Bostik Premier Division Round-up (20.1.18)

Written by Scott W (Twitter: @ScottMHC14)

Hello & welcome to ‘bonus’ round-up of this weekend’s Isthmian Premier Division action here on my blog. Ahead of this weekend’s weather-affected programme, there was approximately three months of the season remaining before the end-of-season play-offs take over proceedings.

Here is the aforementioned round-up of the results this weekend:

Saturday 20th January

Billericay Town P – P Harrow Borough

| Venue: New Lodge

Despite the hard work of the club groundsman, the match referee deemed the surface unplayable due to a waterlogged pitch.

 

Burgess Hill Town P – P  Enfield Town

This match was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch.

 

Dorking Wanderers  2 – 2  Harlow Town

| Venue: Westhumble Community Stadium   | Attendance: 212

Mid-table Dorking were held at home by struggling Harlow at Westhumble. James McShane put the hosts in the first minute before Lewis Putman doubled the lead 11 minutes later. Harlow, who sold Junior Dadson to Cray Wanderers this week, got back into the match just before the break as Jared Small struck to halve their arrears. Toby Ajala completed the comeback for Town with the leveller 13 minutes from time. Wanderers’ unbeaten run extends to five matches now and sit 16th while Harlow’s mixed form continues, with five defeats in their last nine league matches as they remain 20th.

 

Dulwich Hamlet 1- 2 Merstham

| Venue: Champion Hill   | Attendance: 1,692

Dulwich were the victim of a spirited late comeback at Champion Hill, in front of nearly 1,700 fans. Hamlet led on the quarter-hour as Ashley Carew had put them ahead, though after the break a brace from Charlie Penny [77′ & 81′] turned the tide of the match and in doing so, handed Merstham their first win in seven league outings. League leaders Dulwich’s second defeat on-the-trot sees them concede ground to chasers Billericay who now have seven matches in hand on Gavin Rose’s side. Merstham rise to 17th spot after a super afternoon for them.

 

Folkestone Invicta P – P Lowestoft Town

| Venue: Fullicks Stadium

This match was postponed, presumably due to a waterlogged pitch.

 

Kingstonian 0 – 1 Brightlingsea Regent

| Venue: Fetcham Grove   | Attendance: 221

An early goal from Robert Harvey [7′] was enough to give Brightlingsea all three points at Fetcham Grove. The K’s have now only won two of their last nine league encountersand they fall to 18th spot. Regent are now unbeaten in four matches and rise to 12th spot in the table.

 

Leiston P – P Tonbridge Angels

| Venue: Victory Road

This match was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch.

 

Margate 3- 2 Tooting & Mitcham Utd

| Venue: Hartsdown Park | Attendance: 542

Play-off chasing Margate held off Tooting in a challenging encounter to record the win at Hartsdown Park. The visitors took a surprise lead through Peter Wedgeworth’s second-minute strike before hot-shot Jordan Chiedozie restored parity for the ‘Gate from the penalty spot 12 minutes later. Chiedozie struck again just four minutes later to wrestle the initative back for Steve Watt’s side. Three minutes after the break, Sam Blackman made it 3-1 before Chace O’Neill’s goal [65′] ensured a tight finish. Even so, Margate recorded the win and their unbeaten stretch extends to five matches now as they rise to 6th spot. Tooting’s struggles go on as they lost for the fourth match in-a-row, remaining second-bottom, just four points clear of bottom side Burgess Hill having played four games more.

 

Needham Market 3 – 3 Hendon

| Venue: Bloomfields    | Attendance: 239

The Marketmen struck late to clinch a point in this topsy-turvy encounter at Bloomfields. The hosts led twelve minutes in through Jeremiah Kamanzi’s opener though on 33 minutes, play-off chasing Hendon levelled courtesy of Josh Walker’s strike. After the break, a quick-fire brace from Ashley Nathaniel-George [50′ & 53′] put Hendon in command though out-of-form Needham grabbed a point after Adam Mills struck with a brace of his own [60′ & 88′]. Needham’s winless run goes on though, now sitting at six matches as they remain 21st, six points clear of the solitary relegation place. Hendon’s good run continues with five wins & two losses in their last nine matches, they sit 5th, in the play-offs by virtue of superior goal difference.

 

Staines Town P – P Worthing | Venue: Wheatsheaf Park

This match was postponed due to an unplayable pitch.

