough managed to dodge both the off-side trap & home defence before rounding the advancing goalie Nathan Warren and slotting nto the empty net, nine minutes before the break. Swanborough had another effort on goal moments later but this time Warren did deny him but you felt there was more defending to do for the visitors.

Half-Time: Corinthians 0 – 1 Beacon Hill

After the break, Corinthians started strongly and Marden & Frostick involved in the build-up, Mike Edgar’s strike was denied by the agile Fitt. Seconds later though, a blemish by the Rovers backline allowed skipper Connor Summerhill to head home a decent corner at the far post to level the game. Unsurprisingly, that goal lifted the home side but there was still drama to come. Just short of the hour mark, another fine run down the right flank by the impressive Charlie Marden ended with a good ball into the box, which found Edgar and his neat header was again well-saved by the Rovers goalkeeper. At this point, Fitt was rather keeping his team in the game, and he had two more superb saves to make as he first denied another decent strike by Hodder and then a fierce drive by Marden, but those sprawling saves kept it level as we went into the last fifteen minutes.

However, Corinthians did take the lead with 13 minutes remaining as a dazzling run by Hodder down the right side evaded two defenders before finding Summerhill with another good cross to the back post & the centre-back’s header found the net once again. To their credit, Rovers responded well and they were finding space between the home defence & midfield at times during the match, they made the most of it as they levelled seven minutes from time. A good run by Adebolu Adeyemi down the right side ended with a good cross-field ball with tracked the run of Swanborough and his low finish crossed the goal-line.

Rovers’ Adeyemi holds off Corinthians defender Frimley

That wasn’t the end of the drama though as both sides pushed for the points but it was Beacon Hill who grabbed the winner a minute before the end of the ninety. Brewer had shown good work rate to join the counter-attack and after his initial close-range effort was parried by Warren, Brewer snatched the rebound and netted from a yard or two out, much to the obvious ire of the home side, who could have been well ahead, had they been more clinical earlier in the game.

Full-Time: Corinthians 2 – 3 Beacon Hill Rovers

This was an entertaining match, with both sides feeling the end-of-season vibes in different ways. The hosts had more than enough chances to win this game well but found Rovers custodian Charles Fitt in inspired form, as he made a number of fine saves to thwart a rapid Corinthians forward line. Unfortunately for the hosts, their team defending hurt them as decent finishing by Rovers cost them the game as Beacon Hill made the most of staying in the contest right until the last few moments.

The stand-out mentions start with Rovers. Not difficult to start with goalkeeper Charles Fitt who as mentioned made about six fine saves to deny Hodder, Edgar & others to effectively keep his side in the game. Congrats to him on a superb performance. Centre-back William Strutt also did well to clear crosses away in the air in particular, while skipper Charles Brewer was a good presence for his side in central midfield and his work rate assisted him to claim the winning goal. Lastly, Ben Prentice also had a good game looking to break down the right channel and made a few neat passes too.

For Corinthians, attacking full-back Charlie Marden was a constant outlet on the right side, making neat passes, showing good pace and put in a few good crosses too. Congrats to Charlie on a good performance. Forward Jake Hodder also put in a very good display with good trickery, pace and movement at times too & was unlucky not to score. Support forward Mike Edgar also had a good game and had a few half-chances himself that were well-denied & also contrubuted to his team’s forward moves in general. Lastly, centre-back Connor Summerhill did well to marshall his defence & claim two oppurtunistic goals as well.

Teams

Corinthians | Manager: Chris Stoneham | Assistant: Graham Owen

Starting XI: 1 Nathan Warren (GK), 20 Charlie Marden, 5 Connor Summerhill (Capt), 6 Alfie Knight, 18 Daniel Frimley, 3 Mark Frostick, 24 Jake Hinkley, 14 Jordan Stoneham, 10 Mike Edgar, 19 Brodie Horne, 7 Jake Hodder

Goal-scorer: Connor Summerhill [46′ & 77′]

Subs ON [Time]: 16 Riley Weir [64′, replaced Hinkley], 11 John Bolton-Smith [80′, replaced
Horne], 17 Max Jones [80′, replaced Edgar], 15 Ollie Brickwood [86′, replaced Stoneham]

Booked: None | Subs Not Used: Burrell

Beacon Hill Rovers | Manager: Joe Plumb | Assistant: Gary James

Starting XI: 1 Charles Fitt (GK), 7 Ben Prentice, 5 William Strutt, 12 William Ritchie, 3 George Sapsford, 6 Joshua Jones, 17 Charles Brewer (Capt), 8 George Bass, 9 Jack Walker, 10 Karl Swanborough, 14 Adebolu Adeyemi

