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Match Report
March 29th
Division 1
League Game
Old Esthamiens 2 Lymore Gardens 2
Match Report
The last regular game of the season was played during the late March sunshine. A cool breeze created a nip that stayed in the air as the temperature edged past 15 °C. The small band of supporters wore their spring coats and hats and gathered with beer in hand, as today the team was playing on the Ford Show pitch, just in front of the bar and pavilion. The faded glory of rust and peeling paint from the old 1950s building provided the backdrop to the season's closing fixture.
Although, of course, it wasn’t the last game of the season, it only felt that way. Two games against Condor FC lie in the distant future, in May, due to Condor’s fixture congestion. The last league game was now scheduled for May 10th, with the League Cup final, also against Condor, arranged for the 20th of May. To make matters worse, the final had been moved from the Daggers Stadium, Dagenham and Redbridge, to Billericay Town's Stadium, which lay over twenty miles away. Everyone associated with the Old Es was bitterly disappointed about the move away from the Daggers Stadium, including the supporters who live in Billericay.
Today, the Old Es squad was running on vapour with nine players, either injured or unavailable. However, it meant that there was a chance for some players to stake a claim to start in the final, as well as a chance to gain another three points against a team fighting relegation. Second-place promotion was still a possibility, so the team was set to win.
The team lined up with Alex Baker at right back, with the ever-versatile Johnny Clayton covering left back. Stef Popescu continued at centre back alongside the returning Joe Higgins. Milo McCartney moved from full back to partner Shaun Vickers in central midfield, with Ola Kareem and Nelson Goncalves covering the wide areas. Matthew Pemberton started behind leading scorer Henry Gray who led the line playing as number 9.
The pitch was bumpy, hard, boots were changed from studs to moulded. The show pitch resembled the pavilion, bare of grass and care. It was hard, bumpy, dry with bare patches that could have done with being replaced or seeded. During the warm-up, the ball bounced oddly, and first touches were replaced with two touches just to get the ball under control. This was not a pitch for tika taka, but to feet the Es would try to play.
Care was taken regarding ankles, this was a pitch made for AnE sprains, with so many already injured, and the subs bench consisting of two players, would the Es have eleven on the pitch at the end of the game?
The referee was young, keen, eager, and had just read the manual on substitution and side line etiquette. The coaches and linesmen (sorry, Assistant Referees) were informed what was expected, as the players chatted as the referee spoke and gave his instructions. The game started on time, on the dot of 2.00 pm, obviously.
The match had a friendly feel to it. The Es dropped off and waited, setting traps for Lymore, who liked to pass the ball twice before hoofing it to the Old defenders. The Es were on top but did not look threatening. Then Nelson was put through and the keeper made a good save pushing the ball around for a corner. It was only a matter of time before the opening goal was scored. Unfortunately, the goal was conceded by the Old Es. A shot was parried by Adnan in goal, who is normally so reliable with his hands. However, on this occasion, the ball was spilled, and the opposing forward had a tap-in to make the score 1-0.
The Old Es started their customary moaning. Which is a traditional response to going a goal down. However, moaning was soon replaced with vigour, as the attacks started to make progress, especially down the right flank. Ten minutes before half time, Henry was set clear and scored with his right foot.
Half Time 1-1
Calm down, was the halftime chat. Keep the ball, pass, and move, and a chance will come. Lymore was not causing the Es any harm with their attacking play. It was only a matter of time before the next goal was scored. Danny Harris came on and replaced Johnny Clayton at left full back.
The Old Es came out playing football on the bumpy pitch. Lymore were struggling with the conditions and their fitness; gaps were appearing in the middle of the pitch, and more time was available for players to play. Then another mistake. Joe Higgins gave the ball away in a dangerous area. The Lymore forward stepped to the edge of the box and buried the ball in the corner to make the score 2-1. The Old Es looked at each other in disbelief. A brief pause was taken for reflection before they all started moaning in collective unison. Matthew limped off to be replaced by Danny Rising, making his debut for the Old Es.
The game kicked off, and immediately, the pressure and intensity were lifted. Nelson down the right had a chance, Milo had a chance, Johnny Clayton returning the field to replace a tiring Ola, shot over the bar, finally, Henry picked up the ball on the left, cut inside and fired a hard shot home. 2-2 with 12 minutes to play. The Old Es picked up the tempo, a win was a certainty now, shot over the bar, shot blocked. Legs were getting tired, and the referee looked at his watch only once and ended the game.
One point gained, or two points dropped. Third place is now guaranteed for the Old Es, but the elusive promotion spot is perhaps a yard offside now. Full effort was given on the day, and the players were disappointed not to win. Better finishing would have sealed the day.
However, the squad was bare, the pitch was bare, which perhaps explained more than a thousand words could explain.
