Woodford East – survivor16b

2022-23 Double Match Summary: Essex Alliance Finals Day (Sat 20 May) [EAL 22-23 22.5.23]

Essex Alliance League – Finals Day #2

Venue: Victoria Road, Dagenham

2022-23 Season: Matches 65 & 66

Match Summaries & Photos by Scott W [@TwitterMHC14]

Double Issue: Goals reign on EAL Finals Day at a sunny Victoria Road

Part 1: Renegade’s goal glut sees them claim the D1 Cup

Atholl 1 – 6 Renegade

Saturday 20 May 2023 – 2pm KO | Att: 130 (Est) | EAL Division One Cup Final

Welcome to this special ‘double issue’ blog looking at the Essex Alliance League Finals Day, taking in both the Division One Cup & Senior Division Cup Finals, held at Victoria Road. First up was the afternoon match, interestingly between two of the bottom three sides in the league: Atholl and Renegade.

This match began with a rather open-ended foray, which the Renegade side edged. However, it was Atholl who took the lead after just eight minutes thanks to a neat low strike by Charlie Thompson. The team in orange were finding it increasingly difficult to rebuff the directness and pace of player-boss Okwute Izuchukwu’s side, as the likes of forward Deimar Cardoso and Nana Baah were loading the channels and getting round the Atholl defence. Wellington Ismael fired off-target early on after getting past his marker well. It was little surprise on the quarter-hour when Renegade levelled the tie, as Nigel Seidu’s fine free-kick found the top corner of the net. That goal emboldened them and Renegade continued to be rapid going forward, and before Atholl could settle from conceding, they were behind four minutes later. From a set-piece, Cardoso made the most of stuttering marking to nip in and guide his header into the net, past goalkeeper James Gibson.

To their credit, Atholl were battling hard defensively & were led well by skipper Frankie Williams. Renegade did get a third goal before the break, but this one had a degree of fortune about it. Thompson had the unfortunate statistic of scoring at both ends after his attempted defensive clearance only dribbled into the net. Scoring goals in clusters is often the mark of a good side and Renegade made it four, two minutes before the break. The impressive Cardoso utilised his pace again to good effect before his good, low strike found the net. Atholl were finding it hard to retain the ball at times and that inhibited their efforts to push forward and test a decent opposition backline.

Half-Time: Atholl 1 – 4 Renegade

After the break, Renegade were quite unrelenting in putting pressure on an over-worked Atholl backline. Atholl goalkeeper Gibson did made a fine double save just before the hour, first denying a decent effort by Nana Baah before also doing well to save a follow-up effort by Ismael seconds later. Just as Atholl were starting to build some impetus, Renegade netted another goal with twenty minutes left as Seidu netted with another low strike to make five-one. You had to respect the spirit of the Atholl side as forward Ralph Vincent’s header came off the crossbar with fourteen minutes to play. In fairness though, Renegade were the stronger team here and scored a late sixth goal, thanks to substitute Aamir Salah.

Full-Time: Atholl 1 – 6 Renegade

Renegade deserved their Cup triumph here as they were more than useful going forward & retained the ball better as well, making it tough for their opponents. There were some stand-out performers for Renegade , beginning with forward Deimar Cardoso who really led the attack well, making good runs down the channels, and some neat passes & generally gave the Atholl backline little respite. Centre-back Okwute Izuchukwu led his defence well, and also kept his team going as well. Lastly, midfielder Shivaan Naido put in a hard-working shift as well to link the midfield and attack too. For Atholl, skipper Frankie Williams made a number of good interceptions to keep his team in the tie, particularly in the first half. Charlie Thompson & Ralph Vincent also put in hard-working performances as well, with Thompson showihg good composure in taking his oppurtunity to score.

Atholl Goal-Scorer: Charlie Thompson [8′]

Renegade Goal-scorers: Nigel Seidu [15′ & 70′], Deimar Cardoso [19′ & 43′], OG [40′], Aamir Salah [88′]

Cucos makes another forward run late on for Petrocub

Part 2: Petrocub’s pace & clinical finishing seals impressive win over Woodford East

FC Petrocub 4 – 1 Woodford East

Saturday 20 May 2023 – 6pm KO | Att: 450 (Est) | EAL Senior Division Cup Final

The second match saw two top-five sides in the Senior Division contest the divisional Cup in the early evening kick-off at Victoria Road, as FC Petrocub took on Woodford East. This match got underway in a spirited way with Woodford edging it in the early moments, as forward Callum Maltese’s effort came off the crossbar, before Petrocub custodian Alexandru Daraban parried the ball away well following a good searing run by Lucio uare down the left side. Petrocub did respond strongly as East found it tough to retain the ball as the Moldovan side made the most of a defensive error by East to open the scoring on eleven minutes. A good run by Ion Spinu ended with a fierce drive which bypassed East goalkeeper Jozsef Kuzsef & found the net, much to the delight of the Petrocub contingent behind the goal.

As the half went on, Petrocub made several good forward runs which tested the morale & grit of the Woodford backline. Midfielder Gritcan Dumitru fired a decent effort off-target from eighteen yards out, just past the half-hour. East were finding it tough to recycle possession at this point to get into the opposition half & it was little surprise when they conceded again, ten minutes before the interval. Gheorghe Cucos did well to hold off his marker & slotted the ball calmly into the net.

Halil Hassan’s side did push back before the break, with forward Connor Brathwaite’s strike forcing a good save out of Daraban. East were starting to find their rhythm and the question was at the break was whether Petrocub could maintain their tempo and work rate, which was impressive in the first half.

Half-Time: FC Petrocub 2 – 0 Woodford East

After the break, the tension gradually rose. Three minutes after the restart, Woodford had a good chance from Maltese’s set-piece which found Lucio Uare & his header needed the intervention of Daraban to tip the ball over for another corner. Petrocub sensed the potential danger and should have been three goals ahead just short of the hour as another good run by Spinu ended with a neat ball through to Cucos who only had Kuzsel to beat but Cucos’strike was tame & Kuzsef was happy to gather.

The Petrocub fans were really adding to the atmosphere here, and it may well have lifted their side to maintain their levels. Woodford East are known for their guile and they stayed in the contest going into the latter stages, and halved their arrears with seven minutes left, through Uare’s good header which beat Daraban & went high into the net. Understandably, East pushed forward seeking that telling equaliser but Petrocub showed their quality on the counter-attack adding two late goals in added time.

Just into added time, Spinu was well-placed to score after Kuzsef’s initial save from Valentin Gurgurov’strike to grab his second before Gurgurov did find the net moments later with a cool finish to seal the trajectory of the Cup, with the joyous Petrocub fans ready to celebrate at the opposite end. Congratulations to FC Petrocub on a really good performance here, these two sides will face each other again in the Fenton Cup Final next weekend, at New Lodge.

Full-time: FC Petrocub 4 – 1 Woodford East

In fairness, Petrocub showed a lot of hunger & pace which was tough for East to defend against. Whilst it was true that Woodford’s defensive errors were costly, the incisive passing and good finishing were enough to see Adrian Pascanu’s side to their second Cup triumph this term, after winning the London Senior Cup. Woodford will be disappointed by their start to the game, they couldn’t test the rigid Petrocub defence enough during the course of this Final.

In terms of stand-out performers, Petrocub forwards Ion Spinu and Gheorghe Cucos were rapid, also showcasing good inter-link play and passing, as well as cool finishing in an impressive display. Centre-back Vitalii Chiriac was a calming presence as well, marshalling his defence well & stifling good runs by the East forwards down the channels. Finally, Valeriu Gurgurov also pushed down the flanks well & in the latter stages was a good threat down on the counter-attack, also taking his goal well.

For Woodford, credit has to go to forwards Callum Maltese & Lucio Uare. Maltese ran his heart out all game, being the consistent one making darting runs in the centre to give his team-mates an option, while Uare also made a number of superb runs down the channel, made good passes & took his goal well late on. Captain Frank Glock also did a good job defensively alongside Billy Barr, as they rebuffed a number of overloading runs by the fleet-footed Petrocub forwards. Finally, full-back Kai Law had a decent game as well, defensively and also made some good passes forward as well.

FC Petrocub | Manager: Adrian Pascanu

Starting XI (Subs): 88 Alexandru Daraban (GK), 33 Dorin Sirbu, 4 Gheorghe Hadirca, 5 Vitalii Chiriac (Capt), 34 Lilian Puscasu, 18 Gritcan Dumitru (87 Valentin Siciov 80′), 20 Gheorghe Belibov (17 Cristi Ilie 65′), 10 Nicolai Cotruta (89 Nicolae Gutu 61′), 16 Gheorghe Cucos (29 Sergiu Demcioglo 77′) , 15 Ion Spinu, 11 Valeriu Gurgurov

Goal-Scorers: Ion Spinu [11′ & 90’+1], Gheorghe Cucos [35′], Valeriu Gurgurov [90’+3]

Final Substitute: 23 Ion Bojii [90′]

Woodford East | Manager: Halil Hassan | Assistant: Gary Wotton

Starting XI: 20 Jozsef Kuzsef (GK), 2 Kai Law, 9 Billy Barr, 8 Frank Glock (Capt), 12 Ecclesiaste Kipa, 21 Sonny Feltwell, 14 William Letchford, 22 Harry Carter,, 18 Lucio Uare, 7 Connor Brathwaite, 11 Callum Maltese

Goal-Scorer: Lucio Uare [83′]

Subs ON (Time): 17 Andrew Rowe [46′], 3 Eren Mehmet [61′, replaced Law], 15 Tom Osmond [73′, replaced Braithwaite]

Referee: Craig Wood
Assistant: Lanray Alapafujah & Craig Herbert
Fourth Official: David Leeks

That closes out this ‘double’ issue blog article, I’d like to thank the Essex Alliance League for their welcome on this Finals day. Credit also to all four sides that gave it their all to make it a really good day’s action.

