Wakering Sports Res – survivor16b

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian Lge (Sat 29 Apr) [EOFL 22-23 30.4.23]

Charlie Seaden’s acrobatic clearance denies a Runwell attack

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

Hello & welcome to the latest Essex Olympian League column, looking at the action in all divisions & Cups from Saturday 29 April, plus we have the midweek action across all divisions. Please note that the last article of the season will likely be on Monday 15 May.

Midweek action

We begin this week with the five matches across all divisions. On Tuesday night in the Premier, Leigh Ramblers defeated Rayleigh Town 1 – 0, with Andrew Webster’s 15th league goal of the season saw the Rams back up to fourth & put another dent in Rayleigh’s title hopes. In Division Four, Pitsea Athletic Res won 2 – 1 at bottom side Galleywood Res. Alfie Hooper netted for the hosts but ‘Wood have to win their last game to have any hope of avoiding relegation. Wednesday’s match in the Premier Division saw Toby defeat Kelvedon Hatch 3 – 1 at the Nursery Sports Ground. Ben Picton, Jake Jones & replacement Dominic Poulley got the goals which saw Toby up to eighth. Kelvedon’s goal came from James Nottage & they remain 11th. The Division Two game saw an emphatic win for Shoebury Town as they defeated Rayleigh Town 11 – 0 at London Road. There were trebles for Mechack-Kisoka Asuka & Jack Woodham here, plus two goals for Luke Jackson and strikes also from Callum Merenda & Izaih Antoine plus an OG took Garry Johnson & John Galley’s side to the brink of the Division 2 title at that point.

If you’d like more on this match, I attended this game & my report is here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2023/04/27/s22-23-match-report-rayleigh-town-res-0-11-shoebury-town-wed-26-apr-eofl/

Jack Woodham in possession for Shoebury v Rayleigh Res

The solitary Thursday match in the Premier saw me venture out to watch Runwell Sports‘ 5 – 1 win over Rayleigh Town, which all but ended the latter’s title hopes. A quick-fire treble by Luca Frankis & a double from Gianni Frankis outdid Phil Anunwa’s early goal for Town. If you’d like more on this one, my report is here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2023/04/28/s22-23-match-report-runwell-sports-5-1-rayleigh-town-thurs-27-apr-eofl/

Weekend action

EOFL Premier Division

In the top-tier, Hutton finally got the points to seal what has been a truly memorable season for Matt Singh’s side as they won 4 – 0 at Toby to be crowned as Premier Division champions, and with it promotion to Eastern Senior League South. Big congratulations to all the players, manager Matt Singh, assistants Bill Stratford & Dan Williams and all at the club. Springfield’s super end-of-season form continued with a 2 – 1 victory over Galleywood at Arun Park. Two goals from Lewis Chapman outdid a goal by Sean Barry to see Matt Cardy’s side up to seventh. Galleywood will be relegated to Division One next term, I’d like to wish them well for next term.

Bishop’s Stortford Swifts all but secured their spot in the division next term with a narrow 1 – 0 victory at Shenfield AFC. Matthew Allen got the crucial goal here. Runwell Sports are unbeaten in ten matches now following their 3 – 1 victory at home to Sungate. The points see them up to fifth, in what has been another fine season from Rob Hodgson’s team. Meanwhile, Rayleigh Town ended their frenetic week with a fine effort as they were held 3 – 3 by Catholic Utd at Thames Road. A double from Harry Talbot & one from Philip Anunwa gave Paul Higgins’ side a three-goal lead at the break, but a double for Aaron Baldwin & a late goal by Kofi Goodrum earned a point for Simon Thomas’ side, who are also set to play at Sungate on Monday.

EOFL Divisions One & Two

Moving into Division One now, and Old Chelmsfordians defeated promotion rivals Corinthians 3 – 0 at Lawford Lane. This win seals promotion & the Division One title and Scott Fleming’s side return to the top division after an absence of 17 years so big congratulations to all at the club. The Stambridge side now have to win both their remaining games to have any chance of overhauling Harold Wood, who have to defeat ACD Utd in their game on May 13th. The other match this weekend saw Harold Hill draw 1 – 1 with ACD, with Samuel Payne the goal-scorer for Utd, but both teams will likely finish in the bottom half.

In Division Two, Shoebury Town secured the Division Two title with a 4 – 0 triumph over Harold Wood Athletic Res at Ekco Sports Club. Jack Woodham’s brace, compiled with goals for Mechack-Kisoka Asuka & Alfie Fossett meant that they return to the second-tier after two seasons away. Congratulations to Garry Johnson & John Galley’s team on their fine season.

No action in Division Three, Division Five has now been completed.

EOFL Division Four

In the fifth-tier, Leigh Ramblers Res defeated Pitsea Athletic Res 5 – 0 in the midday game at Chase Sch 3G to seal the Division Four title. Congrats to Terry Johnson’s team, as the Reserves have added to the First team’s fine season.

Roydon confirmed second place with a conclusive 6 – 0 victory at home to Wakering Sports A. Connor Presland netted twice here, with the support cast of Darren Brooker, Nader Benzid, Mike Hayes & Connor Riddoch all on target as well to seal another promotion for Nigel Jordon’s team, congratulations to them as well. Wakering’s third side are still not entirely safe from relegation, having ended their season here. Elsewhere, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res won 2 – 1 at Shenfield AFC Res to secure fifth spot at least. Henry Harnack & Jose Pinto got the goals for Swifts there. Ongar Town sealed sixth spot with a huge 7 – 0 win against relegation-threatened Leytonstone Utd. Finlay Cook netted four times himself here, with Matt Bovill, Ethan Hook & replacement Jude Collins added to a memorable last day of the league season for Town.

EOFL Reserve League Cup

In the Ressie Cup semi-finals, Catholic Utd Res won 2 – 1 at Herongate Athletic Res to match their First team in reaching a Cup final this term. Zachary Wing & Finlay Grant got the goals for the Utd side there. Plus, defending champions Wakering Sports Res made the final once again after a superb 7 – 3 success over Basildon Town A at Cupid’s.

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League & Cups (Sat 22 Apr) [EOFL 24.4.23]

Archive Image from Rayleigh Tn v Canning Tn

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

Hello & welcome to the latest Essex Olympian League column, looking at the action in all divisions & Cups from Saturday 22 April, as more key games influenced the respective promotion & relegation races in all divisions.

EOFL Premier Division

We start with the top-tier action in midweek, and Catholic Utd showed their credentials for next season as they won 1 – 0 at Hutton. Franklin Craik’s early goal was enough to see Utd to victory and Simon Thomas’ side are not out of the running for second spot. Also, Springfield notched a 2 – 1 victory at Galleywood on Wednesday night. Former Wakebury duo Will Wheeler & Harry Kateley got the goals for Matt Cardy’s team here. Freddie Bartram responded for ‘Wood but they ended the game with ten players & are now most likely to be the side to be playing in Division One in August. The other match saw a depleted Rayleigh Town side being held 1 – 1 by Sungate. Harry Talbot got the Town goal & Solomon Asomah replied for the resolute ‘Gate side.

At the weekend, Hutton pulled eight points clear at the summit after a 4 – 1 win at Kelvedon Hatch. Jude Keeling’s hat-trick saw him reach ten league goals for the Reds, plus David Johnson also netted. Charlie Bott netted for Kelvedon here but they also finished with ten men & remain third-bottom. Springfield got arguably the result of the day, with a 4 – 1 triumph over Rayleigh Town. Will Wheeler scored another brace here, with Flynn Monk & Harry Kateley also on target. Harry Talbot’s 14th league goal was scant consolation for Town, who have two games coming in midweek, which are must-win for them.