No game next week, but friendlies are being organised to keep the squad fresh and fit before the final. Keep an eye
on the website for the next fixture.
A note for the diary
Division One League Final
Tuesday 20th May 7.45pm
The AGP Arena
Blunts Wall Rd,
Billericay,
CM12 9SA
Why not come along and support your team?
What else are you doing when Tuesday comes?
Match Day Squad
Manager Stephen Butler
Assistant Coach Kevin Higgins
Starting Team
Adnan Eiqrimah
Milo McCartney
Alex Baker
Joe Higgins
Nelson Goncalves
Matthew Pemberton
Olawale Kareem
Johnny Clayton
Stef Popescu
Shaun Vickers
Henry Gray
Substitutes
Danny Harris
Danny Rising
Match Report
March 22nd
Division 1
League Game
Condor FC 6 Old Esthamiens 2
Match Report
Barking Stadium on a grey end-of-winter day. Most of the players arrived late, due to the wrong postcode being given out by the opposition. Finally, after many messages, the squad arrived and got ready for the game. Would this slight mishap upset the delicate preparations being made for this top of the table clash. It didn't help.
Barking stadium is a large 3 G Astro pitch surrounded by a small stand that had seen better days. Both, Portaloo’s, and dugouts that had been painted white many years ago providing somewhere for the players supporters and officials to sit.
Yes, it was these luxuries that the players looked forward as some who had not been picked on the day
looked at the immaculate pitch and wished they were playing.
The supporters also liked the luxury of an enclosed dugout and quickly took all the available seats, leaving nowhere for the manager or the subs to sit. This was until Barking FC's caretaker arrived and explained the stadium rules.
“No supporters are allowed in the technical area.” the caretaker explained “And also, everyone in the technical area must be wearing studded boots.”
“Do stilettos count as studs?” the manager asked in favour of some of the WAGS.
“No” came the reply, so the ladies were asked to go behind the fence to watch the game on some other plastic seating open to the elements. Fortunately, it was a cold but dry day.
Before the game Adnan the young goalkeeper was given his own Old Es goalkeeper jersey, green with the club badge. He was very pleased, even though the jersey was large, and Adnan took a small. Rolling up the sleeves he stood in the goal warming up when the referee asked him to change his top as Condor's home kit was all green.
“You need to take that Top off” the referee instructed. Adnan took off the Old Es goalkeeper to reveal that he was wearing his own green goalkeeper top underneath. Looks were exchanged. Finally, a grey top was found in the kit bag and the game could commence.
The opposition today was Condor, who still had four games in hand on the league leaders mainly due to them competing in every cup competition south of Scotland. Due to cup clashes and bad weather, this was the first meeting of the teams in second and third place in the league. Condor, however, had only lost one league game all season and boasting a 100% record on their own large pitch. Today was going to be challenge.
The team lined up with Alex Baker at right back, with Milo McCartney playing at left-back. Stef Popescu partnered Que Embalo in central defence. Shaun Vickers started alongside Les Moyo in central midfield, with Danny Harris, club captain, and Harland Taylor taking the wide positions. Brad Harris, played just behind Henry Gray who led the line playing as number 9.
The Old Es were missing several players, but the lineup was still strong, and the game plan was to try and get into Eastern European ball players and take the early advantage. It wasn’t to be. Condor knew their pitch and used the ball well, creating triangles in the midfield gaining territory, and passing around the Old Es press. The Condor right winger was exceptionally quick and skillful, being their prime out ball, the player, constantly carried the ball up the pitch gaining ground and momentum. The Old Es were struggling to stay in the game.
However, the first goal came from a corner not from intricate ball play. 1-0 down after ten minutes. The players regrouped and hunted down the ball, but again, Condor passed the ball well, keeping possession, making it hard for the Old Es to get a foothold in the game. When the Es won the ball, Condor pressed hard, forcing the ball long. This was a good side playing well on a plastic pitch that they knew very well.
A second goal as not long in coming, a good shot from twenty-five yards. Heads dropped. Something needed to be done. Que Embalo was replaced by Nelson Goncalves and Brad Harris, went to centre back to additional power to the back line. The Old Es were struggling against the Condor pass and move and powerful press. Two more goals just before half time, meant the game was lost.
Half Time 4-0
The result was now over. The game was now about pride. Win the second half and stop this from becoming a drubbing. Substitutions were made. Johnny Clayton replaced Alex Baker at right back. Matty Pemberton came on for Danny Harris.
The second half started, and the Old Es started to get some ball, but Condor as expected, continued to be strong, but the game was now 50/50. The high intensity of the first hour started to wane, as both sets of players started to tire as the big pitch was taking its toll.
