West Essex – survivor16b

S22-23 M. Report: West Essex 0 – 1 Athletic Newham (Sat 15 Apr) [ESL 22-23 16.4.23]

Essex Senior League – Premier Division

Venue: Mayesbrook Park 3G

Attendance: 22

2022-23 Season: Match 55

Saturday 15th April 2023 – 12pm KO

West: Yellow & Black Shirts, Black Shorts & Yellow Socks

Newham: Red & Black Shirts, Red Shorts, Red Socks

Sanchez Hardy on-the-ball for West in 1st half

Newham battle to narrow win at West Essex

West Essex 0 – 1 Athletic Newham

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

The first game of a welcome double on the penultimate weekend of the normal Step 5 season saw an early game at Mayesbrook Park, where West Essex took on Athletic Newham in the Essex Senior League. Both sides were in action the previous midweek, with West narrowly losing at Stanway Rovers and Newham getting past a jaded FC Clacton side. Kwame Kwateng’s team had to ring the changes here with several players unavailable. Emmanuel Nwosu was their goalkeeper here, with a defence of stalwart Sanchez Hardy, Mitchell Arthur and Rodney Dame. The midfield included skipper Reece Clarke, Emmanuel Wazola, Saliu Lo Seye and Timmy Moncur. The forward line was led by Lewis Danquah, with Zak Oliver and Sam Bajaha down the flanks in support. Newham still have a good chance of getting a top-five finish given their extensive remaining fixture list, and had Wilkinson Boateng in goal, with a backline comprised of Meer Ishanzadeh, Will Martin and Jeff Idemudia. Their midfield had Dayaan Salifou, Anderson Baro, Abdul Shobowale and Simon Bamidele starting, with forwards Richard Kone and Jailson Seidi being supported by skipper Joel Appiah.

The early stages of this match built up nicely, as Newham forward Jailson Seidi being denied a chance at goal by home skipper Reece Clarke. West duly responded, with the surging breaks of forward Zak Oliver a highlight for them, but two decent strikes from him couldn’t bypass visiting stopper Wilkinson Boateng. Defender Sanchez Hardy also fizzed a fierce strike not far over the goal frame as the Stags showed their attacking philosophy well but couldn’t match their good passing with clinical finishing. Newham were concentrating on building momentum through midfield, but although the likes of Anderson Baro, Abdul Shobowale and Joel Appiah were contributing to their approach play, their chances were few & far between in the first half hour. Talisman Richard Kone fired over the goal frame in the early stages but they did take the lead five minutes before the interval.

A good cross in from the left side evaded a stuttering West defence & found Appiah about six yards out and his neat header found went high into the net. Newham’s lead was nearly pegged back on the stroke of half-time as a powerful free-kick from Clarke for West cannoned back off the crossbar. At the interval, Newham held their lead but would have liked more possession to build more attacks & stifle the hosts’ momentum.

HT: West 0 – 1 Newham

Clarke (#14) clears for West with Izekor (#14) close by for Newham

After the break, there were still chances aplenty. Clarke again arrowed a crisp effort not far over the top left corner, while Seidi also fired wide after a decent cross by Simon Bamidele. Newham had brought on forward Daniel Izekor for Richard Kone after he sustained a knock in the first half. Boateng in the Newham goal was also a good presence for them, as he also denied another set-piece strike by Clarke. As the minutes elapsed, the realisation was growing that it just may not be West’s day. Newham were still useful going forward as well, with Izekor utilising the space between the West defence & midfield quite well, although West were in no mood to concede again here.

As we got into the last fifteen minutes, West thought they have levelled but in reaching the ball high off the deck, substitute Tyson Muaxambi struck a decent strike into the net, although it was ruled out as the forward had also clattered into a Newham defender in the process. As they often do, Kwame Kwateng’s side kept going until the end of the game that was getting more scrappy, and midfielder Saliu Lo Seye and Dillon Luker also had half-chances, the latter of which was gathered by Boateng, who will no doubt be pleased to claim another shut-out. The win takes Newham up to seventh, with five league games remaining to play in the next nine days or so.

Full-Time: West Essex 0 – 1 Athletic Newham

In summary, this was an entertaining match, with plenty of chances for both sides but the frustrating thing for West will be that they created enough to at least take something from the game. Newham were not entirely at their most cohesive defensively but were still a threat going forward and done enough to claim the points. West will be heartened to see their youthful forward line having their moments also.

For victors Newham, centre-back Will Martin had a really good game, making important interceptions and kept his side in the game by thwarting the enterprising West forward line. Forward Jailson Seidi also contributed well to his team’s forward moves, and was unfortunate not to get on the scorers’ sheet today. Creative midfielder Anderson Baro also put in some good passes and showed good movement, with goalkeeper Wilkinson Boateng being a good presence to keep his team ahead, making several decent saves as well.

For West, forward Zak Oliver put in a hard-working display, making several darting runs down the right flank and should have had at least one goal today. Central defender Rodney Dame had a good game, showcasing good positioning and made good clearances too. Tricky midfielder Timmy Moncur played his part in good ‘pass & move’ football with a number of searching passes, while skipper Reece Clarke also kept his side going with a characteristically high-energy performance and was inches away from scoring with a fine set-piece on two separate occasions.

Teams

West Essex | Manager: Kwame Kwateng | Assistant: George Karsa |

Starting XI (Subs): 13 Emmanuel Nwosu (GK), 2 Sanchez Hardy (3 Harley Davison 73′), 25 Mitchell Arthur, 23 Rodney Dame, 6 Emmanuel Wazola, 14 Reece Clarke (Capt), 17 Sallu Lo Seye, 20 Sam Bajaha (11 Dillon Luker 69′), 22 Timmy Moncur, 9 Lewis Danquah (10 Tyyson Muaxambi 57′), 19 Zak Oliver

Booked: Muaxambi, Arthur | Subs Not Used: None

Athletic Newham | Manager: Chris Davis | Assistants: Timothy Tejuosu & Ray Bartlett

Starting XI (Subs): 1 Wilkinson Boateng (GK), 2 Meer Ishanzadeh (3 Louis Hiobi 66′), 6 Will Martin, 7 Jeff Idemudia, 4 Dayaan Salifou, 15 Anderson Baro (11 Chris Barbosa 88′), 16 Abdul Shobowale, 18 Simon Bamidele, 10 Joel Appiah (Capt) (12 Idris Aminu 66′), 17 Richard Kone (14 Daniel Izekor 46′), 9 Jailson Seidi

Goal-Scorer: Joel Appiah [40′]