 

Thurrock 2- 0 Leatherhead

Venue: Ship Lane | Attendance: 162

Mark Stimson’s side emerged from this battle at Ship Lane with another important three points in the bag. First-half goals from Remi Sutton [37′] and Michael Pindy secured the win, their fourth in their last nine matches now, as they rise to 13th spot. Leatherhead’s eight-match unbeaten league run ended here though player-boss Sammy Moore’s side are still well-placed in 10th spot, just three points outside the play-off places.

 

Wingate & Finchley 1 – 0 Metropolitan Police

Venue: Summers Lane | Attendance: 90

Wingate edged to victory in this match between two play-off chasing sides at Summers Lane. After a match that didn’t quite fizz into life in the first half, five minutes after the break Wingate striker Afolabi Obafemi broke the deadlock to eventually seal the points over Jim Cooper’s determined Met side. The hosts’ have now won six of their last nine league outings as they go up to 9th place while Met Police are still on a decent run themselves with only three losses in their last nine matches after today. They reside in 8th place, a point ahead of their opponents here and just two points off the play-offs.

That’s your lot for this weekend in the Premier Division though you can find my other articles here – Bostik Division North: survivor16b.wordpress.com/2018/01/20/bostik-division-north-round-up-20-1-18/

Advertisement

Bostik League Premier Division Round-up (Matchday 4)

Scott W reporting (Twitter: @ScottMHC14)

Hello & welcome to a round-up of the action in the Bostik League Premier Division here on my blog. There’s a quick turnaround with most teams playing twice in three days over the Bank Holiday Weekend.

Friday 25th August result

Thurrock 3 – 2 Worthing   

Venue: Ship Lane            Attendance: 147

Thurrock weathered a Worthing comeback to claim all three points at Ship Lane. Joe Christou put Fleet ahead after just two minutes. Christou grabbed his second on 25 minutes to extend Thurrock’s lead. James Fraser pulled one back for the Rebels nine minutes later. Charlie Stimson restored Thurrock’s two-goal cushion six minutes after the re-start. Worthing grabbed what turned out to be a consolation goal five minutes later through defender Gary Elphick, though the hosts held on for their second win of the campaign.

Saturday 26th August results

Billericay Town  6 – 1   Burgess Hill Town

Venue: New Lodge    Attendance: 1,110

Billericay powered to a big win at New Lodge. Robbie Evans gave the Blues the lead after five minutes, before James Richmond levelled for the Hillians. After the break, the home side took over as substitute Adam Cunnington grabbed a 18-minute hat-trick (50’, 53’ & 68’) to seal the win for Glenn Tamplin’s side. Late goals from Billy Bricknell (pen 78’) and Sam Deering added to the visitors’ pain as the hosts picked up their third straight win.

Brightlingsea Regent  2 – 1  Hendon

Venue: North Road    Attendance: 201

Brightlingsea struck a late winner to achieve their first win of the new season. Billy Hunt put Regent ahead with 16 minutes remaining. Only a minute later, Keagan Cole levelled for the Greens. Regent’s Phil Kelly struck in added time to seal the points for James Webster’s side.

Dorking Wanderers  1 – 1  Staines Town

Venue: Westhumble Community Ground    Attendance: 275

Dorking struck late on to claim a point in this feisty encounter at the Westhumble. Staines took the lead on the quarter-hour through Mohamed Bettamer. Wanderers were reduced to ten men after 34 minutes as Jerome Beckles was dismissed for two bookable offences. The player count was levelled just before half-time as Wadah Ahmidi also received two bookings. Dorking levelled the match with a minute to spare as Dean Hamlin struck to seal a point.

Folkestone Invicta  0 – 2  Needham Market

Venue: The Fullicks Stadium    Attendance: 374

Needham secured a good win at the Fullicks Stadium. Ryan Gibbs put the Marketmen ahead on the stroke of half-time. Callum Harrison secured the win with moments remaining to give Needham their second win of the season and hand Invicta their first loss.

Harlow Town  2 – 0  Lowestoft Town

Venue: The Harlow Arena     Attendance: 212

A five-minute goal burst from Harlow after the break secured the win for Town at the Harlow Arena. Alex Read opened his side’s account from the spot on 65 minutes, before Reece Dobson doubled the lead four minutes later to grab the Hawks ‘ first win of the new league season.

Harrow Borough  2 – 0  Tonbridge Angels

Venue: Earlsmead    Attendance: 203

Harrow continued their superb start to the new season with this win at Earlsmead. Michael Bryan put the Reds ahead after nine minutes, before Will Turl sealed the win 13 minutes into the second half. After getting a repreieve from the drop last term, Harrow have now won four out of four so far this term.