Elsewhere, Catholic Utd went into second spot after a 3 – 0 victory at Bishop’s Stortford Swifts. Franklin Craik scored two more goals alongside Liam Oliver’s strike. Old Southendian ended their campaign with a 3 – 1 success over Sungate at Garon Park. Nick Henesy scored two goals for Altan Ali’s side & Jack Lelliott also scored as OS went back up to fourth. ‘Gate remain seventh. Shenfield AFC are eighth after a 3 – 0 success over Galleywood. Harvey Clarke, Alfie MacKay & Harvey Cadd all scored for Kevin Williamson’s side. Runwell Sports held Leigh Ramblers 3 – 3 at St Luke’s, with over 100 spectators in attendance. Andrew Webster scored twice for Rams, with Matt Brinklow also scoring here. Leigh have two games left to graft for a fine top-four finish. Runwell have four matches remaining & are also in that race for top-four finish. Lastly, Toby are back up to tenth after a 1 – 0 win over Canning Town. Rhys Willson’s solitary goal saw Mark Jones’ side to the win.

EOFL Divisions One & Two & Three

Moving into Division One now, and Manford Way ended their season on the best possible note, after a fine 2 – 0 win at Corinthians. Siddy Clarkson netted both goals to see Manford up to second. In the other key game, Old Chelmsfordians wrestled the impetus away from Harold Wood Athletic in the promotion race after OC’s won 3 – 1 at Lawford Lane. James Pottle netted for Ath but substitute Liam Landers scored twice & fellow replacement Matthew Crick also netted. Old Chelmsfordians also face Corinthians next weekend at home, in a game both sides need to win.

In Division Two, Wakering Sports Res temporarily went top by two points after a comprehensive 8 – 2 victory at Hutton Res, in their second to last game. Connor Fardyga once again led the scorers with a a treble here, with replacement Leo Pearce netting twice, and there were also goals for Ashley Sexton, Charlie Smith & Oliver Greene. Rivals Shoebury still likely need to win of their three games left to seal the title.

In midweek in Division Three, Chingford Athletic Res battled to a 1 – 0 victory at Buckhurst Hill U23. Substitute Benson Osejindu nabbed the crucial goal which sent them up to fourth. Buckhurst ended their season here & will finish fifth, a creditable achievement for Darren Gosnell & his team.

In Division Four, Leigh Ramblers Res finally achieved promotion after a 1 – 1 draw with Herongate Athletic Res. Habeeb Apatira netted for Herongate, but substitute Alex Goodson’s strike sealed a significant point for Terry Johnson’s side. Roydon were held 3 – 3 at strugglers Galleywood Res with Darren Brooker netting twice for the visitors & Nader Benzid’s 10th league goal this term being cancelled out by strikes by Alfie Hooper, Diogo Viveiros & Jodh Lapidus keeping their side in contention to avoid a bottom-two finish. Shenfield AFC Res won 4 – 0 at Wakering Sports A to fortify seventh spot. The cast of Ross Riding, Paul Constable, Elliott Fraser & Kyle Constable all netted for the visitors there. Finally, Leytonstone Utd battled to a 2 – 2 draw with Pitsea Athletic Res. Paul Gunn & replacement Owen Layzell netted for Ath’s second side here, as they remain in 8th.

Lastly this week, in Division Five, Basildon Town A secured a fine promotion after a 2 – 0 victory over Canning Town Res. Luke Soley and Donnel Kujinga’s 24th league goal of the campaign saw them to a top-two finish and pipped Runwell Res by a single point, in what was the final game of the Division Five season.

Cups

The midweek tie in the Reserve Cup saw Basildon Town A win 2 – 1 at Galleywood Res, to reach the last four. Oliver White and replacement Dylan Busby goals for Bas outdid Aryan Tathgar’s strike for the hosts to seal their progress. At the weekend in the Reserve Trophy, Runwell Sports Res made the Final on May 2nd against Manford Way Res, after the Runwell side defeated Harold Wood Athletic Res 4 – 2. Matt Harris & Thomas Butler scored for Ath but their opponents would not be denied here.

On Friday night, Manford Way Res gathered their first piece of silverware this term after sealing a 1 – 0 win over Felsted Rovers in the Essex Junior Trophy Final. Luke Bennett’s strike was crucial at this side prevailed at Heybridge’s Scraley Road. Congrats to them.

On Saturday, the Denny King Cup Semi-Finals saw ACD Utd progress with a 3 – 2 win over Shoebury Town. Jacob Dingli, Shaun Goddard and Warren Taylor goals saw Michael Wade’s team through, despite goals from Mechack-Kisoka Asuka & Luke Jackson for Shoebury, who will now focus on the Division One title. In the other Semi-Final, Hullbridge Sports Res won 4 – 2 at AS Rawreth.

End

S22-23 Match Report: Shenfield AFC 3 – 1 Wakering Sports Res (Wed 12 Apr) [EPC Final 22-23 13.4.23]

Essex County FA Premier Cup – Final

Venue: New Lodge 3G

2021-22 Season: Match 54

Attendance: 290 (Est)

Wednesday 12 April 2023 – 7.45pm KO

Shenfield AFC: White Shirts, Blue Shorts, Blue Socks

Wakering Res: Green Shirts, Shorts & Socks

Shenfield defeat spirited Wakering Res to claim Essex Premier Cup

Shenfield AFC 3 – 1 Wakering Sports Res

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

The first Cup Final of the season was held at New Lodge 3G, as Shenfield AFC and Wakering Sports Res contested an all-Essex Olympian Essex Premier Cup Final. Shenfield have had a fine run in the competition, defeating promotion-chasing Rayleigh Town in the last four and boss Kevin Williamson named Joe Durrant in goal here, with a defence of Tom Blackmur, Marlon Stratford, Elliott Thompson & Sam Bubb. Alfie MacKay, Marc Holland & Samuel Lock were the midfield ‘engine room’ with co-boss Luke Williamson the advanced midfielder, supporting forwards Ben Absolon and Alex Tredgett. Wakering Res have had some recent history just by reaching to this final after beating Essex Alliance Senior side Woodford East on penaties, following a pulsating 4-4 draw in their semi-final, and the third-tier side fielded Tom King as their custodian. The backline was comprised of Ashley Sexton, Charlie Smith, Alex Jenkins and George Penfold. The midfield featured Taner Dagyaran, Ciaran Sweeney, Liam Clifford and Eben Rowledge. Leading their attack was top-scorer Connor Fardyga and Dave Watson.

The early stages of this Final were a little tense, as both sides managed to get down the flanks to get beyond the opposition defences, Wakering forward Connor Fardyga showed his pace and movement in making a couple of good darting runs down the right side. Shenfield also pushed on, particularly down the left side and their nerves were lessened on fourteen minutes when they took the lead. A set-piece was angled towards the far post by Sam Bubb from the halfway-line, Wakering stopper Tom King advanced out to grab it but the flight of the ball decieved him, allowing centre-back Elliott Thompson to nip in at the back post to head in to an unguarded goal. All credit to the Blues here as their response was admirable, with Eben Rowledge firing not far wide & Fardyga having a tame strike which didn’t unduly trouble Durrant. Hard-working midfielder Liam Clifford’s fierce strike from 30 yards moments later whistled past the Shenfield goal and Kevin Williamson’s team had to graft at this point.

Soon afterward, Wakering Res did get the goal their pressure deserved, as on a congested 18-yard box, full-back George Penfold’s low drive crept into the net to level this increasingly interesting match. Shortly before the leveller, Shenfield forward Alex Tredgett made a good darting run down the left flank, which was blocked out for a corner & from that full-back Tom Blackmur headed off-target. Gary Hanger’s Sports side were holding their own and just before the interval, a superb strike by Clifford from distance thundered off the goal frame – that would’ve been some goal!

Half-Time: Shenfield AFC 1 – 1 Wakering Sports Res

The second half started very strongly, with both sides trading chances. Fardyga was well-placed in the penalty area but his low drive came back off the left-side post, while centre-back Alex Jenkins also headed over. Tredgett was also in the action again, as his strike was well-saved by King. Ben Absolon also broke free of the Sports backline and only a superb covering interception by Penfold denied him a one-on-one chance at goal against King. A key moment came on the hour though as Jenkins was dismissed by referee Joseph Gray for a hard tackle and Sports fell behind barely a minute later. In another busy set play, midfielder Sam Lock had the initial strike for AFC blocked but Tredgett was well-placed to strike low into left corner to give Shenfield a priceless lead.