S22-23 Match Report: Woodford East 4 – 2 Hutton (Sat 21 Jan) [EPC QF 22/23 21.1.23]

Essex Premier Cup – Quarter-Final

Venue: Mabley Green 3G

2022-23 Season: Match 36

Attendance: 15 (Est)

Saturday 21 January 2023 – 1.45pm KO

Woodford E: Yellow Shirts, Yellow Shorts & Socks

Hutton: Red Shirts, Red Shorts & Socks

Superb comeback sees the Peacocks into the last four of the Essex Premier Cup

Woodford East 4 – 2 Hutton

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

The frosty weather again thwarted several matches in Steps 5, 6 & 7 so it was an oppurtunity to see two highly-rated sides face off in the Essex Premier Cup Quarter-Finals, as Essex Alliance League Senior side Woodford East welcomed the Essex Olympian leaders Hutton to Mabley Green 3G. Woodford East are fifth in the EAL Senior (Step 7) at present and named Alfie Watts in goal, with a backline of Billy Barr, Kai Law and centre-backs Matt Stacey & Joe Kemp. Eren Mehmet, Frank Glock, Callum Maltese were pushing on from midfield, with forward Harry Robinson supported by Lucio Uare and Ben Smith down the flanks. Hutton were unbeaten in the League coming into this tie, and had regular custodian Adrian Faherty in goal, with a defensive four of centre-backs Johnathon Hilliard & Lewis Scott plus Sean O’Callaghan and George Nash as full-backs. Kyle Linzell, Luke Ricketts & Stephen Judge were the central midfield three, while Jude Keeling, David Johnson & Joshua Seal were the forward line.

This match kicked into life with some verve from both sides. An early free-kick by East’s Callum Maltese needed the intervention of Hutton custodian Adrian Faherty. Hutton were also useful going forward from the early-going here, and took the lead after only seven minutes. A dangerous set-piece in by midfielder Steophen Judge evaded the home defence and picked out centre-back Lewis Scott who nodded the ball home past East stopper Alfie Watts. The visitors were in the ascendancy at this point in proceedings, although had a let-off of sorts as the Peacocks did have central defender Matt Stacey’s header dribble narrowly wide after going all the way across the face of goal. Matt Singh’s team had a goal chalked off also at the other end as another super corner by Judge evaded everyone and found the far corner, only for a foul that was detected by referee Kadir Nazif and he ruled it out.

As ever though, the Reds pushed on and did get the second goal, taking advantage of a little fortune as an initial effort cannoned off his own player & crucially stayed in play allowing forward David Johnson to power home a firm effort to double his side’s advantage. Both teams were engaging to watch in this high-tempo match, and Woodford were starting to find their rhythm past the half-hour mark, as a good effort by Peacocks skipper Frank Glock was well-denied by Faherty. The Reds kept their lead intact at the break, though I felt there was more to come in this Cup tie.

Half-Time: Woodford East 0 – 2 Hutton

That feeling materalised rather quickly, as only five minutes into the second half, Woodford East pulled a goal back, as a rapid counter was started by a long ball through to forward Harry Robinson who controlled it well and sent a cool, low finish into the far corner, with Faherty unable to deny him. This sparked a real sea change in fortunes for the Peacocks, as their threat going forward was morte palpable. Another good forward move ended with a Red defender heading against his own goalpost, but Glock could only fire off-target following-up. East forward Lucio Uare was finding more space since the interval & he made full use of it, sending several good crosses into the box. One such Uare cross evaded the Reds defence & found the run of Matt Stacey at the far post, who slotted home from a yard out to level the tie.

Woodford did get a crucial third goal to complete a stirring comeback on sixty-five minutes as a good strike by full-back Billy Barr made the most of a narrow opening to send the home dugout wild. Woodford East had struck at key moments and really looked to secure a memorable win as Robinson struck a fierce drive inches above the top right corner, with Faherty beaten. Halil Hassan’s side also had a goal chalked off on 83 minutes as substitute Andrew Rowe slotted home past Faherty, but hadn’t bypassed the off-side line. East did get a fourth goal moments later though as club stalwart Ben Smith netted an oppurtunist’s goal into the left corner to complete a fine win for the EAL side & seal some comeback.

Full-Time: Woodford East 4 – 2 Hutton

To summarise this very good enterprising match, Hutton were decent value for their lead at the interval as the Peacocks looked vulnerable at times defensively and couldn’t get past a characteristically tough Hutton backline often enough. After the break, Woodford East showed exactly why they are well thought of with a stirring comeback & some good goals along with it. It was the Reds’ turn to look somewhat shaky and they couldn’t recover and put considerable pressure on the hosts as they suffered a rare loss this term.

The stand-out performances here for the victors Woodford East start with a superb performance from support forward Lucio Uare, who was very good, especially in the second half. Uare broke down the left flank at will and put in some fine passes as well, including for his side’s leveller as well as showcasing good energy levels. Hard-working Callum Maltese & Ben Smith both got some reward for their high work rate, with Maltese putting in good passes and Smith notching the fourth goal. These two players are so important to their team. Also, centre-back Matt Stacey typified the resolve of his team after the interval with some good interceptions.

For Hutton, Lewis Scott had a good game at centre-back, despite the eventual score-line, making good clearances, showing good positioning defensively & took his goal well early on. Midfielder Stephen Judge made several important passes and also from set-pieces like the opening goal for example, while support forward Joshua Seal was a handful for the East defence to cope with, laying the ball off smartly to forwards Keeling & Johnson. Lastly, a word for full-back Sean O’Callaghan who again had a decent game, making good runs down the right side as well as covering well at times.

Finally, Congratulations to Woodford East as they again make the last four & also I’d like to wish both teams a fine rest of the season.

Teams

Woodford East | Manager: Halil Hassan |

Starting XI: 1 Alfie Watts (GK), 9 Billy Barr, 4 Matt Stacey, 5 Joe Kemp, 2 Kai Law, 3 Eren Mehmet, 8 Frank Glock (Capt), 11 Callum Maltese, 10 Ben Smith, 19 Harry Robinson, 18 Lucio Uare

Goal-scorers: Harry Robinson [50′], Matt Stacey [61′], Billy Barr [65′], Ben Smith [85′]

Sub On (Time): 7 Connor Braithwaite [46′], 17 Andrew Rowe [80′], 26 Jordan Lema [86′]

Booked: Kemp, Mehmet, Maltese, Rowe | Subs Not Used: Morris, Martin

Hutton | Manager: Matt Singh | Assistants: Bill Stratford & Dan Williams

Starting XI: 1 Adrian Faherty (GK), 2 Sean O’Callaghan, , 6 Jonathon Hilliard, 4 Lewis Scott, 3 George Nash, 8 Kyle Linzell (Capt), 7 Stephen Judge, 11 Luke Ricketts, 9 Jude Keeling, 10 Joshua Seal, 17 David Johnson

Goal-scorers: Lewis Scott [7′], David Johnson [25′]

Sub On (Time): 12 Freddie Miller [72′], 16 Rodney Wilson [72′], 19 Will Marlowe [77′]

Booked: Seal & Judge | Subs Not Used: Carroll, Gardner

Referee: Kadir Nazif
Assistants: James Allaoui & Norman Miller

S22-23 Guest Blog: Essex Alliance Lge &Cups (Sat 26 Nov) [EAL 22-23 28.11.22]

Hello and welcome to the return of the Essex Alliance section, as the EAL had its 16th week of competition this week to Rob Parker. This round-up is posted with the author’s permission, with additional reporting by Scott W. Thanks for reading.

Guest Blog written by Rob Parker for EAL [EAL Twitter: @EssexAllianceFL]

Essex Alliance League – Saturday 26 November

FENTON CUP

Saturday saw the final football action of November with two Fenton Cups ties featuring on the fixture list. Second tier London Cranes almost pulled off a shock, leading 2-0 against top flight Chadwell Heath Spartans but the latter fought back well and took a 3 – 2 victory through goals from Aaron Hunwicks, Elie Fanga and Jonathan Evans to head into round two.

Over at Town Mead, Chingford Athletic faced fellow Premier Division high-flyers, RCXI, in their first round tie and a closely fought game saw the two sides finish level at 3 – 3 at the end of ninety minutes with Brandon Dillon scoring twice and Dylan Scutt once for the hosts. And it was Chingford who held their nerve in the shoutout to win it 4-3.

SENIOR DIVISION

A full Senior fixture list began up at Ware with the leaders, FC Baresi, hosting rivals Lymore Gardens in a crucial game. A tight contest was edged by the odd goal by Baresi as Paul Benfield scored both of their goals in a 2 – 1 victory, that result seeing them able to open up a four point gap at the top of the table. Previously second placed Brimsdown went into their game away at FC Petrocub very much as one of the in-form sides but they faced another side who have been cranking up the wins recently. An expectedly close game saw it finish level with the teams sharing the points in a 1 – 1 draw, that result seeing the visitors drop a place to third.

Those scorelines assisted Jolof Sports as they made further progress up the league standings as they climbed into second spot in the table on the back of a winning trip to Rapid Chingford, returning home with all three points in a 3 – 1 success. Andrei Cazacu scored the Rapid goal but Jolof goals in reply from Ndiouga Mara, Alexander Sow and Bogdan Ursica saw the points head home with them.

Fourth placed Sporting Hackney now sit six points off the pace with a game in hand after they came out on the winning side of the Wadham derby game against Walthamstow Reserves. A single goal in the game was all that separated the sides with Henry Gallagher’s strike for the Parrots the difference on the day in a 1 – 0 win.

Woodford East sit fifth after twelve games and remain well in contention for matters above them following an eighth league success of the season, beating Crookz United 6 – 2 at Mabley Green. Connor Brathwaite scored a hat-trick, Ben Smith netted two and William Letchford grabbed the other as they put themselves five points clear of the side below them.

Sitting right in the middle of the table, May & Baker EC Reserves are up to ninth following the weekend’s results, jumping up a place after they came through a local derby game with Dagenham United with all three points, winning 4-0. Oliver Beadle bagged a brace with Darius Egualeonan and Ricardo Teixeira striking the others in a solid performance.

Eighth placed Frenford Development also have a number of games in hand on sides above and they made the first of those pay with a 5 – 2 win at The Drive over the weekend, defeating Oakside in the Redbridge derby. A goal apiece from Louie Handley, Carlos Barahona, Jhon Castillo, Joel Opara and Gabriel Alves were enough for their sides to take a fifth league win of the campaign.

