Essex Senior League round-up (3.12.17)

Written by Scott W (Twitter: @ScottMHC14)

Hello & welcome to my semi-regular round-up of all the action in the Essex Senior League (ESL) action this weekend plus the results from the FA Vase 3rd Round ties involving ESL sides.

Saturday 2nd December

FC Romania 5 – 0 Woodford Town (2017)
| Venue: Theobalds Lane | Attendance: 24

FCR produced another strong showing to overpower Woodford at Theobalds Lane. Mihai Botosan’s brace [26′ & 48′] put the hosts ahead before goals from Taban [56′], Ghinea [77′] and Lupu [90′] sealed a big win to send FCR second in the table, four points behind leaders Redbridge.

Ilford 1 – 1 Burnham Ramblers
| Venue: Cricklefield | Attendance: 28

Burnham held the Foxes at Cricklefield. Karl Swanborough continued his recent goal-scoring exploits by putting Ramblers ahead on seven minutes. Ilford hot-shot James Peagram levelled five minutes before half-time. Ilford stay 8th, level on points with Tower Hamlets above them on goal difference while Burnham are 16th.

Sporting Bengal Utd 3 – 1 Hackney Wick
| Venue: Mile End Stadium | Attendance: 30

Bengal prevailed over Wick at Mile End. Jake Casey got Wick’s goal while Bengal recovered through Steven Carvell [65′] and a brace from Oscar Mendes [81′ & 83′] to seal the points and go 11th in the table. Wick are second bottom.

Takeley 6 – 0 Southend Manor
| Venue: Station Road | Attendance: 57

Takeley roared back to victory with a comprehensive win at Station Road. Carl Mullings opened the scoring on the half-hour mark before Mitchell Das [45’+2] made it two. After the break, the hosts rammed home their advantage with Nick Barrett [47′]¡ Jason Todd [52′], Mullings’ second with five minutes left & a late sixth by Will Green sealed the points to go 3rd in the table, Manor sit 10th.

Waltham Forest 4 – 1 Tower Hamlets
| Venue: Kitchener Road | Attendance: 42

Hamlets had a day to forget at Kitchener Road. Forest led nine minutes in through Mo Sagaf before Abiola Tanimowo doubled the lead a minure before the break. Joe Creasey [74′] and Nikko Stokes [85′] sealed the points while James Ross got the visitors’ consolation.

West Essex 2 – 1 Barkingside
| Venue: Mayesbrook Park | Attendance: 26

The Stags grabbed a last-minute win at Mayesbrook Park. Cameron Gray got the opener for the hosts, Jerome Martelli got Barkingside’s goal before Tom MacLeod got an injury-time winner for Kwame Kwateng’s side. West Essex sit 9th while Barkingside drop to 18th.

FA Vase R3 results:
Great Wakering Rovers 0 – 2 Cogenhoe Utd | Att: 98
Hullbridge Sports 3 – 2 Enfield 1893 | Att: 85

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Essex Senior League & EOFL round-up (15.10.17)

Written by Scott W  (Twitter:@ScottMHC14)

Hello & welcome to the round-up of this weekend’s action in the Essex Senior League here on my blog. We start off with all the Saturday action, followed by updated ESL table. And there’s a run-down of the results from the Olympian League plus results from the Senior League Cup & Anagram Records Trophy. How did your side do this weekend? Enjoy.

Saturday 14th October

Barkingside  0 – 1    Ilford

Venue: Cricklefield    |   Attendance: 74

Ilford held on to narrowly defeat Cricklefield rivals Barkingside. The only goal of the match came on 68 minutes as forward James Peagram struck to seal the Foxes’ seventh win of the campaign.

Clapton 2 –  0  Great Wakering Rovers

Venue: Old Spotted Dog   |    Attendance: 61

Clapton upset high-flying Great Wakering at the OSD. Two goals after the break by Ikem Odeh [48’] and Jeffrey Cobblah [63’] sealed a good victory for the Tons, their sixth of the league season.

 Hullbridge Sports  3 – 0   Hackney Wick

Venue: Lower Road      |      Attendance: 49

Hullbridge produced a resolute display to overcome Wick at Lower Road. Luca Frankis put the hosts ahead after nine minutes though couldn’t build on that advantage until after the break. Two second-half goals from Ollie Miller [54’ & 90’+3] sealed the points for Rob Hodgson’s men.

I attended this match and my full match report is here – https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2017/10/14/report-hullbridge-3-0-h-wick-esl/

Redbridge  3 – 2   Sporting Bengal Utd

Venue: Oakside     |        Attendance: 32

The Motormen overcame a wobble to record another win at Oakside. Winger Reside Coxi-Sebastfao gave the hosts the lead on eleven minutes though Steven Carvell restored parity for Bengal ten minutes later. The visitors broke the deadlock on 27 minutes through Kai Parkinson’s strike. Redbridge fought back late on though as goals from Eljay Worrell [85’] and substitute Calvin Poku [88’] sealed the turnaround for Ricky Eaton & Joey May’s side.

Sawbridgeworth Town  1 – 3    Southend Manor

Venue: Crofters End   |        Attendance: 52

Manor produced another excellent away-day performance to claim an important win at Crofters End. The visitors did the damage in the first half as goals from Ross Johnson [20’], Alfie Lindfield [36’] and Jacob Cleaver [44’] put Stuart Marshall’s side in a great position. Sawbridgeworth did pull one back after the break through Joe Wright.

Stansted     3 – 1    Waltham Forest

Venue: Hargrave Park     |     Attendance: 47

Stansted did the damage early to seal a good win over inconsistent Forest at Hargrave Park. Ryan Ramsey set the Airportmen on their way with the opener on nine minutes before Jevoi Blair made it two after 20 minutes. Ramsey got his second of the afternoon seven minutes later to put Paul Pittuck’s side in a commanding position at the interval. Substitute Marco Faria [68’] got a consolation for the visitors though it was a case of ‘too little, too late’ for them as the hosts recorded their sixth win of the ESL campaign.