Wakering still pressed on despite their numerical disadvantage, and were awarded a penalty on 72 minutes after a foul in the box. Ciaran Sweeney stepped up, but his left-sided strike was well-parried by Durrant, who also blocked Sweeney’s follow-up effort. The Blues gave it everything in the latter stages, and another good run by the impressive Dave Watson ended with the fall finding substitute Adem Beji but his effort sailed over the goal frame.

Shenfield had to stay alert but could finally celebrate deep in added time as they notched a third goal, as substitute Frankie Fealty bypassed both the Wakering defence & the advancing King before slotting home into an empty net. The final whistle blew soon afterward & both teams showed what they are about in this fine Final, watched by a healthy crowd with both sides well supported.

Full-Time: Shenfield AFC 3 – 1 Wakering Sports Res

To summarise this match, Shenfield struck at key moments and defended their advantage well, although the Wakering side showed a lot of spirit and had several chances to really alter the complexion of this Final. Ultimately though, defensive errors cost them but they played well overall on a memorable occasion for the Shoeburyness-based team.

The stand-out performances start with victors Shenfield. Forward Alex Tredgett continues to have a good season and showcased guile, good movement and cool finishing for his goal. Goalkeeper Joe Durrant made some good saves & denied Wakering from the penalty spot at a crucial time. Centre-back Elliott Thompson had a good game in defence, and pushed forward to good effect too, taking his goal well with decent movement. Lastly, a mention for full-back Sam Bubb who put in a good shift & was a threat from set-pieces as well.

For Wakering, forward Dave Watson was a good threat for his side, creating decent chances from the flanks and he also tested the Premier Division side’s backline well, and was unfortunate not to score. Liam Clifford put in a good performance in central midfield, showing good work rate and was inches away from scoring & showed decent passing. Finally, George Penfold and Eben Rowledge put in good performances to assist their side in defence and attack respectively.

Congrats to all at Shenfield for this memorable victory & best wishes to all at Wakering Sports going forward.

Teams

Shenfield AFC | Co-Managers: Kevin Williamson & Luke Williamson | Coach: Ben Kent

Starting XI: 1 Joe Durrant (GK), 2 Tom Blackmur, 3 Sam Bubb, 5 Marlon Stratford, 15 Elliott Thompson, 6 Alfie MacKay, 8 Samuel Lock, 10 Marc Holland, 4 Luke Willismson (Capt), 9 Ben Absolon, 17 Alex Tredgett

Goal-scorers: Elliott Thompson [14′], Alex Tredgett [61′], Frankie Fealty [90’+7]

Subs On (Time): 7 Harvey Clarke [replaced Lock, 65′], 11 Frankie Fealty [replaced Williamson, 88′], 16 Aaron Lang [replaced Tredgett, 90’+2]

Booked: Stratford, Absolon, Blackmur, Mackay | Subs Not Used: Cadd, Kent (GK)

Wakering Spts Res | Manager: Gary Hanger | Assistant: Darryl Cross

Starting XI (Subs): 1 Tom King (GK), 12 Ashley Sexton, 5 Alex Jenkins, 6 Charlie Smith, 3 George Penfold (7 Jack Hanger 80′), 15 Taner Dagyaran (2 Billy Cottrill 80′), 10 Ciaran Sweeney, 4 Liam Clifford (11 Adem Beji 76′), 18 Dave Watson, 9 Connor Fardyga (8 Ollie Greene 76′), 17 Eben Rowledge (16 Steven Valente 76′)

Goal-scorer: George Penfold [26′]

Booked: Beji | Sent Off: Jenkins [60′] | Sub Not Used: None

Referee: Joseph Gray
Assistants: Kadir Nazif & John Caunt

Fourth Official: Andrew Wheaton

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League & Cups (Sat 25 Mar) [EOFL 22-23 27.3.23]

Image from Leigh Ramblers v Springfield last week

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

Hello & welcome to the latest Essex Olympian League column, tracking the action in all divisions & Cups from Saturday 25 March, as the fixture programme made it through well despite ongoing unfavourable weather.

EOFL Cups

The two EOFL Senior Cup Semi-Final ties did take place this weekend. First, Catholic Utd made yet another final after an excellent 3 – 1 triumph at promotion-chasing Hutton. The trio of Aaron Baldwin, Liam Oliver & James Warder all netted here at Chadfields to send Simon Thomas’ side through. They will face Toby after they came through 4 – 2 on penalties after a 1 – 1 draw at home to Sungate. Harry Barham scored for the Brewers, but substitute Petrit Elbi levelled for the ‘Gate to force the lottery of a penalty shoot-out.

One other Cup tie to note this week, which saw ACD Utd progess with a 4 – 2 win over Ongar Town in the Denny King Cup. Jacob Dingli struck a fine treble, along with a goal for Scott Perkins saw Michael Wade’s win. Finlay Cook got both goals for Town but their focus in back on Division Four which is approaching its final weeks.

EOFL Premier Division & Division One

The top-tier saw the focus move to the chasing pack this weekend. Rayleigh Town reduced the gap to leaders Hutton to ten points after a 4 – 1 victory over Galleywood at Thames Road. Harry Talbot, William Vile, Charlie Seaden & substitute Philip Anunwa all scored for the Town side, with Ben Smith getting the visitors’ reply, but they are now five points adrift at the bottom of the table, with nine matches left. Springfield leapt out of the bottom three after a superb 4 – 2 success at Shenfield AFC. Finlay Dorrell’s goal tally got even better, scoring a treble here which was added to by recent signing Harry Kateley. Matt Cardy’s side have 18 points now, rising above Kelvedon Hatch, who drew 1 – 1 at rivals Bishop’s Stortford Swifts. William Norris netted for Swifts, who slipped to second-bottom, two points adrift of Hatch – both teams have six matches left to avoid finishing in the bottom two.

Meanwhile, Runwell Sports continued their good form with a 3 – 0 victory at home to Old Southendian, which saw them reduce the gap to OS in fourth to a single point. Leigh Ramblers are also on 34 points in sixth, after a good 3 – 2 victory at Canning Town, who are now ninth.

In Division One, Beacon Hill Rovers ended leaders Harold Wood Athletic’s unbeaten league run, as Rovers won 2 – 0, with Bertie Whymark and replacement George Etheridge goals sealing the win that sees them stay eighth but are level on points with Herongate just above them.The loss for Harold Wood leaves them vulnerable to being caught in the title race by Old Chelmsfordians, Manford Way, Epping Town and Corinthians, who got a important tonic with a 2 – 1 win at Herongate Athletic to reduce the deficit to the leaders Harold Wood to only four points, with five matches left – the most to play in this very tightly packed top-five. Manford Way are also in the mix, as a 2 – 0 win over Harold Hill was achieved, with Joshua Owoaje notching twice to see them up to third spot, with two matches left.

EOFL Divisions Two, Three, Four & Five

In Division Two this week, promoted Shoebury Town maintained their four-point lead at the summit in the race for title, as they won 6 – 1 at AS Rawreth. Mechack-Kisoka Asuka took his tally to 24 league goals with another fine hat-trick for Town. Luke Jackson also got two goals & replacement Timi Tinubu got the other for Garry Johnson & John Galley’s side here. Rivals Wakering Sports Res also got a good win, 5 – 0 at Hashtag Utd Dev, with Connor Fardyga scoring all five goals for Jason Doyle’s team here, to also get to 24 league goals. Shoebury are in prime position for said title, and three more wins will be enough to be absolutely sure of silverware. Hashtag’s chances of a third-placed finish are also lessened by this result, as Harold Wood Athletic Res won 4 – 2 at Rayleigh Town Res, to go within four points of Utd, with four matches left. Max London, Jerry Nkoy, Cohen Hubbard & Matt Harris all scored to give Wood the points.