At the other end of the standings, Blue Marlin will be breathing a sigh of relief and will hope the weekend proves a watershed week for them as they picked up a first win of the season in a 5 – 3 victory in Hainault against Kit Out London. Jerrel Watkins netted four goals for Marlin, to which Byama Kondowe added the other goal. Hugo Amaral, Aourid Ismael & Chris Micoli got the goals in reply for Kit Out. The win for Marlin saw them close the gap on the sides above to just a single point though do still sit seven points adrift of safety. The only way is up!

Before we move on to the second-tier, the top goal-scorers are in the Senior Division this term at present are as follows (Source: EAL Website)

Tyreece Robertson [FC Baresi] – 16 goals
Paul Benfield [FC Baresi] – 12 goals
Edson Lami [FC Baresi] – 10 goals
Peter Adeleye [Chadwell Heath Spartans] – 9 goals
Darius Egualeonan [May & Baker Res] – 9 goals

PREMIER DIVISION (EAST)

In Premier Division East, there are new leaders at the top of the table as Underscore United underlined their title credentials with a seventh successive league success, moving two points clear at the top after a 5 – 3 home win against Wapping. Mohammed Ahmed, Donald Adeosun and Yusuf Nasir scored for the visitors but those goals proved in vain despite a hard fought performance.

Fairlop Rovers took advantage of other sides around them being in cup action to move up to third in the standings with a 2-0 home winning performance against Barkingside Under 23s at Fairlop Oak. Jayden Francis and Joseph Head both got on the scoresheet for the promotion chasing outfit as they made it five wins from eight.

There was a big result for London Park City who went into their home game against Aveley Under 23s with a four point deficit to make up on. But by full-time they had slashed that to a single point, sending the Millers to a first defeat of the season as Mohammed Fadil and Alexandru Gheorghe both struck to give them a 2 – 1 win. Aldo Vani netted the Aveley goal in reply.

Fifth placed Waltham Abbey A continued what has been a very decent start in the league so far this season with a big home win on Saturday against Freetown. Harry Lea and Alfie Bruno hat-tricks led the way with Tom Marchant (2), Thomas Daltrey, Charlie Kerswell, Micky Clark and Archie Stojic goals paving the way to an emphatic 12 – 0 win.

PREMIER DIVISION (WEST

Priory Park Rangers have moved top of the Premier Division West division on goal difference as they came out on top in their home clash with Athletic Newham Under 23s at Hackney Marshes on Saturday. Hosts Rangers were 5 – 1 victors on the day to make it seven league wins in ten as they head top of the pile.

Lurking in fourth, CSM London’s games in hand could yet still impact those top spots and they continued their silent assault with a thumping 7 – 0 home win at West Ham Foundation over the weekend, beating Wanstead to move up a place. Chris Anele came off the bench to score twice with Conrad Doggett, Emre Ozuaciksoz, Micail Koulibaly and Luke McElroy also netting.

Leyton City will be pleased with their efforts from Saturday as they finally put a first win on the board with a home victory against G7 in Newbury Park. Jahvarn Steward netting twice off the bench with Liam Kennedy scoring the other in a 3 – 2 win. That result pushes them to within a point of their opponents and also safety.

DIVISION ONE

Top of the table Newham Wanderers ensured they kept their name at the top of the division after coming through a tricky home test against Ilford Reserves at the Flats. Goals from Robertson Morais, Manuel Sanuo and Seco Embalo proved vital in a game they eventually edged by the odd goal in five, 3 – 2 the winning scoreline.

Second placed Redbridge Community could yet move level with the leaders albeit with some goal difference to make up on. They done their best to cut that deficit on Saturday with an away win on the road, beating Atholl in Chingford in a 4 – 2 scoreline to pick up win number seven. Michael Kiflezghi scored two with Frankie Francis and Tevin French netting the others for their side.

Old Esthameians are up a place into third in the standings after they made it four wins from their opening ten league fixtures, coming through a tough home test against bottom of the table Kwanzas London Sport in Newbury Park. Celso Gomes scored twice off the bench for the visitors but his goals were not enough as E’s ran out 3 – 2 victors.

Completing the division’s action was a mid-table game between two sides who started the day on the same points tally, Something From Nothing making the trip to Dagenham to take on Eagles Football. But SFN have some good momentum at the moment and they were able to come out 1-0 winners on the day to move into fifth place in the standings.

DIVISION TWO

With the sides above them not in action, hosts Royal Forest and FC Baresi Under 23s saw their chance to close the gap as those sides met in Loughton. A close game of six goals was eventually edged by FC Baresi who came out 4-2 winners in the game with Mak Delkic, David Poirier, Joshua Adu and Simeon Nelson all scoring in put their side up to third.

Lymore Gardens Reserves and Redbridge Community Reserves started the day level on six points apiece ahead of their game in Hainault but it was the visitors, Lymore, who ended the happier of the sides, winning the game 5-2. That was Lymore’s third win of the season and it saw them leapfrog their opponents into eighth.

DIVISION THREE

The top two sides in Division Three both picked up victories on Saturday with Jolof Sports Reserves coming out on the right side of a five goal thriller against third placed Chingford Harriers to put some distance between their sides. Calvin Dias, James Farmer and debutant Marllen Silva all struck goals for the hosts as they continue their title quest.

Top of the table Newbury East remain four points clear of their closest rivals as they came away winners from their trip to Lakeside to face Football Club of Riverside. Two Rafai Bentick goals off the bench were added to by strikes from Junior Milla and Nuureeni Nuureeni as the leaders put a 4-2 win on the board.

Fourth placed Frenford A and just a point behind the side immediately above them now after they were also winners on the road, beating Dagenham United Reserves 2-1 at Castle Green. Marcus Ursu scored for the hosts but his effort proved just consolation as Frenford scored twice themselves to take the victory.

Glendale came from behind in their away trip to Buckhurst Way to take all three points home with them as they ended up 7-3 winners at Bancroft Rugby Club. First half goals from Dev Choudhury and Josh Adeojo got them level before Dave Hennessey’s wonder strike gave them the lead, Maryis Shamku, Abdulai Ahmed, Muhammad Camara and Ade Adeyemi netting the others.

And it was an away day win also for Romford Under 21s who made a successful trip to Hainault to face Melbourne Sports as they walked away 3-2 winners to confirm win number three this season. A goal apiece from each of Joshua Fage, Eugenio Balde and Edy Da Silveira were just enough for the visitors to edge the contest.

DIVISION FOUR

It was another prolific goal scoring weekend in Division Four where the leaders, Romford Under 19s, continued to fire in front of goal with an 8-5 success in a crazy game against second placed Fairlop Rovers Reserves. Bradley Mott and Sergio Rusu both scored twice with Jakub Bogacki, Casper Salentenik, Alvin Smeraldi and Charlie Howell also netting. Tyler Kirby and Gianluca Halil both netted twice in reply for Fairlop, along with a Matthew Stratton goal.

Collier Row Wheels were able to use that result to close the gap on the sides above as they moved two points outside of the promotion places with a 5-1 win against Avondale Rangers. Tafari Miller’s two goals led the way with Adem Conaty, Jenny Ogundele and Jack Stockdale efforts completing the scoresheet for the visitors.

Emerson & Upminster Reserves secured a second league success for their season with a win on the road away at eighth placed West Essex Under 23s. Despite going into the game trailing their opponents by nine points, a goal each from Byron Cressey, Ryan Conway, Gordon Archie, Tyler Huggett and Ryan Whitton gave Emerson a 5-1 success, Ebraheem Bhoodoo scoring the West goal in reply.

Moving up into seventh place are Flyers Under 23s who join a cluster of clubs on twelve points following a 3-0 home success against Inter London, renewing old rivalries with their opponents from last season. That was Flyers’ fourth league success of the campaign, moving just a point behind Inter London in the table.

Ninth placed Old Esthameians Reserves will be pleased with their afternoon’s performance on Saturday as they secured a second league win with a 2-0 home success against Newham & Havering Borough, the visitors remaining winless so far this season. That win for E’s ensured they remain outside of the bottom two though are still five points adrift of the group above them.

COUNTY CUP

In the Essex Junior Trophy, Division Two’s leading pair both made safe passage through into the quarter finals with Snaresbrook coming away 2-0 winners from their home clash against Collier Row Reserves. Their reward is another home clash as they take on Basildon Town A in January.

Joining Snaresbrook in the quarter finals will be Rainham Phoenix who faced Mid Essex League opposition on Saturday at home with Southminster United the visitors to Harris Academy. Rainham were in fine goalscoring form in a 6-1 winning performance to head into an away quarter final against either Hutton B or Kelvedon Social A.

Chadwell Heath Spartans Reserves’ run in the competition came to an end at the third round stage as they headed out against Olympian opposition, going down 3 – 1 against Basildon Town A in Hainault to see their interest end for the season.

In the London Junior Cup, Soul are into the hat for the fourth round of the competition, the last sixteen stage, as they overcame a potentially tricky tie against another EAL side, Forest Green, over in Leyton. The Premier Division side eventually prevailed in a 2 – 1 scoreline to head through.

On the flip side, Unitey’s run to the last thirty two of the competition finally met it’s end as they were beaten by West End AFA League side Park Stars in their game. A 2 – 1 scoreline in favour of the visitors brought Unitey’s involvement to an end for another season.

In the Middlesex Intermediate Cup, AEK London faced familiar opposition as they met one of their former opponents, Indian Gymkhana, in their first round tie. A close game saw a single goal settle the tie with the visitors the side to benefit, ending AEK’s run in the competition.

Guest Blog: Essex Alliance Lge (Sat 24 Sept) [EAL 22-23 26.9.22]

Hello and welcome to the round-up of the action in the Essex Alliance League, from Saturday 17 September which includes the EAL action & representatives in the Essex Premier Cup.

My thanks to the EAL’s Rob Parker. Thank you for reading.

