Wakebury – survivor16b

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian Lge & Cups (Sat 3 Dec) [EOFL 22-23 5.12.22]

Written by Scott W [@ScottMHC14] – Non-League & EOFL Writer

Hello & welcome to the first edition in December of the Essex Olympian League round-up. This week, we look at the action in all divisions from Saturday 3 December, and we begin with the Cup competitions this weekend.

Essex Premier Cup – Round Four

This week we begin with the Essex Premier Cup fourth round. Premier Division side Toby defeated Essex Alliance League Senior side Kit Out London 3 – 0 at Nursery Sports Ground. Callum Mann, Jake Jones & Luis Ruiz all netted to seal progression to the last eight for Mark Jones’ side. Fellow top-tier side Rayleigh Town also went through after a 3 – 0 victory at Division One side Beacon Hill Rovers. Harry Talbot netted twice for Paul Higgins’ side here, with Jack Long again on target to seal the win. EOFL Prem leaders Hutton had a battle before winning 3 – 2 against Border League side Dunmow Town at Hannakins Farm, after extra time. Will Marlowe, Rodney Wilson & replacement David Johnson got the crucial goals there for the Reds. There was a win for Shenfield AFC in their local derby with Harold Wood Athletic, as another double for Ben Absolon secured a 2 – 1 win for AFC, with Zach Holding getting the solitary goal for the second-tier side.

Meanwhile, there was a real battle at Stambridge Memorial Ground which saw Division One side Corinthians narrowly defeat Premier side Leigh Ramblers 4 — 3. Bailey Moss’ treble & a goal for Bill Wilton secured an excellent victory for Chris Stoneham’s team, outdoing strikes for the Rams by Tom Franks, George Moxon and Matthew Brinklow. The lowest-ranked EOFL side in the competition – Division Two’s Wakering Sports Res , produced an excellent display to secure a 3 – 2 success against Essex Alliance League Senior Division side Chadwell Heath Spartans at Cupid’s. Connor Fardyga scored another two goals, and substitute Oliver Greene also netted for Sports. Joe Butcher & Jon Evans goals for the Spartans made it tight but it was a tough afternoon for Aaron Hunwicks’ side.

Finally, Catholic Utd put in a good performance to defeat Essex & Suffolk Border League Premier side Colne Athletic 5 – 2 at the Len Forge 3G, in the match I attended on Saturday. A brace for Aaron Baldwin added to goals by Louie Hay, Franklin Craik & a James Warder spot-kick to see the Super Hoops through & make it seven Olympian League sides in the quarter-finals this term, thus continuing the dominance by EOFL sides in recent years, in this competition.

If you’d like more on the win for Catholic Utd. my report is here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2022/12/04/s22-23-match-report-catholic-utd-5-2-colne-athletic-sat-3-dec-epc/

EOFL Reserve League Cup

Two matches to note in the Ressie League Cup. Firstly, Collier Row Res produced a fine performance to win 4 – 0 at Old Southendian Res, with Aloisio Dos Santos netting twice, along with goals from Charlie Quant & Ryan Costello to ensure the win for Mark Lee’s side. Leigh Ramblers Res joined them in the next round after a narrow 1 – 0 win in their derby with Leigh Town Res at Belfairs. Luis Bracci got the winning penalty with five minutes left to seal the tie.

EOFL Premier Division & Division One

In the top-tier this week, there was two vital wins for teams in the bottom three. Firstly, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts gained ground on the teams above them with a 5 – 0 triumph over Galleywood at Silver Leys. Mitchell Burr’s fine treble was added to by goals for Valter Simao & Edward Atkinson-Purse to ensure a fine win and leave ‘Wood three points adrift at the bottom. Springfield also got an important 2 – 1 victory at Runwell Sports, with Lewis Chapman & an OG ensuring Allan Fenn’s side got the win. Finally, Sungate had a Solomon Asomah strike to thank for a 1 – 0 win over Old Southendian which sees them rise to second spot.

In Division One, Epping Town cut the deficit to leaders Harold Wood Athletic to seven points after a 5 – 2 victory at home to Harold Hill. Chris Gormley let the way with a superb hat-trick, with goals from Abdul Kamara & Scout Bown adding to Hill’s pain. Old Chelmsfordians moved back up to third after a 6 – 1 win at home to ACD Utd, and Manford Way went up to seventh spot after a comprehensive 4 – 0 success at home to winless Wakering Sports. Daniel Demain, David Alele, James Dobson & an OG secured a good win for Colin Dobson’s team.

EOFL Divisions Two, Three, Four & Five

In Division Two, with leaders Shoebury Town not in action, the chasing pack all got important wins. Hashtag Utd Development remain second after a enthralling 8 – 1 victory at Rayleigh Town Res. Jay Knight got a fine treble, with an ensemble cast of Thomas Matthew, Josh Jarvis, Tony Stevens, Matthew Gauci & Tommy Green all grabbing a goal each for Denis Simpson’s team. Harold Wood Athletic Res are two points behind in third spot after a battling 3 – 2 win away at Hutton Res. Kieron Moynihan, Max London & Matthew Harris all scored for Steve Hubbard’s side there. Thomas Price & Ronnie Richardson-Cook both scored for the hosts there at Polo Fields.

Meanwhile, Wakebury are up to fourth after a 2 – 0 victory over third-bottom Catholic Utd Res at Cupid’s. Finlay Dorrell & Jordan Farrell both netted for Matt Cardy’s side there. And last but not least in this division, May & Baker EOFL secured another fine win with a 6 – 3 triumph over AS Rawreth. Jack O’Connor led the way for the hosts with a double, while Carl Patten, Kane Messenger, Darren Seymour & Alfie Horan all netted too to ensure they are eight points clear in sixth place. Billy Brown’s double & a goal from substitute Hamoud Salum accounted for the Rawreth goals here.

In Division Three, Basildon Town Res remain seven points clear at the summit after a fine 5 – 0 triumph at Springfield Res. Jamie Bradbourn’s double, allied with goals for Antony Aylett, Joe Fogarty & substitute Ashley Drury ensured the points went back with the visitors. Second-placed Pitsea Athletic look the most likely side to be able to catch the leaders, but had to settle for a narrow 1 – 0 home win against Buckhurst Hill U23. Hullbridge Sports Res lost ground on the top two after losing 1 – 3 to Old Chelmsfordians Res, who remain in seventh.

Moving into Division Four now, unbeaten leaders Roydon retained their three-point lead after a 4 – 0 win against Shenfield AFC Res at Roydon Rec. Nader Benzid, Connor Riddoch, Rene Pivarnik & Mike Hayes all scored for Nigel Jordon’s team in that game. Collier Row are eight points clear in second after a 3 – 1 victory over Leytonstone Utd in the ‘Forest Row derby’. Elsewhere, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res went three points clear in fifth spot after a 3 – 1 win at Herongate Athletic Res. Matthew Allen got a fine double here, with Archie Gerard also on target for the Swifts side. Finally, Galleywood Res defeated Ongar Town 2 – 0 at Slades Lane, with Ebenezer Fasoranti & Aryan Tathgar goals giving them only their second league win this term & also saw them rise out of the bottom two.

In Division Five, we have new leaders after Manford Way Res won 5 – 0 in their top-two clash at Basildon Town A. There were doubles for Luke Bennett & Callum Thomas, as well as a goal for George Green as Manford went two points clear at the summit. Wakebury Res also won as they defeated Sungate Res 5 – 1 at Shoebury Park.Liam Dunne & Riley Oliver both scored twice for Joe Creak’s side, with Charlie Canning’s goal sealing their fourth straight victory and a rise to third spot, three points behind Basildon Town A. In the other game, Canning Town Res got a comfortable 4 – 0 success over Runwell Sports Res to fortify their position in sixth.