Henry Gray scored from a corner and Nelson scored an excellent, solo goal from the right flank, cancelling out two further strikes from Condor. The game ended 6-2. Some pride was restored with a good second half performance, against the likely winners of the league. Lessons learned.
Next week, Condor play West Essex in the Semi Final of the cup, and the winners of that game play the Old Es in the League Cup Final in May. We await the final score with interest.
The Old Es are next playing Lymore Gardens at home on Saturday 29th March.
Why not come along and support your team?
What else are you doing when Saturday Comes?
Match Day Squad
Manager Stephen Butler
Assistant Coach Kevin Higgins
AR 2nd Half Joe Higgins
Starting Team
Adnan Eiqrimah
Milo McCartney
Alex Baker
Danny Harris
Queba Embalo
Stef Popescu
Les Moyo
Brad Harris
Shaun Vickers
Henry Gray
Harland Taylor
Substitutes
Nelson Goncalves
Matthew Pemberton
Olawale Kareem
Johnny Clayton
Match Report
March 15th
Division 1
Cup Semi Final
Old Esthamiens 4 Alpha FC 0
Match Report
It was a lovely Spring day with the strong sunlight lighting up the Ford Sports ground. If a picture had been taken, you could have been led to believe it was a mid-summer day, but the icy wind dropped the temperature below 8c. It felt colder, as the cold breeze blew across the pitch from the right to left corner flag.
A good crowd had assembled; all wrapped up with hoods and scarves to watch the season's most important game. The semi-final of the divisional cup and a place in the final at the Daggers Stadium, Dagenham Redbridge FC ground, awaited the winners. The chance to play at a professional stadium on manicured grass, executive lounges, and warm showers.
This was real cup football, and if the game was equal after 90 minutes, penalties would decide the winner. For this reason, the team arrived early to practice and memorise their spot kicks, so if the event came, every player was ready and sure of what they had to do. Nothing was being left to chance. Extra oranges were cut just in case they were needed at the end of the game.
Supporters will know that the first meeting of these two teams back in September ended in a comfortable 4-0 win for the Old Es, the return away fixture was a far closer game, with the score ending 1-1 back in November. Today the Old Es were back on their home pitch and morale was high.
The team lined up with Adnan in goal, making his competitive debut for the club. Standing five foot five in his socks, Adnan is not the largest goalkeeper in the league, but his performances during training and the recent friendly suggested that he would surprise a few. Alex Baker returned to the side, at right back, with Milo McCartney switching to left back. Stef Popescu partnered with Joe Higgins in central defence. Shaun Vickers started on the right, with Les Moyo and Kane Williams anchoring midfield, with Danny Harris, the club captain taking the left-wing spot. Brad Harris, played just behind Henry Gray who led the line playing as number 9. The line up was strong and physical, The Old Es were not going to allow Alpha, a team made up of Eastern European ball players, an inch of grass to play on.
The referee soon arrived, and he was even shorter than the goalkeeper. He was joined by two Assistant Referees (Linesmen), or ARs, as we now have to call them. The officials had a fine game, probably the best refereeing performance of the season.
The game kicked off with the Old Es hunting in packs to win the ball. High intensity was demanded, denying space; ensuring no opposition player had an unchallenged moment on the ball. The high press was working, and Alpha was kicking the ball long, as a result of the pressure. Then a long ball from the back sent Danny Harris down the left who was tackled by the covering defender at the lost moment, a good chance but a corner all the same.
The Old Es had a height and physical advantage over the opposition. The ball was whipped in which resulted in a header over the bar. Then another corner, from the right this time was also headed just over. The Old Es were controlling the game, but Alpha was a good footballing team and they were now starting to work the ball in midfield. Adnan was tested from range but he easily dealt with the shot.
The game was opening up, but the Old Es were looking solid. Halfway through the first half, the first rolling sub was used. Shaun Vickers was replaced on the right wing by Nelson Goncalves. The manager called to have the substitution made. The rules were that the AR had to check all substitutions on and off the pitch, however, his attention had to be grabbed first.
“Lino. Lino” Shouted the manager and coaches. No reply. “Sorry AR person, can we make a substitution please.” These new rules and etiquette take some getting used to. Nelson entered the game. Soon after, an attack down the left side resulted in another corner. A deep cross to the far post, saw Stef Popescu, head the ball back across the goal into the net. One Nil. It was a well-deserved lead, but the game was tight.
Half Time 1-0
One nil at half-time was justified, but more goals should have been scored. In the previous game, the half-time score was 1-1, and the game was lost in the second half. Today, more intensity was demanded from the players. No let-up of energy or pressing. Mattew Pemberton came on for Danny Harris in midfield and Shaun returned to the game to replace Les Moyo. Fresh legs in the centre of the field was the game plan and a continued press was demanded to deny Alpha space to play. This high-energy football is tough on the legs, but it was working.