Takeley   5 – 4     Enfield 1893

Venue: Station Road      |     Attendance: 61

Takeley got the better of a nine-goal barnstormer at Station Road. A quick-fire double from Mitchell Das [16’] and Freddie Burrell [18’] gave the hosts the initiative though Miguel Lopes De Matos pulled one back four minutes later. Reece Barrett restored Takeley’s two-goal cushion on 29 minutes as his side led at the break 3-1.  De Matos got his second seven minutes after the break and Luke Thomas levelled a pulsating match on 66 minutes. Marc Das’ side were in no mood to be denied though as a double from substitute Will Green [82’ & 90’+3] sealed the win though Ben Bradbury’s strike deep into injury-time ended the scoring.

Tower Hamlets  2 – 2    FC Romania

Venue: Mile End Stadium      |     Attendance: 31

Hamlets came from behind to record a creditable draw at Mile End. FCR had the better of the early-going and capitalised on it as Gabriel Ghinea struck five minutes in. Sergiu Pitaru doubled the lead 19 minutes later. However, two quick-fire goals either side of half-side from Wale Odedoyin [44’ & 46’] ultimately sealed a point for Ade Abayomi & AJ Ashinike’s side.

Wadham Lodge  3 – 3   West Essex

Venue: Kitchener Road           |        Attendance: 16

West Essex’s recent defensive frailties were again highlighted as they were held at Kitchener Road. In a good first-half for the visitors, talismanic striker Michael Mignot [35’ & 40’] put the visitors’ two-up at the interval. Danny Palmer cut the hosts’ arrears in half on 62 minutes. Mignot completed another hat-trick with 15 minutes remaining as West Essex looked set for a good win. Not to be though as goals from Ben McAllister [79’] and Ben Musaka [89’] grabbed a point for the bottom-placed side.

Woodford Town (2017)  3 – 2    Basildon Utd

Venue: Goffs Lane       |     Attendance: 65

Improving Woodford recorded another good win, this time against the Bees at Goffs Lane. Larry Asare gave Town the lead eleven minutes in before Marcus Bowers levelled things eight minutes before half-time. Substitute Ashley Blackburn put the Bees ahead with 22 minutes to play though late goals from Ola Ogunwamide [80’] and Jack Grosvenor [90’] sealed an important home win for Woodford.

ESL Table (after October 14th matches)

Position	Team	P	W	D	L	GD (+/-)	Points
1	Takeley	11	9	0	2	18	27
2	Great Wakering Rovers	12	8	1	3	16	25
3	Redbridge	11	8	1	2	13	25
4	Basildon Utd	11	8	1	2	11	25
5	West Essex	12	7	2	3	4	23
6	Tower Hamlets	12	6	3	3	13	21
7	Ilford	12	7	0	5	5	21
8	Clapton	12	6	3	3	4	21
9	Woodford Town (2017)	14	6	3	5	-3	21
10	FC Romania	11	6	2	3	10	20
11	Stansted	14	6	1	7	2	19
12	Sporting Bengal Utd	14	6	1	7	-3	19
13	Barkingside	11	5	1	5	2	16
14	Southend Manor	8	4	1	3	4	13
15	Hullbridge Sports	12	3	3	6	-11	12
16	Waltham Forest	14	3	2	9	-16	11
17	Sawbridgeworth Town	12	2	4	6	-6	10
18	Burnham Ramblers	12	3	1	8	-10	10
19	Hackney Wick	14	3	1	10	-15	10
20	Enfield 1893	11	3	0	8	-9	9
21	Wadham Lodge	14	2	1	11	-29	7

Saturday 14th October

Essex Olympian League

Premier Division

Basildon Town  0 – 7   Kelvedon Hatch

Frenford   3 – 0   White Ensign

Springfield  4 – 2   Harold Wood Athletic

 

Division One

Galleywood  2 – 3   Old Chelmsfordians

Great Baddow  7 – 3   Shenfield AFC

Harold Hill   0 – 6   Sungate

Hutton  2 – 2   FC Hamlets

Runwell Sports  2 – 6   Old Southendian

Snaresbrook    1 – 0   Newbury Forest

 

Division Two

Herongate Athletic   3 – 1   Ryan

May & Baker E.C Reserves  0 – 3   Ramsden Scotia

Ongar Town   2 – 0   Newham Utd

Rayleigh Town Res    3 – 1   Rochford Town

Toby   1 – 2     Upminster

 

Anagram Records Trophy

Catholic Utd  2 – 2    Manford Way AET (Catholic Utd won 4-2 on Penalties)

 

Senior League Cup 2nd Round

Benfleet    3 – 1  Rayleigh Town

Leigh Ramblers   4 – 2   A1 Sports

May & Baker E.C   1 – 2  Bishop’s Stortford Swifts

Essex Senior League & EOFL round-up (1.10.17)

Written by Scott W  (Twitter:@ScottMHC14)

Hello & welcome to the round-up of this weekend’s action in the Essex Senior League here on my blog. The full fixture programme returned on September 30th, as most ESL sides were in FA Vase action last weekend. After the updated ESL table, there’s a run-down of the results from the Essex Olympian League Premier Division, Division One & Division Two. How did your side do this time around? Find out below. Enjoy.

Saturday 30th September

Barkingside  1 –  1 Sawbridgeworth Town

Venue: Cricklefield   | Attendance: 48

Barkingside came from behind late-on to hold a determined but depleted Sawbridgeworth side to a draw at Cricklefield. Debutant Billy Skinner put the hosts ahead on the half-hour. Despite increasing pressure from the hosts towards the end of the match, it did look at though Town might have held on although they missed two or three good chances themselves. It wasn’t to be though as substitute Gareth Jones slotted home well to give Michael Walther’s side a point.

I attended this match and my full match report is here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2017/09/30/report-barkingside-1-1-sawbridgeworth-esl-30-9-17/

Basildon Utd   3 – 0    Tower Hamlets 

Venue: The Hive        |      Attendance: 95

Basildon ended Hamlets’ recent good league run at the Hive. Hot-shot Marcus Bowers did the damage for Marc Harrison’s side as his first-half hat-trick (7’,15’, 35’) sealed the Bees’ seventh win of the season thus far. Hamlets host Ilford on Monday night hoping for a better result.

Great Wakering Rovers    4 – 0     FC Romania

Venue: Burroughs Park      |      Attendance: 63

Wakering produced an excellent display to defeat FCR at Burroughs Park. Hot-shot Neil Richmond scored another super hat-trick (2’4’ and 87’) to set Iain O’Connell’s side on their way. Substitute Stephen Butterworth added the other goal with 13 minutes left.