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian Lge & Cups (Sat 19 Nov) [EOFL 22-23 21.11.22]

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

Hello & welcome to this weekend’s round-up from the action in the Essex Olympian League. This week on Saturday 19 November, we look at the action in all divisions, plus an extra section on the various Cup competitions this weekend.

EOFL Senior Cup

This week we’ll start with the League Senior Cup, where we saw two games. Toby progressed afterr a hard-fought 2 – 1 success at Corinthians, with Jamie Simpkins notching both goals for Mark Jones’ side. Bailey Moss was as ever on the score-sheet for the hosts at Stambridge. Catholic Utd also went through after a 6 – 2 win at home to Manford Way at the Len Forge.

Action still from first half of Leigh Rams v Galleywood this weekend

EOFL Premier Division

In the top-tier this week, Hutton remain nine points clear at the summit after a 3 – 0 win at local rivals Shenfield AFC. Brad Freeman, Will Marlowe & Luke Ricketts all scored for Matt Singh’s team at St Martin’s 3G. The Reds have only conceded four league goals in their undefeated ten games thus far, some statistic that is. Runwell Sports also got a much-needed win, as they won 4 – 2 at Kelvedon Hatch. James Dalton netted twice for Rob Hodgson’s side who move up to sixth, with Joe Olley & Gianni Frankis also finding the net to counteract goals for Hatch by Drew Klessa-Smith & Joe Newson. Canning Town are still second after a 1 – 0 win over Bishop’s Stortford Swifts in Beckton.

Lastly in the Prem, Leigh Ramblers defeated Galleywood 4 – 0 in the driving rain at Belfairs. Callum Morris, Scott Clark, Andrew Webster & George Moxon all netted for Mark Hunter’s team here and I attended this match, my report is available here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2022/11/20/s22-23-match-report-leigh-ramblers-4-0-galleywood-sat-19-nov-eofl/

EOFL Divisions One & Two

Division One saw seventeen goals in the three games played. Firstly, leaders Harold Wood Athletic had an enthralling match in their top-two contest with Epping Town, before eventually prevailing 5 – 4 at Harold Wood Rec. James Pottle led the way for the hosts with a treble, added to by goals from Daniel Spittle & Louis Bazely. Epping responded with Scout Bown netting another double, plus strikes by Chris Gormley & replacemement Joe Rickett but Epping are now ten points adrift of Ath. Harold Hill are up to fourth after a 2 – 1 victory over Beacon Hill Rovers at Henderson’s. Jack Sutters got both goals for Billy Cove’s side, with Bradley Morgan replying for Rovers in that game.

The other game saw Old Chelmsfordians maintain their top-four challenge with a 3 – 2 victory against Herongate Athletic at Lawfiord Lane. Adam Cole & George Godfrey both netting for Kurt Smith’s side there.

Into Division Two now, Rayleigh Town Res picked up a huge 4 – 1 win at AS Rawreth to leapfrog them off the bottom & up to seventh spot. Ebeneezer Djan once again led the scorers with a double here, with Matthew Oaten and Samuel Barker also netting here. Leaders Shoebury Town are now six points clear at the top after getting through a hugely-entertaining game at local rivals Old Southendian Res, before emerging with a 7 – 3 victory. Mechack-Kisoka Asuka and Jack Woodham both netted trebles for John Galley & Garry Johnson’s side here, with Luke Jackson also getting the other goal to more than confirm the win. OS’ second side fall to the foot of the table after this result.

Elsewhere, Wakebury picked up a very good 2 – 1 win again Harold Wood Athletic Res at Cupid’s. Will Wheeler netted both goals for Matt Cardy’s side, overhauling Kieron Moynihan’s goal for Ath here. The Berries remain in fourth but other results mean there are three sides on 18 points. May & Baker EOFL won 3 – 1 at home against high-flyers Wakering Sports Res to lift themselves up to sixth. Carl Patten, George Stanbrook & Frankie Warboyes all scored for Josh Lowbridge’s side. Connor Fardyga’s goal was not enough this time to prevent his side losing ground on the leaders Shoebury. Hashtag Utd Dev also got an important win, 5 – 4 at Hutton Res. Chandler Wray scored twice for the Tags side, with Jay Knight, Adam De Cruz and Samuel Pratt goals securing the win which adds to the grip they have on fifth spot currently. Thomas Price’s treble & a Lewis Hall goal were not enough to stop Hutton’s second side from dropping down to third-bottom.

EOFL Divisions Three, Four & Five

In the fourth-tier, Hullbridge Sports Res are in second place on goal difference after a 5 – 3 win at Chingford Athletic Res. Luke Dimond, Leighton Hughes-Franklin & Bilel Benyoucef all netted for Chingford but a treble for Lewis Foster plus goals for Harry Boswell and Jay Knight secured a good win for the visitors. Leigh Town Res are in third after a 4 – 0 win at home to Corinthians Res at John Burrows Rec. Zack Walker, Steve Birnie, Callum Stone & substitute Tommy Clayton all scored for Josh Burrage’s side in that one. Also, Old Chelmsfordians Res won 4 – 1 at Toby Res to go up to third bottom.

Into Division Four now, and Roydon extended their lead at the top to three points after a 2 – 0 victory at Ongar Town. Nader Benzid and substitute Zachary Ogundipe both netted to strengthen the promotion hopefuls’ chances on remaining in the top three. Elsewhere, Collier Row remain second after a goal-less draw with Herongate Athletic Res at Fotest Row, while at Basildon Sporting Village, Pitsea Athletic Res were held 1 – 1 by Leytonstone Utd, who got their first point of the campaign.

In Division Five, Basildon Town A had to overcome a stern test at St Luke’s Park before defeating Runwell Sports Res 3 – 2. Nathan Fisher scored twice for Bas, with Luke Soley also on target to give the visitors a one-point lead at the summit. Manford Way Res are up to second after a 4 – 1 triumph over Shoebury Town Res. The ensemble cast of Luke Bennett, Aaron Clements, George Green & replacement Harvey Brown all netted to ensure the win. Collier Row Res are five points further back in fourth spot after a 3 – 1 success at Canning Town Res. Celso Da Silva, Raheem Bravo & Harry Potts were all on target to secure the points.

Essex Premier Cup Replay (Last week’s result is void) – May & Baker Res (EAL) 3 – 1 ACD Utd (AET)

EOFL Reserve Lge Cup Results

Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res 0 – 2 Springfield Res

Galleywood Res 9 – 0 AS Rawreth Res

Wakebury 1 – 1p Catholic Utd Res (1-4 on pens)

and Essex Junior Cup R: Ilford Res 1 – 2 Shenfield AFC Res

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian Lge & Cups (Sat 12 Nov) [EOFL 22-23 14.11.22]

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

Hello & welcome to the round-up from the action in the Essex Olympian League. This week on this Rememberance Weekend or Saturday 12 November, we look at the action in all divisions, plus an extra section on the various Cup competitions this weekend. Lest we forget.

AS Rawreth’s Sonny Newcombe (13) jostling for the ball v Shoebury this weekend

EOFL Premier Division

Firstly in the top-tier, Runwell Sports flew up into seventh spot with a 4 – 1 victory over visitors Bishops Stortford Swifts. Charlie Little & Gianni Frankis both notched doubles to see Rob Hodgson’s side to a big win. Alex Scott-Bell got an eventual consolation for Swifts, who remain a point clear of the bottom. Old Southendian got an good 2 – 0 win at Springfield, with Nico Dubouchet & Jack Lelliott both on target for Altan Ali’s side who for the moment go into sixth spot. Finally, Canning Town missed the chance to gain ground on the top two (who were in Cup action) as they lost 4 – 3 at Sungate, who rose to fourth, behind Canning by virtue of the latter scoring more goals.