Goal-scorers: Karl Swanborough [36′ & 83′], Charles Brewer [89′]

Sub ON (Time): 11 Ben McCrow [70′, replaced Sapsford]

Booked: None | Subs Not Used: Heward

Referee: Danny Squibb

S22-23 Match Report: Corinthians 3 – 2 Harold Hill (Sat 11 Feb) [EOFL 22-23 11.2.23]

Essex Olympian League – Division One

Venue: Stambridge Memorial Ground

Attendance: 20 (Est)

2022-23 Season: Match 40

Saturday 11th February 2022 – 2pm KO

Corin: Sky Blue & White Shirts, Black Shorts, Black Socks

Hill: Navy Blue Shirts, Navy Blue Shorts & Socks

Corinthians battle hard to claim important win over Harold Hill

Corinthians 3 – 2 Harold Hill

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

This weekend’s match was an intruiging battle between promotion-chasing Corinthians & visitors Harold Hill, who are looking to make the most of their remaining matches to make their into mid-table at least in Essex Olympian League’s Division One. The hosts are dealing with several injuries at present, with influential goal-scorer Bailey Moss, winger Leo Clarke & full-back Billy Wilton among those unavailable. However, manager Chris Stoneham did field goalkeeper Nathan Warren between the sticks, with a central defence comprised of Alfie Knight, Connor Summerhill & Daniel Frimley. Mark Frostick and Charlie Marden were deployed as wing-backs, along with skipper Matt Burrell, Jordan Stoneham and Jake Hinkley in central midfield. Brodie Horne and John Bolton-Smith led the attack here. Harold Hill’s squad was also affected by some of their squad not being available here. They fielded Daniel Johnson in goal, with a four-man defence of Clarence Emeh, Thomas Northwood and Ray Snares & Joseph Connor in central defence. Captain Jack Suters was alongside Connor Leon & Mario Gjini in midfield, with Harry Watkins & Ashley Blackburn leading the forward line, with Troy Tizard-Cleghorn supporting them.

It was certainly a forgettable opening to the game for the visitors, who conceded after only two minutes. Corinthians wing-back Charlie Marden sent in a fine cross from the right side which found the retreating centre-back who could only head the ball past Hill custodian Daniel Johnson and high into his own goal. You had to empathise with the visitors, and they were up against it, dealing with fluid passing & brisk movement from the further motivated home forward line. Hard-working forward Brodie Horne made a good run on five minutes, before finding strike partner John Bolton-Smith, but the latter’s tame effort went wide of Johnson’s woodwork. Harold Hill were still decent on the counter-attack though, as forward Ashley Blackburn fired off-target with a decent curling strike. The visitors did level on 13 minutes, thanks to fine strike by Harry Watkins, as the ball sailed past home stopper Nathan Warren and into the right side of the net.

Corinthians forward Brodie Horne [#19] on the ball in 1st half

Much to the hosts’ credit though, they roared back into the lead only three minutes later as another decent flowing move involving wing-back Mark Frostick and skipper Matt Burrell ended with Horne’s calm finish low into the net, leaving Johnson little chance. It got even more frustrating for the visiting dug-out as Corinthians grabbed another goal on 19 minutes. Hill’s defensive lapses were exposed as good link-up play involving Marden and midfielder Jake Hinkley ended with Horne turning his marker well before slotting home with aplomb for his second goal of the day. To be fair though, Billy Cove’s side were still posing a threat on the counter-attack, and Troy Tizard-Cleghorn and Mario Gjini were breaking well from midfield, supporting Watkins & Blackburn to good effect. Tizard-Cleghorn did force a decent save from Warren with his low drive at the near post before the half-hour.

Home forward John Bolton-Smith looking to get past his marker

Half-Time: Corinthians 3 – 1 Harold Hill

Corinthians undoubtedly deserved their half-time lead, but there was a sense that there was more to come from this match. The second half began with more promise for the visitors, and Watkins’ good run and cross needed home centre-back Daniel Frimley to divert the ball over his own woodwork, as Hill forced a few set-pieces. Harold Hill did give themselves a chance of salvaging a point from the penalty spot, after referee Dave Bloxham pointed to the spot following Warren’s challenge.