Guest Blog written by Rob Parker for EAL [EAL Twitter: @EssexAllianceFL]

Essex Alliance League Round-up – Saturday 24 September

SENIOR DIVISION

The final week of September action saw a busy schedule which began in midweek with two big results affecting matters in the top half. Woodford East were in good form as they secured all three points with a home success against Chadwell Heath Spartans at The Hive. Billy Barr, Frank Glock, Matthew Stacey, Harry Robinson and Lucio Uare all netted to cancel out Spartan goals from Peter Adeleye and Joseph Butcher in a 5 – 2 East victory. Up at Wormley Playing Fields, Brimsdown were action with a home clash against visitors Oakside with four points separating the sides going into the game under the lights. A closely fought game was settled by one moment in the game Olalekan Ayeketi fired in a strike from distance to hand his Brimsdown side a crucial 1-0 success to keep them in touch.

The Friday night action was an exhilarating affair as Blue Marlin shocked league high fliers, Lymore Gardens, by racing into a 3-0 lead on the night. Garden then fought back to level but Blue Marlin scored a fourth to lead once again before the hosts incredibly netted twice to eventually win a thriller 5 – 4. George Dwobeng scored two with Gaston Mendy, Andre Rashford and Adam Tebbani also on the scoresheet for Lymore, a result which saw them move clear at the top. That lead was short lived however as FC Baresi moved back level on points and top on goal difference as they picked up a superb win in a local derby contest against Walthamstow Reserves at Wadham Lodge. Paul Benfield has been in good form and he struck four goals on the day, adding to efforts from Raymond Poku and Tyreece Robertson in a comprehensive 6 – 0 success.

Jolof Sports’ start to the season has seen them climb to fourth after six games, despite a slightly indifferent start. They now sit three points off the leaders after a solid victory at fellow contenders, Brimsdown in Wormley. Goals from Bogdan Ursica and from substitute Ahma Seye were enough on the day for the east London based side to record a 2-1 win. The hosts responded through Napier Brown’s goal here. It’s now five games unbeaten for Sporting Hackney following their lateral move this season and they put another 4 -1 success on the board this weekend, repeating last week’s feat, this time seeing off the efforts of May & Baker EC Reserves at Barking & Dagenham College. Tyler Springer, Karim Bukleb, Liam O’Hara and Ross Murphy were on the scoresheet to render Aaron Blake’s goal as just consolation.

FC Petrocub’s first win of the calendar month saw them move to four wins for the season on Saturday as they entertained Dagenham United at Noak Hill. The hosts bounced back well from a heavy defeat in their last outing to win the game 2-0, moving up to fifth place and just four points off the pace at the top. After three winless games at the start of the campaign, Frenford Development have reversed their fortunes with three successive wins now as they returned home from Lakeside once again with all three points, defeating Chadwell Heath Spartans 3 – 1. Elie Fanga struck for Spartans but that proved insufficient as Tiwa Osifuwa, Carlos Barahona and Joel Opara goals proved enough for Frenford.

Following Frenford up the table are Kit Out London who made the trip to Walthamstow on Saturday to take on Crookz United at Peter May, three points between the sides going into the game. That was extended to six by full time however as Huge Amaral, Alex Solomon, Mirko Zanco and David Rista goals carried Kit Out through to a 4 – 2 win and home with all three points. Over in Hainault, two of the sides in action from midweek continued their respective fortunes with visitors Woodford East following up their big win in midweek with another this time out against Oakside. Lorrell Dawkins scored twice off the bench with William Letchford, Harry Robinson, Callum Maltese and Lucio Uare goals seeing their East side win comfortably 6 – 0.

PREMIER DIVISION (WEST)

It’s been a terrific start for AEK London in the second tier as they made it three wins from three so far in the league but they did face a stern task on Saturday, edging a close game against G7 to secure maximum points. AEK were the scorers of the only goal of the game, winning 1 – 0 to stay clear at the top by a couple of points. Fellow new side, Priory Park Rangers, are the side giving chase at the moment and sit second edging a very close game against third placed North East Lions. Shane Thomas and Nester Boansi netted for the Lions but an unbeaten Priory Park side had just enough to scored three of their own to win this top of the table battle 3-2.

After defeat in their opening game, Leyton City bounced back in terrific fashion with a Jahvarn Steward inspired performance as he netted six goals in a 10-3 success against Tower United. Adam Rowe scored twice with Benjamin Matengulu and Mateus Furieri netting the others to overcome two Abdi Mohamed goals and an Abdullah Jama goal. In the East Ham derby game, co-tenants Athletic Newham Under 23s and London Cranes renewed their battles from last season in a closely fought contest at Flanders on Saturday afternoon. It was just a single goal to separate these sides and Oscar Innocent was guilty of that important moment, netting for London Cranes to make it two wins from three for the visitors.

DIVISION ONE

Newham Wanderers are Division One’s early leaders in the third tier as they picked up win number two at the weekend, returning from Parmiters with all three points following a 3 – 2 success against Atholl. Goals from Ismail Assoufi, Robertson Morais and Mahein Zaman were the difference to edge the game and continue their perfect start. Over in Newbury Park, Old Esthameians reversed their fortunes from their opening day defeat to pick up a first win of the season, defeating Renegade 4-2 to move into the top half. Deimar Cardoso scored twice in his first appearance for the visitors but those goals were in vain as Old E’s four goal haul took them to the win.

DIVISION TWO

In Division Two, it’s Snaresbrook who are setting the pace at the top and made it three wins on the bounce on Saturday though faced a challenge from a winless Barking Potters side so far. ‘Brook were 4-1 winners though as Scott Hill, George Bacon, Sean Ashman and Emile Kwame goals put them on the road to success once again. Old Barkabbeyans were on cloud nine following a huge 9 – 1 away win against Lymore Gardens Reserves, coming out on top following a terrific performance. Michael Ryder’s early season goal form saw him add a hat-trick, Josh Robinson and Dre Ferlisi both scoring twice with Fabio Balde and Robbie Osborne netting the others to earn maximum points for their side, moving third in the process. Warren Isoka’s goal was little consolation as the Lymore second-side was well-beaten.

It was a day for bounce back wins as another of the division’s sides, FC Baresi Under 23s, improved from their opening travails to beat Royal Forest in a 4-3 scoreline on Saturday. Hamza Hafesji scored twice with Junior Ouattara and Joshua Adu both netting to help last season’s double winners to their first win of the new campaign. Forest’s goals came via Joe Meader’s double and Frank Carver. And it was a similar storyline for Woodford East Reserves who produced a terrific performance to end Rainham Phoenix’s perfect start so far, winning 3 – 1 at the Marshes. Sam Springall scored for Rainham but his goal proved just consolation as Harry Carter, Owen McKelvey and Will Osmond all found the back of the net for the Peacocks to earn a first victory of the season.

DIVISION THREE

Things are tight at the top of Division Three where Newbury East hold a single point lead over the chasing pack following a very close game against Romford Under 21s. A Junior Milla hat-trick set them on their way with Mohammed Hussain and Sehraan Hussain goals taking them to a 5 – 3 win against a Romford side making their debut in the competition. It’s two wins from two for promoted Chingford Harriers this season, another impressive outing, particularly in the second half, seeing them take maximum points in a 4-0 win at home to Melbourne Sports. Daniel Taylor, Grant Coy, Seun Lasile and Gerard O’Hara all scored for Harriers to continue their perfect start to the season.

Just outside of the promotion places on goal difference are Jolof Sports Reserves who took their winning record to two from two themselves, beating Buckhurst Way in a 5-2 home success. Derek Adu and Ronald Asante both scored twice with Noah Chesmain notching the other to give their Jolof side the best possible start. Despite an opening defeat, Frenford A have got their first points on the board after a good win at home on Saturday against Dagenham United Reserves at The Drive. Ricky Brown and Isa Khan both notched for United but those efforts were superseded by Frenford goals from Reece Morley, Isima Iguisi, Adam Andrade and Kishawn James in a 5-2 win.

Flyers Under 21s are also on the board with a first success following promotion to Division Three, bouncing back well from their initial reverse to secure a win this time out, beating Football Club of Riverside 1-0 over at King George’s. That result saw them shootout up to the cusp of the top half while their opposition remain in search of their first points.

DIVISION FOUR

Three sides share top spot in Division Four where present leaders, Collier Row Wheels, suffered a first reverse of the season at the hands of Inter London, themselves picking up a first win of the season to go against the form guide. Fahad Abdullah scored twice and Okey Obialo once to set Inter on their way, overcoming two Luke Woodgate goals in the process in a 3 – 2 scoreline. That result enabled West Essex Under 23s to go level, trailing just by goal difference, after they made it two wins from two with a high scoring success against Avondale Rangers. Javen Cole scored a hat-trick with Gabriel Morlova and Franky Okoko also notching in a 5-3 win, overcoming Rangers goals from Jake Clarke, Joe Powell and Phillip Heinen.

London APSA Under 23s have also accrued six points from their opening fixtures and that was aided by a terrific 5-2 home win on Saturday against Romford Under 19s in Barkingside. Reda El Ghaibouz continued his scoring form with a four goal haul, David Gokou-Siakouri netting the other to hand APSA all three points. Emerson & Upminster Reserves put their first three point haul on the board, responding well to defeat in their first game to take a win this time away at Newham & Havering Borough. Courtney Linton netted for Borough but Emerson goals from Gordon Archie, Tyler Huggett and Billy Warner saw the points head back with the visitors in a 3-1 scoreline.

The league was completed over at Fairlop Oak where the reserves of Fairlop Rovers and Old Esthameians met with the hosts producing a strong performance in their first outing of the year. Fairlop were 6 – 1 winners on the day to shoot straight into the top half of the table, sitting fourth, while Old E’s continue their quest for points.

COUNTY CUP

There were some great results for EAL clubs in the county cup competitions over the weekend with Division One side Ilford Reserves producing a cup shock to knock out Premier Division’s Freetown from the Essex Junior Cup. The young Foxes were 7-0 winners to take their place in the next round where they now face Collier Row. Waltham Abbey A also produced a solid display as they took out Mid Essex League top flight opposition in the form of Blackmore to make the second round. The Abbotts were 3-1 winners on their travels, booking a trip up to Sheering in the next round of the competition.

There was also a cup shock at Wanstead Flats where Division One side Something From Nothing were up against it with the visit of last season’s double winners, Belfry. A close game saw SFN produce a terrific display and ultimately came out on the right side of a 3-2 win to knock out their higher league opposition. It was also a good for Aveley Under 23s who started their cup quest with a home fixture against Emerson & Upminster, coming through that local derby with a win under their belts, the Millers winning 4-2 to set up a home clash against Unitey next month.