Hackney Wick   1 – 2    Stansted

Venue: Old Spotted Dog     |        Attendance: 33

Stansted picked up a narrow win at the OSD. Jayden Hocking-Rising got the opener for his new club, while the visitors; winner was a late OG. Robert Gewada got Wick’s reply.

Redbridge  6 – 1     Hullbridge Sports

Venue: Oakside    |        Attendance: 50

Redbridge inflicted a heavy defeat on Hullbridge at Oakside. Brian Moses opened the scoring from the spot on 14 minutes. Lindsipho Mytanda doubled that lead four minutes before defender Jonathan Mbamarah made it three on 31 minutes. Hullbridge pulled one back through youngster Damien Siemienczuk seven minutes after the re-start, though the Motormen more than secured the points with second-half goals from Reside Coxi-Sebastfao (68’), substitute Billy Golledge (82’) and Moses’ second four minutes from time.

Southend Manor   3 – 2     Waltham Forest   

Venue: Southchurch Park      |     Attendance: 56

Manor came back superbly to grab only their second win this term at Southchurch Park. Edgar Morais and Mo Sagaf’s goals put Forest in command though Michael Hopkins pulled one back on 65 minutes before late goals from Alfie Lindfield (86’) and Lee Scott (88’) completed the comeback and the points for Stuart Marshall’s side.

Sporting Bengal Utd  1 – 4  Woodford Town (2017)

Venue: Mile End Stadium           |        Attendance: 30

Woodford upset Bengal with an excellent performance at Mile End Stadium. Larry Asare put the visitors ahead on 17 minutes before Asher Modeste’s goal five minutes before the break doubled the lead. Town made it three thanks to Bradley Kauzani on the hour. Eaia Embalo got one back for Bengal five minutes from time though Andrea Montovani secured the points for the visitors a minute from time.

 Takeley   2 – 0   Clapton   

Venue:  Station Road     |        Attendance: 145

Takeley maintained their 100% record with victory over Clapton at Station Road. Stuart Zanone gave Takeley the lead in first-half stoppage-time before Mitchell Das made it two on the hour.

 Wadham Lodge  1 – 0   Burnham Ramblers

Venue: Kitchener Road     |        Attendance: 14

Wadham edged Burnham to record an important win in this bottom-two clash at Kitchener Road. Ben McAllister got the only goal on 25 minutes to give Wadham their second win of the season which sees them off the foot of the table.

West Essex  2 – 1  Enfield 1893

Venue: Mayesbrook Park    |        Attendance: 24

West Essex kept up their good league form with victory at Mayesbrook Park. Tom MacLeod gave the hosts the lead two minutes after the re-start before Michael Mignot added to his increasing goal-tally this season with the second on the hour. Enfield got a consolation through Ryan Cosson three minutes from time.

 

ESL table (following 30th September matches)

Position	Team	P	W	D	L	GD (+/-)	Points
1	West Essex	9	7	1	1	9	22
2	Takeley	7	7	0	0	17	21
3	Basildon Utd	8	7	0	1	11	21
4	Great Wakering Rovers	9	6	1	2	14	19
5	Redbridge	9	6	1	2	10	19
6	Sporting Bengal Utd	11	6	1	4	3	19
7	Tower Hamlets	9	5	2	2	11	17
8	Woodford Town (2017)	11	4	2	5	-6	14
9	FC Romania	8	4	1	3	6	13
10	Stansted	10	4	1	5	3	13
11	Barkingside	8	4	1	3	2	13
12	Ilford	9	4	0	5	1	12
13	Clapton	9	3	3	3	0	12
14	Waltham Forest	11	3	2	6	-8	11
15	Hackney Wick	11	3	1	7	-8	10
16	Hullbridge Sports	9	2	3	4	-9	9
17	Sawbridgeworth Town	9	2	2	5	-4	8
18	Southend Manor	6	2	1	3	-2	7
19	Enfield 1893	8	2	0	6	-9	6
20	Wadham Lodge	11	2	0	9	-24	6
21	Burnham Ramblers	10	1	1	8	-17	4

Saturday 30th September

Essex Olympian League

Premier Division

Catholic Utd  1 – 2    May & Baker E.C.

Harold Wood Athletic 1 – 2  Kelvedon Hatch

Leigh Ramblers 2 – 0  Rayleigh Town

Manford Way  3 – 0   Basildon Town

 

Division One

Galleywood  2 – 1 FC Hamlets

Harold Hill   5 – 2   Newbury Forest

Old Chelmsfordians  3 – 4  Shenfield AFC

Old Southendian  1 – 3  Great Baddow

Runwell Sports   1 – 2    Hutton

Snaresbrook  1 – 3   Sungate

 

Division Two

Newham Utd  0 – 0   A1 Sports

Ongar Town  6 – 1  Ryan

Ramsden Scotia   4 – 3    Toby

Rayleigh Town Res.  5 – 2   Herongate Athletic

Upminster    0 – 1    Rochford Town

 

If you missed last week’s ESL & EOFL round-up (24.9.17) , you can view it here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2017/09/24/esl-fa-v-2qr-eofl-r-up-24-9-17/

My match this weekend was in the FA Vase 2QR: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2017/09/23/match-report-w-essex-1-2-gwr-fav/    

 

2017/18 FA Cup Prelim Round: Results round-up

Written by Scott W (Twitter: ScottMHC14)

Hello & welcome to a special round-up of some of the results from this weekend’s FA Cup Prelim Round ties, specifically involving Essex Senior League & Bostik Division Clubs. The winners of each receive £1,925 in prize money & a place in the First Qualifying Round of the competition.

Saturday 19th August

AFC Hornchurch  2 – 0 Brentwood Town   

Venue: Bridge Avenue   Attendance: 309

The Urchins progressed to the next round, defeating fellow Bostik North side Brentwood at Bridge Avenue. Both goals came in the second half from Hornchurch striker Ross Wall (64’ & 84’). Craig Shipman’s side will have to wait another season for a potential FA Cup adventure.

