S22-23 Round-ups: Eastern Senior League South (Sat 13 Aug) [EaSL Sth 22/23 14.8.22]

Archive Image – Frenford 3 – 3 May & Baker in early August [Image by Scott W]

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

Hello & welcome to the first of an occasional blog series this term looking at the action in the Eastern Senior League South, starting with this weekend (Sat 13th August). This weekend’s action saw some good away wins and also one club marked the loss of a great man.

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Eastern Senior League South – Saturday 13 August

We begin with a fine victory for Benfleet as they kept up their good form with a 4 – 1 victory at Wivenhoe Town. Ben Foord and Mason Shave put Alex Salmon’s side ahead before the interval, and Jake Frost added a third just past the hour before an OG added further gloss to the scoreline. John Thain got one back for the Dragons though they fell to defeat here. Frenford also got a win on the road, as they defeated Newbury Forest 3 – 2 at Oakside. Raheem Gray, Charlie Munns and Simon Peddie all scored for Dave Forbes’ side, who are only outside the play-off spots on goal difference.

There was a sombre atmosphere at Leslie Field on Saturday as Burnham Ramblers marked the loss of Chairman and long-standing club official Martin Leno with a two minutes’ silence pre-match. Enfield Borough were the visitors and a superb treble for substitute Andreas Aranganathan secured all three points for Boro in a 3 – 2 victory and resisted a spirited comeback from the hosts.

Elsewhere, May & Baker got another three points as a Daniel Whitehead goal just after the half-hour was enough to give Jordan Harris’ team a 1 – 0 win over St Margaretsbury at Parkside 3G. Bakers went level on points with early leaders Stanway Pegasus after this win. Tower Hamlets also got a narrow win in their first game back at Mile End Stadium, as Tobi Irefin’s strike was enough to beat Coggeshall Utd 1 – 0. Justin Gardner’s new team are up to 12th spot.

In other action, NW London were held 1 – 1 by visitors Hackney Wick at Brickfield Lane. Also, Wormley Rovers got a decent 2 – 0 triumph over Sporting Bengal Utd.

End

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

Written By Scott W  [Twitter: @ScottMHC14]

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

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

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

 

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

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

West Essex crest

Image from Sawbo v W Essex (ESL 12.10.19)

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

 

Still from Stansted v Clapton (ESL 23.11.19)

Still from Stansted v Clapton ESL 23.11.19

Clapton logo

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

Ilford club crest

Still from Ilford v W’stow (ESL 29.1.20)

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

St Margaretsbury club logo

Still from S Manor v St Margaretsbury (ESL 4.1.20)

Still from S Manor v St Mags (ESL 4.1.20)

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

Sporting Bengal crest

Still from S Bengal v Redbridge (ESL 28.9.19)

Still from S Bengal v Redbridge ESL 28.9.19)

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

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

Image from S Manor v Cockfosters ESL 9.11.19

Still from S Manor v St Mags (ESL 4.1.20)

 

Hamlets logo

Still from T Hamlets v Cockfosters ESL 2.12.19

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

Sawbridgeworth club badge

Still from S Manor v Sawbo ESL 30.11.19

 

 

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

(Source: essexseniorleague.co.uk)

		Club/s	League Goals	Total Goals (All Comps)
1	Dwade James	Walthamstow	27	40
2	George Smith	Hashtag Utd	19	26
3	Solomon Ofori	Hadley	18	25
4	Gavin Cockman	Saffron Walden Town	16	20
5	Suiabo Balde	Tower Hamlets	15	15
6	Lewis Francis	Walthamstow/ Saffron Walden Town	13	17
=7	Taylor Tombides	Redbridge	12	19
	Curtley McIntosh	Sporting Bengal Utd	12	16
	Issac Marfo-Jacobs	Hoddesdon Town	12	15
=10	Kyle Roberts	St Margaretsbury/ Hadley	11	15
	Connor Hammond	Stansted	11	13
=12	Michael Mignot	West Essex	10	15
	Manny Hammond	Hadley	10	12
	Ned Clarke	Cockfosters/ Hadley	10	10
=15	Charlie Cole	Saffron Walden Town	9	28
	Bryn Thorpe	Takeley	9	15
	Alfie Bartram	Hadley	9	12
	Hassan Nalbant	Redbridge	9	11
	Cameron Ferguson	Hadley	9	9

 

Match Report: Tower Hamlets 0 – 1 Cockfosters (Mon 2nd Dec) [ESL 19/20 3.12.19]

Essex Senior League

Venue: Mile End Stadium

Attendance: TBC

2019 – 20 Season: Match 43

Monday 2nd December 2019 – 7.50pm KO

T Hamlets: Orange Shirts, Black Shorts, Black Socks

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

 

Hamlets logo

Cockfosters Emblem

 

Players before KO

Clarke stunner edges Cockfosters to win at Mile End

Tower Hamlets  0 – 1  Cockfosters

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

A rare Monday night Essex Senior match took me to Mile End to see the new-look Tower Hamlets side face Cockfosters. Hamlets named a front two of Ezra Ndukuba with Anthony Folkes in support, with Yoan Edoukou and Josh Rusoke on the flanks. Cockfosters had first-choice Brad Robinson in goal, Matt Thomson alongside Billy Murray in midfield and a front two of in-form Billy Healey and Ned Clarke.

The hosts had won two of the last five before this one, while ‘Fosters had lost out in their last two matches. On what was a frightfully cold evening in East London, there were early sighters on goal in this one. First, Hamlets midfielder Ambrosio Preira’s drive smashed against a post after four minutes. Almost immediately, Ryan Wade’s side responded at the other end though winger Rueben Campbell’s drive was well over the woodwork. Moments later, a decent run down the centre by visiting forward Ceykan Karagozlu bypassed the first defender before Hamlets centre-back Alan Zuqolli tracked back and cleared well into the stands and the proverbial ‘Row Z’. Forward Billy Healey also whistled a drive past Ade Oyenuga’s goal soon after as Cockfosters gradually built momentum.