Shoebury & Rawreth observe minute’s silence before KO

EOFL Divisions One & Two

In the only game in Division One this week owing to Cup action, second-placed Epping Town are seven points adrift of leaders Harold Wood Athletic after drawing 2 – 2 with mid-table Harold Hill. Scout Bown got both goals for player-boss Stuart Hoskins’ team there.

Moving into Division Two, Harold Wood Athletic Res kept up the pressure on the top two with a 5 – 1 triumph at Old Southendian Res. Chay Saggers scored for the OS side but Ath went three points clear in third, thanks to braces for Matt Harris & Thomas Butler, with Nazarij Bilanovszkij also on target. The bottom six clubs are seperated by only three points after Catholic Utd Res defeated Hutton Res 2 – 1 and Rayleigh Town Res held May & Baker EOFL 1 – 1, with Byron Down netting for the home side at London Road.

In the match I attended this week, Shoebury Town were given a test initially before powering to a 6 – 2 victory over AS Rawreth at Ekco Sports Club. Mechack-Kisoka Asuka netted a fine treble to lead the scorers, with captain Callum Merenda, Suhail Yasin & Ryan Galley all also scoring for John Galley & Garry Johnson’s side, who are now three points clear at the summit. Sonny Newcombe & captain Muntizir Hussain netted for Shane Bird’s side. If you’d like more on this match, my report can be viewed here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2022/11/12/s22-23-match-report-shoebury-town-6-2-as-rawreth-sat-12-nov-eofl/

EOFL Divisions Three, Four & Five

Into Division Three now, Basildon Town Res are five points clear at the top after a 4 – 1 success at Old Chelmsfordians Res. Keith King netted a fine treble, with Antony Aylett also on target to make it 35 league goals already this term (at an average of 3.88 goals per game) for Bas. Buckhurst Hill U23 are also well-placed, moving up to third after a 2 – 0 victory at Hullbridge Sports Res. Jacob Sember Richards & Olaobajuwan Olagbaju both scored for Darren Gosnell’s side. Finally, Springfield Res are up to fifth after a 3 – 2 win at Corinthians Res. Billy Headland, Edward Coggins & replacement Michael Loannou all scoring for ‘Field there.

In Division Four, Leigh Ramblers Res strengthened their fourth position with a 3 – 1 victory at Ongar Town. Alex Goodson, Dominic North & Ethan Nunn all netted at Marks Hall to leave Town in eighth. Galleywood Res got their first win this term, winning 3 – 2 at strugglers Leytonstone Utd. An OG, Alfie Hooper & Joshua Lapidus goals saw them to a vital win. Elsewhere, Roydon were held 1 – 1 by Herongate Athletic Res, with Nader Benzid getting the goal for the leaders. Collier Row are up to a second spot, a point behind Roydon after a 2 – 0 win at Shenfield AFC Res. Jake Skeet’s seventh league goal this term & substitute Freddie Donkor’s goal confirmed the points for Row. Finally, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res celebrated a big 6 – 1 triumph over Wakering Sports A at Silver Leys. Matthew Allen’s treble plus strikes by David Falzon, Ewan Rockell & Huey Reid saw them to victory & up to fifth. James Clark hot the solitary reply for the Sports’ third-side.

In Division Five, Wakebury Res became the first league side to beat leaders Basildon Town A & they did so in some style, winning 6 – 2 at Basildon Sports Club. Ross Barnes netted a hat-trick here for Joe Creak’s side, with Tommy Wolfe netting two more & Luke Abbott also ontarget. Luke Soley & substitute Alex Shields got replies for Bas but they now only lead the table on goal difference. That is because Runwell Sports Res got a 2 – 2 draw at Manford Way Res. Max Harrington & Benjamin See got the goals for Sports, while Manford’s goals came from Luke Bennett’s double. The other game in the division saw a huge win for Sungate Res as they won 8 – 2 at AS Rawreth Res, which earned them their first win this term.

Essex Premier Cup – Round Three

In the first of our ‘in-focus’ matches in the EPC, Shenfield AFC got back to winning ways with a hard-fought 3 – 2 victory over Essex Senior Reserve side White Ensign Res at St Martins’ 3G. Marlon Stratford, Luke Williamson & Courtney Justin got the goals for the home side in that tie as AFC went through. Catholic Utd also made the fourth round with a 2 – 0 victory over Heybridge Swifts Res at the Len Forge. Aaron Baldwin getting both goals for Utd with gives them a much-need confidence boost ahead of their other Cup fixtures this month. At Belfairs, Leigh Ramblers powered to a terrific 5 – 2 victory over Border League side Dedham Old Boys. Scott Clark continued his good season with a double here, while Callum Morris, Billy Field & an OG rounded out the scorers for the hosts.

Ellsewhere, Toby put in a clinical display to defeat Chelmsford City Res 5 – 0 at the Nursery Sports Ground. Jamie Simpkins & Oliver Dingli both got doubles, with Ben Picton getting the opener there for Mark Jones’ side. Harold Wood Athletic put in another excellent display to defeat Essex Alliance Senior side Frenford Development 4 – 3 at the Rec. Billy Gray, Billy Spencer, Mitchell Prue & Max Shepherd all notched as Ath progressed.

Rayleigh Town also progessed with a 6 – 0 trouncing of Galleywood at Slades Lane. Sonny Woodward netted a treble here to lead the way, with George Vile, George Aston & substitute Harry Talbot also netting. Wakering Sports Res also got a big 5 – 1 win ag home to Alresford Colne Rangers at Cupid’s, with Connor Fardyga again leading the scorers with a double here, with Billy Cottrill, Charlie Smith and a thunderbolt from David Watson adding more pain to the visitors. Finally for this section, Corinthians won 3 – 2 at Hashtag Utd Res, with a brace for Bailey Moss & one for Max Jones proving enough to win at Barleylands.

Other Results In EPC:

Colne Athletic 2 – 1 Old Chelmsfordians

Hutton 2 – 1 Kelvedon Hatch

May & Baker Res (EAL side) 1 – 1p ACD Utd (3 – 5 on pens)

Pitsea Athletic 1 – 2 Beacon Hill Rovers

EOFL Senior & Reserve Cups

In the single match in the EOFL Senior Cup, Wakebury progressed with a very good 4 – 1 victory over goal-hungry Chinford Athletic Res at Cupid’s. Finlay Dorrell again netted twice for Matt Cardy’s team, with Junior Lawrence & Isaac Bello also on target for the hosts. Leighton Hughes-Franklin got the reply for Ath but they exited the competition here.

In RLC: Shoebury Town Res 1 – 0 Toby Res

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian Lge (Sat 5 Nov) [EOFL 22-23 7.11.22]

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

Hello & welcome to the round-up from the action in the Essex Olympian League. This week on Saturday 5 November, we look at the action in all divisions, plus an extra section on Senior League Cup games this weekend. Image below taken by Peter D, used with thanks.

Image from Harold Hill v Waering Sports [Image by Peter D]

EOFL Premier Division

Firstly in the top-tier, Kelvedon Hatch got a good 2 – 0 victory at Leigh Ramblers, with Drew Klessa-Smith and Reece Simpson the scorers for Darren Hunt’s side. Other results in the division were Canning Town’s 5 – 0 win over Galleywood, Old Southendian’s fine 3 – 1 success at Catholic Utd and Sungate getting another way win with a 2 – 0 victory at Shenfield AFC.