Finally in this division, Hutton Res won 2 – 1 against Catholic Utd Res at Polo Fields. Jake Smith & Lewis Hall scored for the Reds as they went four points clear in to sixth. Utd’s second side responded through John Nutman’s goal, they remain seventh.

Moving into Division Three, and Leigh Town Res gained ground on leaders Basildon Town Res as Leigh won 3 – 2 away at Hullbridge Res. Jay Knight & Harry Mole struck for the hosts, but a brace from substitute Callum Stone and one from Tommy Clayton meant that Leigh got the win and means that four points from their last two games will make ensure a top-two finish. Hullbridge remain fifth, ahead of Chingford Athletic Res on goal difference after Chingford won 2 – 1 at Springfield Res. Samuel May-Parrott & Bilel Benyoucef goals outdid replacement Henry Payne’s reply at Arun Park. Lastly, two of the bottom three sides faced each other at Lawford Lane, with Old Chelmsfordians Res conclusively defeating second-bottom Corinthians Res 11 – 0. There were trebles for Emmanuel Mukuka, George Prentice and Thomas Ellis, with returnee Martin Mixture grabbing a double as well.

In Division Four, Leigh Ramblers Res continued their good run with a 5 – 2 win over Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res to send them top on goal difference. Jacob Mead scored twice with goals for Luis Bracci, Matthew Pooley & Stuart Greaves ensuring Terry Johnson’s side are in pole position for another promotion. Samuel Brown & Fraser Bush netted for Swifts but their own promotion aspirations took a dent here. Collier Row grabbed a 2 – 0 win at Galleywood Res, which gives them a chance of a top four finish but they have played more games than all their rivals. Lastly, Leytonstone Utd got another point in their relegation six-pointer as they held Wakering Sports A to a 3 – 3 draw at Forest Row. Carl Sutton, Charlie Cottrill & Jason Lewin all scored for Sports in that game.

Finally, in Division Five there was a big win for Basildon Town A as they defeated bottom side AS Rawreth Res 6 – 1. Donnel Kujinga grabbed another three goals, to add to strikes by Billy Falco, Alex Smith & Shaun Watkins and confirm the points which sees Town still well in with a shot at a top-three finish. Justin Burrell got the solitary goal for Rawreth there. Manford Way Res went back to the summit after a 5 – 0 success at Shoebury Town Res, which means they will be champions & promoted to Div Four with a match to spare. Many congrats to them.

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian Lge & Cups (Sat 18 Mar) [EOFL 22-23 20.3.23]

Image from Leigh Ramblers Res v Wakering Sports A this weekend

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

Hello & welcome to the latest Essex Olympian League column, tracking the action in all divisions & Cups from Saturday 18 March, as the fixture programme was again blighted by the recent weather.

Cups

The two Essex Premier Cup ties did reach a conclusion to set up the Final at New Lodge on April 12th. Wakering Sports Res‘ dream run through the competition continued after a superb match ended in a 4 – 4 draw with EAL Senior side Woodford East at Cupid’s. Connor Fardyga & substitute Adem Beji both scored twice here for the hosts, and they held their nerve in the shoot-out, winning 5 – 4 to shatter East’s quest of making a second successive final. Sports will play Shenfield AFC after they came from behind to defeat Rayleigh Town at St Martins’. Jack Chatterway had given Town the lead but goals from Luke Williamson & Ben Absolon meant that it would be the hosts competing in an all-EOFL showpiece next month.

EOFL League Divisions

As mentioned, the fixtures were hit by weather. We start as ever in the top-tier, as leaders Hutton were held to a 1 – 1 draw at Runwell Sports. Two substitutes were crucial in this game, with David Johnson netting for the Reds and Luca Frankis responded for Rob Hodgson’s team. The result meant that Matt Singh’s team remain ten points clear of second-placed Catholic Utd, who were also held, 2 – 2 by Sungate at the Len Forge 3G. Ben Burrows & Aaron Baldwin scored for Utd to give them the lead, but goals from Solomon Asomah & replacement Petrit Elbi meant that the ‘Gate left with a point, and they are up to seventh now.

Elsewhere, Old Southendian are back into fourth place after a 2 – 1 victory at Toby. Mattias Tonking & Jordan Faulkner both netted for OS, with substitute Jake Jones replying for the Brewers, who remain 10th. There were also two key results for teams at the bottom. Firstly, Kelvedon Hatch got a vital 3 – 2 victory over Canning Town at New Hall. Drew Klessa-Smith, Luke Winter & David Hamblett got the goals for Darren Hunt’s team, as they stayed out of the bottom two. Springfield also grabbed a hugely important three points as they had a 2 – 1 success at Belfairs Park. Two goals from Finlay Dorrell outdid a late spot-kick from Ole Hunter for the Rams to give Matt Cardy’s side the win. I attended this match & if you’d like more on it, my report is available here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2023/03/19/s22-23-match-report-leigh-ramblers-1-2-springfield-sat-18-mar-eofl/

There were two matches in Division One this week. First, Manford Way grabbed an important 2 – 0 victory over promotion rivals Epping Town at the London Marathon Sports Ground to go three points clear in fourth, with three games left. The other game saw ACD Utd obtain a good 4 – 1 success at Wakering Sports. Jacob Dingli scored twice for Michael Wade’s team, with Shaun Farrow & Ollie Williams also netting to see Utd gain ground on the top five.

There was one match apiece in Divisions Two & Three as well. In Division Two, Shoebury Town confirmed promotion to the second-tier after they conclusively won 7 – 0 over Old Southendian Res, in a match held at Garon Park 3G. Mechack-Kisoka Asuka netted another four goals here, with Jack Woodham’s double & one from substitute Enoch Gyimah securing the points which led to celebrations for Garry Johnson’s & John Galley’s team. Congrats to them. In Division Three, Buckhurst Hill U23 are up to third spot, after a 7 – 1 win over Old Chelmsfordians Res at Roding Lane. Louie Cooper & replacement Daniel Muela both scored twice for Darren Gosnell’s team here, with Jack Barnes, Jacob Richards & Harvey Woods also on the score-sheet in Hill’s penultimate league match this term. Old Chelms will finish eighth now.

In Division Four, the solitary game saw Leigh Ramblers Res produce a fine second-half showing to defeat Wakering Sports A 4 – 0 at Belfairs, in the second game of the double-header of matches which I attended. The ensemble of Luis Bracci, Cameron Jarvis, Taylor Stewart & Jacob Mead were all on target for Terry Johnson’s team, as they went up to second spot, three points behind leaders Roydon with two further games than them to play. The Sports side remain second bottom, with five matches left.

Finally, there was only one match in Division Five, Runwell Sports Res secured a very important 6 – 1 victory at Collier Row Res. The win takes them into top spot, two points clear of Manford Way Res and the pressure is on their rivals as the Runwell second-side have completed their league campaign. Row’s Ressie side also ended their term here, and reside in fourth but can still be caught by Basildon Town A, currently in fifth.

End

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League & Cups (Sat 4 Mar) [EOFL 22-23 6.3.23]

Action still from Catholic Utd v Toby in midweek

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

Hello & welcome to the latest Essex Olympian League column, tracking the action in all divisions & Cups from Saturday 4 March, as the top three all won in the top-tier, plus Sungate & Toby progressed in the Senior Cup.

EOFL Cups

In the two Senior Cup ties this weekend, Toby sealed their progress with a 5 – 1 victory at Bishop’s Stortford Swifts. Albert Perry netted twice for Mark Jones’ side, with Rhys Willson, Harry Barham & Tom Roser also on target as they made the last four. They are joined by Sungate, who needed a spot-kicks to get past second-tier side Old Chelmsfordians after a 1 – 1 daw at Lawford Lane. Bobby Port’s team won the ensuing penalties 7 – 6 to go through. In the Denny King Cup, Shoebury Town showed no lack of determination as they had two late goals from Jack Woodham to thank for a 2 – 1 victory over Beacon Hill Rovers at Ekco Sports Club. Rounding out the Cup section this week is three games in the Reserve Trophy. Harold Wood Athletic Res went through, winning 4 – 3 on penalties after a 2 – 2 draw against Toby Res at Nursery Sports Ground. Substitutes Josh Portway & Derek Hawtin for Ath forced the resulting shoot-out. They are joined in the next round by Old Chelmsfordians Res, who won 3 – 2 at Sungate Res and Runwell Sports Res, who edged past Canning Town Res 1 – 0 at St Luke’s Park.