Cowley Community, last season’s Trophy finalists, kept their county cup form in good shape following elevation to the Cup and came through narrow winners in an all-EAL derby fixture, beating London Park City 2 – 1 at Fords to progress to a home tie against Leytonstone United.

Another all-EAL tie at Fords saw hosts RC XI up against fellow Premier Division level side CSM London. It was a triumph for the “West” side in the game as CSM London completed a 3 – 1 win and will now face a local derby in the next round with a trip to London Cranes. Barkingside Under 23s complete the action in the first round and it will be a day they might want to forget as their participation came to an end at home against EOFL side Collier Row at Nutter Lane. Row were solid 6 – 0 winners to end ‘Side participation and progress forwards themselves.

In the day’s only Essex Junior Trophy action, Collier Row Reserves completed a Row double against EAL sides as they ended Glendale’s participation in the competition for another season, defeating the Dales in a 4-0 win at Fairlop Oak.

The London Junior Cup action saw a clean sweep for our league sides with Unitey producing a cup giant killing as the Division One side hosted and defeated an out of sorts Wapping side to put them name into the hat for the next round, winning 5 – 2 on the day. Soul are into the hat for the second round but had to overcome a tough battle with fellow east London side Adamant to secure their place, coming through in a shootout victory after the game had ended 3-3 at full-time.

It was a similar story for Rapid Chingford as the Senior Division side were taken all the way by Premier Division Wanstead with that game also ending in a 3-3 scoreline. Rapid held their nerve to book their place in the next round, winning the penalty shootout. The final game of the day saw a win for Division One’s Forest Green in yet another all-EAL fixture, the hosts seeing off St Francis from Division Two over in Leyton to make their own progress through, 5-2 the winning scoreline for Green on the day.

End

Guest Blog: Essex Alliance League (Sat 3 Sept) [EAL 22/23 5.9.22]

Hello and welcome to the round-up of the action in the Essex Alliance League, as all divisions outside the top-tier began in earnest.

My thanks to the EAL’s Rob Parker. Thank you for reading.

Guest Blog written by Rob Parker for EAL [EAL Twitter: @EssexAllianceFL]

With Introduction & additional reporting by Scott W

Essex Alliance League Round-up – Saturday 3 September

SENIOR DIVISION

The week’s Senior action began on Wednesday night where Woodford East put a second win of the season on the board with a home success against Blue Marlin at Gardiners Close, edging the game by the odd goal. Connor Brathwaite and Will Osmond both found the net, overcoming a Troy Morris goal in response from Blue Marlin in a 2 – 1 scoreline.

The Friday night action came from Mayesbrook Park as May & Baker EC Reserves made the short trip to face Jolof Sports in a local derby. But it was Jolof who raced into a first half lead and, despite a Baker fightback through goals from Oliver Beadle and Brandon Johnson, Jolof held on to win the game 3 – 2, handing their opponents a first defeat of the season.

Things couldn’t be much tighter at the top of the Senior Division after the first month of action with three sides sitting level on points. It’s FC Baresi who sit top on goal difference as their 3 – 0 away win at Dagenham United on Saturday was assured through goals from Edson Lami, Paul Benfield and Tyreece Robertson, extending their unbeaten start.

Sitting second are Lymore Gardens and they had a tough task ahead of them with the visit of Chadwell Heath Spartans to Coles Park, the sides combining for a five goal contest. Aaron Hunwicks and Samir Aboulainaf both struck for Spartans but Gardens goals from Gaston Mendy, Andre Rashford and Bradley Williams meant that the points went the way of the hosts in a 3 – 2 success.

Walthamstow Reserves make up the trio of sides just edging ahead at present as they made it three wins and a draw from four fixtures with a terrific 8 – 0 win against Rapid Chingford at Lakeside. Mekhi Charles-Armstrong led the scorers with a treble, Matthew Walsh got two goals along with Michael Osei, Taylan Gul and Pooya Karami adding one each. That win backed up their previous success in a dramatic late win last weekend, moving them third with ten points so far.

Moving into the top half, Sporting Hackney’s unbeaten start to the campaign has continued as they picked up their first win of the season, defeating Woodford East 4 – 2 at Wadham Lodge. A pair of braces from Joel Akuwudike and Richard Balogun proved enough to cancel out East goals from Billy Barr and Harry Robinson.

Frenford Development will be pleased with their weekend’s efforts as they secured their first points of the season with a hard fought win away at Kit Out London in Noak Hill. Alex Solomon and Krishan Singh strikes were not quite enough to Kit Out with Damilola Olaiya scoring twice for Frenford and Kyron Chiedozie and Gabriel Alves netting the others in a 4 – 2 win.

PREMIER DIVISION EAST

The opening Premier Division action of the season saw two games in the newly restructured East division and Chingford Athletic top the division on their return to the competition, defeating London Park City 3 – 1. Josh Flood, Jack Newbury-Neale and Dylan Scutt goals were the difference in the game as Chingford took all three points.

Over in Newbury Park, Cowley Community’s elevation to the second tier saw them pick up a good win in their first outing, defeating last season’s league cup finalists, Wapping, in a 2-0 success. It was a ‘Taylor made’ win for the hosts as Sean and Michael Taylor both struck one apiece to give their side the win.

PREMIER DIVISION WEST

The action from the West division also got underway with a glut of goals, starting with the early season leaders, AEK London, who got their participation in the competition underway with a 4-1 success at home against London Cranes. Paulo Machado scored a hat-trick with Marlon Nascimento notching the other to render Moses Kazibwe’s effort as just consolation.

There was also a strong win for North East Lions who got their season started with a 3 – 0 success against promoted Wanstead over at Wadham Lodge in the Walthamstow derby match. Charles Akingbade, Ibrahim Gakou and Shane Thomas all found the back of the net for the visitors to give Lions their opening points of the season.

CSM London made winning start in the second tier following their drop over the summer and will have the experienced Fahad Nyanja to thank for their opening day win as he notched twice to help his side to a 3 – 2 win over league debutants, G7. Musa Manneh also found the back of the net for the hosts to help them over the line.

The division’s final game came from Castle Green where Soul’s return to the league saw them up against another new side, Priory Park Rangers. A closely fought battle saw the scores finish level at 1-1 at full-time which meant both sides had to settle for a share of the spoils on the opening day of action.

DIVISION ONE

Division One’s sole surviving game came from Hackney Marshes where Renegade entertained another new entrant to the competition with Atholl in action for the first time. Another close contest saw Mitchell Edmonds net the first Atholl goal in the league but Renegade were also able to net and meant that the teams took home a point each in a 1-1 draw.

DIVISION TWO

The goals were flying in Division Two, beginning with an incredible twelve goal contest at the Marshes where Woodford East Reserves met their reserve counterparts from Chadwell Heath Spartans. Tom Osmond’s hat-trick and single efforts from Tyla Fenlon and Taylor McLaughlin would ordinarily been enough to win but Spartan goals from Leon Kasozi (2), David Johnson, Mehdi Ahorbi, Abraham Ladoja, Thamindi Kahatadeniya and Ibrahim Basri gave their side a 7 – 5 success.

It was also a winning opening day for Rainham Phoenix whose rise from the ashes began in positive fashion with victory against last season’s promoted Division Three champions, FC Baresi Under 23s. Oliver Barracks got himself on the visitor’s scoresheet but Rainham goals in reply from Cameron Shakes, Grant Obeney and Sean Tormey gave their side a 3 – 1 win.

Snaresbrook’s first outing in the competition was certainly a positive one too as they travelled to Loughton to take on Royal Forest in their opening game of the season. The visitors were comfortable 6 – 1 winners on the day to give themselves the early bragging rights at the top of the table.

DIVISION THREE

Promoted Chingford Harriers lead the way after week one of the season in Division Three as they came away from one of the bookies early season favourites, Buckhurst Way, with all three points in a 3 – 1 win. Andrew Bowring, Darnell Lamothe and Grant Coy were all on the scoresheet on the day to ensure Harriers opened their season with maximum points.

The division’s other game came from Dagenham where hosts, Dagenham United Reserves saw their first game in fifth tier as Newbury East headed to Castle Green. The vastly experienced Chaka Barnett struck with both of the East goals but Dagenham were up to the task and ensured they took a point with Jordan Akinpelu and Isa Khan goals earning a 2-2 draw.

DIVISION FOUR

Division Four’s sole action on the opening day came from Dagenham where Collier Row Wheels and London APSA Under 23s were both in action in their first fixtures in the league. It was hosts Row who ended up the happier of the two sides with the substitutes having great effect, Luke Woodgate coming off the bench to score twice, Max Hodgson, Hamoud, Lewis Deacon and Farhaan Korimbocus netting the others in a 6 – 2 win.

Guest Blog 22/23: Essex Alliance League (Sat 13 Aug) [EAL 22/23 15.8.22]

Hello and welcome to the new season in the Essex Alliance League, as the Senior Division (top-tier) started last weekend. The interesting bit of information is that the EAL have extended their top division to encompass 17 clubs now, with Brimsdown coming down from Eastern Senior South. There are four promoted sides from last term’s Premier division – Frenford Development, Oakside, Crookz Utd & Dagenham Utd. Also joining the top tier are May & Baker Res & Walthamstow Res, who both competed in the Essex Senior Reserve League last term.

My thanks in avance to the EAL’s Rob Parker for allowing me to post this round-up. Thank you for reading

Guest Blog written by Rob Parker for EAL [EAL Twitter: @EssexAllianceFL]

With Introduction & additional reporting by Scott W

Essex Alliance League Round-up- Saturday 13 August

SENIOR DIVISION

The new Essex Alliance League season is underway with the Senior Division’s earliest start seeing eight fixtures on a scorching opening weekend of action.

On Friday night, FC Petrocub made a terrific start to their season against one of the bookies’ contenders for the title as they defeated Jolof Sports at Mayesbrook Park in a 5 – 0 scoreline. They were ahead early with two penalties and didn’t relinquish that position to win comprehensively to top the table on night one.