Kingstonian  0 – 4   Leatherhead

Venue: Feltcham Grove     Attendance: 415

Leatherhead defeated tenants Kingstonian in the first ‘Feltcham Grove’ derby. Lee Minshull gave the Tanners the lead on 27 minutes, before Jack Midson doubled that lead just before half-time. Luke Kandi made it three with 21 minutes remaining. Yannis Ambroisine secured a big win for Sammy Moore’s side on 72 mnutes.

Leiston  2 – 2  Dulwich Hamlet

Venue: Victory Road       Attendance: 341

Leiston struck late on to seal a point against Dulwich at Victory Road. Nyren Clunis put Hamlet ahead on 18 minutes, before Sanchez Ming doubled that advantage seven minutes before half-time. Christy Finch reduced the arrears for the Blues three minutes later. Leiston kept going and grabbed a point late-on thanks to Joe Jefford’s goal to stay unbeaten so far this term.

Metropolitan Police  0 – 3  Merstham

Venue: Imber Court    Attendance: 96

Merstham comfortably defeated Met Police at Imber Court. Reece Hall put the visitors ahead after six minutes, before Ryan Hall converted a penalty on 32 minutes to give the Moatsiders a two-goal lead at the break. Imrahim Fofana added a third five minutes from time as Merstham claimed their second win of the season thus far.

Tooting & Mitcham Utd  0 – 4   Enfield Town

Venue: Imperial Fields      Attendance: 308

Enfield secured a big win over ten-man Tooting at Imperial Fields. Enfield led on 37 minutes through Rob Hylton-Barry’s opener. The second half didn’t start well for the Terrors as Peter Wedgeworth was dismissed. Enfield took advantage Ryan Blake extended their lead with 22 minutes left. Goals from Drew Roberts (72’) and Simon Thomas (76’) added to the hosts’ pain to give the Towners their first win of the season.

Wingate & Finchley   1 – 0    Margate

Venue: Summers Lane    Attendance: 175

The Blues edged Margate to claim their second win of the season at Summers Lane. Reece Beckles-Richards grabbed the only goal of the game 12 minutes into the second half.

Check back early next week for more round-ups from the Bostik League that took place on Bank Holiday Monday.

 

Match Report: Southend Manor 1 – 3 Thurrock (PSF)

The Mandy Mount Memorial Trophy (Pre-Season Friendly)

Venue: Southchurch Park

Date: Saturday 8th July 2017 3pm KO

Southend Manor : Yellow Shirts, Yellow Shorts, Black Socks

Thurrock : White Shirts, White Shorts, White Socks

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

Hello and welcome to the Match Reports for the 2017/18 season! We start off with my first pre-season match at Southchurch Park which saw Essex Senior League side Southend Manor take on newly-promoted Isthmian Premier side Thurrock at for the Mandy Mount Memorial Trophy, raising money for Saint Francis Hospice in remembering a former sponsor/supporter of the home side, Mandy Mount who sadly passed away.

On with the match itself then, and the visitors certainly showed their class in the opening quarter-hour. The Fleet opening the scoring after just six minutes as forward Harry Cook coolly slotted past the debutant Manor goalkeeper.

Mark Stimson’s side then doubled their advantage just six minutes later as midfielder Lewwis Spence made no mistake from close range. Manor struggled to mount any powerful attacking play really in the first half and at times struggled in possession as well.

Midway through the half, Manor also showed shades of the tough-tackling outfit that was ‘a double-edged sword’ for them last season with some rough challenges. However, it didn’t perturb their opponents who grabbed their third shortly before the half-hour mark through the impressive Spence who slotted home after a good cross from the right flank.

Manor’s only real effort on goal in the half saw an effort blasted from 15 yards just wide of the left-side post.

Half-Time: Southend Manor 0 – 3 Thurrock

The second half began with both sides making a number of substitutions, particularly the visitors who must’ve brought on at least seven or eight subs at the start of the half. This aided Manor though as they found their stride going forward a bit and mid-way through the half, substitute George Crispin slotted past the visiting ‘keeper from a fairly narrow angle to reduce the home side’s deficit.

After that goal for Stuart Marshall’s Manor, the match was rather low-key to be honest, Thurrock stayed switched-on at the back though didn’t really pile forward with that much intensity. They held on to win the match comfortably and take the Mandy Mount Memorial Trophy.

My thanks to Manor boss Stuart Marshall, the club and also it was good to watch the match with ESL Chair Rob Errington.