Booked: Idemudia, Salifou, Shobowale | Subs Not Used: Akurang

Referee: Nathan Kitteridge
Assistants: Tom Evans & Simon Crowley

S22-23 Match Report: White Ensign 0 – 0 West Essex (Sat 11 Mar) [ESL 22-23 12.3.23]

Essex Senior League – Premier Division

Venue: Burroughs Park

Attendance: 52

2022-23 Season: Match 46

Saturday 11th March 2023 – 3pm KO

Ensign: Red & Blue Shirts, Red Shorts, Red Socks

West: Yellow Shirts, Black Shorts, Yellow Socks

Timmy Moncur (right) on the ball for West

Ensign secure another point in tough battle with West Essex

White Ensign 0 – 0 West Essex

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

The main match this weekend was a late switch to the Essex Senior match between White Ensign and visitors West Essex at Burroughs Park. The recent incessant rain had not prevented the match from taking place, as both sides were looking for the points – Ensign are looking up towards the top ten while West are still in the race for a top-six finish. White Ensign boss Aaron Bloxham rotated his squad somewhat here, but stlll fielded Luis Shamshoum in goal, with a defence comprised of full-backs Ben Sargent and Daniel Monk and centre-backs Montel Shonubi & Archie McFadden. The hard-working central midfield featured Iyiola Adebayo, Oliver Jenkins and stand-in skipper Kyle McAlindon. Forwards Billy Bonham-Dare and Joe Gregory were supported by Ethan Evison. West were looking to bounce bank from a shattering loss at Woodford Town three days ago and had Arthur LeBlond at their goalkeeper, with a backline of centre-backs Rodney Dame and Mitchell Arthur & full-backs Sanchez Hardy and Joel Lamb. Their midfield engine room had skipper Reece Clarke, Oliseh Okuguni & Saliu Lo Seye starting, with the creative Timmy Moncur supporting forwards Ezequiel Franchi & Cameron Gray.

Ensign’s Iyiola Adebayo keeps the ball in first half

Both teams were adapting to the slightly slippery conditions in the early going of this match, although Ensign certainly had the better of the early sighters at goal. Forward Joe Gregory’s effort had to cleared off the goal-line by a well-placed West defender, while anchor midfielder Oliver Jenkins also had a decent strike parried away by visiting stopper Arthur LeBlond. West couldn’t ease the pressure they had defensively for most of the first twenty minutes and their only glimmer at goal was forward Cameron Gray’s wayward drive which was comfortably off-target. As we neared the half-hour mark, the Stags did start to get their passing game going, as midfielders Saliu Lo Seye & Reece Clarke fired wide of Shamshoum’s goal.

Although chances were somewhat few & far between, the battle here wasn’t a hum-drum one and the West backline held on quite well, led by centre-backs Mitchell Arthur and Rodney Dame who were well-positioned and made key clearances too. Ensign were keen to build their way through the thirds from defence to attack and did so well at times, but the noticable thing for me was how focused their midfield was in not allowing West to settle on the ball, with Iyiola Adebayo and Kyle McAlindon in particular giving the likes of Clarke and Moncur little time to build attacks.

Long ball forward seeks to find the run of Franchi (second left) for West

HT: White Ensign 0 – 0 West Essex

In the early stages of the second half, the hosts had a few more decent chances. Four minutes after the restart, full-back Ben Sargent let fly with a well-struck effort which only narrowly flew over the crossbar. Moments after that, Ethan Evison’s set-piece was heading for the far corner and needed the intervention of LeBlond, although he conceded a corner in the process. From that resulting set-piece, enterprising forward Billy Bonham-Dare headed wide of the left-side post. That was a let-off for West and this game was tight just as the reverse fixture was at Wadham Lodge, several weeks previously. Ensign had a let off a minute later as a good ball found West forward Ezequiel Franchi’s run, although the defender got a important touch to take it out of Franchi’s path, although Shamshoum had advanced by this point to narrow the angle initially, and he had to race back to prevent it dribbling over the goal-line.

As we entered the last half hour, the tide was turning a bit as the hosts’ nerves were starting to rise after not be able to convert the earlier chances. Franchi and Clarke had efforts which fizzed over the crossbar for West Essex before they brought on tricky winger Mohamud Kaudeer, who had two chances on goal which whistled not far wide. In fairness, it would have been tough on Ensign to not take at least a point from this game and the stalemate means they are four games unbeaten now.

In the last few moments of the contest, both sides looked to try and get that decisive goal with West looking to get down the channels to evade an understandably tiring Ensign backline. Ensign brought on forwards Jack Mead and Emmanuel Abudiore with moments left to try and break through the visiting defence, with Abudiore making one or two good runs down the left but ultimately, the stalemate prevailed and both teams took a point each.

Full-Time: White Ensign 0 – 0 West Essex

This match was a a hard-fought battle and perhaps deserved goals for the teams’ respective endeavour. Ensign will be disappointed given they had the early chances but could not convert them. West took a while to retain the ball and have a few good chances though they found Luis Shamshoum in good form in the home goal. On the plus side for Kwame Kwateng’s team, they will be satisfied with the shut-out, as they also had several players unavailable here.

Ensign had some performances in the team to mention. Firstly, a mention for Archie McFadden who played in an unfamiliar centre-back role here and showed good positioning, work rate and tackling. Central midfielder Kyle McAlindon also had a good game, getting through a lot of work and passed the ball really well, plus linked defence & attack well too. Lastly, a word for forward Billy Bonham-Dare who contributed to his team’s attacks well, utilising his pace & movement plus doing a good shift defensively as well.

For West, centre-back Mitchell Arthur was an ever-present, making a number of important interceptions, including clearing one goal-bound effort off the goal-line. After a tough game in midweek, Arthur & his defenders can at least be glad to have a clean sheet. Saliu Lo Seye had a good game in midfield as the visitors found it hard to retain possession & breach a stubborn home backline. Lo Seye made several good passes & showed decent movement as well. Finally, full-back Joel Lamb had a good game in defence, tracking back well & giving an option going forward too. Lamb was involved in a good duel with Ensign full-back Ben Sargent for most of the game.