That being said, Hamlets were still dangerous on the counter with good balls in from the flanks being exemplified by full-back Tony Musoke’s cross from the left flank, which brought visiting stopper Robinson into action to punch away from danger. Midway into the half, Oyenuga did well to block another Healey drive from close range though Karagozlu really could have scored on the follow-up, only for it to be cleared off the goal-line.

The visitors did concede the odd needless free-kick just outside 18-yard area and from one of these on 26 minutes, forward Anthomy Folkes fizzed a well-directed effort just over the goal frame. Nine minutes later, the threatening Karagozlu sent in two or three teasing balls into the six-yard area though a teammate could not a decisive touch on them. Karagozlu also had a good effort saved by Oyenuga after evading the home defence though the telling moment came in added-time before the break.

Forward Ned Clarke, who has had a good start to life at Cockfosters, received the ball 30 yards out in a bit of space before hammering home an unstoppable drive with a tad or curl to pass Oyenuga and high into the net. It was undoubtedly one of the goals of the campaign that I’ve seen. And with that, referee Andy Simmonds soon blew for half-time.

 

Still from T Hamlets v Cockfosters ESL 2.12.19

Half-Time:  Tower Hamlets  0 – 1 Cockfosters

You have to respect what this Hamlets team have done since the summer, given that most have come up from the Reserve side playing in the Essex Alliance League last term. They came out after the break with renewed purpose, and Ndukuba did well to evade his marker before firing harmlessly over the crossbar four minutes into the half.

Cockfosters knew they were in for a battle here as Hamlets maintained the momentum in the next phase of the game, with Zuqolli heading a corner towards goal though Robinson could gather just in front of his own goal frame.

Home winger Josh Rusoke also tested Robinson moments afterward as his drive looked to get a small deflection off the defender though Robinson held firm to deny him. ‘Fosters had a goal chalked off for a foul with twenty minutes remaining, though they held firm as Hamlets couldn’t sustain the possession pressure to continue their attacking intent. A twenty-yard drive by skipper Ali Omar was gathered by Robinson in the dying minutes. Finally, on the stroke of the ninety, Cockfosters substitute George Beattie’s fierce strike brushed a post though they deserved the win although it may have been grittier than they would have ideally wanted.

Full-Time: Tower Hamlets 0 – 1 Cockfosters

In summary, a tough evening’s work for Cockfosters though ultimately they did enough to claim the points, thanks to that Clarke’s stunning strike. Clarke had another decent game, as did strike partner Billy Healey and winger Rueben Campbell. For Hamlets, forward Ezra Ndukuba was skilful, quick and a danger to the opposition defence while Anthony Folkes provided good support and Yoan Edoukou also did well. Best wishes to both sides going forward this term and also thank you to Hamlets for their welcome.

 

Teams (with shirt numbers)

Tower Hamlets   |  Manager: John Jatto

99 Ade Oyenuga (GK), 2 Jesse Boalenga, 3 Anthony Musoke, 4 Ali Omar (Capt), 5 Allan Zuqolli, 6 Ambrosio Preira (16 Adam Kerroche 43’), 7 Yoan Edoukou, 8 Ben Brookes, 9 Ezra Ndukuba (12 Benas Vaivada 80’), 10 Anthony Folkes, 11 Josh Rusoke

Booked: None | Subs Not Used: Anderson, Daniel

 

Cockfosters | Player-Manager: Ryan Wade

1 Brad Robinson (GK), 2 Luke Marshall, 3 Marcus Crowther, 4 Matt Thomson, 5 Danny Haigh (Capt), 6 Dan Odamo, 7 Rueben Campbell, 8 Billy Murray, 9 Billy Healey (12 George Beattie 81’), 10 Ned Clarke (14 Alex Michaelides 67’), 11 Ceykan Karagozlu (15 Kai Bowers 74’),

Goal-scorer: Ned Clarke  [45’ +2]

Booked: Thomson | Sub Not Used: Charles, Haag

 

Referee: Andy Simmonds

Round-up: Essex Senior League (Fri 8/Sat 9 Nov) [ESL 19/20 10.11.19]

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

Hello and welcome to this week’s round-up of the Essex Senior League action, which includes matches from the nine league matches on this Remembrance weekend of Saturday 9th November. Thanks for reading.

Friday 8 November

Essex Senior League

 

Redbridge  1 – 2  Woodford Town   | Oakside | Att: 78

Woodford emerged from a tough battle with Redbridge at Oakside with all three points on Friday night. Andrea Montovani put the driven visitors ahead on 27 minutes. Town had more chances to go further ahead and they paid for those misses as Taylor Tombides [68’] levelled things up, though it was substitute Lance Ledgister who got a late winner for the Towners with three minutes to spare. I attended this match and if you’d like more, my report is here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2019/11/09/match-report-redbridge-1-2-woodford-town-fri-8th-nov-esl/

 

Saturday 9 November

 

Hadley  8 – 0  Clapton   | Brickfield Lane | Att: 45

Hadley maintained their brilliant home record as they crushed the Tons at Brickfield Lane. The Bricks were four goals up at half-time and had an ensemble cast of Alfie Bartram, Solomon Ofori, Cameron Ferguson, two from Luke Jupp plus Shaz Anwar and substitute Jason Rice to thank for this hugely dominant score-line. As a result, Hadley go into third after their sixth win in succession. Clapton’s fourth loss in their last five sees them remain second-bottom.

 

Hashtag Utd  5 – 2  Enfield   | Chadfields  | Att: 222

The Tags went through the gears to claim another big win, this time over out-of-form Enfield at Chadfields. Rapid winger Joshua Osude put Jay Devereux’s side ahead with 34 minutes gone, to which ex-West Essex forward Samraj Gill plundered a second with a great strike four minutes before the interval. Gill then teed up Jesse Waller-Lassen ten minutes after the restart. The E’s managed to get on the score-sheet thanks to skipper Ben Bradbury with twenty minutes remaining. The match had an entertaining finale as first, Harry Honesty made it 4 – 1 nine minutes from time, before Aundre Spencer got another one back for Matt Hanning’s side five minutes afterwards. Then at the death, Ross Gleed struck from 25 yards out in added-time to add a reminder of the threat Utd pose in the Essex Senior title race as they now extend their lead at the summit to six points, though all the rest of the top four have games in hand on them. Enfield’s third straight defeat sees them drop to 14th.