AFC Sudbury 4 – 0 Aveley

Venue: Wardale Williams Stadium   Attendance: 174

Sudbury comfortably defeated fellow Bostik North side Aveley at the Wardale Williams Stadium. The Yellows took the lead through Julian Smith with 27 minutes on the watch. Three minutes before the break, Adam Mills doubled the home side’s advantage. After the break, two goals in ten minutes from Dave Cowley (60’) and Alfie Carroll (69’) sealed the win for Jamie Godbold’s side.

Barking 0 – 0 Saffron Walden Town

Venue: Mayesbrook Park    Attendance: 76

Barking held Thurlow Nunn Premier side Saffron Walden Town at Mayesbrook Park. This stalemate means that both sides will have to do it all again at Catons Lane in midweek.

Bowers & Pitsea 0 – 2 Haringey Borough

Venue: Len Salmon Stadium    Attendance: 174

Haringey overcame Bowers at the Len Salmon. The visitors led on 67 minutes as former Bowers player Ayron Coley struck, soon after coming off the bench. Borough made their progression into the next round safe with moments left as fellow substitute Ashley McDonald grabbed their second.

Bury Town 1 – 2  Tilbury

Venue: Ram Meadow    Attendance: 233

Tilbury fought off a late fightback from Bury Town to make it into the hat for the next round at Ram Meadow. Tilbury led after the quarter-hour through Adam Vyse before just past the hour mark, fellow striker Luke Hornsley doubled their lead. Darren Mills pulled one back for Town with 21 minutes remaining.

Canvey Island 0 – 2  Witham Town

Venue: Park Lane    Attendance: 224

Witham Town produced a good away-day win to defeat Canvey at Park Lane. Tyler Corlett put the visitors ahead on 21 minutes. Substitute Sam Ashford secured the win late on for Adam Flint’s men.

Clapton 2 – 0 Norwich Utd  

Venue: Old Spotted Dog   Attendance: 122

Clapton secured their passage into the next round by defeating Bostik North side Norwich Utd at the Old Spotted Dog. Substitute Raphael Duyile put the Tons ahead three minutes before the break. After the interval, Ikem Odeh sealed an important win twenty mnutes from time for Jon Fowell’s men.

Dereham Town 3 – 0  Corby Town

Venue: Aldiss Park    Attendance: 164

Bostik North side Dereham grabbed a good win at home to Corby Town. After only three minutes, Daniel Beaumont put the Magpies ahead. Dereham sealed the win with two goals in the last ten minutes courtesy of Ashley Jarvis and Beaumount grabbing his brace. Credit has to go to Corby goalkeeper Paul Bostock who played in this match aged 47 – best wishes to him.

Grays Athletic 2 – 0 Redbridge

Venue: Parkside   Attendance: 174

Grays defeated ESL side Redbridge on the 3G at Parkside. Sully Zuhdu gave the hosts the lead seven minutes before the break. Then, just six minutes after the re-start, Joao Carlos doubled the lead and ensured Jamie Stuart’s side are in the next round.

Great Yarmouth Town 1 – 0 Basildon Utd

Venue: Sandown Road    Attendance: 163

Great Yarmouth grabbed a late winner to knock out ESL side Basildon Utd in a tightly-contested match at Sandown Road. Substitute Lee Roots grabbed the winner eight minutes from time to seal the hosts’ passage into the next round.

Haverhill Rovers 1 – 1 Heybridge Swifts

Venue: The New Croft    Attendance: 188

This hard-fought encounter ended in a draw. Heybridge were reduced to ten men after just 15 minutes as defender Ryan Henshaw saw red. Swifts took the lead just three minutes later though, as Sam Bantick struck. Rovers recovered after the break though to seal a replay as Jordan Palmer scored 12 minutes from time. The replay will be played at Scraley Road in midweek.

Hertford Town 4 – 1   Hadleigh Utd

Venue: Hertingfordbury Park   Attendance: 260

Bostik North newcomers defeated Thurlow Nunn Premier side Hadleigh at Hertingfordbury Park. Hertford led after just two minutes through Daniel Bond. Jason Beck doubled the lead just before the break. Hadleigh pulled one back from the spot, thanks to Ben Elliott’s penalty on the hour. Hertford pushed on though as Bond got his second nine minutes later. Substitute Charlie Ruff grabbed a fourth for Town on 74 minutes, soon after coming on.

Ilford 1 – 1 Haverhill Borough

Venue: Cricklefield   Attendance: 82

Ilford were held by Thurlow Nunn Premier side Borough at Cricklefield. Khadean Campbell gave the Foxes the lead ten minutes before the break with a curling 20-yard strike. Borough were level only eight minutes later though as Sam Hawley struck. Ilford had to see out the last 17 minutes with ten men but they held on for a replay at New Croft 3G in midweek.

Long Melford 1 – 2 FC Romania

Venue: Stoneylands    Attendance: 84

FC Romania secured their place in the next round with a good win at Stoneylands. Sergiu Pitaru gave FCR the lead with 26 minutes on the clock, before Toby Cleaver doubled the lead eight minutes before the break. Melford raised their game in the second half, and grabbed a goal back six minutes from time though substitute Nathan Rowe. The visitors held on though for a good win.

Maldon & Tiptree 5 – 1 Waltham Abbey

Venue: Park Drive   Attendance: 73

Maldon knocked out fellow Bostik North side Abbey at Park Drive. The home side took the lead on the quarter-hour through Junior Ogedi-Uzokwe. Only two minutes later, Chris Millar made it two. Macauley Joynes pulled one back for the Abbotts seven minutes before the break. After the break, Kieraan Bailey restored the Jammers’ two-goal cushion on 55 minutes, before Ogedi-Uzokwe grabbed his second two minutes later. Ryan Gondoh added a fifth from a super free-kick to seal a good win for Kevin Horlock’s men.

Newmarket Town 1 – 2 Ware

Venue: Ridgeons Stadium   Attendance: 100

Ware secured a good away-day win at Newmarket to make the next round. Yannick Kamanan put Kem Kemal’s side ahead after only five minutes. A Jack Watson penalty levelled things for the home side, before Kamanan struck again 12 minutes into the second half to grab the win for the Blues.