Teams

White Ensign | Manager: Aaron Bloxham | Assistant: Nick Wilbrow

Starting XI (Subs): 1 Luis Shamshoum (GK), 2 Ben Sargent, 3 Daniel Monk, 5 Montel Shonubi, 4 Archie McFadden, 6 Oliver Jenkins, 11 Kyle McAlindon (Capt), 8 Ethan Evison, 18 Iyiola Adebayo (16 Jake Chaplin 64′), 9 Billy Bonham-Dare (19 Jack Mead 85′), 10 Joe Gregory (15 Emmanuel Abudiore 90’+3)

Booked: McFadden, Chaplin, Bonham-Dare | Subs Not Used: Ferris, Turner

West Essex | Manager: Kwame Kwateng | Assistant: George Karsa

Starting XI (Subs): 1 Arthur LeBlond (GK), 2 Sanchez Hardy, 3 Joel Lamb, 23 Rodney Dame, 25 Mitchell Arthur, 17 Saliu Lo Seye, 14 Reece Clarke (Capt), 22 Timmy Moncur (21 Mohamud Kaudeer 64′), 8 Oliseh Okuguni, 24 Ezequiel Franchi, 11 Cameron Gray (9 Lewis Danquah 80′)

Booked: Dame | Sub Not Used: McNally, Wazola

Referee: George Younger
Assistants: Glenn Michaels & Joe Lannon

S22-23 Match Report: Ilford 0 – 0 West Essex (Sat 28 Jan) [ESL 22-23 28.1.23]

Essex Senior League – Premier Division

Venue: Cricklefield

Attendance: TBA

2022-23 Season: Match 37

Saturday 28th January 2023 – 2pm KO

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

West: Yellow & Black Shirts, Black Shorts, Yellow Socks

Hard-fought battle sees West held at Ilford

Ilford 0 – 0 West Essex

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

The Saturday match this weekend saw a return to Cricklefield for an interesting local derby between Ilford and West Essex. Both sides wanted the points for different reasons, with the Foxes looking to get into the top ten and West looking to remain in the top six. Richard Ponsford fielded Tim Pitman in goal, with a defence comprised of Paul Cox & Henry Fisher plus centre-backs Tobi James & Jake Chadwick. The midfield was marshalled by skipper Mitchell McCabe with Mwetsi Matangi alongside him, with Josh Boxall & Mo Kargbo down the channels. Caleb Adomako-Mensah and Joe Lilly led the attack here. West have brought a couple of players into the squad in recent weeks, with loanee Dren Hoti deputising for the unwell Arthur LeBlond in goal, and a backline of Emanuel Wazola, Tala Lo Seye, Mitchell Arthur and Joel Lamb. Their energetic midfield had captain Reece Clarke, Saliu Lo Seye and Oliseh Okuguni in its ranks. David Bell led the attack, with support from Cameron Gray and Zak Oliver.

The early stages of this match saw the visitors start quite well, as their astute passing game did test the levels of focus of their hosts. Forward David Bell and midfielder Oliseh Okuguni had early half-chances that were wide of Tim Pitman’s goal. Ilford were finding it tricky to keep the ball but they still had one decent glimpse at goal as forward Caleb Adomako-Mensah saw a close-range effort fizz wide of the left-side post. As we entered the last 15 minutes of the first half, the Foxes did have arguably their best phase of the game up to this point, with only determined defending by the Stags preventing them from testing goalkeeper Dren Hoti.

Ilford boss Richard Ponsford watches on, early in first half

West Essex were creating promising moments, led by the enterprising running of support forward Zak Oliver, who was breaking down the right flank well, although his crosses was cleared by a stubborn central defence, led by Ilford’s Jake Chadwick. One of those Oliver crosses was well-angled in toards the far post, which Bell got across to well but could only loft his effort over the crossbar.

Half-Time: Ilford 0 – 0 West Essex

The Stags did have the better of the first half which was pretty hard-going for both teams. However, besides a glimmer at goal from captain Reece Clarke, West were spending more time defending in the early stages after the break. This was particularly the case on the hour as a good run by support forward Joshua Boxall down the left side ended with a good ball into the six yard box, which found Adomako-Mensah who timed his header well and was unfortunate as said header cannoned back off the under-side of the crossbar and back out. Bell also had another decent sight of goal but couldn’t direct his strike, allowing Pitman to gather fairly comfortably.

West winger Zak Oliver gets past Ilf’s Henry Fisher

My gut instinct was starting to sense that the stalemate could prevail here, although Ilford were keen to get down the channels, with substitutes Harry Rawlins and Delphin Moorat keen to evade the Stags midfield, who themselves battled well. There was two more chances of note as we entered the last ten minutes. First, substitute Moyo Ajibade did well to break down the right channel, putting a good ball into the box, which fellow replacement Callum Bloss latched on to but his strike sailed wide of the left-sided post. And then with mere moments left, Foxes skipper Mitchell McCabe struck a low-crisp effort which came back off the near post with Hoti beaten.

In the end though, the draw was a decent point for the Foxes who gathered their eighth shut-out of the season, which is good reward for a squad adapting to Senior football this term. West will be disappointed that they couldn’t convert their chances but they also showed parts of their development as a team in the last 12 months – specifically that they are often a tough side to beat.

Full-Time: Ilford 0 – 0 West Essex

So in the end, it was a battling if scrappy contest which neither side could edge. Even so, there was a lot to applaud from both sides as they will be pleased with elements of their respective displays here.

For West, the stand-out performers here were led by support forward Zak Oliver who made several good runs down the right flank, and included some good passing & pace as well. Full-back Emanuel Wazola also had a fine game, particularly in the second half as the hosts were getting more lively in attack, with Wazola making some good interceptions under pressure and used the ball well too. Centre-back Tala Lo Seye also put in a very good defensive display, making it hard for the opposition to create clear-cut chances. Finally, a word for dependable skipper Reece Clarke who put in a high-energy display in both defence & supporting the attack.

Ilford had a number of good individual performances here also, with full-back Henry Fisher putting in a very good performance, utilising possession well and making several important tackles to stifle a decent West forward line. Centre forward Caleb Adomako-Mensah also had a good game, showing decent pace & movement. He could count himself unlucky to not get on the score-sheet. Support forward Josh Boxall put in a number of good runs and passes, particularly after the break. While captain Mitchell McCabe also put in a hard shift for his team, becoming more influential in the last half hour.

I’d like to wish both teams a good remainder of the season.