EOFL Divisions One & Two

The second tier saw plenty of goals & a few surprises. First up there was no shock at Henderson’s though but Harold Hill did have to come from behind to defeat Wakering Sports 4 – 1. Ryan Curtis had given Sports an early lead, but a double from Jack Suters, plus goals from Ashley Blackburn and Joel Sampson swiveled the match in Hill’s favour, which sees Billy Cove’s team rise up to sixth spot. If you’d like more on this match, my erstwhile Non-League colleague Peter D was there & his report is viewable here: http://pedroslocalfootiefix.blogspot.com/2022/11/harold-hill-4-wakering-sports-1.html

Elsewhere, Epping Town got an important 4 – 2 victory over Beacon Hill Rovers to leap yp to second. Substitute Scout Bown nabbed a fine treble along with a Chris Gormley goal to see Stuart Hoskins’ side to the points. ACD Utd were also triumphant following a 2 – 1 win at home to Herongate Athletic at Westlands. Harry Payne & Jacob Dingli both netted for Michael Wade’s side, with this win taking them up to third. Old Chelmsfordians got a big 4 – 1 success at fellow top five side Corinthians while Manford Way drew 2 – 2 with leaders Harold Wood Athletic, with James Pottle & Leroy Griffiths both netting for Ath there.

In Division Two this week, Shoebury Town went top of the table with six wins from six after a 3 – 2 win at Hashtag Utd Development at Barleylands. Kian Bradshaw, Luke Jackson & Aaron Marshall got the goals for Garry Johnson & John Galley’s side as they kept up their terrific start to the season. Harold Wood Athletic Res are third after a 4 – 0 home win over Rayleigh Town Res. Joe Eldridge’s brace allied with strikes by Chris Dixon & Freddy Shepherd secured the points there while Wakebury are now fourth after a 3 – 1 victory at Hutton Res. Will Wheeler, Finlay Dorrell & Mark Frostick all netted for Matt Cardy’s team there as they notched their fifth win this term. David Johnson replied for the Reds’ second-side. In the other game, AS Rawreth got a rare away win, prevailing 1 – 0 at Old Southendian Res at Garon Park 3G to lift them into mid-table.

EOFL Divisions Three, Four & Five

Into Division Three now, Buckhurst Hill U23 got back on form with a 2 – 0 victory at Old Chelmsfordians Res, thanks largely to a double from Jacob Samber Richards for Darren Gosnell’s side. Hill stay fifth after this win. Hullbridge‘s Ressie side won 3 – 1 at Toby Res thanks to a Jay Knight double & one from Joe Tuskin, which takes them up to second. Basildon Town Res are still two points clear after a big win in a fantastic game, 7 – 4 at Chingford Athletic Res, while Springfield Res also won, 3 – 1 at home to Leigh Town Res.

In Division Four, Roydon are now three points clear at the summit following a 6 – 0 success at home to struggling Leytonstone Utd. Nader Benzid scored twice here, with the supporting cast of Mike Hayes, Connor Riddoch, Connor Presland & OG rounding out the scorers as Roydon remain unbeaten this term. Leigh Ramblers Res won 1 – 0 at Galleywood Res to go up to fourth, while in the other game, Pitsea Athletic Res drew 4 – 4 with Shenfield AFC Res.

Finally in the only match in Division Five, Runwell Sports Res got back to winning ways with a 3 – 1 triumph at Sungate Res in East London. The result puts Runwell’s second side back to second while the Sungate side are winless so far this term.

EOFL Senior League Cup

There were just the two matches in the Senior League Cup this weekend. Firstly, Rayleigh Town went through uin a rare first-team game this term back at London Road. Town defeated May & Baker EOFL 5 – 2, with George Vile and Phil Anunwa both netting two goals each, with other goal coming from Sonny Woodward. Alfie Horan and Frankie Worboyes got the goals for M & B there. In the other tie, top-tier Hutton had a scare before overcoming Division Four side Collier Row 3 – 2 at Forest Row.

Essex Junior Trophy Results

Ashingdon Res 2 – 3 Basildon Town A

Collier Row A 0 – 1 Manford Way Res

and Collier Row Res 4 – 0 Harold Hill Res

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian Lge (Sat 22 Oct) [EOFL 22/23 24.10.22]

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

Hello & welcome to the round-up from the action in the Essex Olympian League. This week on Saturday 22 October, we look at the action in all divisions, plus an extra section on the Cup competitions this weekend.

EOFL Premier Division

In the top-tier this week, Hutton continue to lead the way as they roared to a 6 – 1 success over Leigh Ramblers at Chadfields. David Johnson struck another two goals here, with Jude Keeling, Jonathan Hilliard and two seperate OG’s adding further gloss to the scoreline for Matt Singh’s team. Rayleigh Town were held 1 – 1 by a Shenfield AFC side who are tough to beat at present. Jack Long got the goal for Town, before later being dismissed. Allan Fenn’s tenure at Springfield began with a 2 – 1 success at home to Bishop Stortford’s Swifts. Olle Gentry and Leonidas Brotherton got big goals ass they got the first win this term. Alfie Bowen replied for Swifts but they still fell to defeat.

The other results saw Canning Town go back up to fourth after a 5 – 0 win at home to kelvedon Hatch and Old Southendian exited the bottom two with a 3 – 2 triumph over Runwell Sports at Garon Park, despite Gianni Frankis and James Dalton goals for Rob Hodgson’s visitors.

EOFL Divisions One & Two

In the second tier, Beacon Hill Rovers won 2 – 1 at struggling Wakering Sports. Semi Akinlolu and Bertie Whymark both scored for the victors there, while Nathan Roche replied for the hosts. Corinthians continue to bag the points with a 3 – 1 success at home to Epping Town. Jordan Stoneham, Leo Clarke and Bailey Moss all found the net there for Chris Stoneham’s team. In other results, ACD Utd were held 3 – 3 by Harold Hill at Westlands, while Herongate Athletic were held 1 – 1 by Harold Wood Athletic. Benjamin Clarke’s penalty supplied Ath’s goal and Matt Donovan levelled things up for John Field’s side.

In Division Two, Wakering Sports Res continued their fine season with a 5 – 1 win at local rivals Catholic Utd Res. Ciaran Sweeney continues to find the net regularly as he got two goals here, and he was supported by goals from Connor Fardyga, Ashley Sexton and substitute Kasey Brannan. Daniel Williams netted the consolation for the Hoops second-team. Hashtag Utd Dev got a terrific 6 – 2 victory at May & Baker EOFL, as Chandler Wray netted two goals himself, along with an ensemble cast including Shaun Warren, Matthew Gauci, Tony Stevens and Samuel Pratt who all netted a goal each. Danny Gillham and Danny Horan got the strikes for Josh Lowbridge’s team. Lastly in this tier, Wakebury got back on form with some style as thewy won 6 – 1 at home to AS Rawreth at Cupid’s. Finlay Dorrell scored a fine treble for Matt Cardy’s team, with Jake Butler, Ben Perry and Harry Kateley also finding the net.

EOFL Divisions Three, Four & Five

In Division Three, the majority of home sides prevailed. Firstly, Basildon Town Res continued their fine start with a 5 – 0 triumph over Tooby Res at Basildon Sports Club. Antony Aylett & Scott Read both got braces here, with Jamie Miller also scoring here. Hullbridge Sports Res also hit five goals in a 5 – 0 victory over Springfield Res. Nicholas Sherlock netted twice here, with the supporting cast of Harry Mole, Harry Boswell and Lewis Foster all got a goal each. Pitsea Athletic also were successful with a 4 – 2 win over Old Chelmsfordians Res at Basildon Sporting Village. Lee Mulholland and Declan Peters both scored to give the OC’s a chance but a treble for Joshua Oteng and one for substitute Reece Stone comfirmed the points for Ath. Lastly in D3, Leigh Town Res now take on the mantle as their ‘lead’ side and they won 2 – 1 at Chingford Athletic Res. Liam Wragg and Kyras Harris both struck to give Josh Burrage’s side the win at Town Mead.