 

Ilford  0 – 2  St Margaretsbury   | Cricklefield | Att: 42

St Mags fought to a decent win over Ilford at Cricklefield. Ray Bartlett & Tony Wild’s side saw goal-hungry forward Kyle Roberts move to Ware this week, though had defender Dan Palmer to thank for putting them ahead here on eleven minutes. Ryan Reed then showed his ability once again with a fine free-kick two minutes from time. St Mags go back into the top ten while Ilford sit 16th.

 

Southend Manor  0 – 4  Cockfosters   | Southchurch Park | Att: 42

Cockfosters made the most of a superb start to claim the points over Southend Manor. Billy Healey put the visitors ahead after only three minutes, and continued to dazzle the slow-starting Manor side as Ned Clarke doubled that lead with six minutes played. Healey then got a third for Ryan Wade’s side with fourteen minutes gone and they were well on top. Despite Manor picking it up after the break, substitute George Beattie made it four five minutes from time after good work by fellow replacement Ceykan Karagozlu. I also attended this match, my report is here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2019/11/10/match-report-southend-manor-0-4-cockfosters-sat-9th-nov-esl/

 

 

Stansted  3 – 2  Hoddesdon Town | Hargrave Park | Att: 62

The Airportmen retained their recent good vein of form as they resisted late pressure by the Lilywhites to grab the points at Hargrave Park. Ashaan Siddik joined the club from Sporting Bengal this week and he got the opener with 26 minutes on the watch. Two goals either side of the break from Connor Hammond [40’] and Daniel Cheema [47’] put Messrs Pittuck and Watters’ side in control. Though as ever, Hoddesdon do not ‘throw in the towel’ and gave their hosts a nervy finish as strikes by Isaac Marfo-Jacobs [77’] and Sam Cross with four minutes to play showed their typical resilience. Stansted held on for their third straight win which saw them rise to 12th, while Hoddy drop to eighth.

 

Takeley  2 – 1  Sporting Bengal Utd   | Station Road | Att: 61

Takeley got anther three points as they edged this battle with Sporting Bengal at Station Road. George Powell netted on ten minutes to put Marc Das’ side ahead, before two minutes after the restart, Jason Todd made it two. Bobby Redwood responded for Bengal five minutes after that on the eve on manager Imrul Gazi’s birthday. The hosts held on to rise stay fifth.

 

Tower Hamlets  3 – 2  West Essex   | Mile End | Att: 35

Hamlets made a stirring comeback to deny West Essex a much-needed victory at Mile End. Suaibo Balde struck twice for Hamlets here, with Anthony Folkes also on the scorer’s sheet, while Hakim Medfai and Cameron Gray goals had put the Stags ahead. Hamlets rise to 11th while West’s blip continues as they drop to seventh.

 

Walthamstow  0 – 0  Saffron Walden Town  | Wadham Lodge |

Finally, ‘Stow were held by Walden in this top-of-the-table clash at Eadham Lodge. Both sides may be happy with a point given the difficult the conditions though Town remain second, six points adrift of leaders Hashtag with Walthamstow dropping to fourth though retain their unbeaten record after ten matches.

Round-up: Essex Senior League & FA Vase Second Rd (ESL sides) (Sat 2 Nov) [ESL 19/20 3.11.19]

Written by Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMHC14]

Hello and welcome to this week’s Essex Senior League review, looking back at the seven matches that took place in the League, with three ESL sides taking part in the FA Vase Second Round Proper also. Thanks for reading.

Saturday 2nd November – ESL

Cockfosters  1 – 1  Hoddesdon Town  | Chalk Lane  | Att: 87

The ‘Fosters ended their run of three-home matches on-the-spin with a late leveller against Hoddesdon. Joss Lillis put the Lilywhites ahead on 37 minutes and Simon Riddle’s side may have thought they were heading for a gutsy win though substitute Billy Murray netted in added-time to deny the visitors the win and extend the hosts unbeaten stretch to three matches. Ryan Wade’s side drop to eighth, with Hoddy only ahead of them on goal difference in 7th.

 

Hadley  3 – 0  Woodford Town   | Brickfield Lane | Att: 46

Hadley’s terrific home form continued as they set aside Woodford at Brickfield Lane. A brace from in-form forward Luke Jupp and one from lively winger Solomon Ofori ensured the Bricks made it five league wins in succession, rising to fourth in the standings, seven points adrift of leaders Hashtag. Woodford’s third defeat in their last five meant they fell to 11th place though their squad rebuild will mean patience is needed at this point.

 

Ilford  3 – 1  Enfield   | Cricklefield | Att: 28

The Foxes overwhelmed inconsistent Enfield at Cricklefield. Tela Trivelato opened the scoring on 11 minutes for Jonny Fowell’s side though the bulk of the scoring came in the latter stages of the contest. Ikechi Eze netted direct from a corner with 16 minutes remaining to give he hosts that crucial second goal. Matt Frew pulled one back for the E’s after coming off the substitutes’ bench though Trivelato had the last word as he netted his second with a minute of normal time to play. Two wins from two at home since Fowell took charge means they rise to fourth-bottom. Enfield drop to 13th.

 

Sawbridgeworth Town  P – P  Redbridge    | Crofters

This match at Crofters fell foul of the elements and was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch.

 

Southend Manor   1 – 0   Clapton    | Southchurch Park | Att: 12

Manor recorded what could be a very important win over fellow strugglers Clapton at Southchurch Park. Michael Ogboin got the only goal as the Southend side ended a streak of five matches without a win to go above the Tons into 17th, twelve points above bottom side Sawbridgeworth.