Ilford | Manager: Richard Ponsford | Assistant: Mark Lilly

Starting XI (Subs): 1 Tim Pitman (GK), 2 Paul Cox (16 Delphin Moorat 13′), 3 Henry Fisher, 5 Tobi James, 6 Jake Chadwick, 4 Mwetsi Matangi (14 Ozzie Nyahunda 46′), 8 Mitchell McCabe (Capt), 7 Mo Kargbo, 10 Joe Lilly (12 Harry Rawlins 66′), 9 Caleb Adomako-Mensah (15 Luke Pike 76′), 11 Joshua Boxall

Booked: James | Sub Not Used: Fresneda

West Essex | Manager: Kwame Kwateng | Assistant: George Kars

Starting XI (Subs): 1 Dren Hoti (GK) , 6 Emanuel Wazola, 15 Tala Lo Seye, 25 Mitchell Arthur, 3 Joel Lamb (10 Callum Bloss 59′), 14 Reece Clarke (Capt), 17 Saliu Lo Seye (22 Timmy Moncur 73′), 8 Oliseh Okuguni, 19 Zak Oliver (18 Moyo Ajibade 70′), 20 David Bell (21 Mohamud Kaudeer 78′), 11 Cameron Gray

Sin-Bin: Okuguni [90’+2] | Subs Not Used: None

Referee: Dumitru Vasile
Assistants: Karl Dunnage & Adam Schroder

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Senior Lge (Sat 12 Nov) [ESL 13.11.22]

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

Hello & welcome to the latest of my occasional series, looking at the three Essex Senior League matches that took place on the weekend of Saturday 12 November. We saw nine goals in the top-tier, while we also have sections on the FA Vase Round Two, the one Reserve D2 match & the Len Cordell Trophy action, with the latter featuring the Reserve sides.

Essex Senior Lge – Saturday 12 November

The weekend’s action behigs with Ilford returning to winning ways with a 4 – 2 victory at White Ensign. Ilford were indebted to Joshua Boxall who grabbed a fine treble to give the Foxes a big advantage. Joe Lilly got the other goal for Richard Ponsford’s team. Ensign replied through goals from skipper Mitchell Stuart-Evans and new recruit Kian Bradshaw. The win takes Ilford above their opppnents here & into 13th spot. West Essex had to battle for a 1 – 0 success over Clapton at Wadham Lodge. Oliseh Okuguni was again the hero for Kwame Kwateng’s side with the winning goal midway through the second half, after good initial work by substitute David Bell. The Stags have gone four points clear in fifth.

Lastly, Halstead Town got a hugely important triumph as they won 2 – 0 at Southchurch Park. Tom White and Joel Older got the goals for Mark McLean’s side. This win takes them above Sawbridgeworth into fourth-bottom on goal difference. The majority of sides didn’t play this weekend because of the FA Vase action this weekend, but at present Enfield sit top, two points clear of FC Clacton in second, with Redbridge in third and Little Oakley in fourth spot.

Meanwhile, in the FA Vase Round Two, Athletic Newham booked their spot in Round Three with a 4 – 0 success at home to Kennington. Daniel Izekor added to his growing reputation with a fine treble here for Chris Davis’ team. Richard Kone added the other goal early in the second half as Newham took their place in the Last 64. Romford put a difficult week behind them and also progressed with a 2 – 0 triumph over divisional rivals Little Oakley, with Camilo Restrepo scoring a brace for Steve Butterworth’s side. In other results, Dunstable Town edged Enfield 1 – 0 at Creasey Park on Friday night. Lakenheath responded superbly after an early setback to defeat Buckhurst Hilll 3 – 2. Sam Hawley, a penalty from Luke Young and Thomas Thulborn’s late goal sealed te Eastern Counties Premier side’s progression. Suleyman Zuhdu had given Buckhurst the lead after 13 minutes and Nathan Sollosi added a late consolation.

Elsewhere, Norwich Utd scored two late goals to defeat Stansted 2 – 0 at Plantation Park. Haydn Davis & Thomas Hunter got those goals to break the Airportmen’s hearts. Leighton Town won 2 – 0 at Saffron Walden Town as the Bloods played their first match after the departure of long-serving boss Jason Maher this week. Finally in the Vase, Woodford Town exited on the lottery of penalties after a 2 – 2 draw with Fakenham Town at Ashton’s. Alejandro Machado got both goals for Shane Baptiste’s team but a double from Jack Robinson for the Ghosts forced a shoot-out, with Fakenham won 4 – 3.

In the the Len Cordell Trophy, Barking U23 grabbed a fine 4 – 0 triumph at Frenford Res, with Argest Nela scoring twice, with Abdul Charfi & George Fairhead also scoring. Billericay Town Ressies also won away from home, coming away with a 4 – 2 win at May & Baker Res. Joshua Brown led the way with a double, added to by strikes from Rhian Fowler and substitute Jes Oshitola. Other results in the Cordell Cup were Barkingside Res’ 2 – 2 draw with Grays Athletic Res on Friday night and Romford’s second side drawing 3 – 3 with Redridge Res at Westlands on Saturday.

We close this article with the one Reserve Division Two match that took place on Friday night, which saw Takeley Res win 2 – 1 at Southend Manor U23. Bryn Thorpe notching both goals there for Takeley’s second side, which took them level on points with leaders Barking U23.

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Senior Lge (Sat 8 Oct) [ESL 22-23 9.10.22]

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

Hello & welcome to the latest of my occasional series, looking at the Essex Senior League action, looking at all ten matches that took place on Saturday 8 October, which saw three teams get important away wins.

Essex Senior Lge – Saturday 8 October

The weekend’s action started on Friday night as Saffron Walden Town got a 2 – 1 win in a heated battle at Barking. Luke Hirst got the goal for Charlie MacDonald’s side, but Jason Hallett’s free-kick & a Connor Scully goal was enough to see Jason Maher’s team to a hugely important win which sees them rise to mid-table. On Saturday, Stanway Rovers grabbed a 4 – 0 victory over visitors Clapton in the early kick-off at the Hawthorns. Ernest Okoh netted another two goals for Danny Slatter’s team, with Ezequiel Franchi & Joe Debell also on target to leave Clapton two points adrift of nearest rivals Halstead.

Elsewhere, FC Clacton got another good win with a 2 – 1 success at Halstead Town in the match I attended this weekend. Charlie Thompson and Jake Clowsley’s penalty was enough to overhaul Ben Morris’ first goal for Town at Rosemary Lane and send Tommy Austin’s side up to fifth spot. If you’d like more on this match, my report is available here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2022/10/09/s22-23-match-report-halstead-town-1-2-fc-clacton-sat-8-oct-esl/

Ilford also got a good 3 – 1 win over Buckhurst Hill at Cricklefield. Joe Lilly netted twice (one from 12 yards) for Richard Ponsford’s team, with Harry Rawlins also scoring to outdo another goal for the in-form Hassan Nalbant for Buckhurst. The Foxes are up to 13th place after this win. Romford got an important 2 – 0 win at rivals Redbridge, with Charlie Morris and Jesse Olukolu the goal-getters for Steve Butterworth’s side there, which saw them up to tenth with games in hand. Enfield are up to third spot after a super 3 – 0 victory at Little Oakley, thanks to strikes by Danny Norton, Gavin Cockman & Dwade James. Jamie Cureton’s side are well-placed with two games in hand on the top two.