Potters Bar Town 4 – 1 West Essex

Venue: Pakex Stadium      Attendance: 121

Potters Bar recovered from faling behind to record a good win over ESL side West Essex at the Pakex Stadium. Michael Mignot gave the visitors the lead six minutes before the break. George Nicholas levelled for the Scholars almost immediately, before Eoin Casey put the hosts ahead on 52 minutes. Steve Brown grabbed a third mid-way into the second half, before Casey sealed the win with his second with twenty minutes left.

Soham Town Rangers 3 – 2 Cogenhoe Utd

Venue: Julius Martin Lane   Attendance: 123

Soham edged to an important win over Cogenhoe Utd. Two goals in a four-minutes spell saw Soham take the advantage through Daniel Buddle (36’) and Matt Allan (39’). After the break, the visitors pulled one back through Matt Long levelled thanks to Ryan Dove. Soham’s Callum Russell grabbed the winner with 15 minutes remaining.

Southend Manor 2 – 3 Gorleston

Venue: Southchurch Park   Attendance: 64

Manor narrowly lost out to Thurlow Nunn Premier side Gorleston at Southchurch Park. Manor took the lead through Michael Hopkins two minutes after the break. Jack Garrod levelled for the visitors on 58 minutes, before taking the lead five minutes later through Connor Deeks’s penalty. Stuart Marshall’s side were reduced to ten men as winger Alfie Lindfield was sent off. Manor fought back though and levelled through defender Daniel Okah’s over-head kick. The hosts probably thought they’d done enough for a replay though Gorleston’s Garrod grabbed his second in injury-time to seal the win for Ricci Butler’s side.

Stowmarket Town 1 – 1 Romford

Venue: Humber Doucy Lane

Romford held Stowmarket Town at Humber Doucey Lane. The home side took the lead through Andrew Wood four minutes before the break. Paul Martin’s side levelled on 53 minutes through Jonathon Adebayo to get back in the match and the sides couldn’t be separated so it’ll be a replay at Ship Lane in midweek.

Tower Hamlets 0 – 4 Takeley

Venue: Mile End Stadium    Atendance: 55

Takeley saw off ESL rivals Tower Hamlets to make it through to the First Qualifying Round for the first time. Mitchell Das put the visitors ahead after six minutes, before George Wappett increased the advantage eight minutes later. Bryn Thorpe added a third though it may have been an OG. Stuart Zanone sealed a good win for his side with three minutes remaining.

Sunday 20th August

St Margaretsbury 2  –  2 Hullbridge Sports

Venue: The Recreation Ground

Hullbridge fought back to deny St Margaretsbury and take the tie to a replay. Hullbridge took the lead through Sam Dulieu’s free-kick after only four minutes. St Margetsbury levelled through captain Ryan Wade’s penalty on 54 minutes. The hosts then took the lead with twenty minutes remaining as Wade struck again from the penalty spot. Hullbridge secured a replay with a last-gasp leveller from substitute Ronnie Pallett. The replay will be held at Lower Road in midweek.

The First Qualifying Round takes place on the weekend of September 2nd/3rd. Thank you for reading.

2017-18 FA Cup Preliminary Round: Preview

Written by Peter D & Scott W

This weekend sees ten ESL sides compete in the Emirates FA Cup Preliminary Round. The winners of each tie are awarded £1,925 and will make the First Qualifying Round of this year’s competition. Here are Peter and Scott’s thoughts on the upcoming ties:-

Saturday 19th August (3pm KO’s)

Clapton v Norwich Utd      Venue: Old Spotted Dog Stadium

Peter: The Tons welcome Bostik North side Norwich United to The Old Spotted Dog for what could be a potential ‘cupset’ here as the Tons are more than useful whilst the visitors sit bottom of their league after two defeats from two, however they will surely be a tough test for the home side still although I feel if you factor the travel and unfamiliar surroundings for the visitors, this may count against them and I can see the hosts pulling off a shock here.

Pete’s Prediction: 2-0

Scott: Jon Fowell’s Tons welcome Isthmian North Norwich Utd to the Old Spotted Dog. Clapton have been inconsistent form-wise in league & cup so far though Norwich will be looking for a morale-boosting win though Steve Eastaugh’s men will need to be ‘on-the-ball’ as their hosts may well fancy this one.

Scott’s Prediction: 2 – 1

 

Grays Athletic  v  Redbridge    Venue: Parkside

Peter: Parkside hosts Bostik North Grays against Redbridge and the visitors come into this cup-tie off form after two straight defeats without scoring in the league.  Grays have won one and lost one so far in the Bostik North however they should have enough I feel to see off the Motormen here.

Pete’s Prediction: 2 – 0

Scott: Jamie Stuart’s side welcome ESL side Redbridge to Parkside. Grays will see this as a winnable tie though will be conscious of the Motormen’s forward line which could make this one a tricky match. For Redbridge, it’ll be interesting how they perform after a largely inconsistent start to the ESL, and the new artificial pitch at Parkside might also be a factor in this one.

Scott’s Prediction: 2 – 1

 

Great Yarmouth Town  v  Basildon Utd     Venue: Sandown Road

Peter: The Bees travel to the Norfolk coast to take on Great Yarmouth Town full of confidence after a more than decent start to their campaign.  Basildon saw off Walsham-le-Willows in the last round and come up against a Yarmouth side who lost 4-1 at Godmanchester Rovers in midweek.  However, the hosts did thrash Diss Town 5-0 at home in the last round so can score goals so this will prove a tough test for Marc Harrison’s side.  I feel the fact that Basildon are staying in the area Friday evening will help their preparation even more and this will help see them to a marvellous victory I feel.

Pete’s Prediction: 1 – 3

Scott: Basildon make the long trip to Norfolk to take on ECL Premier Great Yarmouth Town at Sandown Road. The hosts are currently mid-table in their division, having played two matches. Basildon have started their ESL campaign well, and it’ll be interesting to see what effect their preparation for the match will have.

Scott’s Prediction: 0 – 1

 

Ilford v Haverhill Borough       Venue: Cricklefield

Peter: Ilford hosts Thurlow Nunn Haverhill Borough hoping they can bounce back from their midweek loss at Burnham Ramblers although they can look towards the visitors’ league form this season which is played three, lost three, however Borough’s only win this season came in the FA Cup at Enfield 1893 so Ilford should be mindful of this.  But I can see the Foxes getting the result here.