 

Sporting Bengal Utd   2 – 1  Hashtag Utd   | Mile End | Att: 101

Sporting put in a big performance to end the Tags’ ten-match league winning run at Mile End. Quick-fire goals from Bobby Redwood [30’] and talisman Steven Carvell only a minute later put them well on their way to the win. After the break, Imrul Gazi’s side had to be very resilent as Utd forced their way back into the match through Ross Gleed’s free-kick 15 minutes from time. Despite the league leaders pressurising the home side hard in the latter stages, Bengal did emerge with their first win in six matches, which puts them up to 9th place in the table. Hashtag’s fantastic streak is over though with nearest rivals Saffron Walden and Walthamstow both in FA Vase action this weekend, they remain four points clear at the summit.

 

St Margaretsbury  1 – 2  Tower Hamlets   | The Recreation Ground | Att: 19

Hamlets emerged with a fine win at St Mags. Goals from Ben Brookes [10’] and the in-form Suaibo Balde just before the break ended up giving the East London side the victory, their third win in their last four. The hosts replied through their own chief goal-getter Kyle Roberts on the half-hour though still fell to first loss in five matches. Hamlets rise to 12th spot now while St Mags drop to 10th.

 

West Essex  1 – 5  Takeley   | Mayesbrook Park  | Att: 28

West’s week went from bad to worse as Takeley powered five in a big win at Mayesbrook. In a match played in awful conditions, Jason Todd [23’] and Mitchell Das [26’] goals put Marc Das’ team in the ‘box seat’ before Bryn Thorpe made it three five minutes before the interval. After the break, former St Margaretsbury striker Charncey Dash made his mark for his new club by grabbing a fourth on 55 minutes, then Michael Castle added further gloss to the score-line with the fifth 18 minutes from time. Brad Russell’s strike was scant consolation as the Stags dropped to sixth spot after this loss, with Takeley rising above them into 5th after ending a run of four matches without a win.

 

 

The FA Vase Second Round Proper (ESL Sides)

 

Saffron Walden Town  3 – 4  FC Clacton   | Catons Lane | Att: 235

Walden exited the FA Vase in an enthralling contest with Thurlow Nunn Premier side FC Clacton at Catons Lane. New signing Ricky Griggs put the visitors ahead with a minute gone, though Charlie Cole levelled only four minutes later for Jason Maher’s side. Lewis Francis struck to put the hosts ahead with 16 minutes played, though nine minutes afterward Adam Hampson restored parity for Clacton. The tide really turned in favour of the East Essex Coast side as Hampson got his second 12 minutes before the break and Griggs netting just before the interval to make it 4 – 2. Ryan Fleming made it tight with the hosts’ third goal nine minutes after the break though Cacton withstood the pressure to advance.

News: Tonight (Sunday), it’s been announced by Saffron Walden that long-serving forward Lewis Francis has departed, with the club thanking him for all his efforts in his time there. I’d like to wish Lewis well in his next chapter, certainly been an important player for the Bloods.

 

Stansted  1 – 0  Mildenhall Town  | Hargrave Park | Att: 142

The Airportmen edged a close game with Thurlow Nunn Premier side Mildenhall at Hargrave Park. Ryan Ramsey got the only goal on the stroke of half-time to ensure that his side are the only ESL representatives remaining in the FA Vase this season. Congrats to co-managers Paul Pittuck & John Watters and the team on their progress.

 

Walthamstow   2 – 3  AFC Uckfield Town   | Wadham Lodge | Att: 74

AFC Uckfield sent ‘Stow out of the FA Vase with a narrow win at Wadham Lodge. It started well for the hosts as Ollie Fortune struck ten minutes in to put them ahead, though the start of the second half saw the game turn. First, Dan Okosie struck five minutes after the resumption to level the tie, before Ellis Cormack put AFC ahead five minutes later. Richie Welsh got a crucial third goal for the visitors with 18 minutes left and though Samrai Gebrai made it a tight finish with a second for ‘Stow 11 minutes from time, the visitors held on despite the hosts being unhappy at ‘unsportsmanlike behaviour’ by their opposition. Even so, Ryan Maxwell’s side will hone their focus in on the league, as they have matches to catch up on in the following weeks.

Round-up: Essex Senior League (Sat 19 Oct) [ESL 19/20 20.10.19]

Image from Takeley v Hashtag Utd ESL 1910.19 [Image Credit: Matt North]

Written by Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMHC14]

Thanks to ESL reporter Matt North (Twitter: @MattNorth_) for image.

Hello and welcome to this weekend’s round-up of Essex Senior League action on Friday 18 & Saturday 19 October, here on my blog.  Thanks for reading.

Friday 18th October

Woodford Town  3 – 1  Sawbridgeworth Town   | Harlow Arena [3G]  | Att: 87

Woodford came out on top as they defeated Sawbridgeworth at the Harlow Arena, in front of a decent crowd on Friday night. Lauric Diakiesse got the first home goal on the half-hour before adding another two on 35 minutes and eight minutes from time to complete his treble for his new side. Harry Bushell got the consolation for Lee Mackman’s team who battled hard though their extended winless run goes on.

 

Saturday 19th October

Enfield  1 – 0  Southend Manor   | Woodside | Att: 64

The E’s got a much-needed win over fellow lower-half side Southend Manor at Woodside. Daniel Chambers got the only goal after just six minutes and this result makes it one loss in their last five in the league as they rise to 14th. Manor’s fourth game without a win sees them drop to fourth-bottom.

 

Hadley  1 – 0  Hoddesdon Town  | Brickfield Lane | Att: 93

Hadley got back to form with a gritty win over Hoddesdon at Brickfield Lane. The only goal came from the penalty spot, on the hour from Alfie Bartram. The Bricks are ‘building the wall’ results-wise as their third win on-the-bounce means they rise to sixth. The Lilywhites drop to eighth, only a point behind their opposition here.