West Essex went back up to the summit with a 4 – 0 success at Southend Manor. Marlon Ortiz netted twice after coming off the bench, with Callum Bloss and Cameron Gray also on target for Kwame Kwateng’s side. Manor also announced Alex O’Leary as their new gaffer this week, and his role in lifting this hastily rebuilt side will be a hard ask as they seek to get out of the bottom two. Takeley also prevailed with a 2 – 0 win over White Ensign at Station Road, with George Powell & Glenn O’Hanlon on target for Marc Das’ team, which saw them go up to 12th spot.

We end this article with two home wins. First, Sawbridgeworth Town continued their impressive start to the campaign with a 3 – 2 success over Stansted at Crofters. Larry Akanbi, Zach Davidson & David Etcheri all netted for Kieran Amos & Ben Taylor’s team which sent them up to ninth. Carl Conway & Connor Hammond scored for the Airportmen but they remain in mid-table. Lastly, Woodford Town managed an excellent 3 – 1 triumph against Athletic Newham at Ashton’s. Jaedon Phillips, Lee Sharpe & substitute Dimi Christou’s goal ensured Shane Baptiste’s side ended the day in seventh. Chris Nguidjol got his second goal this week for Chris Davis’ team.

S22-23 Round-ups: Essex Senior Lge (Fri 2/Sat 3 Sept) [ESL 22/23 4.9.22]

Archive image – FA Vase tie: West Essex v Harwich & P

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

Hello & welcome to the latest of an occasional blog series this term looking at the action in the Essex Senior League this weekend, with results from the FA Cup First Qualifying Round. This weekend saw six League matches take place.

Essex Senior – Friday 2 & Saturday 3 September

We begin with Friday night’s game, which saw Takeley grab a 2 – 1 victory at Woodford Town. Goals from George Powell [68′] and a late second by substitute Alekos Lambrou saw Marc Das’ team to the win. Andre Anderson had given Town the lead just shy of half-time, to give the 200 or so spectators something to shout about at Ashton’s.

On Saturday, Halstead Town got arguably the result of their season thus far with a 4 – 0 win over Ilford at Rosemary Lane. Ben Heath opened the scoring on 21 minutes for Mark McLean’s side, with Alfie Cleal making it two five minutes later. Heath notched his second a minute before half-time, and before Ilford could respond after the resumption, Cleal struck his second goal five minutes into the second half to complete the win. After traffic problems had affected the visitors journey, Little Oakley were made to wait before completing a 2 – 0 success over Stansted at the Memorial Stadium. The reliable goal-scoring duo of Danny Garrad and Harry Mann netted again for Matt Carmichael’s team there.

Sawbridgeworth Town continued their fine start to the season as they defeated Clapton 2 – 1 at Crofters. Khyreece Smith-Reid had given the Tons an early lead on five minutes but very late goals by Zachary Davidson and Wale Adedeji gave Kieran Amos & Ben Taylor’s side the points. Athletic Newham were held 2 – 2 by a determined Stanway Rovers team at the Terry Mac. Richard Kone had given Chris Davis’ team a 20th minute lead, only for Sean Bartlett to level with ten minutes remaining. Kone notched again on 85 minutes but Rovers were not to be denied a point as Ernest Okoh’s 90th minute equaliser ensured they got a creditable draw.

Finally, West Essex had to weather a first-half storm to get a 3 – 2 victory at Saffron Walden Town, watched by about 280 fans at Catons Lane. Walden grabbed a two-goal lead thanks to Joe Pullen’s opener on 16 minutes and an unfortunate McNally OG on 29 minutes. The Stags did get a crucial goal back before the break thanks to Callum Bloss [33′]. Two late goals from Mo Kaudeer and David Bell meant West went up to fourth spot after their third win from three league games. Walden are in eighth.

Emirates FA Cup – First Qualifying Round (Sat)

Romford 3 – 2 Hashtag Utd

St Ives Town 4 – 0 Barking

Waltham Abbey 7 – 2 Buckhurst Hill

And on Sunday: Enfield 2 – 1 AFC Rushden & Diamonds

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

Archive Image from Ensign v Little Oakley on 30 July [Image by Scott W]

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

Hello & welcome to the first of an occasional blog series this term looking at the action in the Essex Senior League this season. This weekend was the second round of matches for all clubs , with some important victories for clubs at either end of the very early standings.

Essex Senior League – Saturday 13 August

We begin this week with a superb result for West Essex as they impressively defeated Buckhurst Hill 6 – 1 at Wadham Lodge. A crowd of nearly 100 saw braces for Cameron Gray and Callum Bloss for the Stags, with David Bell and replacement Marlon Ortiz also adding to Buckhurst’s pain here. Max Nicholson got their only goal here but it perhaps is a reminder that Buckhurst are going to have ‘bad days’ this term. Enfield maintained their new season form, scoring another three goals in a 3 – 1 triumph at Clapton. Louie Johnson’s treble took his League goal tally to five already this term, while Kyreece Smith-Reid got a consolation for Ross Weare’s side.

Meanwhile, White Ensign got their first League win in some style with a nerve-jangling 5 – 4 victory at Ilford. Charlie Portway’s double plus strikes by Billy Bonham-Dare, Ethan Evison and Callum Morris’ late, late winner secured a precious three points for Aaron Bloxham’s side. Joe Lilly’s early penalty put the Foxes back into the game but even goals from Mitchell Mccabe, Harry Rawlins and Caleb Adomoko-Mensah could got give Richard Ponsford’s side a point. Stanway Rovers also got a good 2 – 0 win over Saffron Walden Town at the Hawthorns. Jordan Barnett and Ashley Colcough got the goals for Danny Slatter’s team, in front of eighty-five spectators.

Also on the winning trail this weekend was Redbridge as they edged to a 3 – 2 success at Romford. Tayo Olukolu and Solomon Ogunwomoju got the first goals for George Christou’s team, with George Cox and OG levelling things up. Miles Peterkin’s late goal sealed the points to make it two wins from two in the League. Woodford Town got a good 2 – 1 win at Takeley, with Ridwan Hussein and Georges Kebi both netting for Shane Baptiste’s side. George Wappett had levelled for Marc Das’ team prior to Kebi’s winner.