Pete’s Prediction: 1 – 0

Scott: Ilford welcome ECL Premier side Haverhill Borough to Cricklefield. Ilford’s start to the ESL has been inconsistent though they will want to respond well following their loss in midweek. In contrast, Borough have lost all three of their matches so far in the ECL Premier though they did knock out Enfield 1893 in the last round of the FA Cup.

Scott’s Prediction: 2 – 0

 

Long Melford  v  FC Romania        Venue: Stoneylands

Peter: Hosts Melford have only picked up one point from three league games however their only win was against Hackney Wick although they were lucky to win that one.  FC Romania on the other hand have won all their league games so far although needed a replay to defeat Waltham Forest in the last round. Despite the hosts having home advantage I still believe the visitors will have too much for the Suffolk side.

Pete’s Prediction: 0 – 3

Scott: FC Romania travel to the Suffolk/Essex border to take on Long Melford at Stoneylands after knocking out Waltham Forest in their EPR replay in midweek. Long Melford haven’t won yet in the ECL Premier though they did knock out ESL newcomers Hackney Wick in the last round. Given the firepower they have in their side, FCR could very well prevail here.

Scott’s Prediction: 1 – 2

 

Potters Bar Town  v  West Essex     Venue: Pakex Stadium

Peter:  West Essex’s terrific away record so far this season will be put under immense pressure as they travel to take on Bostik North side Potters Bar Town.  The hosts have started the season well, winning both their games so far and averaging two goals a game in the process, and having home advantage as well I feel they will probably have just much for the high-flying ESL outfit.

Pete’s Prediction: 2 – 1

Scott: An intriguing tie sees Isthmian North newcomers Potters Bar take on ESL side West Essex at the Pakex Stadium. Both sides have started their respective seasons well. West Essex will be looking to get to the First Qualifying Round in their first-ever FA Cup campaign which would be a fabulous achievement, should they prevail here. Potters Bar will be looking to continue the ‘winning habit’ and being at home may give them an edge.

Scott’s Prediction: 3 – 2

 

Southend Manor v Gorleston         Venue: Southchurch Park

Peter: Manor welcome another Norfolk side to Southchurch Park after they defeated Wroxham there in the last round, however in Gorleston the challenge proves even tougher as the Thurlow Nunn side have won four of their five competitive outings so far, scoring fifteen times in the process, with their only defeat coming against big-spending Stowmarket Town last time out.  Manor have had a steady start to the campaign but are finding goals hard to come by and this was a problem in defeat to ESL leaders Takeley in midweek when they rued missed opportunities in defeat. This will be a tight contest however I see the Norfolk side progressing in this one.

Pete’s Prediction: 0 – 2

Scott: Manor welcome ECL Premier side Gorleston in another interesting tie at Southchurch Park. Manor edged out the visitors’ divisional rivals Wroxham in the last round, though with Gorleston starting their league season well, this may be a sterner test for Stuart Marshall’s side.

Scott’s Prediction:  0 – 1

 

Tower Hamlets v Takeley               Venue: Mile End Stadium

Peter: Hamlets are a far tougher nut to crack this season and they will give Takeley a game – no doubt about that, however the hosts struggled to beat a poor FC Broxbourne Borough side in the last round and are yet to record a league win.  Takeley on the other hand, have won all five competitive games this season although their midweek win against Manor was a tad fortunate, but they will surely have too much for Hamlets in the end and will progress I feel.

Pete’s Prediction: 1 – 3

Scott: Hamlets welcome ESL early high-flyers Takeley to Mile End. Although Hamlets haven’t won in the ESL yet this term, they do look a stronger outfit compared to last season, though Takeley are unbeaten in all competitions thus far and will take some stopping here.

Scott’s Prediction: 1 – 3

 

Sunday 20th August

St Margaretsbury   v  Hullbridge Sports     Venue: Stanstead Abbotts

Peter: The Sunday game sees Hullbridge travel to Hertfordshire to take on Spartan South Midlands side St Margaretsbury.  The hosts have lost both their league games so far and sit bottom on goals conceded whilst Sports have picked up two wins in all competitions this season including a 5-1 hammering of Ipswich Wanderers in the last round.  St Margaretsbury’s only win came against Burnham Ramblers in the last round when they fought back from 2-1 down to win in stoppage time and they hope to repeat that feat against another ESL side.  However I feel Sports will have just enough to see off the hosts.

Pete’s Prediction: 1 – 2

Scott: On Sunday, Hullbridge travel to Stanstead Abbotts following their impressive win over Ipswich Wanderers in the last round. St Margetsbury edged out Hullbridge’s ESL compatriots Burnham in the last round and will be in for another tough one here. Hullbridge have found some form of late, particularly in front of goal and if that continues here they may have the edge.

Scott’s Prediction: 1 – 2

 

As always, my thanks to Peter for his contribution to these Preview pieces.

You can follow Peter on Twitter: @ped1980 and on his website featuring regular results round-ups & match reports at http://www.leaguewebsite.co.uk/unofficialesl/ 

You can follow Scott W on Twitter: @ScottMHC14

Match Report: Southend Manor 0 – 1 Takeley (ESL)

Essex Senior League

Venue: Southchurch Park

Attendance: 80

2017-18 Season – Match 13

Date: Wednesday 16th August 2017 7.45pm KO

Southend Manor  : Yellow Shirts, Yellow Shorts, Black Socks

Takeley : Red Shirts, Red Shorts, Red Socks

The players just before KO

Scott W reporting (Twitter: @ScottMHC14)

On a pleasant evening at Southchurch Park, Southend Manor took on Takeley in an intriguing Essex Senior League encounter.

The visitors began the match marginally better, though forward Stuart Zanone and captain Jason Todd couldn’t get their strikes past Manor goalkeeper Klinton Makayabo. After a fair quiet spell in the match, with 25 minutes on the watch, Takeley winger George Wappett sent in a nice cross into the Manor box though it was just out of reach of Zanone, who couldn’t quite put in a telling header on goal from it.

Manor almost scored just past the half-hour as a Joe Skeels free-kick found fellow midfielder Lee Delf, though it appeared to hit his knee and the visiting goalkeeper Ronnie Yates had to be alert to stop the ball trickling over the line and in. To be fair, both defences were on top in the first period, though the visitors edged it, both on chances and attacking play.