EOFL Premier Division

There was one midweek match this week, as Catholic Utd again caught up on their fixtures, as they defeated Toby 3 – 0 at Southchurch Park, in a match I attended. Liam Oliver’s first-half treble was enough to seal the points for Simon Thomas’ side. For more on this game, my report is here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2023/03/02/s22-23-match-report-catholic-utd-3-0-toby-tues-28-feb-eofl/

Onto the weekend Premier action now, and Hutton got back to winning ways with a slender 1 – 0 success at Leigh Ramblers. Connor Hammond got another important goal to keep Matt Singh’s side top by seven points. The chasing pack both won though, as Catholic Utd backed up their earlier midweek win with a 2 – 0 triumph at Springfield. James Warder & Liam Oliver both scored to keep the Essex Bhoys in second place, a point clear of Rayleigh Town, who in turn defeated Kelvedon Hatch 3 – 1 at Thames Road. James Nottage netted for Hatch, but goals from Harry Talbot, Ben Baxter & Lewis Robson secured the win for Paul Higgins’ side.

Meanwhile, Old Southendian remain fifth after an impressive 3 – 0 win at Shenfield AFC. Mattias Tonking’s brace of spot-kicks was added to by Callum Ludlaim’s goal to seal another win for Altan Ali’s team. Runwell Sports sit sixth with several matches in hand after their 3 – 0 victory at strugglers Galleywood. Charlie Little, Gianni Frankis & Oliver Williamson all netted for Robert Hodgson’s team, in what could still be a memorable season for them.

EOFL Divisions One & Two

There were two games in Division One this week, both games involving the chasing pack. Epping Town grabbed a much-needed three points with a 2 – 1 win at home to ACD Utd. Billy Wren netted for Utd here but two goals for Chris Gormley saw Stuart Hoskins’ team remain third and with a four-point lead over Manford Way, who claimed the points thanks to a 3 – 0 success over Herongate Athletic. David Alele, Siddy Clarkson & Charlie Parish all scored here for Manford.

Moving into Division Two now, and we begin with an important win for Rayleigh Town Res, who got past Hutton Res 2 – 1 at London Road to head out of the bottom two. Goals from Byron Down and Adam Wright were enough to seal the win for Dave Barker’s team. Hashtag Utd Development also bagged the points after a 1 – 0 success over May & Baker at Barleylands. Matthew Gauci’s goal was enough to see Denis Simpson’s team back up into third but they are five points adrift of Wakering Sports Res, who demolished Old Southendian Res 8 – 2 at Cupid’s. Connor Fardyga again led the scorers for the hosts, with four goals here & he was assisted by Adem Beji’s double plus strikes from Alex Jenkins & Oliver Greene to see Sports reduce the arrears to leaders Shoebury to four points.

Lastly, Catholic Utd Res defeated AS Rawreth 3 – 0, in a rare Ressie game played at the Len Forge. Daniel Williams, Finlay Grant & replacement Matt Creevy all scored to give Eamonn Kearney’s side a win which takes them up to sixth.

EOFL Divisions Three, Four & Five

In Division Three, Leigh Town Res moved into second place after a 1 – 0 win over Chingford Athletic Res. Chris Pope got the decisive goal in this one. They are now three points clear of Pitsea Athletic after they lost 1 – 2 at Hullbridge Sports Res. Paul Morris & Nicholas Sherlock got the goals to see Hullbridge level on points with their opponents. Springfield Res won 3 – 1 at Buckhurst Hill U23, with Tristan Ofori-Sampong & substitutes Liam England & Jacob Brewer all on target to give them a third consecutive win & helps them up to sixth. Olaobajuwon Olagbaju got the reply for Buckhurst there.

In Division Four, promotion-chasing Leigh Ramblers Res had two late goals to thank for a superb 2 – 0 win at leaders Roydon. Substitutes Ethan Nunn & Taylor Stewart both scored to keep the gap to second spot at three points, with several more matches to play. Roydon’s title charge took a dent and their lead drops to three points. Herongate Athletic Res reside in second spot now after they powered past Leytonstone Utd 6 – 1 at Billericay Road. Ryan Creed had a debut to remember as he struck four goals here. Byron Brackett & Habeeb Apatira also netted to more than secure the points. Ongar Town also bagged a terrific win, 5 – 0 at Pitsea Athletic Res. Tommy Smith netted twice, with Mason White, Ethan Hook & replacement Adoreke Oke all adding to the scoresheet in a win which keeps them sixth. The last game in this division saw Shenfield AFC Res defeated Galleywood Res 3 – 1, to take them eight points clear in seventh spot.

In Division Five, Wakebury Res got a superb 5 – 3 victory over leaders Manford Way Res at Shoebury Park. Connor Lane netted four goals for Joe Creak’s side & an OG sealed the win. George Green netted two for Manford & Callum Thomas added another but their lead stays at two points, wiith a match in hand. Basildon Town A have all but secured at least fifth spot after they won 3 – 1 at Shoebury Town Res. Donnel Kujinga, Shawn Banks & replacement Luke Soley all scored here, to give the Bas’ third side lingering hope of a top-two spot as they have two matches in hand on their closest rivals.

The other result this weekend saw Collier Row Res convincingly win 9 – 1 at AS Rawreth Res, to keep themselves in fourth.

End

S22-23 Round-up’s: Essex Olympian Lge & Cups (Sat 11 Feb) [EOFL 22-23 13.2.23]

Image from Corinthians v Harold Hill in D1 this weekend

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

Hello & welcome to the latest edition of the Essex Olympian League round-up. This week, we look at the action in all divisions & Cups from Saturday 11 February, as the weekend’s action in all six divisions was bolstered by Cup ties. Also includes the midweek EOFL Premier game this week at the start of that section.

EOFL Premier Division

We begin with the first of what could be several midweek EOFL matches as the season comes to its run-in. Catholic Utd got a narrow 2 – 1 victory at Old Southendian on Wednesday night at Garon Park 3G. James Warder & Michael Sammut got the important goals to outdo replacement Nico Dubouchet’s reply for OS. The win took Utd up to second after the weekend’s action. For more on this match, check out Peter Dudley’s match report here: https://pedroslocalfootiefix.blogspot.com/2023/02/old-southendian-1-catholic-united-2.html

In the weekend’s top-tier action, there were some key results at the bottom of the table. None more so than Galleywood‘s narrow 1 – 0 victory over Toby at Slades Lane. Kaiyun Reeves got the decisive goal there to grab their second win this term & go level on points with rivals Springfield, who drew 1 – 1 with Sungate at Arun Park. Lewis Chapman got the hosts’ goal in the opening game of the new era there, under new boss Matt Cardy, formerly of Division Two side Wakebury. Bishop’s Stortford Swifts went up to fourth-bottom with a gritty 1 – 0 win at Kelvedon Hatch. Substitute Harley Merry’s strike saw Swifts go above Hatch in the table but both these sides & Toby are precariously close to the bottom two, which are likely to be the relegation spots in three months’ time.