Moving into Division Four, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res ggot a big 4 – 1 win over Leytonstone Utd at Silver Leys. Matt Kemp was the hat-trick hero for the hosts, with Harry Senior also finding the net. William Medlock got the consolation for Utd. Ongar Town also got a much-needed victory with a resounding 5 – 0 triumph against Wakering Sports A at Marks Hall. Billy Welch struck four goals for Town there, with Samuel Flynn also on target there. Other results in the division included Collier Row’s 4 – 1 home win against Galleywood Res and a 2 – 1 victory for Shenfield AFC Res at Leigh Ramblers Res.

In Division Five, Basildon Town A continued to impress with an 8 – 1 success at Epping Town Res. Donnel Kujingaadded to his impressive goal haul this term with another treble, with Nathan Fisher, Luke Soley, Benjamin Farrant, Charlie Jarvis and Kyanou Stylianou rounding out the list of scorers. Joe Bothwell’s goal was a good moment personally but Epping had no answer in this match. Manford Way Res got a 2 – 0 victory at home to Collier Row Res. with Luke Bennett and Charlie Thomas the scorers there. Meanwhile, Wakebury Res had a strike by replacement Kieran Wheal to thank for a 1 – 0 win at Canning Town Res. Also, Runwell Sports Res won 6 — 1 at AS Rawreth Res.

Cup Section

In EOFL Senior Lge Cup – Old Chelmsfordians 3 – 2 Shoebury Town

In the EOFL Reserve Lge Cup, Rayleigh Town Res bossed their tie as they defeated Pitsea Athletic Res 6 – 1 at London Road. Calvin Armstrong and Ebeneezer Djan both scored twice, with Harry Herbert and Daniel Beestone also on target for Dave Barker’s side. The other result saw Old Southendian Res progress with a 4 – 2 win at Sungate Res.

In the Anagram Records Trophy, Catholic Utd progressed in the late kick-off with a 2 – 1 win at Tottenhoe, thanks largely to Aaron Baldwin’s brace at the Rec. Galleywood also made the next round with a fine 5 – 1 victory over Sudbury Sports. Ben Smith scored two goals here, with Craig Skipper, Roman Sparks and Jamie Lockwood all finding the net as well. Sungate also went through with a 4 – 1 win at EAL Senior side Sporting Hackney.

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian Lge & Cups (Sat 8 Oct) [EOFL 22-23 10.10.22]

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

Hello & welcome to the round-up from the action in the Essex Olympian League. This week on Saturday 8 October, we look at the action in all League divisions from Two to Five, plus an extra section on the Essex Premier Cup & the EOFL Reserve League Cup. Thanks as ever to all the regular readers of this column & to all the clubs.

No EOFL Premier Division & Division One action this week

EOFL Divisions Two & Three

We begin this week in Division Two, with a handsome win for Hashtag Utd Dev as they prevailed 12 – 1 at AS Rawreth. Samuel Pratt struck four goals here, with Matthew Gauci notching twice. There was a hefty ensemble of Josh Jarvis, Thomas Matthew, Jay Knight, Chandler Wray, Tommy Green & replacement Jake Smith who all scored as well. Wakebury also got a morale-boosting win, 5 – 2 at Catholic Utd Res. Will Wheeler, Mark Frostick, Ben Morley, Junior Lawrence & substitute Isaac Bello all netted for Matt Cardy’s side in that game. The other result saw Old Southendian Res draw 3 – 3 at May & Baker EOFL.

Moving now into the solitary match in Division Three, as Basildon Town Res got another big win, 7 – 0 at home to Corinthians Res. Harry Payne came off the bench to score a treble, with the supporting cast of Louis Hill, Antony Aylett, Jamie Miller & Billy Hutchinson all scoring too.

EOFL Divisions Four & Five

In Division Four, Roydon got a big 5 – 0 victory over Galleywood Res. Substitute Mike Hayes netted twice for the hosts, with Connor Presland, Lucas Riddoch & fellow replacement Lee Wicks secured the points. Herongate Athletic Res also got the points with a 2 – 0 success at Leytonstone Utd. Kieron Wilson-Fowler & substitute Kai Redmond got the goals there. The other result in the division was Ongar Town’s 3 – 1 victory against Pitsea Athletic Res at Marks Hall.

In Division Five, the top four sides all won. Basildon Town A are still top after a 4 – 0 victory at Canning Town Res. Daniel Kujinga got all four goals for the visitors as they stayed a point clear. Runwell Sports Res are in second place after a 9 – 1 victory over Shoebury Town Res at St Luke’s. Gianni Frankis scored four goals here, with Harry Ford scoring two goals as well as Luke Smith and substitutes James Clarke & Bryce Comer. Manford Way Res are in third after a 5 – 3 success at Sungate Res. Callum Thomas scored two goals for them, with Charlie Webb, Charlie Thomas & Bradley Wilkins all also on target.

Lastly for the League action, Collier Row Res are in fourth spot after a terrific 11 – 1 win over AS Rawreth Res. Jordan Lee & Raheem Bravo both scored trebles for the Romford-based side, with Eric Eze & George Coker netting twice each also, with Ryan Costello also on target.

Essex Premier Cup

In our additional section on the EPC this week, we start with ACD Utd progressing with a 6 – 1 victory over Springfield Res. Alex Bessent netted twice for Michael Wade’s side, with Jacob Dingli, Samuel Payne, Scott Perkins & substitute Connor Lambert all netting on a good day for them. Catholic Utd had a scare before joining ACD as they had extra time to deal with before winning 4 – 2 at Buckhurst Hill U23. Aaron Baldwin & Ben Burrows scored for Utd, with Harry Maslin & Harvey Woods scoring for Hill. Extra-time strikes by Tom Elliott & Adrian Maponga sealed the win for Simon Thomas’ side.

Frenford Development got a fine 3 – 2 win at fellow Step 7 side Canning Town. Edem Tetteh, Isima Iguisi & substitute Sebastian Ramirez goals saw the EAL Senior side through. EOFL Division One side Beacon Hill Rovers made a superb comeback as they won 4 – 3 at Middlesex County Premier side Clapton CFC. Greg Moorse, Fred Taylor & Reggie Nelson goals saw the Tons take the lead, but a treble from Karl Swanborough turned the tables & Bertie Whymark also netted for Rovers. Galleywood also got the win as they defeated Leigh Town Res 4 – 0 at John Burrows Rec. Ben Smith scored a treble with Jamie Lockwood getting the other goal.

Elsewhere, Rayleigh Town also went through following a 3 – 0 victory at Manford Way. George Vile, Jack Long & William Vile got the goals for Paul Higgins’ team. Harold Wood Athletic also won, as Jacob Roberts & Matty Donovan goals saw them to a 2 – 1 win at EAL team Oakside, after extra-time. Old Chelmsfordians defeated fellow EOFL Division One side Harold Hill 3 – 1 , thanks to a brace from Joe Kemp and one goal from Max Johnson. Troy Tizard-Cleghorn responded for Billy Cove’s team.

Meanwhile, Pitsea Athletic won with a 3 – 2 triumph over Hullbridge Sports Res. Kwadwo Asante, Reece Stone & Josh Ledger all netted there at Basildon Sports Club. Toby also booked their place in the next round withh a 2 – 1 success over Shoebury Town. Jamie Simpkins & replacement Oliver Dingli both scored for Mark Jones’ side. Leigh Ramblers also won through after a 3 – 1 triumph at Wakering Sports. Ryan Wyatt scored for Wakering, but goals from Scott Clark, Jack Gardner & an OG secured the win.

Our final two matches start with a excellent game which Alresford Colne Rangers progress with a 5 – 4 victory at Springfield. Josh Gray scored two goals for Rangers, but further goals from Finley Hughes, Sam Hume & Ryan Lewis sealed the win. Strikes by Mason Sprott, Harrison Elles, Cameron Brown & substitute Olle Gentry made it close but interim boss Cameron Scorer’s side went out. Lastly, there was a rare scoreline at St Martins Sch as Shenfield AFC trounced May & Baker Res 21 – 0. Substitute Alex Tredgett led the way with five goals, Jack Shaw & Luke Williamson also scored four goals each. Frankie Fealty & Ben Absolon netted two more goals apiece and the scorers were rounded out by Elliott Thompson, Ben Carroll, Samuel Lock & an OG.