Half-Time: Southend Manor  0 – 0  Takeley

The second half began at a more frenetic pace, as Manor started well. Manor forward Bayley Newell twice missed the target. Just before the hour, there was a goal-mouth scramble as Delf headed on into the six-yard area though the visitors were just able to clear there likes from a corner, from which Newell sent in a decent cross, just out of reach of winger Jack Adlington.

Only minutes later, Takeley full-back Andre Humphreys nearly caught out Makayabo with a blistering strike from a narrow angle that hit the woodwork. Manor responded on 65 minutes as another Skeels free-kick deceived the visiting defence and defender George Powell was in the ‘right place at the right time’ to clear off the goal-line.

Into the last ten minutes and Takeley forward Mitchell Das blasted his strike wide, in a good position from twenty yards out. With only moments remaining, Manor substitute Finlay Dobson fizzed in a cross from the left flank, though Delf couldn’t find the target. And with the match seemingly heading for a draw, Takeley substitute Will Green powered down the left wing and sent over a good cross and found Zanone who grabbed a tap-in after sneaking past the Manor back-line.

Full-Time: Southend Manor  0 – 1    Takeley

Zanone 90’

All in all, defeat was tough on Manor though in my opinion, it is another indication of the stronger back-line they have this term, compared to last season. Daniel Okah was superb at the back for Stuart Marshall’s side. Takeley will obviously be delighted with the points as they were not at their best in attack, though their defence and their ability to grind out results shows why they may well be ‘in the mix’ come season’s end. Full-back Andre Humphreys stood out for me, with his pace and energy levels.

I’d like to wish both sides well for the rest of the campaign.

Teams:
Southend Manor Manager: Stuart Marshall	Takeley Manager: Marc Das
1  Klinton Makayabo  (GK)	1  Ronnie Yates  (GK)
2  Robbie Norris  (C)	2  Nick Barrett
3  Lee Scott	3  Andre Humphreys
4  Lee Delf	4  Matt Gill
5  Daniel Okah	5  George Powell
6  Scott Keys	6  Matt Hurley       (Subbed 78’)
7  Jack Adlington      (Subbed 60’)	7  Bryn Thorpe
8  Callum Jex             (Subbed 68’)	8  Jason Todd  (C)    (Subbed 84’)
9  Michael Hopkins	9  Stuart Zanone
10  Bayley Newell     (Subbed 78’)	10  Mitchell Das
11  Joe Skeels	11  George Wappett    (Subbed 71’)
Substitutes:
12  Finlay Dobson   (On 60’)	14  Freddie Burrell         (On 84’)
14  Rhys Fatt             (On 68’)	15  Will Green                (On 71’)
15  Shay Kelly	16  Reece Barrett
16  Daryl Cooper      (On 78’)	17  Olakunmi Bossanya    (On 78’)
17  Ibrahim Kagbanda
Referee:	Kane Woods
Assistant Referees:	Joe Burgess Erwin Kegyes
Booked: Skeels, Delf, Norris	Booked: Todd, Das, Zanone

Match Report: Sawbridgeworth Town 0 – 1 Takeley

Sawbridgeworth players recieve their momentos from Redbridge FC’s Len C. & ESL Chair Rob E.

Takeley hot-shot Charlie Cole recieving his Top Goalscorer award

Takeley players with the Trophy…

Essex Senior League Challenge Cup Final

Venue: Oakside

Attendance: 342

Date: Monday 1st May 2017 3pm KO

Sawbridgeworth Town : Red & Black Striped Shirts, Black Shorts, Red Socks

Takeley : Blue Shirts, Blue Shorts, Blue Socks

The ESL Challenge Cup (Credit: Peter Dudley)

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

On a chilly afternoon at Oakside in front of a good crowd, Sawbridgeworth Town on Gordon Brasted Trophy winners Takeley in the Essex Senior League Challenge Cup Final.

Both sides took a bit of time to settle in what was a tightly-contested match from the outset. Sawbridgeworth had an early sight of goal, though forward Reece Cosson’s 20-yard drive was comfortably saved by Takeley ‘keeper Ronnie Yates.  Just after the quarter-hour, Yates saved well from Sawbridgeworth captain Matt Frew’s goal-bound effort.

As the half-hour mark approached, Takeley had a few chances of their own though as winger Mitchell Das found himself one-on-one with Town ‘keeper Matt Ponter six yards out though the stopper made a good save. Ponter made another good save moments later to deny pacey winger George Wappett.

Takeley lost Mitchell Das to injury eight minutes before the break, replaced by Reece Barrett. This momentarily seemed to affect Marc Das’ side a little as they had a few nervy moments in defence soon after. Takeley could’ve gone into the break ahead though star marksman Charlie Cole blasted his shot over the bar from a decent position in added-time.

Half-Time:  Sawbridgeworth Town 0  – 0  Takeley

Into the second half, and just short of the hour mark, Town striker Gavin Cockman shot wide after a decent pass by winger Daryl Doolan. Just past the hour,  Cole’s cross-shot was picked up by Reece Barrett, though missed what was almost a tap-in.

Takeley had more chances to break the deadlock though they just couldn’t take them. Forward Matt Hurley blasted a strike over the bar from 20 yards out with 20 minutes remaining.

Town were still in the contest though, as in the latter stages of the second period, Cockman’s well-struck effort from the left-wing needed a good save by Yates to deny him. Cockman again was denied by the Takeley stopper from close range moments later.

The referee blew his whistle and extra-time was needed to separate the two sides. Takeley had the edge in attack, though Town defender Chris Ratambwa was a rock at the back for his side, alongside his captain Frew.

Extra-time began and five minutes in, Town had a decent chance though midfielder George Pullen’s shot was saved by Yates. On 100 minutes, the crucial moment came as Takeley powered forward, though Charlie Cole’s unselfish pass in the area found Barrett who tapped home the vital goal.

Five minutes into the second period of extra-time, a great cross from the right-wing by Tom Jelliman was met by Cosson, though his header was just over the bar. Takeley could have sealed it with moments remaining though Barrett, Wappett and Cole were all denied by Ponter.