Elsewhere, Rayleigh Town renewed their rivalry with Old Southendian before coming away with a 3 – 1 success at Thames Road. Nick Henesy netted for OS while Harry Talbot, George Vile’s penalty & an early OG accounted for the hosts’ goals, with the win taking them back up to third, albeit they are 14 points adrift of leaders Hutton. Catholic Utd & Leigh Ramblers look to be their nearest challengers for that coveted second-spot. Finally, Leigh Ramblers drew 1 – 1 with Shenfield AFC. Luke Williamson got AFC’s goal and Andrew Webster netted for the Rams at Belfairs Park

EOFL Divisions One & Two

Division One again saw some big results. We begin with Old Chelmsfordians‘ 4 – 0 victory at home to Wakering Sports. The ensemble cast of Shane Pritchard, Joe Murphy, Ryan Baxter & substitute Billy Duke got the goals which sees the OC’s retain third spot & reduce the deficit to Epping in second to only one point. Manford Way edged a truly marvellous match as they won 6 – 4 at Epping Town. The defeat leaves Town further vulnerable to being caught by both Old Chelms & Corinthians, who battled to an important 3 – 2 victory at home to Harold Hill at Stambridge. Brodie Horne netted two good goals & an early OG proved enough to outweigh goals from Harry Watkins & Troy Tizard-Cleghorn’s spot kick. For much more on this game, here’s my report: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2023/02/11/s22-23-match-report-corinthians-3-2-harold-hill-sat-11-feb-eofl/

Also, Harold Wood Athletic were held 1 – 1 at ACD Utd. Leroy Griffiths scoed for Wood, with Matthew Taylor levelling the match for Utd. Harold Wood’s lead at the summit inches further to five points now, with four wins likely to be enough to secure the title. ACD remain sixth & are not out of the running for a top-four spot yet.

Into Division Two now, and leaders Shoebury Town remain four points clear at the summit after a fine 3 – 1 victory at May & Baker. Lewis Hunt, Oliver Chew & Timi Tinubu goals sealed their 11th win this term. Wakering Sports Res remain their nearest challengers after a 3 – 0 win at home to Catholic Utd Res. Connor Fardyga again found the target, as did substitutes Eben Rowledge & David Watson to confirm the points.

Elsewhere, Harold Wood Athletic Res are back up to third spot after a good 3 – 0 triumph over out-of-form AS Rawreth at Harold Wood Rec. Matt Harris, Kieron Moynihan & an OG meant that the Wood side are still in the running for promotion.

EOFL Divisions Three, Four & Five

In Division Three, leaders Basildon Town Res extended their lead to ten points after a 4 – 1 win over Springfield Res at Basildon Sports Club. Anthony Aylett notched twice here for the hosts to reach seven league goals this term, while Louis Hill & replacement Ola Ogunjobi also scored to confirm the win. Pitsea Athletic are up to second, following an excellent 4 – 0 success at home to Hullbridge Res. Sean Devlin, Reece Stone, Jason Warner & Joe Berry all got goals there for Trevor Wickens’ side, who are now in prime position for that second promotion spot. In the other game this weekend, Chingford Athletic Res fortified sixth spot with a 6 – 1 triumph over Corinthians Res at Town Mead 3G. Luke Dimond netted a fine treble to reach 12 league goals this campaign thus far, allied with two for Sonny Clarke & one from Jack Smith confirmed the points for Carl Gregory’s side. Corinthians Res need a minimum of three wins from their last five matches to avoid a likely relegation to Division Four.

In Division Four, the top two were not in league action, which allowed Leigh Ramblers Res to retain third spot & reduce the gap to leaders Roydon to six points as they won 2 – 0 at Leytonstone Utd. Joe Howson & Jacob Meads got the goals at Forest Row. Also, Herongate Athletic Res are well-placed in fourth now, after a 4 – 0 success over Wakering Sports A at Billericay Road. Thomas Lambourne & Byron Brackett both scored to get the hosts going before further strikes by replacements Kieron Wilson-Fowler & Joe Coldham secured the points.

Lastly in this division, Ongar Town battled with Galleywood Res to a goal-less draw at Marks Hall Centre. the point sees Ongar rise to sixth and Galleywood remain third from bottom, still needing points to secure their place in this division next term.

In Division Five, Collier Row Res are back in second spot, following a impressive 7 – 3 victory at Wakebury Res. Harry Potts netted five goals himself to double his tally to ten goals this term for the Ressie side. Jake Griffin & Raheem Bravo’s penalty added further ache to the hosts. Joe Creak’s side replied through a brace from Ross Barnes & one from Arry Hardy. The other results saw Shoebury Town Res win 4 – 0 at AS Rawreth Res and Sungate Res triumph 3 – 1 at Canning Town Res.

Cups

We start the Cup action with mentions of the two Senior Cup games. First up, it was predictably tight in the all-Premier Division clash in Beckton as Hutton defeated Canning Town 3 – 2. Lewis Scott & substitutes Will Marlowe & Billy Chilcott got the decisive goals for Matt Singh’s side who may well mark this potentially pivotal season with a Cup Final appearance as well. Joining them in the next round will be Catholic Utd, who won 3 – 0 at Division Two side Hashtag Utd Development. Tom Elliott, Harrison Day and Tom Kearney got the goals for Simon Thomas’ side at Barleylands.

Moving on to the other Cup competitions now. Firstly in the Reserve Cup, and Basildon Town A got an upset on spot-kicks, after drawing 1 – 1 with Division Two side Hutton Res at Polo Fields. Donnel Kujinga again netted for the Division Five side, and they won 5 – 4 on penalties to see them through. There was nearly another upset in the Denny King Cup tie this weekend as Division One side Beacon Hill Rovers also needed penalties to progress, after a 1 – 1 draw at Division Four leaders Roydon. Nader Benzid got the hosts’ goal, with Charles Fitt’s late goal meaning a shoot-out was needed. Rovers won that 4 – 2 but credit does go to Roydon, who are continuing to show they may well be alright, should they complete the job & gain promotion for next term.

We end this week with two ties in the Reserve Trophy. Firstly, Manford Way Res narrowly got the better of Leigh Town Res, as Manford won 3 – 2 to send the Division Three team out. Luke Bennett’s double, allied with Charlie Ewing’s strike outdid strikes by Zack Walker & Spencer Izatt for Leigh to send the Division Five side through. Also, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res also prevailed, following a 2 – 0 victory at home to Shenfield AFC Res, with Matthew Allen & David Falzon strikes securing the win at Silver Leys.

End

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian Lge & Cups (Sat 4 Feb) [EOFL 22-23 6.2.23]

Archive Image – Shoebury Town v AS Rawreth earlier this term

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

Hello & welcome to another edition of the Essex Olympian League round-up. This week, we look at the action in all divisions & Cups from Saturday 4 February, as the weekend’s action in all six divisions was bolstered by Cup ties.

EOFL Premier Division

In the top-tier, Hutton continue to bolster their chances of the Premier title & promotion, as they defeated Toby 2 – 0 at Chadfields. Stephen Judge & substitute Kyle Linzell goals were enough to see the Reds to 40 points in just 14 matches. Old Southendian are up to second spot after a 3 – 0 win at Leigh Ramblers, securing their third straight League win. Catholic Utd are up third place after securing a comeback 3 – 1 victory over Runwell Sports at the Len Forge. Gianni Frankis’ goal had put Runwell ahead but strikes from Liam Oliver, Aaron Baldwin (on his 100th appearance for the club) & Tom Elliott sealled the win, ahead of a very hectic last three months of the campaign (which sees them still have 15 league games left, starting with a trip Old Southendian in midweek). Shenfield AFC’s decent season continues after they defeated Canning Town 1 – 0 at St Martins 3G. Sam Lock got the only goal there to send them up to eighth spot, while Galleywood battled to a 1 – 1 draw at Kelvedon Hatch. Freddie Bartram got the ‘Wood goal, with Charlie Nichols replying for Darren Hunt’s team. Galleywood still need at least two wins from their upcoming games to draw other teams into the relegation battle.