The hosts were adamant that the goalkeeper got the ball but nonetheless, Tizard-Cleghorn slotted home the resulting penalty to the left side of the goal to ensure a gritty last twenty minutes for the hosts, who really needed the points. Harold Hill battled well and pushed further forward in tge latter stages, with substitute Ryan O’Connell’s first touch being a good effort which was well-tipped over the bar by Warren. Hill were leaving gaps in defence but Johnson pulled off a fine save onto the woodwork in added-time to deny Horne a hat-trick, after being unselfishly played in by replacement Max Jones, who moments earlier had fired wide when in a promising position.

Hill full-back Clarence Emeh jostles with Corinthians’ Mike Edgar for possession late on

Full-Time: Corinthians 3 – 2 Harold Hill

In summary, Corinthians made the most of a tepid start by the visitors and kept possession really well, particularly in the first half. After the break though, Harold Hill showed an admirable amount of courage and pace to force their way back into contention and give the hosts some nervy moments. Ultimately though, Corinthians showed enough steel & defensive nous to claim the win which keeps them fourth in the table, two points clear of Manford Way who picked up a huge 6 – 4 win at Corinthians’ promotion rivals Epping Town today.

There were several good performances from the Corinthians side here. They were led by two-goal striker Brodie Horne, who showcased his high work rate and movement to good effect, as well as utilising cool finishing for both goals. Centre-back Daniel Frimley also had a very good game here, and was a strong presence, making several good interceptions. Charlie Marden had a good game at right wing-back, putting in several good balls into the danger area and having good pace, with Jordan Stoneham having a good all-round game in central midfield also, competing well with the attack-minded visiting midfield.

For Harold Hill, forward Troy Tizard-Celghorn had a good game, with his influence growing after the interval as well as being a good presence in the air & showing decent pace. Ashley Blackburn also put in several good passes and surging runs down the channels to test the home backline at times. Winger Mario Gjini had a decent game also, showing his composure and good movement to make the most of available space. Lastly, a word for Jack Suters, who gave his all in central midfield & then in more of a defensive role after the break, making a number of important interceptions as the match went on.

Finally, I’d like to add that this was a entertaining match to watch and credit to both teams. Also, was nice to see both managers (Messrs Stoneham & Cove) as well, wish their respective teams well.

Teams

Corinthians | Manager: Chris Stoneham | Assistant: Graham Owen

Starting XI: 1 Nathan Warren (GK), 20 Charlie Marden, 3 Mark Frostick, 18 Daniel Frimley, 5 Connor Summerhill, 6 Alfie Knight, 8 Matt Burrell (Capt), 7 Jordan Stoneham, 19 Brodie Horne, 11 John Bolton-Smith, 10 Jake Hinkley

Goal-scorers: OG (Snares) [2′], Brodie Horne [16′ & 19′]

Subs On (Time): 14 Ryan Woodley [46′, replaced Burrell], 17 Max Jones [57′, replaced Bolton-Smith], 16 Mike Edgar [60′, replaced Hinkley]

Booked: Frostick, Horne | Subs Not Used: Brickwood

Harold Hill | Manager: Billy Cove | Assistant: George Young

Starting XI: 1 Daniel Johnson (GK), 2 Clarence Emeh, 3 Thomas Northwood, 5 Ray Snares, 6 Joseph Connor, 4 Jack Suters (Capt), 20 Connor Leon, 7 Mario Gjini, 8 Troy Tizard-Cleghorn, 10 Harry Watkins, 11 Ashley Blackburn

Goal-scorers: Harry Watkins [13′], Troy Tizard-Cleghorn [pen 69′]

Subs On: 14 Freddie Madle [46′, replaced Snares], 12 Ryan O’Connell [73′, replaced Leon]

Booked: Tizard-Cleghorn, Blackburn | Subs Not Used: None

Referee: David Bloxham

S22-23 Match Report: Corinthians 3 – 1 ACD Utd (Sat 13 Aug) [EOFL D1 22/23 13.8.22]