Other Results

Harold Wood Athletic Res 2 – 3 Dedham Old Boys

Hashtag Utd Res 4 – 0 Hutton Res

Herongate Athletic 1 – 4 Barnston

Hutton 1 – 0 Rayleigh Town Res

Oakside 1 – 2 Harold Wood Athletic (AET)

Old Chelmsfordians Res 1 – 4 Colne Athletic

Old Southendian 2 – 3 Woodford East

Wakering Sports Res 2 – 1 Frenford Res

West Bergholt 6 – 1 Toby Res

EOFL Reserve League Cup

In the Ressie League Cup, Leigh Ramblers Res went through after a 3 – 0 victory over Wakering Sports A. Jacob Meads scored twice & Charlie Batchelor got the other goal at Belfairs Park. Also, Wakebury Res also won, getting a surprise 4 – 1 win over EOFL Div Four side Shenfield AFC at Shoebury Park, Ross Barnes netted twice for the hosts, with Luke Abbott and Jamie Oates also on target for Joe Creak’s team. Jack Panons got the solitary reply for AFC’s second team.

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League (Sat 27 Aug) [EOFL 22/23 28.8.22]

Image from Wakebury’s (in blue) win over OS Res this weekend

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

Hello & welcome to the round-up from the third week of action in the Essex Olympian League season. This week on Saturday 27 August, we look at the action in all six divisions, as some teams began their campaigns here. Photo taken by Pete Dudley [@ped1980], used with thanks.

EOFL Premier Division

In the top-tier, Hutton lead the table after a 2 – 0 victory at Bishop’s Stortford Swifts. The Reds have only conceded one goal in their three matches so far, of which they have all won. Galleywood were held 1 – 1 by Kelvedon Hatch at Melbourne Park 3G. Bradley Taylor netted for the hosts, but Chris Denham replied for Hatch as they took a point. Both teams are in mid-table, having yet to win so far this term.

At Chelmer Valley High School, Springfield also drew 1 – 1, with Leigh Ramblers. Replacement Antony Connor got the goal for Franco Zabotti’s team. Other results in the division were Canning Town‘s 2 – 1 win over Sungate in Beckton and Toby got a massive win in their new surroundings in Ramsden Heath, as they prevailed 6 – 2 against Runwell Sports.

EOFL Division One

In Division One, ACD Utd got their first win of the new term with a 3 – 1 success at Herongate Athletic. Frankie Markham netted a super treble in this comeback victory for Michael Wade’s team. Harold Wood Athletic made it three wins from as many games after they defeated Manford Way 1 – 0 at Harold Wood Rec. Sam Tampkins got the decisive goal that saw Ath go top of the early table.

In tbe other games, Old Chelmsfordians had an away day to remember as they won 6 – 1 at Beacon Hill Rovers. Substitutes had a big part to play in the win for OC’s with Billy Duke netting a hat-trick after coming off the bench. Jordan Boden also scored twice and replacement Jonny Waskett also netted for Scott Fleming’s team. Bertie Whymark got the consolation goal for Rovers. And Wakering Sports drew 0 – 0 at home to Leigh Town at Cupid’s, which means both teams are yet to win so far this term.

EOFL Divisions Two & Three

In Division Two, Wakebury leapt to the top of the table with an impressive 7 – 2 success over Old Southendian Res, at their new home of Cupid’s in Shoebury. Harry Kateley netted four goals here for the Berries, with Will Wheeler, Mo Sesay and Tommy Pinkerton all adding further pain on the visitors. Fellow Non-League writer Peter Dudley was there, here is his take on the game: https://pedroslocalfootiefix.blogspot.com/2022/08/wakebury-7-old-southendian-reserves-2.html

Elsewhere, Hutton Res defeated May & Baker EOFL 3 – 1 at Polo Fields. David Johnson struck twice for the Hutton second-side in that game. Replacement Benjamin Rose got the other goal too for the hosts. Also, Catholic Utd Res got their first win of 2022-23 as they defeated Rayleigh Town Res 3 – 0 at London Road. Franklin Craik netted twice for the visitors with Ben Burrows also on target there to secure the win.

Moving onto the only game in Division Three, Corinthians Res were held 1 – 1 by Buckhurst Hill U23 at Stambridge. Cameron Lyttle scored again for Darren Gosnell’s team, but Matt Lee’s reply meant that Alan Frost’s team took a point.

EOFL Divisions Four & Five

There were three games each in Divisions Four and Five this week. Firstly, in Division Four there was one big win for Herongate Athletic Res as they won 4 – 0 at Wakering Sports A. Kai Redmond scored two goals for Ath, with Makenna Brooke & Dan Webb joining him on the score-sheet.

Elsewhere, Pitsea Athletic Res achieved a narrow 1 – 0 win over visitors Galleywood Res at Basildon Sports Club, with Rinor Zeqiri getting the crucial goal. Finally, Collier Row were held to a goal-less draw by Roydon at the Forest Row Centre.

In Division Five, Wakebury Res began their campaign with some style with a 7 – 1 victory at AS Rawreth Res. Arry Hardy scored four goaks for Joe Creak’s team at the Warren. Tommy Wolfe added two more goals for the Berries’ second-team, plus Charlie Kernott also got on the score-sheet for the visitors.

Collier Row Res are the leaders of the division after a 3 – 1 triumph over Sungate Res. George Coker, Jordan Lee & Raheem Bravo all netted for the Romford side to secure the points. And finally, Runwell Sports Res drew 3 – 3 with Canning Town Res at St Luke’s Park.

End

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League (Sat 13 Aug) [EOFL 22/23 14.8.22]

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

Hello & welcome to the return of the Essex Olympian League round-up articles for the 2022-23 season. I will endeavour to compile these as often as I can during the season, though just as an advance notice that they may not be done weekly. This week, we look the action in all six divisions, as the new EOFL season began in earnest.

Match still from Corinthians 3 – 1 ACD Utd [Image by Scott W]

EOFL Premier Division

As usual we begin with the top-tier, and in a season of change which includes two new names to the division (Toby & Runwell Sports) and a few clubs moving into ground-shares at Senior grounds, we start with Hutton‘s 2 – 1 victory over Rayleigh Town at Tilbury’s Chadfields. Stalwarts Will Marlowe and Stephen Judge got the important goals there as Matt Singh’s side began their new era well. Catholic Utd also began their new season well with an impressive 5 – 1 success at newcomers Toby. Aaron Baldwin started his season with a treble, with substitutes Harrison Day and Liam Oliver also notching at Toby’s new venue – the Nursery Sports Ground in Ramsden Heath.

Elsewhhere, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts grabbed a 2 – 0 triumph over Sungate at Silver Leys. Jamie Dicker and William Morris secured the points for the home team there. Old Southendian also started with a win as they defeated Springfield 2 – 1 at Garon Park 3G. Nico Dubouchet and Jack Lelliott scored one goal each for Altan Ali’s team to overturn Arinze Ossai’s goal for Francesco Zabotti’s team. Other results on the day were Runwell Sports’ 1 – 1 draw with Galleywood and Canning Town‘s 3 – 1 success over Shenfield AFC.

EOFL Division One

In Division One, Harold Wood Athletic began life in the second-tier with a fine 4 – 0 victory over Old Chelmsfordians. Matt Donovan, Billy Gray, Zach Holding and Max Shepherd were the ensemble cast of scorers to give John Field’s new side the points. Harold Hill also began their season under new management with a win, as they defeated Leigh Town 2 – 0 at Noak Hill. James Odhiamba and Troy Tizard-Cleghorn got the goals for Billy Cove’s new team.