Over at Coles Park, Lymore Gardens’ first game at their new home ground saw them in action in front of a big crowd, Crookz United the first to visit in their maiden game at this level. Abdouaziz Jeng put United ahead early in the game to lead at the break but a George Dwobeng effort in the second half from Garden meant they shared the spoils in a 1-1 draw.

The most emphatic result came at Wodson Park where FC Baresi’s tenure at Ware saw them rattle ten goals past Blue Marlin on the opening weekend. Tyreece Robertson scored a hat-trick, Ali Shikheey and Paul Benfield netted a brace each with Korede Da Silva, Raymond Poku and Edson Lami all netting in an emphatic 10 – 1 success.

The goals were also flying in over at Noak Hill 3G where Kit Out London and May & Baker Reserves repeated their draw from pre-season though this time a 3-3 scoreline. Darius Egualeonan had a first game to remember as his hat-trick gave Bakers a share of the points following their maiden voyage in the competition. Kit Out responded through two goals by Alex Solomon and one from Rio Mudlar-Hedley

Two of last season’s title chasers, Chadwell Heath Spartans and Woodford East, faced each other in their first game of the season at Chigwell Hall and there was little between the sides as just one goal was enough to separate the teams by full-time. East’s Ben Smith was the man to make the difference on the day as his goal gave Woodford a 1 – 0 success.

Oakside’s first game in the top flight saw them face a tricky trip to West Thurrock as they took on Rapid Chingford at Lakeside in scorching conditions. A five goal thriller was ensued between the sides as ‘Side’s secured their first win in a 3-2 success to give them the best possible start to their season.

Over at Wadham Lodge, two of the division’s new entrants met as Walthamstow Reserves opened their campaign with the visit of last season’s Premier Division champions, Frenford Development. A close game was settled by Elijah Grant’s decisive strike to give Walthamstow a 1-0 success.

The final game saw another new ground in use in the league as Barking & Dagenham College saw hosts Dagenham United in action for the first time in the Senior Division with a tough looking opening day clash against relegated Brimsdown who moved down from step six last season. A close game saw the sides finish at 1-1 with Fredericus Cunningham netting for Dagenham for their goal.

Guest Blog: Essex Alliance League Round-up (Wk 36 – Sat 7 May) [EAL 21-22 10.5.22]

Hello and welcome to the latest action from the Essex Alliance League, which continues on this blog this season under the “Guest Blog” strand. This edition looks at the action across the League on Saturday 7 May. My thanks to the EAL’s Rob Parker. This round-up also includes a mention of Monday night’s solitary match in Senior Divsion. This round-up is posted with the author’s permission. Thanks for reading.

Guest Blog written by Rob Parker for EAL [EAL Twitter: @EssexAllianceFL]

With additional reporting by Scott W

Essex Alliance League Round-up- Saturday 7 May

PREMIER DIVISION CUP

The full line-up for this season’s Premier Division Cup is now known as the second semi-final was completed on Saturday where London Park City were in action once again, taking on London Cranes in Seven Kings. A close game saw the sides finish level at 1-1 at full-time, sending the game to another shootout. After a penalties victory last weekend, it was London Park City who once again prevailed, winning 3 – 2 to send their side to a maiden final, facing Wapping later in the month.

DIVISION THREE CUP

In the Division Three Cup, the first of the semi-finals took place which saw ASA attempting to stand in the way of champions FC Baresi Under 23s as the latter sought the opportunity of a league and cup double. A terrific game saw ASA lead through strikes by Mithurn Vijayarajah & Panushanth Kulenthiran before a Baresi fightback led by goals from Maamoon Khan and Zach Aliane took the game to penalties. In the shootout, it was the champions who progressed to their first final, winning 4 – 2 to send their side to Dagenham & Redbridge!

SENIOR DIVISION

Some huge games in the Senior Division took place over the weekend which saw Chigwell Town, a side who had been in the relegation zone almost the entirety of the season, pull off a massive win, defeating Tower United 3 – 2 to stay in the league. Harry Tew-Robinson was the hero with a hat-trick which ensured his side stayed up by the narrowest of margins. Abdullah Jama’s double was not enough for Tower who finished bottom & will most likely be relegated.

It was also a great day for Blue Marlin who knew they had to get a win against London Cup finalists FC Petrocub in order to give themselves a chance of beating the drop. And a win was exactly what Blue Marlin delivered, beating their mid-table opponents in a 2 – 0 scoreline, thanks to strikes by Macauley Harrington & Ni Acquaye and moved out of the relegation zone and confirm their senior status for another season.

Over in Beckton, those results meant that CSM London had no choice but to win their game to stay in the league but were facing a Woodford East side with just as much in the game for them as they strove for runners-up spot. Eli Brown scored for CSM but East goals from Billy Barr, Andrew Rowe, Ben Smith and Reece Beaumont meant their side took the honours in a 4 – 1 win, keeping their hopes of top two alive going into Monday’s match.

Cup finalists, Rapid Chingford, warmed up for their huge occasion in the coming fortnight with a terrific win in their last game of the season, defeating Jolof Sports in a 1 – 0 scoreline over at Mayfield Leisure Centre. A single Tita Daniel goal was enough for the Fenton Cup finalists to take the points, confirming an eighth placed finish in the process.

On Monday night, Jolof Sports recovered from their narrow loss 48 hours earlier by recording a superb 5 – 0 victory over Woodford East in their match, held at Mayesbrook Park 3G. This result means that East finish the league campaign in third spot but Halil Hassan’s side are still involved in two Cup competitions so they have a chance of endoing their first season at Step 7 in a memorable way.

PREMIER DIVISION

The penultimate game of the Premier Division season saw Frenford A the hosts to fifth placed Wapping, the latter looking for a confidence boost ahead of their own cup final in a couple of weeks time. A closely fought battle eventually went in favour of the champions as Frenford won the game 4 – 2 to ensure they completed a terrific campaign in some style ahead of their debut top flight season. Joel Opara and Wisley Baltazar both netted two goals each to confirm a memorable day.

DIVISION ONE

Division One’s action was wrapped up on Saturday as Belfry went out knowing that three points would see them achieve something quite special. But standing in their way were a side who will have been pleased with their own efforts this year and RCXI raced into a 3 – 0 lead through goals two goals from Ayo Matthews and a Sammy Anjorin goal. Two Kieran James responses wasn’t enough as RCXI sent the champions to just their first defeat, in the very last game of the season.

All eyes were then on the big game at the Marshes where Cowley Community went into their battle against Francis Luke knowing they needed the points to ensure themselves of the runners-up position. They delivered exactly what they needed, winning the game 3 – 1 as two Elias Tackie strikes and a Michael Taylor goal promoted their club into the Premier Division for next season!

DIVISION TWO

It’s congratulations to Fairlop Rovers who were confirmed as Division Two champions on Saturday as their opponents could not raise a side for the remaining fixture. A tremendous achievement for the club as they continue their rise through the divisions. Well done to Dylan and all of the Rovers players on their success!

Following that outcome, the battle was then on for the runners-up spot which saw Rainham Working Mens Club needing to secure a win against Royal Forest to take second place. And that was exactly what they managed to do as Connor Kain scored twice and Sean Tormey once to give the Workies a 3 – 2 win, confirming promotion to Division One. Well done to everyone involved!

In the battle to avoid the drop in Division Two, a key six pointer saw St Francis taking on Loughton Lions at Robert Clack, the Saints knowing they needed to secure a win to keep things in their favour. But the Lions were able to secure a valuable point for their side in a 3 – 3 draw, despite two Omar Hafid goals and a Peter Luvualu effort for Saints. Lions now need just two points to beat the drop.

S21-22 Match Report: Woodford East 0 – 2 Sungate (EPC Final – Wed 13 April) [14.4.22]

BBC Essex Premier Cup – Final

Venue: New Lodge 3G

2021-22 Season: Match 71

Attendance: 448

Wednesday 13th April 2022 – 7.45pm KO

Woodford East: Yellow Shirts, Black Shorts, Yellow Socks

Sungate: Blue Shirts, Navy Blue Shorts, Blue Socks

Sungate celebrate their triumph with the Trophy, with refereeing team (left) looking on [Image by Essex County FA]

Sungate secure Cup glory with enterprising win over East at New Lodge

Woodford East 0 – 2 Sungate

Match Report & Photos by Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMHC14]
and additional photos by Essex County FA [Twitter: @EssexCountyFA) and Essex Alliance Lge/Rob P [@EssexAllianceFL] (used with thanks)

The main midweek match was a welcome return to New Lodge for this season’s Essex Premier Cup Final, which saw EAL Senior newcomers Woodford East take on established EOFL side Sungate in the Intermedicate competition. I’d like to note that the occasion was well-run by the Essex County FA and the match had a terrific attendance. Woodford East were looking to mark their first season as a Step 7 side with silverware and fielded Alfie Watts between the posts, with Ben Smith, captain Frank Glock and Will Letchford in midfield. Connor Brathwaite and Callum Maltese led the forward line, with support from Adam Tabbani. Their substitutes included defenders Kieran Bruns and John Gilley plus forward Billy Barr.

Sungate had Stefan Lemacq in goal and a back four of Sam Elwood, Will Halford plus experienced centre-backs Daniel Callaway and William Wells. Stalwart Scott Truman skippered the side, with a forward line comprised of Ciaran Kelly, Lee Samways and George Johnson. Options on the bench included the forward-minded Kyran Chiedozie, Thomas Drayton, Arif Mustapha and Jake Willis.

Adam Tabbani (5) and Kai Law (3) look to re-engerize East’s forward moves in 1st half [Image by Scott W]

There was a well-held view that this game would be an entertaining match to watch and it certainly did not disappoint on that front. The first good chance arrived with only two minutes played, as the rapid James Smith made one of several excellent darting runs down right flank, his cross found the advancing Scott Truman who struck narrowly wide of Alfie Watts’ right-sided post. East responded at the other end with centre-back Matt Stacey’s well-directed header which was narrowly off-target two minutes later.