There were a few narrow wins also, as FC Clacton edged to a 1 – 0 win over visitors Stansted, with Mekhi McKenzie grabbing the decisive goal there. Also, Halstead Town had a spot-kick to thank for a 1 – 0 victory over Athletic Newham and mark their first win back at Step 5. Sawbridgeworth Town got a important 1 – 0 win at Southend Manor, while Little Oakley held Barking to a goal-less draw at the Memorial Stadium.

S21-22 Round-ups: Essex Senior League Round-up (Sat 9 Apr) [ESL 21-22 10.4.22]

Archive Image: Ensign v Clacton last month [Image by Scott W]

Hello and welcome a bonus blog looking at the ten Essex Senior matches that took place on the 8th & 9th April, as we enter the last fortnight of the regular campaign. Thanks for reading.

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

Essex Senior League Round-up- Sat 9 April

The match with the most significance at the top was Saffron Walden Town’s 2 – 1 win at Little Oakley. Daniel Rowe had given Matt Carmichael’s team a first-half lead but Walden’s form has been strong of late and they showed this once again through strikes by Gavin Cockman and teenager Stanley Leech. The win puts Walden in prime position for the promotion play-off place, with matches against Sawbridgeworth and Hoddesdon to come, crucially both at Catons Lane. Oakley’s season still looks very positive overall and they will be looking to secure a top-six finish. Elsewhere, Redbridge got a good 3 – 1 home win over Stanway Rovers at Oakside, in a match delayed for nearly two hours as Rovers were caught in traffic chaos en route. Stanway did take the lead early in the second half through Danny Nesbitt, but a brace for Loui Hazlewood and a late goal from Michael Pindy secured the comeback win and keep George Christou’s side in contention for that much-wanted second spot.

Stansted also have a slim chance of pinching that spot after a 2 – 1 win over Southend Manor at Hargrave Park, thanks to goals from Jack Mitchell and Michael Salako. Manor had an unfortunate OG to assist their way back into the game but other results mean they are now safe from relegation, and credit has to go to boss James Wakeling and his coaching team. The Airportmen meanwhile have four matches left, and arguably have to win all four to leapfrog their rivals. Athletic Newham’s season is coming to a stuttering end as they were held by top-six rivals Enfield at Terry Mac. Kieran Bishop’s goal had given the E’s a first-half lead, but Daniel Izekor got a good equaliser with about ten minutes left. The result means Enfield remain six points clear of Newham, though Chris Davis’ side also have four matches to play (in the next fortnight). Also, FC Clacton are also finishing the season well as they got a 4 – 0 triumph over Clapton at Rush Green Bowl. A double for Mekhi McKenzie, plus goals by Elias Ahmed and Harry McDonald saw Tom Austin’s side to a fine win and they rose to eighth spot because of it. The Tons debatably need a point or two to make sure of their ESL place next term.

Archive Image: St Mags v L Oakley earlier this season [Image by Scott W]

That is the case due to Sawbridgeworth Town’s hugely important 2 – 1 win over Errington Cup Finalists Cockfosters at Crofters. James Falaise and Morgan Arnold got the big goals for Alex Salmon and Kieran Amos’ side, with Bailey Stevenson responding for Gavin Kelsey’s team. ‘Fosters drop down to tenth but they still have 3 games left. Sawbo’s assignment is clear – they need at least one win from matches against Saffron Walden and West Essex to evade the bottom two. Meanwhile, Takeley continued their mini-revival with a 4 – 1 success over Sporting Bengal Utd at Station Road. The ensemble cast of Elliott Long, Glenn O’Hanlon, George Frodsham and Traevon Williams-Lauder all netted for Marc Das’ side to take them up to 11th spot. Bengal ended their campaign here and responded via an OG in this match but there will be a lot of soul-searching in the close season to come whilst they find out which division they will be placed in Step 6 following relegation.

The remaining Saturday game to note saw Hoddesdon Town claim a good 2 – 0 victory over champions Walthamstow. Terrell Sterling and Harrison Rookard both struck to give Simon Riddle’s team the points which takes them up to 50 points for the season. ‘Stow can still hit 90 points this term, even with a draw in their final game on April 23rd. On Friday night, West Essex got a 2 – 1 win over Ilford at Wadham Lodge, with Cameron Gray and Reece Clarke’s spot-kick enough to overhaul Jordan Fisher’s reply for the Foxes. West remain 13th after the weekend’s action, while Ilford stay 16th. Also, Woodford Town were held to a goalless draw by St Margaretsbury at Ashton’s, which kept Town in 14th but St Mags stay third-bottom, a point clear of Sawbo but with only one match left – at Redbridge on the final day of the league season.

End

S21-22 Match Report: West Essex 2 – 2 FC Clacton (Sat 5 Feb) [ESL 21/22 6.2.22]

Essex Senior League – Premier Division

Venue: Wadham Lodge Stadium

Attendance: 79

2021-22 Season: Match 55

Saturday 5th February 2022 – 3pm KO

West Essex: Yellow & Black Shirts, Black Shorts, Yellow Socks

FC Clacton: Pink Shirts, Black Shorts, Black Socks

Clacton’s Alfie Matthews about to take a freekick in 1st half

A highly-contested battle ends in draw for West and FC Clacton

West Essex 2 – 2 FC Clacton

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

This weekend saw a long trip back to Wadham Lodge for this Essex Senior clash between West Essex and FC Clacton, who I was watching properly for the first time since their transfer to the ESL last July. West Essex opened their Tea Bar today which progresses the matchday experience for spectators and with it, signifying the long-term aspiration for the club. Kwame Kwateng’s side have seen players depart recently and fielded talented goalkeeper Kacper Ignatiuk behind a central defence that included Emmanuel Oluwole and Tala Lo-Seye and a forward line of David Bell, Cameron Gray and Dimitri Frangeskides. Options from the sidelines included David Xavier and forwards Jon Ogunsanya and Symeon Taylor. Clacton had Luis Shamshoum in goal, with a defensive four of Kyle Ferguson, Teddy Collis and central defenders Jack Mochalski and Michael Okafor. Their forward line was comprised of Alfie Matthews and skipper Jordan Lartey with support from Harry McDonald. Their bench included Lee Clowsley and forward Mekhi McKenzie. Assistant boss Ryan Salter led the presence from dug-out with manager Tom Austin absent today.