In the match I watched live this weekend to mark the new Intermediate season, Corinthians were made to work hard before earning a 3 – 1 victory over divisional newcomers ACD Utd at Stambridge. Bailey Moss netted twice and Bill Wilton added the other goal for Chris Stoneham’s team, after Samuel Payne had earlier given ACD the advantage. If you’d like more on this game, my full report is available here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2022/08/13/s22-23-match-report-corinthians-3-1-acd-utd-sat-13-aug

Finally in this division, Epping Town started their campaign strongly with a 5 – 2 victory at Beacon Hill Rovers. Sacha Canning and Jack Walker got the goals for Rovers but ultimately, Stuart Hoskins’ side were too strong on the day.

EOFL Divisions Two & Three

Moving into Division Two now and in the two games that took place, both were won by the visiting side. Wakebury began their season with a gutsy 2 – 1 triumph at Wakering Sports Res at Cupid’s. Ben Rowe and Will Wheeler got the telling goals to give Matt Cardy’s side the points. Harold Wood Athletic Res got a narrow 1 – 0 success at newcomers Hashtag Utd Development, with Thomas Butler getting the only goal on the half-hour.

Only one match began the term in Division Three, and it ended in a draw. Basildon Town Res fought hard but were held 2 – 2 by Old Chelmsfordians Res at Basildon Sports Club. Rodney Wilson and Joshua Hales got the goals for the hosts there.

EOFL Divisions Four & Five

Roydon began their new season in Division Four with a superb 4 – 1 victory at Wakering Sports A on the second pitch at Cupid’s. Connor Riddoch scored twice here, with Max Pike and Connor Presland also netting for the visitors. In the other game, Collier Row began life in the fifth-tier with a comfortable 3 – 0 win against visitors Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res.

Just the one match in Division Five this week, which saw Collier Row Res launch their season with an excellent 7 – 1 win over newcomers Manford Way Res at Forest Row Centre.

End

S21-22 Match Report: Corinthians 2 – 1 Wakebury (Thurs 19 May) [SCC 21-22 20.5.22]

Southend Charity Cup A Final

Venue: Len Forge 3G

Attendance: 110 [Est]

2021-22 Season: Match 85

Thursday 19th May 2022 – 7.30pm KO

Corinthians: Blue & White Shirts, Black Shorts & Socks

Wakebury: Yellow Shirts, Blue Shorts, Yellow Socks

Corinthians battle hard to claim Southend Charity Cup

Corinthians 2 – 1 Wakebury

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

Additional photo by Daniel Mann/Corinthians FC [@_corinthiansf_c], used with thanks

There was a ‘bonus’ match which saw a return to the Len Forge Centre for this Southend Charity Cup Final between two local sides in EOFL Division One side Corinthians and another ambitious side in EOFL Division Two side Wakebury. It is a credit to both teams that they named near full-strength sides for this contest, and as you often see in a Cup Final, it was a slow-building start to the game as broth sides were keen not to hand the initiative to their opponents.

As it happened, the opening goal cropped up on the quarter-hour, as a good ball in from left side evaded the Corinthians backline and found Wakebury skipper Ben Perry at the back post and his strike fizzed low into the left corner past stopper Nathan Warren with a similar calmness to a goal-hungry striker. It added to the intrigue of the game & as you’d expect, Corinthians responded quickly. Forward Leo Clarke had two decent strikes denied by a well-drilled ‘Bury defence but Clarke was having an increasingly important part to play here.

Corinthians attack down the left flank, with Wilton (3) on the ball

Chris Stoneham’s side did find their rhythm as the half went on, and Wakebury’s spirited defending was holding them off well, until the ‘home’ side got an equalizer on 26 minutes. Matt Burrell’s well-placed corner into the back post found top scorer Bailey Moss who powered in a header into the right corner. Matt Cardy’s team were still well in the contest here, and their pace in attack was finding the gap between the opposition’s midfield and defence to good effect. Unfortunately though for them, after making a fine run down the left, Wheeler’s strike couldn’t bypass Warren.

The Berries had a let-off of their own three minutes before the interval as Corinthians recycled the ball well and Moss displayed good close control before having another low shot denied by the advancing ‘Bury custodian Lewis Catling. The ball trickled towards the goal-line before it was cleared by the well-positioned Liam Ellis.

Half-Time: Corinthians 1 – 1 Wakebury

The second half began with a higher tempo, Wakebury had the first effort on goal as Wheeler was again well-denied by Warren and although they had several decent chances, the Corinthians backline was also stifling their enterprising forward moves. Moments later, forward Harry Kateley got in behind the opposition defence utilizing his pace well but Warren again blocked his fierce shot with his legs.

Those two saves by Warren did prove important as Corinthians took the lead for the first time soon afterward as a deft set-piece by Clarke was slid through to substitute John Bolton-Smith who sent the ball on, but centre-back Connor Summerhill got the final tough to force the ball into the net. Wakebury midfielder Junior Lawrence also had a well-struck effort which was off-target.

Harry Kateley strikes a shot for Wakebury from edge of the 18-yard box

At the other end, Clarke was unfortunate to see his powerful, curling strike go narrowly wide of the top left corner, as the number of chances increased as the half went on. Wakebury kept going admirably, but the Corinthians backline was not as troubled by them as they were earlier in the game. The latter’s concern would have been that they had to recoup their tempo & rhythm a little.

As we got into the latter phase of the this game, Corinthians were getting a bit tense and were conceding several free-kicks did not help their cause. On the stroke of 70 minutes, Wakebury underlined that the main inhibitor for them was finishing as a decent corner by full-back Kofi Gyamfi was turned towards goal by substitute Ben Morley’s swiveling effort but it was straight at Warren, who gathered. Chris Stoneham’s side responded at the other end with 14 minutes of normal time left as forward Jake Hodder broke forward well, twisting and turning past his marker before his low strike was well-denied by Catling, who had to get down well to avoid the ball creeping in at left-side post.

The six minutes of added time did not help the Corinthians’ contingent’s understandable nerves and at the end of that stopage time, Wakebury thought they had levelled as Gyamfi had put stuck the ball into the net well from another set-piece, but was denied by an assistant’s flag. In the end, Corinthians did deserve the victory, mainly because of their more assured finishing but Wakebury really gave them a good match here and they certainly have positives to take, ahead of next season.

Full-Time: Corinthians 2 – 1 Wakebury

Corinthians celebrate their triumph with the Shield post-match [Image by Daniel Mann]

To sum up this one, Wakebury took a surprise lead and whilst Corinthians produced a stirring comeback to take the lead shortly after the interval, they were also made to battle hard because of an exuberant ‘Bury forward line that couldn’t quite find the required finishing. This was a good match, and credit to both teams for contributing heavily to it so late in the campaign.

There were several fine performances from both sides in this match. Firstly for winners Corinthians, I thought full-back Bill Wilton had a good game, showing characteristically high energy levels, and was an important player down the left side in both boxes. Forward Leo Clarke also had a strong match, making several important driving runs and made some astute passes as well. Captain Matt Burrell was a decent threat from set-pieces & put in a good shift in central midfield, while forward Jake Hodder also put in a good display

For Wakebury, tricky forward Will Wheeler once again put in a good display, showcasing his dribbling & passing ability. The only thing that denied him at least one goal was clinical finishing. Harry Kateley was also a threat in the forward line and was well-denied by the opposition backline, and showed good tracking back in defence when required. Skipper Ben Perry took his goal well & defensively was also robust too. Full-back Kofi Gyamfi had a good match too & in the second half was a threat from set-pieces and would have levelled, but for an off-side flag.