As the first half progressed, it was more evident that Sungate were the more cohesive passing side, with James Smith and Sam Elwood in particular joining up well down the right flank. East did have their moments, but were stifled by resolute defending by the Essex Olympian Premier side. That resoluteness was displayed as Bobby Port’s side made a fine last-ditch interception to deny Callum Maltese a big chance at Stefan Lemacq’s goal. The only thing that prevented the Olympian side taking the lead was a missed spot-kick by the impressive James Smith, as his penalty was skewed wide of the left-side post.

Sungate full-back Elwood (2 – far right) launches another good run down the flank [Image by Scott W]

Frustratingly for the big contigent of supporters backing Woodford East, they couldn’t conjure up many chances, with forward Callum Maltese curling a fine strike from outside the penalty area narrowly wide of left-side post, much to Lemacq’s relief. Smith was again in the action for Sungate, as his good pass found substitute Jake Willis but his effort couldn’t find the target. We got to the break with the no goals perhaps, but plenty of intrigue with Sungate edging it due to their stronger passing and creating more chances.

Half-Time: Woodford East 0 – 0 Sungate

Two captains in view, Glock makes a run for East, shadowed by Sungate skipper Truman [Image by Rob P/EAL]

After the break, the match resumed at a searing pace. Centre-back William Wells sent a fine header narrowly off-target from a set-piece and you felt that the ‘Gate were the side more likely to open the scoring. That being said, Connor Brathwaite timed his run well and nearly lobbed Lemacq after getting in behind the Sungate backline.

As it turned out, Sungate did break the stalemate on 63 minutes with a superb team move. A fast passing exchange between Smith and Lee Samways ended with the latter finding George Johnson on the left edge of the penalty area before sending in a fine curling strike beyond Watts, much to the delight of their fans. Willis had fired a fierce drive wide of Watts’ goal but Sungate did get that crucial gsecond goal with seven minutes remaining. Substitute Thomas Drayton’s strike was well crowded out by two East defenders but the ball was recycled well and fellow replacement Arif Mustapha slotted home from close range.

James Smith (7) in possession for Sungate [Image by Rob P/EAL]

East clear to deny Smith (7) another oppurtunity down right flank [Image by Scott W]

The last few minutes saw both sides looking to add further goals, but two goals was enough to see Sungate to a fine win and take home the cherished Trophy, continuing the recent dominance of Olympian League sides in this competition.

Full-Time: Woodford East 0 – 2 Sungate

In summary, Sungate looked the more assured of the two sides, created more chances and played at an impressive tempo to claim their first-ever Essex Premier Cup. Bobby Port’s team also defended resolutely when needed while East couldn’t create enough chances to continually threaten the ‘Gate defence. They can be very proud of their run to the Final though and their league aspirations continue.

There were a number of excellent performances in this Final. For victors Sungate, winger James Smith had an outstanding display. Showcasing a huge array of pace, work rate, passing and crossing ability – Smith undoubtedly had a fine influence on his team’s attacks. Next, centre-back Daniel Callaway exuded his team’s attitude to resolute defending, making several important challenges. Lastly, full-back Sam Elwood showed good energy and linked up well with Smith on the right flank, plus forward George Johnson had good movement and took his goal really well.

For Woodford East, forward Connor Brathwaite did keep the opposition defence alert making good runs and utilising good passing. While he did spurn East’s best chance, Brathwaite was well stopped by the ‘Gate backline. Will Letchford also had a good game, making good runs from deep which were hard to track. Forward Callum Maltese also showcased his pace and trickery at times while centre-back Matt Stacey made a number of good interceptions to keep his side in the match.

Best wishes to both teams for the rest of the campaign.

Teams

Woodford East | Manager: Halil Hassan | Assistant: Gary Wotton

Starting XI (Subs): 1 Alfie Watts (GK), 3 Kai Law (2 John Gilley 88′), 21 Sonny Feltwell, 4 Matt Stacey, 7 Eren Mehmet (6 Kieran Bruns 66′), 10 Ben Smith (18 Frankie Lane 64′), 14 Will Letchford (20 Liam Evans 90′), 15 Frank Glock (Capt), 5 Adam Tabbani (9 Billy Barr 59′), 12 Callum Maltese, 23 Connor Brathwaite

Booked: Stacey, Brathwaite, Gilley, Bruns | Subs Not Used: None

Sungate | Manager: Bobby Port | Assistant: David Deller

Starting XI (Subs): 1 Stefan Lemacq (GK), 2 Sam Elwood, 3 Will Halford, 5 Daniel Callaway, 6 William Wells, 4 Scott Truman (Capt), 8 Josh Addinall, 7 James Smith (14 Arif Mustapha 75′), 15 Ciaran Kelly (9 Jake Willis 25′), 10 Lee Samways (16 Thomas Drayton 81′), 11 George Johnson (18 Josh Steel 87′)

Goal-scorers: George Johnson [63′], Arif Mustapha [83′]

Booked: Smith, Johnson, Wells, Elwood | Sub Not Used: Chiedozie

Referee: Alexander Kyriacou
Assistant: Craig Wood & Benjamin Ridge
Fourth Official: Ryan Smith

Guest Blog: Essex Alliance League Round-up (Wk 32 – Sat 9 Apr) [EAL 21-22 11.4.22]

Image from Woodford East v Chadwell Heath Spartans [Image by Scott W]

Guest Blog written by Rob Parker for EAL [EAL Twitter: @EssexAllianceFL]

With additional reporting by Scott W

Essex Alliance League Round-up- Saturday 9 April

DIVISION TWO CUP

The first half of the line-up for the Division Two Cup Final is now confirmed after the weekend’s action as Rainham Working Mens Club made up for their other semi defeat to go through to this final with a 1 – 0 win away at Loughton Lions at Debden Park. The only goal of the game was scored by Charlie Perry whose goal took Rainham through to their fourth final with the competition.

DIVISION THREE CUP

In the Division Three Cup quarter-final, the third of four semi-finalists was confirmed in as two of the division’s top sides, Royal Forest Reserves and FC Baresi Under 23s, met in Hainault for a place in the last four. The visitors, Baresi, were in good form once again as they rattled in a 5 – 1 victory with Joshua Adu scoring three alongside Harrez Aliane and Kii Jean-Baptiste scoring one apiece, overcoming a Will Asenso goal from the hosts.

DIVISION FOUR CUP

It was semi-final day for two clubs in the Division Four Cup competition where Chingford Harriers were the hosts to an Emerson & Upminster A side with both sides keen on a cup final appearance. A close game finished 1 – 1 with Darnell Lamothe netting for Harriers and Carl Holroyd for Emerson in reply. A dreaded shootout was needed to separate the sides and it was Harriers who won that 4 – 3 to take their place in the final next month.

SENIOR DIVISION

The last week has seen some big results in the Senior Division with Wednesday night’s action having seen Woodford East secure all three points from a trip to Cricklefields where they were facing Lymore Gardens. Adam Tabbani and Connor Brathwaite both scored twice for East with Gracia Muhemba and Teriq Roberts goals accounting for the Garden consolations in a 4 – 2 East success. NonLeague writer Peter Dudley was among those in attendance and here’s his report: https://pedroslocalfootiefix.blogspot.com/2022/04/lymore-gardens-2-woodford-east-4.html

On Saturday, the leadership of the division changed hands once again with DT FC taking advantage of results around them to go a point clear with a game in hand, coming out 4 – 1 winners away at Tower United. Alex Paraskeva scored twice with Izaih Antoine and Robbie Farrell grabbing the other goals to move back to the summit with three games to play. Just a few hundred yards away at the Marshes, another huge game saw Chadwell Heath Spartans in town to face hosts Woodford East. First-half Woodford goals from Callum Maltese and Connor Brathwaite proved pivotal in a 2 – 1 victory for them, despite an Aaron Hunwicks effort for Spartans, as East brought themselves very much into an intriguing three-way title race.

The Non-League writing duo of Scott W and Pete Dudley were both at this match, you can view their respective reports on the game here:

Scott W: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2022/04/09/s21-22-match-report-woodford-east-2-1-chadwell-heath-spartans-sat-9-apr-eal/

Peter D: http://pedroslocalfootiefix.blogspot.com/2022/04/woodford-east-2-chadwell-heath-spartans.html

Elsewhere in the Senior division, Blue Marlin’s late’s charge to safety is underway as they pulled off a terrific 3 – 1 success at home to fourth placed Lymore Gardens to give them a great chance of beating the drop. Macauley Harrington, Ni Acquaye and Scott Campbell all found the back of the net to help their side pick up some vital points, moving three clear of the side beneath them.

CSM London’s penultimate game of the season saw them take on FC Baresi, the game switched to Beckton. Bradley Soares’ effort had appeared to be enough to hand CSM a vital points haul of their own but for a late FC Baresi leveller to take the gloss off the performance somewhat, earning them a point in a 1 – 1 draw. CSM now sit five points above the relegation places with one last fixture to come.

In Hainault, Chigwell Town were in action against Rapid Chingford knowing that they desperately needed points on the board to move closer to safety but ended up on the wrong end of a five goal thriller as Rapid took all three points in a 3 – 2 success. Joe Creasey and Harry Tew-Robinson struck for Town but two Darwin Romero goals and a Tita Daniel goal sent the points home with the visitors. The division’s remaining game saw two sides comfortably in mid-table meet with seventh placed Kit Out London travelling to East Ham to take on fifth placed Jolof Sports. Papa Ndiaye scored twice for Jolof, a feat matched by Marlon Ortiz of Kit Out as the teams finished level at 2 – 2 to add a further point to each other’s tallies, Jolof remaining eleven points clear of their opponents.

PREMIER DIVISION

Following their recent confirmation of promotion, it’s now fully party time for Frenford A who wrapped up the league title outright with a 2 – 1 away success in their penultimate game of the season. London Cranes were the side on the wrong end of the result, Wisley Baltazar scoring both of the goals to put the gloss on a very fine season for the Ilford based side who will move up to Step 7 with confidence.