EOFL Divisions One & Two

Division One saw some potentially big results. First, a mention for strugglers Wakering Sports who battled to their maiden victory this term, as they defeated Manford Way 1- 0, with Nathan Roche scoring the only goal there. Epping Town held promotion rivals Harold Wood Athletic 1 – 1 at home, with Joe Rickett netting for Town & Ben Woolven doing so for Ath, who remain four points clear at the top. Beacon Hill Rovers got an important 2 – 0 success over Corinthians, which sends Hill up to 8th, and dampens the Stambridge-based side’s promotion aspirations, as they stay fourth. Finally, Herongate Athletic are only two points adrift of fourth spot, following a 3 – 0 win at home to Harold Hill. Alfie Yeend, Thomas Lambourne & George Godfrey goals made the most of their chances & notch a fine three points.

Into Division Two, Wakering Sports Res reduced the deficit to leaders Shoebury to four points after a 5 – 2 triumph at Rayleigh Town Res. Substitute Ciaran Sweeney netted twice, with Connor Fardyga, Charlie Smith & Steven Valente also on target for the enterprising Sports side. May & Baker are up to third after a fine 5 – 0 win at AS Rawreth, with Alfie Horan & Kane Messenger notching doubles each, with Jack O’Connor’s fine strike confirming the points. Hutton Res got a battling 1 – 0 victory at Hashtag Utd Development, with Jack Greenwood’s goal enough to push them up to ninth place, a point clear of the bottom two. Lastly, Old Southendian Res drew 1 – 1 with Catholic Utd Res. Both teams are some way off the top six, following that result.

EOFL Divisions Three, Four & Five

Moving now to Division Three, the top two were not in action but Buckhurst Hill U23 gained ground on them with a superb 7 – 1 success over Corinthians Res at Roding Lane. Ayomide Ademokun netted a treble, with Harvey Woods adding a brace, plus Jacob Richards & replacement Bailey Allen also netted for Darren Gosnell’s side, who are well-set in third. Pitsea Athletic are only a point below them in fourth after they defeated Chingford Athletic Res 5 – 0. Both of these teams have the most matches to play in the division remaining, at eight each.

In Division Four, Roydon put themselves back in pole position for the title with a 2 – 1 victory over rivals Collier Row. Connor Presland & Ross Bourke both scored for the hosts who went a point clear at the summit, with three matches in hand on nearest rivals Row. Leigh Ramblers Res are also in the promotion shake-up after a fine 4 – 0 win at Shenfield AFC Res. Jacob Meads netted twice for the Rams, with Dominic North & substitute Taylor Stewart also on target at Warley Fields in a win which keeps them third. Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res had a real battle before coming away with a 4 – 3 victory at Galleywood Res. The hosts got goals through Ebenezer Fasoranti, Aryan Tathgar and Ashley Merritt but they were outdone by Matthew Allen’s brace for Swifts, compiled with strikes from Archie Gerard & Jordan Trott to give the visitors another three points and they remain fourth.

Lastly in this division, a big day for Leytonstone Utd as they notched their first win of a tough campaign, winning 3 – 2 against Ongar Town at Forest Row. The trio of James Medlock, Billy Wallace & George Welsh got the crucial Leytonstone goals. Ongar got goals from Jude Collins, and replacement James McLean but it wasn’t enough to prevent Utd from finally savouring a win – they are only four points behind Wakering Sports A & Galleywood Res directly above them.

In Division Five, Basildon Town A edged to a 3 – 2 victory over Collier Row Res at Basildon Sports Club. Donnel Kujinga netted yet another double to further endorse his good season, while Alex Smith got the other goal, the win takes them up to fourth place. Also, Runwell Sports Res are into second place after a resounding 8 – 0 victory at home to AS Rawreth Res.

Cups

We start the Cup action with mentions of the two Senior Cup games. First, Sungate ended Rayleigh Town’s run in the competition as the ‘Gate had a Arif Mustapha goal to thank in their 1 – 0 win. Also, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts were given a stern test before coming through 4 – 3 on spot-kicks, after a 0 – 0 draw at Silver Leys, In the Denny King Cup, ACD Utd progressed with a narrow 1 – 0 victory over Basildon Town Res, with Jamie Alexandrou getting the only goal there.

Moving on into the Reserve Cup, and Herongate Athletic Res triumphed with a 5 – 1 win at Springfield Res. Kemston Allen got a super treble, added to very well by Habeeb Apatira’s double to see the visitors through. Finally, in the Reserve Trophy, Old Chelmsfordians Res progressed with a 3 – 0 victory at home to Pitsea Athletic Res and Harold Wood Athletic Res sailed through with a 4 – 1 success at Wakering Sports A. Max London netted twice for Wood, with Thomas Butler & Kieron Moynihan also on target for them. Carl Sutton replied for Wakering, but their attention focuses now on remaining in Division Four.

End

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian Lge & Cups (Sat 21 Jan) [EOFL 22-23 23.1.23]

Woodford East v Hutton image from this weekend [Image by Scott W]

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

Hello & welcome to the another edition of the Essex Olympian League round-up. This week, we look at the action in all divisions & Cups from Saturday 21 January, as the weekend’s action was again reduced because of the frosty weather.

EOFL Premier Division & Division Three action was postponed this week.

EOFL Divisions One and Two

Division One only saw one match as Harold Wood Athletic got a important 5 – 0 victory over bottom side Wakering Sports. James Pottle netted twice here for John Field’s team, with Zach Holding, Perry Robinson & Louis Bazely’s spot-kick accounting for the other goals. The win takes Ath seven points clear at the top, with Corinthians the most likely rivals once they have played the four games they have in hand on Ath.

Into Division Two now and the only match here saw May & Baker draw 2 – 2 with Harold Wood Athletic Res at home. Matthew Harris & replacement Josh Portway netted for the visitors but they lost the chance to go back up to third here.

EOFL Divisions Four & Five

It’s straight into Division Four now, and Herongate Athletic Res are three points clear in third after a narrow 1 – 0 victory over Leigh Ramblers Res. John Hanrahan’s penalty proved decisive as Ath retained their chances of overhauling second-placed Collier Row, given they have three extra games to play, compared to Row. Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res rose to fourth after a conclusive 4 – 0 triumph at strugglers Leytonstone Utd. The cast of Archie Gerard, Henry Harnack, Matthew Allen & Jordan Trott were all on target for Swifts there. Finally in this division, Shenfield AFC Res defeated Wakering Sports A 4 – 0 at St Martin’s 3G. Mason Everitt, Kyle Constable, Lewis Dalley & Alec Roeper all scored to fortify AFC’s sixth place.

In Division Five, Collier Row Res are up to second after a 2 – 1 win at Sungate Res, with Raheem Bravo and Nicholas George the scorers for Row there. In the other match, Runwell Sports Res are five points clear in fourth after a 2 – 0 success at Wakebury Res. Harry Ford and Daniel Hobbs scored for Sports as they secured their sixth win this term.

Cups

Starting the Cup round-up with the Essex Premier Cup Quarter-Finals, and Wakering Sports Res‘ dream run continues after a superb 5 – 1 victory over Toby at Cupid’s. Connor Fardyga once again contributed hugely in big games with a hat-trick here, and Eben Rowledge & Charlie Smith also scoring. Jamie Simpkins replied for Toby but they bowed out – their focus is now on EOFL Premier survival. Rayleigh Town renewed their rivalry with Catholic Utd and Town prevailed 3 – 2 at Len Forge 3G. Harry Talbot scored twice for Paul Higgins’ side here, with Jack Long also scoring. Joe O’Kane had earlier given Utd the lead, and Aaron Baldwin netted a late second but they exited the Premier Cup.

Elsewhere, Shenfield AFC were made to battle hard for a 2 – 1 win at EOFL Division One side Corinthians. John Bolton-Smith’s spot-kick gave the hosts the lead but Ben Carroll & Elliott Thompson strikes turned the tide and saw AFC progress to the last four. Also, in the match I attended this week, Woodford East produced a superb comeback to defeat Hutton 4 – 2 at Mabley Green 3G. The Reds led by two goals at the break, through Lewis Scott & David Johnson. But a roaring response by East saw strikes by Harry Robinson, Matt Stacey, Billy Barr & Ben Smith saw the Essex Alliance side prevail. If you’d like more on this game, my report is here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2023/01/21/s22-23-match-report-woodford-east-4-2-hutton-sat-21-jan-epcqf/

Now into the EOFL Senior Cup games, Old Southendian progressed with a 4 – 1 success over Leigh Ramblers at Belfairs Park. Mattias Tonking netted two goals for Altan Ali’s team, while Mitchell Ali & Connor Burrows strikes secured a fine win. Canning Town also went through as they won another penalty shoot-out 5 – 4 after a 1 – 1 stalemate at Runwell Sports. Oliver Williamson netted for Runwell there.