In my opinion, there wasn’t much to separate the sides; Town perhaps lacked a focal point in attack besides Cockman may have been it though Takeley had enough chances to win the match more comfortably. Congratulations to them on ‘doing the (cup) double’ though they will need to be more clinical if they are to challenge for the ESL next season. Best wishes to both sides.

Full-Time (AET) : Sawbridgeworth Town 0  – 1  Takeley

R Barrett 100’

Teams:
Sawbridgeworth Town  Joint-Managers: John & Mark Watters	Takeley  Manager: Marc Das
1  Matt Ponter  (GK)	1  Ronnie Yates (GK)
2  Tom Jelliman	2  Danny Hammett
5  Matt Frew  (C)	3  Bryn Thorpe
4  Chris Ratambwa	4  Nick Barrett
6  Oliver Fortune   (Subbed  81’)	5  George Powell
12  Jack Thomas	6  Andy Bartram  (Subbed  56’)
7  Daryl Doolan	7  Mitchell Das   (Subbed  37’)
16  George Pullen	8  Jason Todd  (C)
8  Reece Cosson	9  Matt Hurley   (Subbed  81’)
10  Gavin Cockman   (Subbed  91’)	10  Charlie Cole
11  Aaron Thomas	11  George Wappett
Substitutes:
9  Sam Coe   (On 91’)	12  Sean Sanmoogan
13  Marco Tuzzeo	14  Freddie Burrell   (On 56’)
14  Joe Wright    (On 81’)	15  Frank Oatham    (On 81’)
3  Tyler Sanaga-Ismael	16  Kev Riley
	17  Reece Barrett    (On 37’)
Booked: A. Thomas, Pullen	Booked: Powell, Burrell, Wappett
Referee:	Tom Fell
Assistant Referees:	Alan Steward Michael Iddenden-Smith
Fourth Official:	David Harrison

 

Match Report: Takeley 3 – 0 Eton Manor (GBMT Final)

Gordon Brasted Memorial Trophy Final

Venue: Leslie Field

Attendance: 206

Date: Monday 17th April 2017

Takeley  : Blue Shirts, Blue Shorts and Blue Socks

 Eton Manor : Red & White Striped Shirts, Red Shorts, Red & White Hooped Socks

The Gordon Brasted Trophy

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

On a cloudy afternoon at Burnham Ramblers’ Leslie Field Stadium, Takeley took on Eton Manor in the Gordon Brasted Memorial Trophy Final. Neither of these sides had won this competition before so we would see a new name on the cup regardless.

Takeley started the stronger of the two teams in the early-going with winger Andy Bartram and forward Mitchell Das having early strikes on goal, though they couldn’t get past Manor ‘keeper Michael Shoudry. Manor did have to defend deep at times, though they had chances of their own in their best spell of the game from the half-hour mark with midfielder Michael Castle blasting an effort over the bar after decent build-up play. Only a few minutes later, Manor had arguably their best chance with tireless forward Harry Prince striking his shot well, though a good save from Takeley ‘keeper Ronnie Yates tipped it onto the bar.

Half-Time: Takeley 0 – 0 Eton Manor

The second half began with Takeley pushing forward, striving to break the deadlock. Just before the hour mark, Takeley hot-shot Charlie Cole had his header cleared off the line by the under-pressure but resolute Manor back-line. Shortly afterwards, Cole then played in Das though his shot wide, in a good position. Manor had to soak up a lot of Takeley pressure and battled very hard throughout, with centre-backs Josh Woodcock and Ryan Cosson & midfielder Jacob Dixon particularly showing that iron will. Try as they might, Takeley could not quite find that ‘final ball’ often enough.

End of 90 Minutes: Takeley 0 – 0 Eton Manor

As extra-time began, early on there was a nervy moment at the back for Marc Das’ men though Manor captain Ben Bradbury’s effort was saved by Yates. Takeley surged forward again and captain Jason Todd nearly opened the scoring on 96 minutes with a curled drive that only just went over the bar. It was a sign of things to come though as Takeley won a free-kick soon after on the ‘edge of the D’ and substitute Reece Barrett’s curled strike evaded Shoudry to give Takeley the lead.

Unsurprisingly, Takeley were buoyed on by the goal, though just a minute afterward, Cole headed over and then moments later, Cole sent his shot over an unguarded net from Das’ pass. Cole would have his moment in the sun though with minutes remaining, first slotting home past Shoudry from a narrow angle and then getting a tap-in after the Manor ‘keeper had saved Mitchell Das’ effort.

A deserved, hard-fought win it was for Takeley, though admittedly the score-line did flatter them a bit in the end. Tony Stavri’s Manor, to their credit dug in and showed battling qualities which will hold them in good stead for the future, they can be proud of themselves too.

Manor captain Ben Bradbury leads his side to collect their momentos

The Victorious Takeley team with the Trophy

FT (AET): Takeley      3  – 0         Eton Manor

Barrett 98’

Cole 112’, 116’

Teams:
Takeley Manager: Marc Das	Eton Manor Manager: Tony Stavri
1  Ronnie Yates  (GK)	1  Michael Shoudry  (GK)
2  Danny Hammett	2  Billy Johnson
3  Bryn Thorpe	3  James Shadwell
4  Nick Barrett	4  Josh Woodcock
5  George Powell	5  Ryan Cosson
6  Alex Martin         (Subbed 106’)	6  Jacob Dixon
7  Andy Bartram     (Subbed 83’)	7  Daniel Chambers   (Subbed 37’)
8  Jason Todd   (C)	8  Michael Castle
9  Mitchell Das	9  Harry Prince        (Subbed 106’)
10  Charlie Cole	10  Ben Bradbury  (C)
11  George Wappett    (Subbed 85’)	11  Daniel Crowie    (Subbed 83’)
Substitutes:
12  Joe Bees	12  Mason Stavri
14  Freddie Burrell     (On 106’)	14  Kingsley Francis    (On 37’)
15  Sean Sanmoogan	15  Lewis Hagland
16  Matt Hurley      (On 83’)	16  Kadeem Brightly     (On 106’)
17  Reece Barrett   (On 85’)	17  Dominic Herbert     (On 83’)
Booked: Martin, Das	Booked: Johnson, Cosson, Crowie, Francis, Castle, Woodcock
Referee:	Karl Sear
Assistant Referees:	Eddie Andrews and Tony King
Fourth Official:	Craig Barnett