 

Saffron Walden Town  2 – 0  Cockfosters   | Catons Lane  | Att: 175

Saffron Walden got back to league action with a routine win over Cockfosters at Catons Lane. Two goals either side of the break were enough to win this one as an own goal gave Walden the lead three minutes before the interval. Ryan Fleming doubled that advantage on 48 minutes to see Jason Maher’s team to their fifth straight league success and keep the heat on leaders Hashtag Utd. ‘Fosters are in a bit of trough at present with this being their fifth loss in their last six league matches.

 

Stansted  4 – 0  Sporting Bengal Utd  | Hargrave Park | Att: 70

The Airportmen put in a fine performance to end a recent dreary run at Hargrave Park. Daniel Cheema sent the hosts ahead after just seven minutes, before strikes by John Clark [27’] and Jack Mitchell [34’] put Paul Pittuck & John Watters’ side comfortably ahead at the interval. Luke Hirst added a fourth goal for the hosts with 57 minutes on the watch to end a run of four back-to-back defeats. Bengal fell to their third consecutive loss here though they will have better days this term.

 

Takeley  0 – 1  Hashtag Utd | Station Road | Att: 235

In a match supporting Breast Cancer survivors at Station Road, Hashtag edged the contest in front of another bumper crowd to extend their winning run in the league to nine matches. Joshua Osude got the only goal on 72 minutes, to which the hosts couldn’t find a response and therefore saw their unbeaten mini-run end at four league matches. Hashtag remain a point clear at the summit, with Saffron Walden their nearest challengers.

 

 

Tower Hamlets  2 – 0  Clapton | Mile End Stadium | Att: 55

Hamlets got the better of the Tons at Mile End as they recorded their fourth win of the season. An OG plus one from Marcus Castano were enough to extend their visitors’ winless run to four matches now.

 

Walthamstow  2 – 1  Redbridge    | Wadham Lodge | Att:  46

In a match reversed to Wadham Lodge on Thursday, ‘Stow still got a stern test by improving Redbridge as the hosts won 2 – 1. You can barely keep Dwade James off the scorers’ sheet at present and he put Ryan Maxwell’s side ahead from the penalty spot nine minutes into the contest. That lead barely lasted a minute though before the visitors were awarded a spot-kick of their own, which Dan Gilchrist duly converted to level things up. Just when you felt a draw may have been on the radar, Ben Crilley’s strike ten minutes from time gave the hosts their fourth straight league triumph.

 

West Essex  0 – 0  St Margaretsbury  | Mayesbrook Park | Att: 28

West were held to a goalless stalemate by St Margaretsbury as both sides had a rare match without scoring. Interestingly though, it extends both teams recent records in that they have only lost one of their last six matches now.

 

 

Preview: Essex Senior League (Fri 18/Sat 19 Oct) [ESL 17.10.19]

Archive: Sawridgeworth 0 – 3 W Essex in ESL last week (Image: Scott W)

Written by Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMHC14]

Hello and welcome to this weekend’s preview of Essex Senior League action on Saturday 19 October, as nine matches take place this coming weekend.

 

ESL Fixtures  –

Friday 18th October

Woodford Town  v  Sawbridgeworth Town   | Harlow Arena [3G]  |

The weekend’s action gets underway once again at the Harlow Arena as Woodford welcome Sawbridgeworth. The Towners were held last Friday night by Clapton after a late OG gave the Tons a point. Ross Weare’s side have got two wins in their last five but are adjusting after a influx of squad changes recently. Sawbridgeworth showed some spirit before going down at home to West Essex at home last weekend which extended their winless run. The results may start coming for Lee Mackman’s side soon though this is still a tough test on paper. Narrow home win for me.

Scott’s Prediction: 2 – 0

 

Saturday 19th October

Enfield  v  Southend Manor   | Woodside |

Saturday’s action starts with Manor’s trip to Enfield. The E’s have had a disappointing week, with a long away-day at Harborough Town resulting in their exit from the FA Vase last weekend, followed up by a loss at North Greenford Utd in the Middlesex County Cup in midweek. Southend’s Manor’s form is also mixed of late, with two losses in their last four matches, though new Michael Walther has brought in new players of late so it make time for his new-look squad to gel. Think there will be goals in this one. Draw for me.

Scott’s Prediction: 2 – 2

 

Hadley  v  Hoddesdon Town  | Brickfield Lane |

The Bricks look to get their league campaign back on track as they welcome fellow high-flyers Hoddesdon. Hadley suffered a rare home loss to exit the FA Vase as Milton Keynes Robins won last weekend. In the ESL though, they have only conceded one goal in four home matches to date so that tells you something. Hoddesdon were involved in a corker of a match in their loss to Hashtag, having had a two-goal lead thus ultimately fell to a heavy defeat, their first loss since the opening day of the campaign. Therefore, manager Simon Riddle will want a reaction from his side, though piercing the second-best defence in the league will be tough. Narrow home win for the hosts for me.

Scott’s Prediction: 2 – 1

 

Updated: Walthamstow v Redbridge | Wadham Lodge |

The Motormen’s match with ‘Stow has been switched to Wadham Lodge as Oakside is not sufficiently recovered from the week’s weather to host. Redbridge have had their last two league matches postponed, so you have to go back to October 5th for their last league game, a win at Southend Manor. Ryan Maxwell’s Walthamstow side are a different proposition though (with all respect to Manor) as they continued their FA Vase run into Round Two with a good win at Broadfields Utd last weekend,  and won well at St Margaretsbury the midweek before that. ‘Stow have a very stingy defence, the best in the league having only conceded one goal in their six matches so far. Micky Wetherall’s side are strong going forward though can be a tad leaky defensively and ‘Stow will know they need to win their games in hand on the top two. Hard to see anything but an a win for Walthamstow here

 

Scott’s Prediction: 3 – 1

 

 

Saffron Walden Town  v  Cockfosters   | Catons Lane  |

Walden return to the league action after a hugely admirable win in their FA Vase Replay with Biggleswade Utd in midweek. They welcome Cockfosters to Catons Lane, looking to continue their unbeaten league run and keep tabs on leaders Hashtag Utd. Cockfosters were in action in midweek after being thwarted by the weather last weekend. The ‘Fosters won on penalties at Ilford to advance to the last four of the Gordon Brasted Trophy. Their away form does not favour them here, with one win in five matches and therefore, have to go with a win for the Bloods here.