The match began with a strong burst of energy from the hosts side as they looked to gain the early advantage, with Clacton looking to build on a solid base from the early moments. The Stags were not short of chances in the first third of the half, as forwards Dimitri Frangeskides and David Bell had strikes fizz narrowly wide of visiting custodian Luis Shamshoum’s woodwork. Once you ally that with further half-chances at goal for midfielders Oliseh Okuguni and David Ungudi, you’d be forgiven for thinking that West would regret not taking the lead early on.

Dimitri Frangeskides in possession for West (right side of image)

On the other side of things, Clacton were looking decent on the counter-attack and even from the early stages, they looked motivated to battle for everything they could get. Jardel Francis was testing the West backline from right channel, while skipper Jordan Lartey was coming in from the left side and posing problems and getting strikes away at goal, which meant home goalkeeper Kacper Ignatiuk had to remain vigilant.

As the half progressed, you felt that the stalemate would not last and sure enough, on the half-hour, it was the hosts who made one of their chances pay, as a good strike by Okuguni in a congest eighteen yard area took a small deflection off a defender before sailing into the top left corner of Shamshoum’s goal.

Clacton the ball (far right) from their half

However, this setback didn’t dissuade the visitors at all. Moments after Shamshoum punched away two free-kicks by West captain Reece Clarke, Clacton did level things up with a well-taken goal. Full-back Teddy Collis was involved in the move as his initial pass was knocked down well by Lartey into the path of forward Alfie Matthews just inside the penalty box and before the home defence could get a challenge in, Matthews fired the ball home low into the right corner, past the grasp of Ignatiuk.

Half-Time: West Essex 1 – 1 FC Clacton

After the interval, West started the second period with some vigour as they looked to claw back the initiative, with an audacious strike by Clarke going narrowly off-target and Frangeskides also struck wide. That being said, the Stags fell behind for the first time nine minutes after another good move by the Seasiders ended up with Matthews again powerfully striking the ball into the left corner, to the delight of the travelling contingent of supporters. The visitors continued their commendable efforts with a good phase after their second goal with Lartey forcing Ignatiuk into a good reaction save to keep his side in contention.

The spirit and style of play of West Essex was also evident in the latter stages which made for a fine last fifteen minutes of normal time. West got the equaliser they probably deserved on 76 minutes with a superb strike direct from a free-kick by the impressive Clarke, finding the top left corner of the net.

The nerves of both sides were increasingly frayed in the last part of this encounter as they looked for a decisive goal, but you have to give Clacton credit for holding firm, playing some good football at times and they did deserve something from the game. West should also be praised for their spirit as mentioned. I wouldn’t be that surprised if one or both of their sides end up in the top ten, which signifies the quality of the Essex Senior is improving year-on-year.

Full-Time: West Essex 2 – 2 FC Clacton

To sum up this match, this was a very entertaining battle which saw both sides having strong phases of play. West could have been well ahead before the break but profligate finishing prevented them from pushing the Seasiders into a tough position. Clacton could also have been in a match-wining position though the Stags were simply unwilling to give in, in the latter stages. All being said, a draw probably was the fair result for both sides who continue to seek a top-ten finish by late April.

The stand-out performances from this game start with Clacton. Alfie Matthews took both his goals well with crisp finishes and also played his part in good forward moves. Jordan Lartey also led his side well and showed good pace, movement and passing fro the left side of the front three. Centre-back Michael Okafor also had a good match, making several good interceptions to thwart the hosts’ forwards. Lastly, Kyle Ferguson had a good match at right-back and he got forward well. West had a few good performances as well, led by skipper Reece Clarke who once again had an influential performance, making a number of good tackles and also scored with a fine set-piece. Tala Lo-Seye also had a superb match, making several fine interceptions to keep his team in the match, preventing more chances for the Seasiders. Emmanuel Oluwole and custodian Kacper Ignatiuk also put in good performances for Kwame Kwateng’s side.

I’d just like to wish both sides a good remainder of the campaign.

West’s Emmanuel Wazola [#17] launches a long throw, right beside their dug-out

Teams

West Essex | Manager: Kwame Kwateng | Assistant: George Karsa

Starting XI (Subs): 1 Kacper Ignatiuk (GK), 4 Sam McNally, 5 Emmanuel Oluwole, 6 Oliseh Okuguni (19 Jon Ogunsanya 71′), 15 Tala Lo-Seye, 17 Emmanuel Wazola, 8 Daniel Ungudi (2 David Xavier 61′), 12 Reece Clarke (Capt), 7 Dimitri Frangeskides, 11 Cameron Gray, 20 David Bell (9 Symeon Taylor 38′)

Goal-scorers: Oliseh Okuguni [31′] , Reece Clarke [76′]

Booked: Lo-Seye | Subs Not Used: S Lo-Seye, Kaudeer

FC Clacton | Interim Manager: Ryan Salter | Assistant: Adam Daniels

Starting XI (Subs): 1 Luis Shamshoum (GK), 2 Kyle Ferguson, 3 Teddy Collis, 4 Tyler Brampton (16 Craig Hughes 79′), 5 Jack Mochalski, 6 Michael Okafor, 7 Jardel Francis (14 Mekhi McKenzie 46′), 8 Charlie Collis, 9 Alfie Matthews, 10 Harry McDonald (12 Lee Clowsley 66′), 11 Jordan Lartey (Capt)

Goal-scorers: Alfie Matthews [43′ & 54′]

Booked: T Collis, C Collis, Matthews | Subs Not Used: Hogan, Daniels

Referee: George Barker
Assistants: Kadir Nazif & Adekunle Jide Fawunmi

S21-22 Match Report: West Essex 2 – 4 Takeley (Sat 16 Oct) [ESL 21/22 17.10.21]

Essex Senior League – Premier Division

Venue: Wadham Lodge Stadium

Attendance: 57

2021-22 Season: Match 33

Saturday 16th October 2021 – 3pm KO

West Essex: Yellow & Black Shirts, Black Shorts, Yellow Socks

Takeley: Royal Blue Shirts, Blue Shorts, Blue Socks

Both sides about to kick-off at Wadham Lodge

Takeley outpace West with strong performance at Wadham Lodge

West Essex 2 – 4 Takeley

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

This weekend’s match was a interesting match between two mid-table sides in West Essex and Takeley, in a hastily-arranged Essex Senior League match at Wadham Lodge, after both sides’ initial opponents this weekend had to withdraw because of Covid-related reasons. West had Dan Russell between the posts, with a defence of Michael Morris, Emmanuel Oluwole, Nick Walk and Sam McNally. Skipper Cameron Gray led the forward line here, alongside Symeon Taylor and Moyo Ajibade. The likes of Samraj Gill, Callum Bloss and Demitris Frangeskides were all options from the bench for Kwame Kwateng’s side. Takeley were managed here by Kevin Riley, with manager Marc Das on holiday. Sam Soutar was the goalkeeper for them, with Glenn O’Hanlon captaining the side and a youthful front three of George Frodsham, Elliott Long and Kieran Southgate. Options on their bench included stalwart George Wappett and Theo Campbell.