The solitary Reserve Cup match this weekend saw Galleywood Res go through after a 3 – 1 victory at Shoebury Town Res. Alfie Hooper’s fine treble secured a good win for the visitors at the Ekco Sports Club.

Lastly this week, in the EOFL Denny King Cup, Epping Town had a Conor Corrigan goal to thank for a 1 – 0 win at home to Chingford Athletic Res. Shoebury Town also went through after a 4 – 1 win at home to Buckhurst Hill U23. Mechack-Kisoka Asuka scored another two goals here, with Aaron Marshall & an OG accounting for the other goals.

End

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League & Cups (Sat 7 Jan) [EOFL 22-23 9.1.23]

Archive Image – OS v Rayleigh Town from last month

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

Hello & Happy New Year to the readers of this column. Welcome to the first edition of the Essex Olympian League round-up series in 2023. This week, we look at the action in all divisions from Saturday 7 January, plus the Cup ties this week.

EOFL Premier Division

Firstly in the top-tier, Hutton extended their seemingly unassailable lead at the top to 14 points after a 5 – 0 victory at Springfield. David Johnson netted twice here for Matt Singh’s side, with Jude Keeling, Tom Stephens and substitute Connor Hammond also netting here. The hosts remain second bottom, two points adrift of Toby. Sungate are in third on goal difference, despite being held to a goal-less draw by Bishop’s Stortford Swifts. Leigh Ramblers are up to fourth after a gritty 1 – 0 victory at home to Runwell Sports at Belfairs. Scott Clark again got a crucial goal for Mark Hunter’s team.

Meanwhile, Catholic Utd started the calendar year with a 4 – 1 triumph at home to Kelvedon Hatch at the Len Forge 3G. James Burt scored for Hatch, but a team effort turned the tide as Franklin Craik, Aaron Baldwin, Tom Kearney and replacement Harrison Day all scored to keep Simon Thomas’ side in sixth, but are only two points adrift of Sungate in third. Shenfield AFC also picked up a big home win, as they triumphed 4 – 0 over Galleywood at St Martin’s Sch 3G. Jack Maleary, Ben Absolon, Jack Panons & Ben Carroll all netted here to send them three points clear in ninth, with matches in hand over most of the teams around them. ‘Wood’s tough season continues, as they are five points adrift of exiting the bottom two. Finally, Old Southendian got back to winning ways in some style as they won 6 – 0 at home to Toby at Garon Park, which sent them up to fifth on goal difference in what is a very tight chasing pack.

EOFL Divisions One & Two

Division One only saw three matches this week because of the weather but Epping Town got a huge 6 – 1 victory over strugglers Wakering Sports. Scout Bown netted four goals here for Stuart Hoskins’ team, to take his season’s league goal tally to 16. Edirin Eghwrudje and Abdul Kamara also scored here to add to the visitors’ pain and reduce leaders Harold Wood Athletic’s lead at the summit to four points. Beacon Hill Rovers also got a cucial victory, defeating Herongate Athletic 3 – 2 at Wickham Bishops. Bertie Whymark took his goal tally to seven this term with a double here, with William Strutt also netting for the hosts. Manford Way also drew 1 – 1 with Old Chelmsfordians, with Daniel Demain coming off the bench to score for the hosts there, with the point gained seeing them up to seventh in the table.

Into Division Two, there were some big results for the top four sides. Leaders Shoebury Town are four points clear at the top after an important 3 – 0 victory over Hashtag Utd Development, who dropped to third. Mechack-Kisoka Asuka scored another two goals to take his league goal tally to 13 this term. Substitute Enoch Gyimah added the other goal for Garry Johnson & John Galley’s side here. Wakering Sports Res are up to second spot after a 5 – 0 win against AS Rawreth at Cupid’s. May & Baker‘s Olympian side had to battle hard before completing a 4 – 3 victory at Catholic Utd Res, in a match moved to Waterside Farm Centre on Canvey. Carl Patten struck twice for Josh Lowbridge & Antony McDonald’s side, with Darren Seymour and Alfie Horan also scoring for the visitors there, who stay sixth but are only four points behind Wakering Sports Res in second, which endorses how tight the top half of the table is.

Elsewhere, Hutton Res moved up to eighth following a big 3 – 2 win at Wakebury. Thomas Price, Billy Chilcott and Ronnie Richardson-Cook all netted here for the visitors. Finlay Dorrell & Ben Perry responded for Matt Cardy’s team here but they lost ground on the top two. The other result saw Old Southendian Res win 4 – 2 at Rayleigh Town Res.

EOFL Divisions Three, Four & Five

In Division Three, Basildon Town Res are eight points clear at the summit after a 2 – 1 victory over local rivals Pitsea Athletic Res. Jamie Bradbourn’s brace sealed the points for the hosts, overturning Ath’s goal by substitute Carlos Dias. Ath fell to their first defeat this term & dropped to fourth. Hullbridge Sports Res are up to second after a comprehensive 8 – 0 victory at strugglers Corinthians Res. Jay Knight, Harry Mole and substitute George Mole all got doubles here, with Joe Tuskin and Joseph Gray strikes adding further gloss to the score-line.

Leigh Town Res are now third after a 5 – 2 success at home to Springfield Res at John Burrows Rec. Chris Pope netted twice here for Town, with Jack Pearman, Steve Birnie and Joshua Dalton all on target to render Liam England & William Roe goals for Springfield as consolation goals. Chingford Athletic Res grabbed a 4 – 1 victory at Old Chelmsfordians Res, with the ensemble cast of Luke Dimond, Bilel Benyoucef, George Miller and replacement Conor Medhurst all scoring for Ath.

Moving into Division Four, and Leigh Ramblers Res gained ground on second-placed Collier Row with a 1 – 0 victory at Forest Row. Luis Bracci got the decisive goal there, to raise his side up to third in the table. In the only other game in the division, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res were held 1 – 1 by Ongar Town at Silver Leys. Matthew Allen scored for Swifts, with Benjamin Adams responding for Ongar. Swifts drop to fifth, while Ongar are in eighth.

Finally for the League action this week, In Division Five the leaders are Manford Way Res, who won 4 – 1 at AS Rawreth Res. Callum Thomas, Luke Bennett, Charlie Ewing & Rakim Janneh all netted to extend their lead at the top to five points. Justin Burrell got the solitary goal back for the Rawreth team, who are three points adrift at the bottom. Wakebury Res moved into second spot following a 3 – 1 triumph over Basildon Town A at Shoebury Park. Ross Barnes’ treble saw Joe Creak’s side to their seventh win this term. Jamie Miller got the reply for Bas, who are now in sixth.

Elsewhere, Runwell Sports Res are up to fourth after they won 1 – 0 at home to Sungate Res. Daniel Hobbs got the only goal there at St Luke’s Park. The other result saw Shoebury Town Res draw 1 – 1 with Collier Row A at the Ekco Sports Club (Pitch 2).

In the Cup action this weekend, Canning Town emerged with a 4 – 3 win on penalties in the Senior League Cup after drawing 1 – 1 with Division One side Harold Hill in the early kick-off at Noak Hill 3G.

In the one match in the Reserve League Cup, Herongate Athletic Res got a morale-boosting 2 – 1 victory over Harold Wood Athletic Res, thanks to goals from Kemston Allen and replacement Jasper Stuckey. Josh Portway got the reply for Harold Wood’s Ressie side there but they exited the Cup here.