Alpha, as expected, came out strong. The game was on a knife edge as Alpha started to gain territory with the wind in their favour. The away team started to make chances, and a good opportunity was wasted as the shot ballooned over the bar. This was now a contest. The next goal would be vital. Then Nelson broke away and stabbed a ball early past the keeper, the ball hit the post and rolled across the goal line before hitting the other post and bouncing out. The defender rushing back booted the ball clear. How did that stay out? That would have settled nerves.
Instead, nerves were now running on empty. The game continued to be close. Alpha attacked again and Adnan in goal cleared his lines. He was playing well in his first senior game.
Then again, a spot of magic, Nelson jinked away from his marker and shot, 2-0. The relief was palpable. Alpha started moaning at each other in Romanian, the exact words were not understood, but the gist of sentiment was known.
“Nil nil,” came the shout from the Old Es bench. “This is not over yet.” More pressing, more work was demanded. Les Moyo replaced a tired Kane Williams who had run himself into the ground. Alpha started pushing more men forward, leaving gaps at the back.
With twenty minutes still to play, the game was still alive. Then another break, the ball falling again to Nelson who completed his scoring with his second goal of the game. 3-0. The team could relax a little. Ola Kareem replaced a very tired Henry Gray as centre forward who had a fine game as the solo striker.
Ola was immediately in the game. A stray elbow caught him in the head. Welcome to the game. Picking himself up, Ola scored a breakaway goal with five minutes to play demonstrating the best revenge for a stray elbow is a goal.
Johnny Clayton entered the game at right back, replacing Alex Baker, who had had a fine game. The game was now over as a contest and the referee blew his whistle shortly afterwards to end the match.
The team came together and celebrated a win. Special praise was given to Adnan in goal, what a debut, and Joe Higgins was awarded man of the match for a selection of outstanding covering blocks and tackles. A hard-fought game. 4-0 sounds like an easy win, this was nothing of the kind. The players were exhausted but elated.
A cup final in May at the Daggers Stadium, the home of Dagenham and Redbridge, was the winning prize. A very good day for the Old Es.
Next game.
Condor FC. Away. Another classic encounter.
Why not come along and support your team?
What else are you doing when Saturday Comes?
Match Day Squad
Manager Stephen Butler
Assistant Coach Kevin Higgins
Starting Team
Adnan Eiqrimah
Milo McCartney
Alex Baker
Danny Harris
Joe Higgins
Stef Popescu
Les Moyo
Kane Williams
Brad Harris
Shaun Vickers
Henry Gray
Substitutes
Queba Embalo
Nelson Goncalves
Matthew Pemberton
Olawale Kareem
Johnny Clayton
Match Report
March 8th
Division 1 League Game
Leyton City 6 Old Esthamiens 2
Match Report
March 8th, 2025. Spring had firmly arrived and was in full bloom, it was a warm day. The Old Es were playing Leyton City away, and supporters will remember that the first meeting of these two teams ended in a 4-5 defeat, back in October, the first league loss of the season. Revenge was not strictly in the air but three points were needed for the club to stay on the heels of the league leaders.
Due to flooding, (yes flooding) over at The Leyton City home ground, the game was re-arranged, which is never a healthy thing to do at short notice. Firstly, the time of the game was moved from 2.00 to a 1.00 pm kick-off; the location was moved from Ashton to Wadham Lodge, a large 4g synthetic pitch in Walthamstow. Would these last-minute changes affect the Old Es? Would all the squad read the updates in the Squad Watts App message board including new time location and surface? Would everyone arrive on time?
Alongside, this minor inconvenience, several injuries were affecting the squad size. Jamie Brown in goal, was out with a bruised leg sustained in the previous fixture alongside Nathan Wilson, out with a badly sprained ankle. Kane Williams was also missing, struggling with a hip abductor tear and Les Moyo had flu-like symptoms. Harland Taylor was missing in action. Add to this long list, several other players, who were fasting during Ramadan, left the match day squad very thin on the ground. These types of logistical challenges are not perhaps recognised by the likes of Rubin Amorin of Manchester United, but these are the real challenges which make grass roots football, so unique and compelling.
The good news was by 12.15pm most of the surviving squad had assembled, much to everyone’s surprise. The weather was now edging past 18c as the players got changed on the side of the pitch in the sunshine. The chat was cheerful and upbeat, the almost summer conditions gave the game an end-of-season feel, not a crucial three-point match. But as kick-off approached, the intensity started to pick up. The players were getting ready. Out of the traps fast and hard. Get the first goal and dominate the younger side.