It was the visitors who got the match underway with the most promise as the stags looked somewhat devoid of energy and focus. Takeley were not going to pass up a chance to obtain the impetus here though and their direct style was rewarded with a goal after five minutes. In a good move involving Kieran Southgate, he found forward George Frodsham who in turn unselfishly played in Elliott Long who slotted home calmly under West stopper Dan Russell’s legs to give the visitors the lead. West Essex were not finding their usual rhythm going forward though Symeon Taylor did make a good run down the right channel and the eventual cross was forced behind by full-ed James Darvill who got in a good position to clear. The hosts were starting to have more possession but didn’t look entirely like they would get back into the match at this point.

Skipper Cameron Gray curled a set-piece from 20 yards wide of the right-sided corner of the goal but it was Takeley who looked stronger on the counter-attack. In another decent move, Frodsham’s initial strike was blocked though the ball was recycled well and captain Glenn O’Hanlon’s stinging drive needed the time intervention of full-back sam McNally for the hosts. West responded with a good mazy run by attacking midfielder Mohamud Kaudeer in a passing move with ended with Taylor’s low shot being gathered well by visiting custodian Sam Soutar.

Takeley did get that crucial second goal nine minutes before the break. Southgate was prevented from breaking past the home defence by covering defender Nick Walk too strongly in referee Matt Rowling’s view and so awarded Takeley a free-kick in a dangerous area (see picture). Long stepped up to curl it towards goal, and although Russell got a glove on it, it still curled in off of the right-side post and into the net. You couldn’t really argue with the visitors having a decent lead at the interval, and West had a lot to do to get back in this game.

Takeley forward Elliott Long (#10) about to strike free-kick which goes in

Half-Time: West Essex 0 – 2 Takeley

We certainly had enough action to entertain the crowd in the early part of the second period. A minute into the half, a good run down the left flank by Frodsham ended with the ball being half-cleared but Takeley continued the pressure as Freddie Burrell fired narrowly over the woodwork. However, West did get that crucial next goal on 48 minutes. Forward Moyo Ajibade’s initial strike on goal was well-blocked, but the ball did fall kindly to skipper Gray who calmly struck low past Soutar to get his side back in the contest.

Or so they thought. Unfortunately for the hosts, Takeley responded immediately at the other end as Burrell powered in a fine low effort beyond the reach of Russell a minute later to restore Takeley’s two-goal lead. West Essex were starting tocreate chances somewhat more readily as the hour mark approached but Gray was unable to defeat Soutar, when one-on-one as he sent another effort on goal wide of the left-side post. The hosts’ day got worse on the hour as Southgate was felled in the penalty area by goalkeeper Russell, which earned him a booking. Long took the resulting penalty, smashing it into the left corner to surely put the game beyond doubt.

To be fair to West, they did show more attacking promise in the last twenty-five minutes, as Demetris Frangeskides came on to replace Ajibade. With 73 minutes on the watch, a rare defensive error allowed Frangeskides to slot home past Soutar with a low strike to make it 2 – 4. The tiring Takeley defence did maintain their focus well as the Stags really pushed forward in numbers. Energetic full-back Michael Morris made a fine late run into the box and was only denied a chance to bypass Soutar one-on-one by a well-timed tackle by teenage midfielder Charlie Dobinson.

Long skewed another chance wide of goal in thew last few minutes but it was without doubt his day anyway as Takeley held on well to claim a very good win here, which takes them up to 12th, while West drop down to tenth.

Full-Time: West Essex 2 – 4 Takeley

In summary, this match showed that you can’t have a poor start to the match as West did in the opening half-hour, which Takeley took advantage of to give them a two-goal advantage at the interval. West did threaten a comeback soon after the in

In a match of some quality as this was, I’ll start with the victors. Elliott Long continued his fine season with a fine treble, and he harried the home defence well, giving them little respite, particularly in the first half with his pace, energy and finishing. Strike partner George Frodsham also played his part in that effort too, and was unselfish in playing in Long for the opening goal early on. I also felt right-back James Darvill had an excellent match, both in defence and going forward, making several important tackles and contributing to his team’s counter-attacks well. Finally, skipper Glenn O’Hanlon put in a fine display in central midfield which unsettled the hosts’ rhythm at times. For West, skipper Cameron Gray put in a tireless performance and kept going well showing decent movement and dribbling, deserving his goal at the start of the second half. Centre-back Emmanuel Oluwole put in a good display to stop Takeley ending the match as a contest before the interval, making several good interceptions and showing good positioning. Mohamud Kaudeer also had a good game, looking to build his side’s attacking moves and made a few dangerous runs and telling passes. Finally, Emmanuel Wazola merits a mention for a good performance to assist his defence and build forward moves as well.

Best wishes to both sides for the remainder of the season.

Teams

West Essex | Manager: Kwame Kwateng | Assistant: George Karsa

Starting XI (Subs): 13 Dan Russell (GK), 15 Michael Morris, 5 Emmanuel Oluwole, 23 Nick Walk, 4 Sam McNally (10 Callum Bloss 78′), 6 Oliseh Okganu, 17 Emmanuel Wazola, 21 Mohamud Kaudeer, 11 Cameron Gray (Capt), 9 Symeon Taylor (20 David Bell 79′), 18 Moyo Ajibade (7 Demitris Frangeskides 67′)

Goal-scorers: Cameron Gray [48′], Demitris Frangeskides [73′]

Booked: Russell | Subs Not Used: Hardy, Gill

Takeley | Interim Manager: Kevin Riley | Interim Assistant: Steven Pridmore

Starting XI: 1 Sam Soutar (GK), 2 James Darvill, 3 Andre Humphrey, 4 Charlie Dobinson, 5 George Powell, 6 Tom Jelliman (15 Theo Campbell 61′), 7 Freddie Burrell (14 George Wappett 66′), 8 Glenn O’Hanlon (Capt), 9 George Frodsham, 10 Elliott Long, 11 Kieran Southgate (16 Charlie Allum 69′)

Goal-scorers: Elliott Long [5′, 36′, (pen) 62′], Freddie Burrell [49′]

Booked: Campbell | Subs Not Used: L Powell

Referee: Matt Rowling
Assistants: Martin Quinn & Muzackir Hussain