Best wishes to both sides for the forthcoming season & it was good to see them both in action once again. Finally, congratulations to the Southend Borough & District Combination Committee for holding a good event here, which was well supported by the local area.

Teams (up to 5 substitutes allowed)

Corinthians | Manager: Chris Stoneham | Assistant: Graham Owen

Starting XI (Subs): 1 Nathan Warren (GK), 2 Charlie Marden, 3 Bill Wilton, 5 Connor Summerhill, 6 Alfie Knight, 7 Jordan Stoneham, 8 Matt Burrell (Capt), 11 Damien Siemienczuk, 9 Jake Hodder, 18 Bailey Moss, 10 Leo Clarke

Goal-scorers: Bailey Moss [26’] , Connor Summerhill [51’]

Subs ON: 15 John Bolton-Smith [46’], 12 Ollie Brickwood [74’], 4 Sammy Ayres [81’], 14 Ethan Lemmon [89’]

Booked: Summerhill, Burrell, Brickwood, Warren | Sub Not Used: Peralta |

Wakebury | Manager: Matt Cardy | Assistants: Dan Blewett & Gareth Cleverly

Starting XI: 1 Lewis Catling (GK), 2 Elliott Hutchinson-Khupe, 3 Kofi Gyamfi, 5 Jack Smith, 6 Ben Perry (Capt), 4 Liam Ellis, 8 Junior Lawrence, 7 Will Wheeler, 10 Daley Grant, 9 Harry Kateley, 11 Ibrahim Kagbanda

Goal-scorer: Ben Perry [15’]

Subs ON: 16 Ben Morley [54’], 14 Jerry Nkoy [74’], 12 Alex Horey [84’]

| Booked: Wheeler | Subs Not Used: Butler

Referee: Connor Cornell

Assistants: Joe Wise & Keith Robinson

S21-22 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League (Sat 23 Apr) [EOFL 21/22 24.4.22]

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

Hello and welcome to this week’s extended round-up of the action in the Essex Olympian League this week, including the midweek action on Tuesday 19 April and the action on Saturday 23 April. The focus this week is on the League action in the top three divisions. Thank you for reading.

Essex Olympian League – Tuesday 19 April

The midweek action was centred on the Premier Division with two big games. First, Basildon Town got a crucial win as they edged to a 3 – 2 victory over Galleywood at Basildon Sports Club. Graham Harrison, Rhys Willson and Benkjamin Smith all scored to send Marcus Bowers’ side to the top of the table ahead of the weekend’s action. ‘Wood responded through strikes by Luke Seaton and Jack Lakin but they still had several matches left to gain points. Also, Sungate comfortably defeated Harold Wood Athletic 4 – 0 to push Ath ever closer to being relegated. Arif Mustapha, James Smith, Jake Willis and replacement Kyran Chiedozie all struck to send the ‘Gate up to sixth, with aspirations still of a top-four finish.

Essex Olympian League – Saturday 23 April

Remaining with the top-tier onto Saturday’s action now, and Basildon Town were held to a 1 – 1 draw by spirited Canning Town at Gardiners Lane. Graham Harrison netted his 18th league goal of the campaign but Canning levelled to keep themselves in contention to avoid the bottom two. This result also thwarted Bas as Ongar Town got a home walkover win over injury-hit Kelvedon Hatch, which sent Ongar back to the summit on goal difference. Both teams now have two matches and Basildon need two big wins to overhaul that goal deficit.

Galleywood hauled themselves to within a point of their nearest rivals after a 2 – 1 success at home to Harold Wood Athletic. Sam Donn & an OG outdid Billy Reed’s goal for Ath in a result which means Harold Wood are unable to mathematically avoid a bottom-two finish. The hosts here have four matches to gain at least two points to make sure of finish above the top three. Elsewhere, Hutton were held 1 – 1 by a Sungate side dealing well with a hectic run of fixtures. Brad Freeman netted for Matt Singh’s side here but realistically a third-place finish is their objective now. ‘Gate have six games left to gain nine points to confirm at least a fifth-placed finish.

Rounding out the action in Step 7 was Old Southendian’s 3 – 3 draw with Bishop’s Stortford Swifts at Garon Park 3G. Harry Bovington scored twice for the visitors, allied with substitute Edward Pinch’s goal which sees Swifts inch towards a top-ten finish. OS remain eighth. Also, Springfield drew 1 – 1 with Shenfield AFC at Arun Park, with Tristan Ofori-Sampong scored for Francesco Zabotti’s side. AFC have now reached 30 points this term.

In Division One, there was only one match played but also we heard of a big alteration to the final table. Wakering Sports got a 4 – 3 win over Old Chelmsfordians at Lawford Lane, with Aaron Clark, Ben Burrows, Joseph Burton and substitute Alfie Fossett all scored for Sports but while the result was enough to see them secure third spot, events elsewhere meant it was not significant. Epping were adjudged to have fielded an ineligible player in their win over Toby two weeks ago, which meant Toby awarded the points which in turn lifted them above Runwell Sports and claim the title by a point. Both sides will compete in the Premier Division next term as Toby also announced their future plans for a ground move to Barleylands in 15 months’ time. Congratulations to Toby & Runwell Sports on their promotion.

EOFL Divisions Two, Three & Four

Into Division Two now and what was a hugely significant day for ACD Utd as they won their title decider with Harold Hill 1 – 0 at Westlands. Michael Wade’s 26th league goal of the season was enough to secure yet another title for Greg Knock’s side and they will be in the second-tier next season. Congratulations to all at ACD Utd. Hill need one point from their last match at Hutton Res next month to join them in Division One. That is because Manford Way lost 2 – 1 at Rayleigh Town Res. Sam Barker and Byron Down got the goals as Rayleigh came from behind to end their season on a high. Manford have to win their last game to finish third as Wakebury edged a super match, winning 5 – 4 over Rochford Town at Nursery Sports Ground. Jerry Nkoy notched a treble here for Matt Cardy’s team, with Daniel Buglione also netting his 10th league goal this term and Jake Farthing also scoring here. Rochford will finish bottom and after a good run in Division Two in the last few seasons, it looks very likely they will drop down to Division Three.

In the other game in this division, Harold Wood Athletic Res secured their place in the division next season with a 2 – 1 success over AS Rawreth at Harold Wood Park. Josh Portway and Oliver Portway both netted to give Wood’s second-side an important win. For Rawreth, they will need at least one win to overhaul closest rivals Hutton Res and stay out of the bottom two.

In Division Three, Wakering Sports Res got a priceless 4 – 2 victory at Corinthians Res to put themselves in the best position for the Division Three title & promotion. Eben Rowledge got two goals for the visitors, with Connor Fardyga’s 25th league goal this term and Scott Clark’s 15th goal of the campaign securing victory. Sports are a point clear of Hashtag Utd Dev who were held 1 – 1 by promotion rivals Catholic Utd Res at Barleylands. Shaun Warren netted for the hosts, but Franklin Craik’s 20th league goal this term for Ressie side was enough to claim a point an ensure the race for promotion goes into the last day next weekend. Hashtag travel to Wakering in what is sure to be a big game at Cupid’s.

Lastly, Hullbridge Sports Res got a fine 4 – 1 triumph at Buckhurst Hill U23 in the early game. Joe Ives netted twice for Sports here, with Harry Ives and George Mole also on target to render Jacob Richards’ goal as mere consolation. Both teams are likely to finish in lower mid-table.

Lastly for the main part of this week’s round-up, in Division Four Galleywood Res got a 2 – 0 win over Springfield Res in the late game. Clarke Green and substitute Craig Skipper both netted to give them a big win and dent the visitors’ chances in the promotion race. Also, Wakering Sports A defeated Sungate Dev 4 – 1 in North East London, meaning they will finish at least eighth.

Div Five – Snaresbrook Res H – W Pitsea Athletic Res