Leyton City are indeed a young fit side, who love going forward, but are not that keen on the defensive side of the game. They have few players that like closing down, tracking runs, last ditch challenges. It is perhaps for this reason that they lie so close to the bottom of the league. Almost West Ham ish of old. Great going forward. Not so keen on the defending. Once a player was free from the immediate tackle, the player would be free to play and pass. Wadham Lodge is a large pitch, and the ball runs fast on the 4 G surface. There would be plenty of room to play and plenty of space to run into today. A game for the forwards. Due to the opposition being very good going forward, but also fickle, it was crucial to get off to a good start and score the opening goal.
The team lined up with Johnny Clayton in goal, and Stef Popescu switching to right back.
Joe Higgins and Queba Embalo played central defence with Danny Harris, the captain, playing left back. Milo McCartney stepped into midfield to partner Shaun Vickers. Nelson Goncalves and Matthew Pemberton played right and left respectively with Brad Harris playing behind Henry Gray at number nine. The substitutes included Eiqrimah Abdulkarim, who was appearing for his first Old Es game, alongside Olawale Kareem, and Les Moyo.
Leyton won the coin toss and elected to change ends. This may have been a ruse to tire out the much older Old Es players. It was a big pitch after all. When all the players had finally managed to change ends, the game kicked off and it was Leyton who were quick on the ball making good progress down the flanks with their skilful wingers cutting inside whenever they had the ball. A few half chances were created, but none that troubled Johnny Clayton in goal.
After ten minutes the Old Es started to dominate territory. The game was being played in the Leyton half as shot after shot rained down on the Leyton goal, stopped by their goalkeeper was having a fine game. Surely it was only a matter of time before the opening goal was scored. And indeed, it was. With 20 minutes gone the breakthrough came, with Leyton breaking away and gaining a lucky ricochet off the defender before a shot was struck from the edge of the box making the score 1-0. How did that happen? Not a good goal to concede. The Old Es were the most dangerous side, looking well on top, but were now a goal down. Football can be strange game sometimes.
The game restarted and pressure resumed. More shots were saved or went narrowly wide, some other shots went very wide. Brad Harris smashed a free kick from twenty-five yards which was pushed away by the goalkeeper for a corner. Finally, the equalizer. A powerful left foot strike that hit the underside if the bar from Matthew Pemberton for his first goal of the season. The Old Es were back in the game and on top.
1-1. Half Time
Seven shots on target, a number more off target and two footballs shot so high that they cleared the back fence. Not only was the half time score frustrating it was expensive as well, as two match day footballs were in the forest. The only good news about the Old Es shooting was that the balls belonged to Leyton. No changes were made. The team needed to continue with the same energy and hit the target and the goals would surely come. The Old Es were on top. It was only a matter of time.
The game restarted and an early goal was expected. Only it was Leyton that scored, another soft goal making the score 2-1. The players clapped their hands.
“C’mon,” went the shout. But legs were tiring, gaps were appearing as Leyton, who now had a spring in their step moved the ball around the midfield finding their tricky wingers who continued to make good progress down the flanks.
The warm weather and the large pitch was favouring the younger faster team. Another attack down the Old Es right resulted in a shot and save, the rebound fell to the Leyton forward who tucked the chance away. 3-1. The game was over. Or was it?
The old team were ruffled. The spirit and blood was now up. A corner was won and taken from the left, and as the ball drifted over the flailing keepers’ hand, it was headed in at the far post by Henry Gray. The Es were back in the game.
Les Moyo came on for Stef and Ola Kareem replaced Matty Pemberton who had taken a knock to the knee. The Es had fresh legs in midfield. The next goal was crucial, and so it was. Leyton overturned the ball in midfield and the forward was put in on goal between the two central defenders. A quick shot and goal. 4-2. Game was truly over.
The effort remained but the gaps were now large, and it was Leyton were now playing with their tails up The Es continued to battle, no one gave up, throwing men forward trying to salvage the game, but two late goals, one a penalty ended the game as a contest.
6-2 loss. Not the greatest of days. The last slither if hope to win the league was gone.
At every level of football, the team that takes their chances win. Leyton today finished well, the Old Es didn’t. That was the summary of the game.
Next week, its cup action.
The biggest game of the season. The Division 1 Cup Semi Final.
Come along supporters, the team could do with a lift. A great day out is to be expected. A final awaits the winning team.
What else are you doing when Saturday comes?