Essex Olympian League – Division One

Venue: Stambridge Memorial Ground

Attendance: 10

2022-23 Season: Match 6

Saturday 13 August 2022 – 2pm KO

Corinthians: Sky Blue & White Shirts, Black Shorts & Black Socks

ACD: Purple Shirts, Purple Shorts, Purple Socks

Late comeback sees Corinthians to good win over ACD at Stambridge

Corinthians 3 – 1 ACD Utd

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

The new Intermediate season began this weekend and it ended up that to mark said opening, I went to Stambridge to see two attack-minded sides duel in Corinthians and ACD Utd. The visitors were last term’s Division Two champions while Chris Stoneham’s team were keen to improve on last season’s fourth place in the Division One. The home side had Nathan Warren in goal, with a three-man central defence of Connor Summerhill, Brad Read and new recruit Daniel Frimley, captain Matt Burrell in central midfield, with a forward line of Bailey Moss and Jake Hodder, supported by Leo Clarke and Jordan Stoneham. ACD have a new boss in former goal-scoring wizard Michael Wade and he fielded Danny Mulrooney between the posts, with Brad Falco and Billy Rungay in central defence, full-backs Ollie Williams and skipper Mason Oakley and a forward line of Samuel Payne, Shaun Goddard and Scott Perkins.

The game got underway in what felt like 30 degree heat, and understandably this took its toll on the pace of the game in the early stages. Even so though, it was quite open as both teams looked to get down the channels to evade each other’s defences. Forward Jake Hodder and full-back Billy Wilton made early threatening downs down the flanks for the hosts, while forward Scott Perkins made one good left-wing run early on for ACD, who also had the first real chance of note when fellow forward Shaun Goddard struck off-target.

Charlie Marden [#2] goes for the ball in first-half for Corinthians

As the half-hour approached, it was a tale of two big moments. First on 26 minutes, a fine cross by Hodder found forward Bailey Moss and his powerful header was superbly clawed over by an acrobatic save from ACD stopper Danny Mulrooney. Immediately afterward, ACD countered quickly and forward Samuel Payne was well-found and struck low to fine left corner, beyond the grasp of home custodian Nathan Warren. ACD were enjoying their best phase of the game thus far and on 31 minutes Payne played in Goddard who sent in a lofted effort which cannoned off Warren’s crossbar.

The hosts had two further chances with Mulrooney gathering Moss’ 25-yard low strike and Mulrooney also did well to deny Wilton’s strike from close range. ACD’s stubborn defending held out and the hosts’ pasing was not at its condusive best as ACD went into the interval with a slender advantage.

Half-Time: Corinthians 0 – 1 ACD Utd

ACD maintained that resolve as the second half began as four minutes into it, Payne’s struike from 20 yards was well parried away by Warren. Slowly though, Corinthians did start to go through the gears and find their passing and forward Leo Clarke started to get on the ball more and test the Utd backline. Hodder’s strike off-target around the hour did serve as a warning but his side were level with 75 minutes on the watch.

Again, Hodder was involved as his astute pass found forward Bailey Moss who took it well before firing a powerful curling strike into left side of the net, giving Mulrooney little chance. In fairness, it was what Corinthians deserved on chances created but they still need to find another gear to stave off an enterprising ACD counter-attacking side. Warren was needed moments later as ACD responded with a low strike at the near post, only for Warren to get down well and deny them.

This seemed to spur the hosts on again and they did break the stalemate with three minutes left, with Hodder’s good low ball going all the way across goal to find Wilton who struck it over the goal-line. That was a little tough on ACD but the third goal in added time really did hammer home their misfortune. Mulrooney couldn’t get his clearance away with Moss closing him down quickly after a scramble, Moss was there to prod the ball home from a yard out.

Full-Time: Corinthians 3 – 1 ACD Utd

To sum up this entertaining but bruising battle in the considerable heat, ACD really made it hard for their hosts to maintain momentum, making several good interceptions and also countering well, which gave the home defence little time to recoup their positioning. However, in the latter stages they couldn’t keep the ball as well as they had done earlier. Despite that, they didn’t deserve to lose in the manner that they did. All credit to Corinthians though, they stepped up the work rate in the second half and they got their rewards for it.

Leo Clarke on-the-ball, pushing forward late on for Corinthians

There were several very good performances today. First for victors Corinthians, a word for energetic forward Leo Clarke who really drove his side on in the second half, showing good pace and passing at times. Full-back Bill Wilton also played his part with some neat passes, good energy levels and added a goal late on too. Forward Bailey Moss scored a fine leveller and brought out two good saves from ACD stopper Mulrooney as well as his usual aerial presence. Lastly, a mention for Jake Hodder who put in two assists and generally looked a threat down the right-side channel. Centre-back Daniel Frimley put a good display also on his competitive debut.