Scott’s Prediction: 3 – 1

 

Stansted  v  Sporting Bengal Utd  | Hargrave Park

The Airportmen welcome Bengal to Hargrave Park, with arguably both sides in need of a win. Paul Pittuck’s & John Watters’ side picked a morale-boosting win in the FA Vase last weekend over Aylesbury Vale Dynamos. Their league form recently though isn’t great as four straight defeats see them third-bottom at present. Bengal have been defeated in their last two home matches, to West Essex and most recently, St Margaretsbury. This could be a highlight match of the weekend. Draw for me.

Scott’s Prediction: 2 – 2

 

Takeley  v  Hashtag Utd | Station Road

The ‘big match’ this weekend surely takes place at Station Road as Takeley welcome in-form Hashtag. Marc Das’ side exited the FA Vase last weekend with a narrow loss at Wellingborough Town, after being held by a spirited Southend Manor at home the midweek before. Hashtag are in prime form after a superb comeback win at Hoddesdon last week extended their winning run to eight matches. Goalkeeper Louis Hawes (formerly of Basildon Utd & Great Wakering) has also been added to the squad this week to compete with regular stopper Tim Pitman. The likes of George Smith and Ryan Adams will take some stopping at present and while Takeley are quite capable of producing a brilliant defensive showing, the Tags may well edge this one.

Scott’s Prediction: 1 – 3

 

Tower Hamlets  v  Clapton | Mile End Stadium

Hamlets welcome the Tons to Mile End. Both sides are finding wins hard to come by, though Hamlets did produce an impressive performance to win well at Southend Manor last weekend. That win was their first in five matches, while the Tons got a point at Woodford last weekend. They are winless in three matches though with both sides being unpredictable, I’m going head for a stalemate here.

Scott’s Prediction: 1 – 1

 

West Essex  v  St Margaretsbury  | Mayesbrook Park

Finally for this weekend, the Stags welcome a similarly in-form St Mags side to Mayesbrook. West made it four consecutive league wins with success at Sawbridgeworth last weekend, while Ray Bartlett & Tony Wild’s side win at Sporting Bengal made it one loss in their last six matches. This has the hallmarks of a bruising encounter with technical players in both sides. The crucial factor may be how the visitors’ defence deals with the likes of Taylor and Mignot. Expect this one to a very hard-fought match.

Scott’s Prediction:  2 – 1

That’s your Preview for this week, thanks for reading.

 

Round-up: Essex Senior League & FA Vase First Round Proper (ESL sides) [Fri 11/Sat 12 Oct ESL19/20 14.10.19]

Written by Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMHC14]

Hello and welcome to this weekend’s review of Essex Senior League & FA Vase action involving ESL sides on Non-League Day – Saturday 12 October, here on my blog.  Thanks for reading.

Essex Senior League

Friday 11th October

Woodford Town  1 – 1  Clapton   | Harlow Arena [3G]  | Att: 59

Clapton fought back to claim a point at the Harlow Arena. Tola Odedoyin opened the scoring five minutes before the break. The hosts, now managed by Ross Weare, couldn’t take their chances and the Tons levelled six minutes from time through an OG.

Saturday 12th October

Cockfosters  P – P   Redbridge   |  Chalk Lane  |

Unfortunately, this match fell foul of the weather as it was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch.

Hoddesdon Town  2 – 6  Hashtag Utd   | Lowfield | Att: 395

Hashtag roared back from a two-goal deficit to claim the points at Lowfield. Isaac Marfo-Jacobs put the hosts ahead on the half-hour, before Jack Lee netted again nine minutes later to put Simon Riddle’s team two goals up. That lead didn’t last long as Ross Gleed’s strike a minute later and Luke Wilson’s first goal for the club five minutes after the interval levelled things up. Jeese Waller-Lassen put Jay Devereux’s team ahead on the hour before Harry Honesty [65′], George Smith [75′] and a late Gleed penalty made it a day to remember for the Tags in front of a huge crowd of nearly 400.

 

Sawbridgeworth Town  0 – 3  West Essex   | Crofters  | Att: 38

West Essex got their fourth straight league win with victory over battling Sawbridgeworth at Crofters. Josh French broke the deadlock on 22 minutes after making a rare run the length down the middle of the pitch and finishing from Michael Mignot’s clever pass. Sawbo had their goalkeeper Brandon Bullman dismissed with 19 minutes remaining as Mignot and Greg Frederick adding late goals to seal the points for the Stags.

I attended this match & my report is here: survivor16b.wordpress.com/2019/10/12/match-report-sawbridgeworth-0-3-west-essex-sat-12-oct-nl-day-esl/

Southend Manor  1 – 4  Tower Hamlets   | Southchurch Park  | Att: 30

Manor fell to a second consecutive home loss as Hamlets got a surprise win at Southchurch Park. Michael Ogboin got the consolation for the hosts though doubles for Samuel Kifwasima and Suaibo Balde saw John Jatto’s side to their first win in five matches.

Sporting Bengal Utd  1 – 2   St Margaretsbury | Mile End Stadium

Bengal lost at home again, this time to St Margaretsbury at Mile End. Ryan Reed’s free-kick put the visitors ahead ten minutes before half-time. Steven Carvell levelled for Bengal on 65 minutes before Kyle Roberts kept up his super scoring record recently with the winner ten minutes later.