Match Day Squad
Manager Stephen Butler
Assistant Coach Kevin Higgins
Starting Team
Johnny Clayton
Milo McCartney
Danny Harris
Joe Higgins
Stef Popescu
Queba Embalo
Brad Harris
Shaun Vickers
Henry Gray
Nelson Goncalves
Matthew Pemberton
Substitutes
Eiqrimah Abdulkarim
Olawale Kareem
Les Moyo
Match Report
March 1st
Division 1 League Game
Old Esthamiens 1 Ocean Pacific FC 1
Match Report
March 1st. Winter had finally decided to leave us. The weather was perfect for football, with bright spring sunshine shining across the Ford pitches which were in excellent condition. No wind or rain, and a pleasant 10c would keep the players cool during the season's most anticipated game; a top-of-the-table clash between two teams chasing the title. Ocean Pacific FC held a 6-point lead over the Old Es coming into this game, so three points were vital today to close the gap on the league leaders.
Everyone knew that today was going to be tough. Injuries and other commitments saw a bare 13 players show for the game, but whilst light on numbers, the team was strong on paper. That was until Henry Gray, the league's leading scorer limped in...
“Busted me toe gaffer last night.” Henry showed his blackened toe without asking. These are not the words or sights you want to see or hear at any level of football only an hour before kick-off. The squad was now down to 12 fit players.
The team continued to warm up. Morale was still high as the Old Es had won the previous fixture 2-1 so the Es had every reason to feel confident especially as the opposition had still not showed. The coaches and referee looked at their watches. 15 minutes to kick off. No sign of the Ocean. This was turning out to be a strange day.
The atmosphere remained quiet. Discipline today was reiterated. No bookings, Sin Bins or sending-offs. Everyone agreed. Discipline was key. Would the Old Es, famous lack of discipline withstand the wind-ups and behaviour of the opposition, an all South American team, known for the dark arts as well as keeping the ball beautifully? Could the Old Es keep eleven on the pitch? Would they be able to start with eleven?
The team lined up with Jamie Brown in goal. Milo McCartney played right back with Joe Higgins moving to left back. Stef Popescu partnered Nathan Wilson in central defence. Les Moyo and Shaun Vickers anchored the midfield with Danny Harris, captain, moving to the left wing. Nelson Goncalves played on the right with Brad Harris playing the number 10 role behind the returning Harland Taylor. Johhny Clayton and the injured Henry Gray made up the substitutes bench.
The game kicked off and the Old Es were immediately into Ocean with a high press forcing the opposition to hit ball long. The game plan was working. Denying space with a strong press the Es were disrupting the Ocean’s passing game. Words were shouted, but mostly in Spanish, so nobody understood what was being said, but it was clear from the body language and multiple arms waving that Ocean were not the happiest.
On 15 minutes a glorious chance fell to Nelson Gonglaves on the right side of the box. The ball was crossed from the left floating over the Ocean defenders. Nelson took the ball down well and fired a shot forcing a worldly save from the goalkeeper who tipped the ball around the post for a corner.
The Es were on top and pressing. A shot by Brad Harris from outside the box skimmed the top of the bar. Surely it was only a matter of time before the breakthrough came?
Then a ball over the top was shadowed out by Nathan Wilson (aka Beans) for a goal kick. The Ocean forward challenging for the ball fell screaming hoping to get a penalty or an Oscar, whilst Nathan was shielding the ball off the pitch. Suddenly Nathans studs got caught in the soft turf, a scream was heard as his ankle was badly turned. Beans was off.
After the restart, Johnny Clayton came on to play at left back and Joe Higgins returned to his customary centre-back position. Only 20 minutes had passed, and all substitutes had been used. This was going to be a long game.
0-0. Half time
The energy exerted had been massive. Ocean pass the ball better than any team in the league meaning that the midfield legs were getting tired with all the closing down on the soft pitch. The team could not afford any more injuries and their were no substitutes left to replace tired legs
Deep breath. The second half commenced and Ocean came out strong. Knocking the ball around well, but without causing any major goal threat.
Gaps were now appearing between the defense and midfield as the game wore on. Legs were tiring but the huge effort exerted was keeping the Old Es in the game, but pressure was building.
Eventually, on 75 minutes, a penalty was awarded to Ocean for a foul in the box. The resultant spot kick was struck well to the goalkeeper's right. 0-1 down.
The players breathed in. One last effort was shouted from the sides. Was there much left to give?
A few minutes later, with the Old Es pushing on, a ball was played over the top of the defence, Jamie Brown came out to clear but the Ocean player had other ideas and deliberately went through the goalkeeper. A sending off surely? No. Not even a warning. Jamie was down and unable to continue. Ocean should have been playing with ten men, but instead it was the Old Es who were a man down.
Changes were made.
Johnny Clayton took the gloves. Danny Harris dropped to left back. Harland Taylor dropped to left wing and Henry Gray with a heavily bandaged big toe limped onto the field. 12 minutes to play. A goal down 10 1/2 men on the field and the goalkeeper off injured. What more could possibly go wrong?