For ACD, there was plenty of positives to take. Goalkeeper Danny Mulrooney will be disappointed by manner of the third goal conceded here but that should not detract from an otherwise superb performance, making three very good sabes to deny Moss & Wilton during the game. Full-back Ollie Williams was a good outlet as well, from the left side and from set-pieces too. Forward Sam Payne took his goal well and had a good all-round game whilst centre-backs Brad Falco & Billy Rungay really made it tough for the hosts’ forward line with good aerial clearances and interceptions for much of the game.

Best wishes to both teams and I have little doubt they will both have good campaigns.

Teams (Rolling Subs used in EOFL matches)

Corinthians | Manager: Chris Stoneham | Assistants: Graham Owen & Les Moss

Starting XI: 1 Nathan Warren (GK), 2 Charlie Marden, 3 Bill Wilton, 6 Daniel Frimley, 17 Brad Read, 5 Connor Summerhill , 8 Matt Burrell (Capt), 7 Jordan Stoneham, 9 Jake Hodder, 20 Bailey Moss, 10 Leo Clarke

Goal-scorers: Bailey Moss [75′ & 90′ +2], Bill Wilton [87′]

Subs ON : 19 Luke Owen [46′], 12 Maxwell Sharpe [46′], 16 John Bolton-Smith [71′], 18 Brad Smith [82′], 14 Ethan Lemmon [87′]

ACD Utd | Manager: Michael Wade |

Starting XI: 1 Danny Mulrooney (GK), 2 Mason Oakley (Capt), 6 Billy Rungay, 35 Brad Falco, 4 Jamie Alexandrou, 3 Ollie Williams, 14 Jake Noble, 19 Warren Taylor, 7 Samuel Payne, 17 Shaun Goddard, 12 Scott Perkins

Goal-scorer: Samuel Payne [27′]

Booked: Oakley

Subs ON: 21 Frank Markham [43′] | Sub Not Used: Knock

Referee: Robert Walker

S21-22 Match Report: Wakering Sports 0 – 1 Runwell Sports (Sat 12 Mar) [EOFL 21/22 12.3.22]

Essex Olympian League – Division One

Venue: Cupid’s (Main Pitch)

2021-22 Season: Match 61

Attendance: 35 (est)

Saturday 12th March 2022 – 2pm KO

Wakering: Blue Shirts, Blue Shorts, Blue Socks

Runwell: Grey Shirts, Yellow Shorts, Yellow Socks

Runwell clinch promotion with a battling win over Wakering

Wakering Sports 0 – 1 Runwell Sports

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

This weekend, we remained in the Intermediate Leagues but with good purpose as we saw this big promotion six-pointer at Cupid’s Country Club, between hosts Wakering Sports and leaders Runwell Sports, who were playing their last league game here. Their job was clear, win this game and a top-two finish was assured. Wakering have three more games after this but knew they had to try and derail the Runwell side from winning this one to aid their cause. The hosts were without Connor and Ben Burrows, Matthew Catlin and Aaron Marshall but did have Matt Wilson in goal, captain Russell Beck and Alex Jenkins in central defence, with Ryan Wyatt, Joe Burton and top club scorer Alfie Fossett. Among those on the bench were Mo Sesay, Steve Solarin and Callum Burns-Green. Runwell fielded a strong side, with Josh Hudson between the posts, a defence of Charlie Little, Jordan Gregory and centre-backs Dylan Hawley and skipper Oliver Quick. The forwards were Jimmy Cox and Joe Olley, with wingers Gianni Frankis and Issac Pascal.

The match got underway with a torrent of tension with both side’s very keen to assert themselves to build a base from. Early on, Gianni Frankis had an early strike deflected wide for the visutors from about ten yards out. After a long stoppage on twelve minutes to assess a head injury to skipper Russell Beck, the hosts did get more into the contest as Runwell conceded a few niggly fouls. Chances were at a premium, though just shy of the half-hour there was a good chance for Rob Hodgson’s side. Hodgson himself headed the ball on to forward Joe Olley at the back post but Olley’s header lacked power and glanced agonizingly off-target.

Issac Pascal (#11, centre left) making another run down left flank for Runwell

However, it was the hosts who finished the half marginally stronger. A decent lob in the eighteen yard area from a central position from midfielder Ben Rowe kept visiting goalkeeper Josh Hudson alert and he grasped the ball well. Soon after, a set-piece from deep by centre-back Alex Jenkins was headed narrowly wide by an off-balance Runwell defender. For the neutral, it would’ve been an unfortunate OG to see, to say the least.