Full-Time: Southend Manor 1 – 3  Thurrock

Crispin 68’                         Cook 6’   Spence 12’, 27’

After the match, the trophy was presented to Thurrock captain Richard Halle on the pitch (below).

Check back soon for more reports of pre-season matches before the ESL season gets underway on Saturday July 29th.

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

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

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

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

AFC Hornchurch 1  – 4  Bowers & Pitsea          Attendance: 247

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

Cheshunt 2  –  2  Brightlingsea Regent     Attendance: 152

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

Dereham Town 2   –  3  Tilbury         Attendance: 158

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

Great Wakering Rovers   1 –  4   Bury Town        Attendance: 118

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

Haringey Borough  2  – 1     Norwich Utd       Attendance: 122

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

Heybridge Swifts    3  – 2      Phoenix Sports      Attendance: 231

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

Romford    0  –  0   Aveley               Attendance: 102

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

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

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

Thamesmead Town  1-2  Brentwood Town       Attendance: 100

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

VCD Athletic   2 – 0   Ware      Attendance: 125

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

Witham Town 2  – 1   Waltham Abbey           Attendance: 70

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

Wroxham   0 – 2   Thurrock               Attendance: 120

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

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

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

 

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

Wednesday 26th April KO: 7.45pm

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

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

Newson 51′, Mills 83′            Benjamin 90′

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

Sutton 12′

Play-off Final takes place on Sunday 30th April

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

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

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

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

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

Good Friday (14.4) Result

Witham Town   0  –  5 Brightlingsea Regent                         Attendance: 402

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

Saturday’s Results

AFC Hornchurch  4   –  1   Phoenix Sports          Attendance: 238

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

Cheshunt   1  – 2     Aveley         Attendance: 169

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

Dereham Town  1  –  3   Thurrock          Attendance: 185    

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

Great Wakering Rovers  1    –  3   Brentwood Town         Attendance: 114

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

Haringey Borough   5  –  4     Bowers & Pitsea      Attendance: 159

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

Norwich Utd  2  – 2     Heybridge Swifts            Attendance: 86

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

Romford  2  –  6   Maldon & Tiptree            Attendance: 114

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

Soham Town Rangers  1  –  1      Tilbury        Attendance: 128

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

Thamesmead Town  0  –  1     Waltham Abbey                Attendance: 75

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

VCD Athletic  0  –  0    Bury Town               Attendance: 86

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

Wroxham    2   –  3    Ware               Attendance: 116

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Friday Night (7.4) Result

Thurrock  2  – 0    Witham Town                         Attendance: 176

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

Saturday’s Results

Aveley  3  –   0  Heybridge Swifts                   Attendance: 303

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

Bowers & Pitsea  0  –  0   Thamesmead Town        Attendance: 72

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

 Brentwood Town 3  – 1  Haringey Borough          Attendance: 98          

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

 Brightlingsea Regent    4  –  1    Romford              Attendance: 242

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

Bury Town    2  –  1   Cheshunt                  Attendance: 284

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

Maldon & Tiptree    2  –  2     Dereham Town                Attendance: 78

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

Norwich Utd     4  –   1     VCD Athletic                     Attendance: 81

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

Phoenix Sports  1   –  2    Soham Town Rangers       Attendance: 96

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

Tilbury    1  –   1  Wroxham                             Attendance: 50

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

Waltham Abbey       0 –  1    AFC Hornchurch         Attendance: 131

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

Ware  1  –  0  Great Wakering Rovers                               Attendance: 62

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

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

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

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

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

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

AFC Hornchurch    2   –  0     Norwich Utd                           Attendance: 226

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

Cheshunt    0   –   1      Thurrock                                          Attendance: 151

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

Dereham Town       3  –   4       Phoenix Sports                     Attendance: 153

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

Great Wakering Rovers     3   –    3     Waltham Abbey         Attendance: 94

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

Haringey Borough       2  –   3           Brghtlingsea Regent       Attendance: 177

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

Heybridge Swifts       2  – 1             Ware                              Attendance: 218

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

Romford        1  –  0            Bury Town                                  Attendance: 84

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

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

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

Thamesmead Town      0 – 1           Maldon & Tiptree               Attendance: 102

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

VCD Athletic    1  – 1          Brentwood Town                            Attendance: 65

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

 Witham Town   2  –  1    Tilbury                             Attendance: 95

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

Wroxham      0  –  1     Aveley                                 Attendance: 130

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

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