You guessed it. Harland, running himself into the ground for the team, chased a ball down to win a corner, only for the referee to mysteriously award a goal kick. Harland was not pleased. Especially when the Ocean defender pushed him in the chest and started laughing at him. Harland breathed. He remembered the words from two hours ago.
“Discipline, discipline, discipline”, the team was proud of him, as he turned his cheek away from the provocation only to then swear directly at the referee's face about the decision. The two yellow cards were brandished Sin bin for swearing at the Referee. No!
The Old Es now had 9 1/2 men on the pitch, with ten minutes of normal time remaining. Caution was thrown to the wind. From somewhere more energy was found. The team kept going, pushing on, trying to create. The opposition defence was now panicking. Where before Ocean were neatly controlling the ball, now the ball was being cleared up field or into touch. Ocean had stopped playing and was gifting the ball to the ten men. The opposition players were asking for the final whistle. On the 90th minute, Harland returned to the field followed by the Old Es winning a corner.
The corner was delivered and cleared to the edge of the box, straight to Joe Higgins who kept his cool. Keeping his head down the defender smashed the ball into the net from the edge of the penalty area. The crowd went wild and the two dogs on the side started barking. What an equaliser. Ocean sank to the floor, deflated.
But the game was not finished. A few minutes of injury time was still to be played. Ocean flew forward after the restart to try and win this must win game, but the attack broke down and the ball was cleared out of defence to Brad Harris who flicked the ball on. Henry Gray who was now limping on adrenalin, forgot his pain. Collecting the ball he carried it up field, exchanging passes with Harland who found Henry again with a good pass on the edge of the box. A shot, but the keeper saved, only for the rebound to fall to Henry again who under pressure from two defenders manages to get a second shot away. The keeper again pulls off another save, tipping the ball away for corner. The game could have been won in the closing seconds but it wasn’t to be. The referee blew for time.
1-1 was the final score.
The league leaders had kept their advantage at the top of the table. The players were exhausted and deflated at first, but no one on the field could have done any more. What a game. The players battled to the end and the team spirit was amazing. It turned out to be a sad, but very proud day for everyone involved with the Old Es. The league title was probably now out of reach, but the spirit of the Old Club was as strong as ever.
Next game. Away to Leyton City. Saturday 8th March. Come along and watch. You may even get a game if the injury list does not clear up soon.
What else are you doing when Saturday Comes?
Match Day Squad
Manager Stephen Butler
Assistant Coach Kevin Higgins
Starting Team
Jamie Brown
Milo McCartney
Joe Higgins
Nathan Wilson
Stef Popescu
Les Moyo
Shaun Vickers
Danny Harris
Brad Harris
Nelson Gonclaves
Harland Taylor
Substitutes
Johnny Clayton
Henry Gray
Match Report
February 15th
Division 1 League Game
Old Esthamiens 0 West Essex Reserves FC 2
Old Es Legend Ronnie Boyce A minutes silence
Match Report
It was a cold, damp day. The pitch was soft but in good condition for a mid-February game. The players from both teams gathered around the centre circle, heads bowed for a minute of silence for Ronnie Boyce, who sadly passed away last week. Ronnie Boyce was an Old Esthameian, who played for the Old Es in the late fifties before joining West Ham and scoring the winning goal in the 1964 FA Cup final. Both teams showed their respect with a minute silence.
The referee blew his whistle and both players prepared to start the match. A quick circle of players was formed and Captain Danny Harris said some words.
“Old Es !” came the shout from the huddle. The team was ready.
In the away fixture earlier in the season West Essex Reserves lost 3-1 after a fine all-round performance from the Old Es that day. Today, a win was essential to keep pace with the league leaders, Ocean Pacific, who sat one place above and six points ahead. This game was the game in hand and three points were therefore vital. The two league leaders were due to play each other in a few weeks. Two wins and the Old Es would be top. Would the occasion, would the pressure of needing three points get to the players? The answer was yes. It was a shambles.
The Players forgot how to pass, how to press and track. Two and three touches were replaced with hoofing the ball forward. Basic attrition territorial football. Not very Old Es. The soft conditions did not help, but neither did the attitude of the players.
The Old Es were playing the ball safe and long. Balls into the channels and over the top. But seldom to feet. Forwards were not supported. Everyone played their own game. In their boxes. It felt tense. Balls were flying across the box but there was no one to receive the crosses. The moans started as the frustration started to show.
West Essex however was playing well and passing the ball around the midfield. Neat one-twos were stretching the team. To make matters worse, Kane Williams fell awkwardly and had to come off. Que Embalo coming on at left back and Danny Harris going into midfield beside Les Moyo.