 

The FA Vase First Round Proper (Fixtures – ESL sides) –

Friday 11th October

Biggleswade Utd  4 – 4  Saffron Walden Town (AET)

Walden were held at Biggleswade Utd in an epic battle on Friday night. Charlie Cole’s brace & Gavin Cockman put Walden 3 – 0 ahead. Enrique Amador’s hat-trick and Kieran Igbanol got the home strikes and Ryan Fleming got the Bloods’ fourth in extra time though it will require a replay in midweek to settle this tie.

Saturday 12th October

Broadfields Utd  1 – 3  Walthamstow

A brace from Dwade James assisted ‘Stow to the next round as they won at Broadfields. James opened the scoring from the penalty spot on 18 minutes as Ryan Maxwell’s side led at the break. James struck again on 51 minutes before substitute Ollie Fortune got the third three minutes from time. Ismael Ehui got a late consolation for the home side.

Hadley  0 – 2  Milton Keynes Robins  | Att: 56

Milton Keynes Robins got a surprise win at Hadley. Alex Filip [45+1] and George Shrieves [77′] got the goals as the visitors brought Anthony Clark’s side back down to earth after their FA Cup run ended last weekend.

Harborough Town  4 – 1  Enfield

Enfield started well before bowing out at Harborough Town. Josh Sykes put the visitors ahead 18 minutes into the contest though Town got that crucial leveller just before the interval through Josh Walsh. Aaron Preston hit a brace on 66 & 88 minutes, in between was Ben Williamdon’s strike eight minutes from time.

Stansted  5 – 1  Aylesbury Vale Dynamos | Hargrave Park | Att: 80

The Airportmen got a morale-boosting win over Spartans South Midlands side Aylesbury Valr at Hargrave Park. Moses Carvalho got the opener for thosts on 36 minutes before Daniel Cheema got his first of the afternoon four minutes later. The Dynamos halved the half-time deficit two minutes after the resumption thanks to Dan Wilson’s goal, though Cheema quickly took the game away from the visitors with another brace on 54 & 63 minutes to complete a fine hat-trick. Carvalho then got his second midway through the half to complete a fine afternoon for Messrs Pittuck & Watters.

 

Wellingborough Town  4 – 3  Takeley

Takeley exited the competition here as Wellingborough edged them through goals from Ryan Lovell (2), a Luke Stone spot-kick and one from Matt Long. Glen O’Hanlon, Bryn Thorpe and Coby Miles all struck for Marc Das’ team though their focus is now on their League adventures now.

Match Report: Ilford 1 – 0 Tower Hamlets (Wed 21st Aug) [ESL 19/20 22.8.19]

Essex Senior League

2019-20 Season: Match 15

Wednesday 21st August – 7.45pm KO

Venue: Cricklefield

Attendance: TBA

Ilford:  Blue & White Hooped Shirts, Blue Shorts, Blue & White Socks

Hamlets: Orange Shirts, Black Shorts, Black Socks

Ilford club crest

Hamlets logo

 

Ilford edge this battle with Hamlets at Cricklefield

Ilford  1 – 0  Tower Hamlets

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

Our latest trip took me back to Cricklefield for this Essex Senior League encounter between Ilford and Tower Hamlets – two sides that have undergone management changes and hefty squad turnovers as well in the summer. Ilford were somewhat under-strength here with midfielder Connor Kain unavailable though could name goalkeeper Hugo Rossetti, the only survivor from last season’s regular side, in their starting XI. Former Watford and Norwich midfielder Clint Easton (who is also assistant manager) lined up at centre-back at the princely age of 41, respect to you Clint for ‘giving back’ to the game. The front two were Joshua Ekada and Valter Simao with academy graduate Ryan O’Connell and Felix Laws-Cochrane on the flanks. Hamlets’ management and squad are largely the team that competed for their reserve side in the Essex Alliance League last season with Anthony Folkes skippering the side, Jack Gannon in goal and a front three of Miles Mercury, Deese Kasinga-Madia and the hat-trick hero from last Saturday’s win at Sawbridgeworth, Ezra Ndukuba.

The first sighter of goal came on five minutes as Ilf winger Felix Laws-Cochrane’s strike at the near-post was gathered by visiting goalkeeper Jack Gannon. At the other end, Hamlets forward Miles Mercury had shown some neat touches in the early-going and his good forward run on 12 minutes ended with a shot lacking the power to beat home custodian Hugo Rossetti. Hamlets did have the edge overall in the first-half in what was growing to be a pretty lifeless match, with both sides cancelling each other out in midfield. With 25 minutes on the clock, visiting wing-back Anthony Musoke cut inside well though his drive at goal was gathered by Rossetti before it snuck inside the near post. The hosts suffered a blow when defender Clint Easton was forced off on the half-hour, to be replaced by Santana Porter. As half-time approached, a powerful long ball from centre-back Jedidiah Brown-Johnson found forward Ezra Ndukuba though his header couldn’t bypass Rossetti to break the deadlock.

Half-time: Ilford  0 – 0  Tower Hamlets

As the second-half progressed, the match continued to be rather devoid of ‘stand-out’ moments or clear-cut chances. Seven minutes into the second-half, right-back Tyson Talanya’s stinging cross forced ‘keeper Gannon to remain alert to gather ahead of the opposition forwards. With less than twenty minutes remaining on the watch, a good delivery from an Ilford corner found Simao who headed wide.

The hosts had to play the last eleven minutes with ten men after full-back Talanya hobbled off and Morgan LaForce’s team had already used all three substitutes. At that point, you may thought this match would have trickled its way to a goalless stalemate. Not so though. With ten minutes left, substitute Nic Keyamo forced his way into the area with a good run and just when he was poised to strike, Hamlets midfielder Kahlil Kirwan-Meade snuffed out the chance with a well-timed challenge under pressure. As it happened though, the breakthrough came moments later as after another corner caused some anxiousness in the Hamlets defence, centre-back Clifford Newby-Harris powered in a strike from close range to hand his side their first win of the campaign.