Wakering captain Russell Beck clears once again at edge of his own 18-yard area

Half-Time: Wakering Sports 0 – 1 Runwell Sports

The deadlock was pretty tight and in the early minutes of the second half, it showed little signs of fading. What was rising though was the free-kicks being conceded and players being booked as well. The game did badly need a goal and it duly arrived ten minutes after the restart. Issac Pascal had been one of the visitors’ stand-out players and only endorsed that view as his set-piece evaded the home backline and found his captain Oliver Quick who headed home well at the back post. It was a hard one to take, understandably so for the gritty Wakering defence.

Just before the hour, a decent move involving Wakering forwards Ryan Wyatt and Alfie Fossett down the left channel, ended with Fossett firing wide of Hudson’s left-sided post, much to the forward’s disappointment. Paul Morgan’s side admirably kept up the work rate but found Runwell’s defence in good form and giving away little in the way of chances. Midway through the half, a good run by substitute Mohammed Sesay ended with the ball finding spirited winger Aaron Clark but his finish lacked the direction and power to bypass Hudson.

With the hosts pushing forward in search of an important leveller, Runwell did have chances to put the game away, but after another good run, Pascal’s effort was parried well by Wilson, but Charlie Little was there following-up and was also well thwarted. Olley also headed wide following decent build-up play but in the end, one goal was enough to confirm Runwell’s promotion and they will play in Step 7 (EOFL Premier Division) for the first time in over twenty years.

Full-Time: Wakering Sports 0 – 1 Runwell Sports

In summary, yes it was a scrappy game at times but perhaps the emphasis on this match was there in both teams’ minds. Runwell did look the better side at times, but were prevented from playing their rapid game via the channels by a typically miserly Wakering Sports team mindset and defensive performance. Best not forget that Wakeri g also had their moments going forward as well, but couldn’t test a resolute Runwell backline enough either. There is little doubt that Paul Morgan’s team will go close, as they seek to pip Toby to that other promotion spot.

As ever, there were perfornances to commend here. First up for victors Runwell, winger Issac Pascal had an excellent game, providing a strong outlet down the left flank as well as good dribbling and pace. He also got a telling assist for the goal. Central midfielder Taylor Armstrong had a strong game with a all-action performance and forward Joe Olley contributed well to his side’s attack, showing good work rate and had several decent moments. Rounding out the mentions for Runwell is Charlie Little, pressed into action as an emergency right-back here but did a solid job and also got forward quite well in the latter stages.

For Wakering, winger Aaron Clark had a very good game, showing good energy, passing and movement, so credit to him. Daniel Regan did a good job in midfield, setting moves in motion and was a decent set-piece taker too. A mention also for skipper Russell Beck who continued admirably until the latter stages of the game even after sustaining a head wound in the early stages, needing a “Terry Butcher-style” bandage. Beck made several important interceptons too and assisted his team in keeping the match tight.

Best wishes to Wakering Sports for the rest of the campaign and congrats to Runwell on their promotion (see final picture). My thanks to both teams, was good to see them in action here.

Runwell team & management celebrate promotion post-match

Teams (Rolling Subs Used in EOFL matches)

Wakering Sports | Manager: Paul Morgan |

Starting XI: 1 Matt Wilson (GK), 3 Paul Brennan, 4 Russell Beck (Capt), 5 Alex Jenkins, 6 Max Drury, 7 Daniel Regan, 8 Ben Rowe, 2 Aaron Clark, 9 Ryan Wyatt, 10 Joe Burton, 11 Alfie Fossett

Subs On (Time): 16 Mohammed Sasay [60′], 15 Steve Solarin [71′], 17 Callum Burns-Green [71′], 12 Mitchell Gleeson [83′]

Booked: Drury, Regan, Burton, Sesay | Subs Not Used: None

Runwell Sports | Player-Manager: Rob Hodgson | Assistants: Jason Davis & Ian Read

Starting XI: 1 Josh Hudson (GK), 2 Charlie Little, 3 Jordan Gregory, 5 Dylan Hawley, 6 Oliver Quick (Capt), 4 Taylor Armstrong, 7 Gianni Frankis, 8 Robert Hodgson, 9 Jimmy Cox, 10 Joe Olley, 11 Issac Pascal

Goal-scorer: Oliver Quick [55′]

Sub On (Time & replaced): 12 Riley Armstrong [66′ on for Hodgson)

Booked: Cox, Olley, R Armstrong | Subs Not Used: Cramp, Offord, Watson

Referee: Stiofan Appleby