DIVISION ONE

Ilford Reserves’ late promotion charge continued on Saturday as they were able to take maximum points against Cowley Community, though the latter do still have plenty of games in hand to change that situation. The Foxes secured a 5 – 2 win as Luke Newbury-Neale scored two and one each from Rhys Clements, Rio Clements and Joseph Sulola, Chris Wright bagging both goals in reply for Cowley. Fifth placed Wanstead ensured they stayed in touch with the promotion matters with two games left to play, picking up all three points in their game against Renegades at the weekend, the latter’s final game of the campaign. A 4 – 2 success for Wanstead thanks to strikes from Zoltan Balogh, Jake Nicolas, Suhaib Abeid and Dan Gardner as they consolidated a top half finish with their tenth win of the campaign while Renegades must now wait to see if they can avoid the drop.

Something From Nothing also sit in a top half position with a couple of games to go as they won a local derby fixture against Forest Green in a 5 – 3 scoreline. That confirmed SFN’s eighth league success of their maiden season in Saturday football and know that one more win will be enough to finish sixth. Forest Green’s season is now over as they also keep an eye on events below them. Third placed RC XI will go into their last two games knowing that promotion is still a possibility but lost the chance to take full advantage of slips around them as they were only able to take a point from their twentieth game of the season, held by seventh placed Newham Wanderers. The sides went into the game with an eleven point gap but that remained the same as the game finished 2 – 2. Stephen Duberry and Michael Temitayo both scored for RC in this one.

A much improved campaign for Kwanzas London Sport is reaching a conclusion and the seventh placed side were up against relegation threatened Barkingside A at the weekend. ‘Side goals from Ebenezer Gyamerah and Jeffrey Osei kept them in the game but Kwanzas edged it by full-time to take a 3 – 2 win meaning they can finish no lower than eighth now.

DIVISION TWO

The race to avoid the drop in Division Two is really hotting up after the weekend’s results as St Francis had a day to remember, taking maximum points from a double header against third placed Emerson & Upminster Reserves. They edged the first contest 4 – 3, overcoming a Tobi Onafeko hat-trick with two from Abdullah Azizi and one each for Martin Valkov and Soumen Nandi. Game two saw Saints record an emphatic 6 – 1 success with Theo Jacobs-Aaron netting a hat-trick, Skye Salmon scoring two and Soumen Nandi rounding off a great day. They now sit just two points from safety with five games to play.

Over in Loughton, second placed Unitey were another leading side to drop points against lower opposition as they were held to a 2 – 2 draw against Ryan Under 23s who continued their late season charge with a point in their final game of the campaign. Bubintende Masadi scored both of the Unitey goals to keep his side in with a chance of a top two finish with one game to go.

DIVISION THREE

Old Barkabbeyans Reserves are the first side to confirm promotion from Division Three this season as they collected the points they needed from their penultimate game, defeating Together United in a comprehensive 8 – 2 scoreline. Michael Ryder scored a hat-trick, Geovany Cruz and Jay Elliott both scored two with Mitchell Day finishing it off ahead of a possible title play-off game next weekend. The day’s other game was of equal entertainment as an in-form Buckhurst Way saw the visit of Terin to Bancrofts on Saturday. The hosts trailed 4-2 going into the latter stages of the game through Terin doubles from Alex Thomas and Jabir Malik, along with a Fahad Abdallah single. But they found a “Way” to take a point with the game finishing 5 – 5 incredibly.

DIVISION FOUR

In Division Four, the final game in the division this season saw Sporting Pillars go into their clash at Avondale Rangers knowing that a point or more would be enough to seal the title. Jake Clarke and Phillip Heinan netted for Rangers but those efforts were not enough to prevent Sporting winning the game 6 – 2, sealing the league title in the process. Congratulations to all involved with the team on their achievement!

End

S21-22 Match Report: Woodford East 2 – 1 Chadwell Heath Spartans (Sat 9 Apr) [EAL 21-22 9.4.22]

Essex Alliance League – Senior Division

Venue: Hackney Marshes (Show Pitch)

Attendance: 15 [Est]

2021-22 Season: Match 69

Saturday 9th April 2022 -2pm KO

Woodford E: Navy Blue Shirts, White Shorts, Navy Blue Socks

CH Spartans: Grey Shirts, Grey Shorts, Black Socks

Action still from the match [Image by Scott W]

Woodford East put in diligent performance to claim big win over Spartans

Woodford East 2 – 1 Chadwell Heath Spartans

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

The weekend match was a rare match in the Essex Alliance League Senior Division and a first visit to Hackney Marshes for this top-of-the-table clash between Woodford East and Chadwell Heath Spartans. The matches are unrelenting for Halil Hassan’s side just now and they fielded Callum Drummond in goal, with Billy Barr and Matt Stacey in central defence, Frank Glock skippering the side alongside Eren Mehmet in central midfield and the forward line was led by Callum Maltese and Connor Brathwaite. Spartans started the day at the summit but needed points to stay there, and fielded the highly-rated Lewis Edwards in goal, with a defence of Joe Robb, Meer Ishanzadeh, player-boss Aaron Hunwicks and Janel Alexander, who also captained the side. James Odukoya and Harry Payne led the attack, with Tom Callagher among those in support.

The match began in the swirling wind of East London, though the chances were relatively few in coming early-doors. Spartans had the only clear chance whch saw forward James Odukoya one-on-one with East stopper Callum Drummond, unfortunately for the visitors, Odukoya’s strike was straight at the goalkeeper. Woodford East responded tellingly soon after as on thirteen minutes, visiting skipper Janel Alexander was caught in possession by rapid forward Callum Maltese on the edge of his own 18-yard area and Maltese ran through on goal and placed a fine finish past Sans goalkeeper Lewis Edwards and into the right-sided corner.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, the hosts were spurred on by that opening goal and they showed no lack of energy or good passing as they kept the pressure on their opponents’ backline. Midfielder Eren Mehmet’s strike was deflected and well-tipped over by Edwards as it was dipping into the net. Spartans were finding it difficult to maintain the momentum in attack, though Harry Payne did strike wide of Drummond’s goal frame as we headed towards the half-hour mark.

Tom Callagher [#8] jostles with East’s Connor Brathwaite [#23] as Spartans look to push forward [Image by Scott W]

That half-hour was heralded by arguably the best move of the match, which saw East exchange three or four fast passes before finding forward Connor Brathwaite who struck a fine low finish into the corner of the net, adding to the visitors’ headache. Being fair, the hosts did not concede possession easily and when they lost it, they hurried the Spartans midfield well.

Half-Time: Woodford East 2 – 0 Chadwell Heath Spartans

After a quick break, the match resumed with Woodford East looking for that important third goal to really put themselves in a commanding position. They had two good chances early in the half, with Brathwaite firstly well denied by Edwards from close range. Soon afterwards, the East forward was well-placed again from barely six yards out but somehow Brathwaite headed narrowly over the upright. You felt that Spartans had used up a fair bit of fortune by not conceding a third goal there but to their credit, they were up for the battle in the second period.

The visitors did have more ball time in the last half hour, as they sought to jostle their way back into the match. Their approach play was decent but if you was to be critical, you’d have to also say they couldn’t create many chances. Alexander and Aaron Hunwicks both had chances from set-pieces but late on, the Spartans did ensure a nervy last five minutes for East. Direct from a corner, Hunwicks sent in an in-swinging corner which got caught up in the wind and managed to find its way past Drummond into the net.

Spartans did push on to try and force a leveller but in fairness, East did do enough to claim a narrow but nonetheless important triumph to fortify third spot with two games in hand on new leaders DT FC, who won 4 – 1 at Tower Utd today.

Full-Time: Woodford East 2 – 1 Chadwell Heath Spartans

In summary, Woodford East did the damage in an energetic first-half display which showed their credentials as a really good side at this level here, but found it a rather harder battle in the second period, where Spartans showed more of what they are about, showing guile, work rate and dedication. Unfortunately for Aaron Hunwicks’ side, they couldn’t quite create enough chances to test East stopper Callum Drummond.

There were several fine performances from both sides in this match. Firstly for victors Woodford East, plaudits have to go to tricky forward Callum Maltese for an excellent display of energy, pace and passing. Fellow forward Callum Brathwaite also took his goal well to cap a terrific team move and could have had at least one more goal today, showing good movement. Rounding out the mentions are full-back Kai Law who showed good work rate, passing and concentration plus centre-back Billy Barr who also put in a good display to restrict the Spartans forward line.

For Chadwell Heath Spartans, skipper Janel Alexander had another good game at centre-back, recovering from a uncharacteristic error to make several good interceptions in the match. Tom Callagher again showed good energy making darting runs from midfield to assist his forward line. Goalkeeper Lewis Edwards also made two good saves to keep his team in it in the first half when they did concede several chances at his goal. Lastly, forward James Odukoya also worked hard to bypass a robust East defence, alongside strike partner Harry Payne who also put in a lot of effort today.

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

Callagher about to take a free-kick in a dangerous position for Spartans [Image by Scott W]

Teams (up to 5 substitutes allowed)

Woodford East | Manager: Halil Hassan |

Starting XI (Subs): 1 Callum Drummond (GK), 3 Kai Law, 9 Billy Barr, 4 Matt Stacey, 19 Eren Mehmet (68 Liam Adams 74’), 14 Will Letchford, 15 Frank Glock (Capt), 21 Sonny Feltwell (6 Kieran Bruns 59’), 5 Adam Tabbani, 23 Connor Brathwaite, 12 Callum Maltese

Goal-scorers: Callum Maltese [13’], Connor Brathwaite [30’]

Subs Not Used: Beaumont, Tibbitts, Gilley | Booked: Mehmet, Tabbani

Chadwell Heath Spartans | Player-Manager: Aaron Hunwicks

Starting XI (Subs): 1 Lewis Edwards (GK), 2 Joe Robb, 3 Meer Ishanzadeh, 5 Janel Alexander (Capt), 6 Aaron Hunwicks, 4 Leon Kasozi, 14 Rashid Matabaro (17 Samir Aboulainaf 79’), 7 Raymond Hunwicks (15 Harry Goodwin 57’), 8 Thomas Callagher (11 David Amire 77’), 9 James Odukoya (10 Tommy Harrison 68’), 16 Harry Payne

Goal-scorer: Aaron Hunwicks [84’]

Subs Not Used: None | Booked: Robb, Kasozi | Sin-Bin: Alexander [87’]

Referee: Nathan Buckle

Assistants: Daniel Rowan & Dylan Connolly