Full-Time: Ilford  1 – 0  Tower Hamlets

Ilford held out to get all three points in a match they may not have enjoyed much, though in fairness they did edge the second-half. Stand-outs for me today were winger Felix Laws-Cochrane who looked to get things going, centre-back Newbuy-Harris who did well after Easton was substituted and full-back Lewis Wicker. For Hamlets, midfielder Kahlil Kirwan-Meade and forward Miles Merciry did well and for both sides you suspect this is going to be a ‘learning’ season and there will be peaks & downturns along the way.

Finally, my thanks to Steve & the Ilford committee for the welcome pre-match & wish the side well this term. Best wishes to Hamlets for the reminder of the campaign as well.

Teams

Ilford  | Manager: Morgan LaForce | Player-Assistant Mgr: Clint Easton

Hugo Rossetti (GK), Tyson Talanya, Lewis Wicker, Clint Easton (Santana Porter 30′), Clifford Newby-Harris, Connor Duffey, Felix Laws-Cochrane, Said Ali, Joshua Ekada (Nic Keyamo 46′), Valter Simao, Ryan O’Connell (Aiden Tolley 66′)

Goal-scorer: Clifford Newby-Harris [81′]

Booked: Newby-Harris | Subs Not Used: Clements, Browne.

Tower Hamlets      | Manager: Damien Briggs

Jack Gannon (GK), Benas Vaivada, Anthony Musoke, Alan Zuqolli, Jedidiah Brown-Johnson, Joshua Rusoke, Kahlil Kirwan-Meade, Miles Mercury (Yoan Edoukou 60′), Deese Kasinga-Madia (Suaibo Balde 46′), Ezra Nudukuba

Booked: Rusoke   | Subs Not Used: Temur, Brookes.

Round-up: Essex Senior League (Fri 16/Sat 17 Aug) [ESL 2019/20 18.8.19]

Written by Scott W (Twitter: @ScottMHC14) – ESL Writer & Grassroots Football Show Contributor

Hello all and welcome to another of my weekly Preview pieces for the 2019-20 Essex Senior League campaign. After a frenetic two weeks of ESL & FA Cup matches which involved replays for a few of our sides, the league programme to take centre stage, hot on the heels of the Replays that two of our sides had in midweek.

Friday 16th August

Woodford Town  1- 3  West Essex   | the Harlow Arena | Att: 58

West started the weekend’s action with a fine win at Woodford. Symeon Taylor opened the scoring for Kwame Kwateng’s side. Sharn Quinn levelled for Dee Safer’s Town side though it was the visitors who took the points as Hakim Medfai & Brad Russell both struck to make it a night to remember for the Stags.

 

Saturday 17th August 

Enfield   1 – 3   Cockfosters  | Woodside

Cockfosters came away from Woodside with a good three points. James Verney, on loan from Hitchin Town, got the first for Player-manager Ryan Wade’s side on 19 minutes. Wade then notched himself as the visitors had a 2 – 1 lead at the break. Verney then got his second with three minutes remaining to give the ‘Fosters their second win of the campaign. The E’s tricky start to the season continued here with their fourth loss in five matches in all competitions.

 

Hadley  2 – 0  Sporting Bengal Utd   | Brickfield Lane | Att: 52

The Bricks kept their home form going in all competitions with a hard-fought win over Bengal at Brickfield Lane. After an own goal had put the hoss ahead, substitute Peter Rosemin completed the scoring to give Anthony Clark’s team the win, their third in League and Cup.

 

Ilford  0 – 3   Hoddesdon Town  | Cricklefield

Hoddy overpowered the Foxes with a fine display at Cricklefield. All the goals came after the hour as Connor Scully’s double [62’ & 80’] more than set Simon Riddle’s side on their way to victory. Blue Gallagher added a late third as Ilf extended their wait for a first win this term.

 

Redbridge  0 – 2   Hashtag Utd  | Oakside

Hashtag held firm to record their second win of the season at Oakside. Substitute George Smith was the difference-maker as he got the opening goal on the hour, just six minutes after entering the fray. Smith then completed his brace five minutes later as Jay Devereux’s side showed they can get results wherever they play here. The Motormen were defeated at home for the second time this term, though remain in the top ten in this embryonic table.

 

Sawbridgeworth Town  1 – 4  Tower Hamlets  | Crofters

Hamlets produced a fine display to add to Sawbo’s early-season woes at Crofters. Ezra Ndukuba grabbed a hat-trick to make it a day worth savouring personally while Kahlil Kirwan-Meade got the other goal for Damien Briggs’ side, who racked up their first win of the season here.

 

Takeley  0 – 1  Saffron Walden Town  | Station Road

Walden got the result in this local derby, laying another foundation for a possible challenge on the top three here. Jack Leachman got the only goal of the game just shy of the hour mark as the Bloods got their second win of the season. Takeley’s 100% start to the campaign ended here though they remain top of the standings.

 

Walthamstow  1 – 0  Stansted       | Wadham Lodge Stadium | Att: 63

Finally, ‘Stow won a battle with rivals Stansted as Dwade James struck again on 56 minutes to edge a tight affair at Wadham Lodge.

I attend this match & my in-depth report is here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2019/08/17/match-report-walthamstow-1-0-stansted-sat-17-aug-esl/

 

That’s all for this weekend’s Essex Senior League action. Thank you for reading. Check back regularly for more Essex Senior League round-up articles, Match Reports from the ESL & elsewhere, plus the regular Essex Olympian League round-up articles here on my blog. Finally, here are the results from this weekend’s Eastern Senior League South matches. Thanks for reading.

 

Eastern Senior League South Results

Friday 16th August

Barkingside 1 – 0 Hackney Wick

Frenford  2 – 2  Coggeshall Utd

May & Baker  3 – 0  Newbury Forest

Wivenhoe Town 3 – 0 Brightlingsea Regent Res

 

Saturday 17th August

Benfleet  5 – 1  Holland

Halstead Town  1 – 0  Burnham Ramblers

Little Oakley  2 – 0 Fire Utd

White Ensign  3 – 1  Harwich & Parkeston