The change unsettled the Old Es. West Essex attacked the left side looking for openings and they started to create. Half chances at first, and nothing to trouble Jamie Brown in goal. The Old Es were jumpy, restless, moaning cajoling. The game became more physical. It was not a pretty watch for the few spectators that braved the elements.
Then Henry Gray gave away a needless free kick on the halfway line receiving a yellow card for the late challenge. The resultant free kick was launched straight at the centre of the goal but was missed by the defence. The forward controlled the ball well and buried the shot from inside the penalty area. A bad goal to concede.
This was the moment that the team imploded. Shouting and arguments started. Fingers were wagging. The opposition couldn’t believe their luck. Cohesion had gone.
Half Time
Time to cool down. It was only 1-0. Not a margin to be overly worried about. Changes were made.
Henry Gray was substituted. Johnny Clayton came on at right back. Milo McCartney moved from full-back to central midfield Ola Embola replaced Tahmid on the wing Danny Harris went centre-forward. The tactic was to start pressing higher up the pitch. In the first half, the West Essex back four had had no real pressure to contend with as the Old Es sat off and waited to counter.
The second half kicked off and the Old Es started to exhort more authority. Playing on the front foot now the team pushed forward. Milo and Les started winning more balls in the midfield and pressure was mounting. It looked like it was just a matter of time before the equalizer was scored. On 70th minute, Henry returned to the field replacing Matt Pemberton. Danny Harris moved to the left wing. Balls were going forward, but nothing was falling. The Es had three good chances in a space of a few minutes All shots were blazed over the bar. Frustration was building. It was one of those days.
In the last ten minutes with both fullbacks pushing on, a long ball from the West Essex defence found their number 9. A clever tricky player who controlled the falling ball beautifully and raced away clear before hitting a low shot in the right corner of Jamie Brown's goal. The forward raised his hands to celebrate, maybe a touch too brashly.
The Goalkeeper threw his glove in disgust at the celebrating forward, who then strangely picked up the glove and started running with it. Jamie chased after him pushing him to the ground at which point a scene from an Arsenal Man Utd invincible tribute act was enacted as twenty players all wanted to push each other. The referee blew his whistle, which had little effect other than make the referee tired. Eventually the glove was returned and both sets of players returned to their starting positions Amazingly no one was punched, booked or sin-binned; so maybe the ref was right. Let it calm down. The game restarted, but it was over now as a contest. The ref soon blew the final whistle to end a strange poor game and chance to close the gap was lost.
No game on Saturday the 22nd February as it's quarter-final cup weekend, meaning the Old Es have a free weekend, having already played their quarter-round fixture a few weeks ago, beating Loughton Town.
Keep an eye out for the fixtures over the coming weeks. March is going to see some truly exciting clashes as the end-of-season draws near.
Put some dates in the diary. It’s going to be a busy month ahead.
What else are you doing on Saturday comes?
Match Day Squad
Manager Stephen Butler
Assistant Coach Kevin Higgins
Starting Team
Jamie Brown
Milo McCartney
Joe Higgins
Stef Popescu
Les Moyo
Danny Harris
Kane Wiliams
Matthew Pemberton
Tahmid Ahmed
Brad Harris
Henry Gray
Substitutes
Johnny Clayton
Nelson Gonclaves
Queba Embalo
Ola Kareem
Match Report
January 25th
Divisional Cup Game
Old Esthamiens 2 Loughton Town FC 1
It was a cold January day, a cup game against local rivals Loughton Town FC. The third meeting between the two teams this season with the Old Es being victorious in the previous two encounters. Would Loughton get their revenge, would the orange shirts be victorious this time? The answer was no, but it was a closely fought cup tie, full of blood, thunder, and a bit more blood. No one came off the pitch without a memento of the day, be that a bruise a cut, or a small stud mark to show the wives and girls friends that evening proudly.
The Old Es arrived a little late due to horrendous traffic, but as the players assembled the realisation was that this was a cup game, a quarter-final, a hard derby game against our old frenemies. Everyone knew that this was going to be a tough rough game and the warmup started well, friendly banter soon subsided to a more focused hush. The team was preparing for the battle ahead, mostly in silence.
The Old Es were playing Loughton in the cup, the ground was soft, the ball would be sticky, and this was never going to be a game of tika taka. Loughton’s idea of two-touch football was for the opponent to control the ball and then kick him. The eleven starting were unlikely to finish the game. Some wrote letters home, just in case as, they waited for kick-off.
The Old Es lined up with Johnny Clayton in goal with Stef Popescu coming into central defence to partner Natham Williams. Milo McCartney played right back and Captain Danny Harris occupied the left-back spot. A double midfield pivot of Shaun Vickers and Les Moyo anchored the midfield. Matthew Pembleton Brad Harrison and Nelson Goncalves played behind Henry Gray at centre forward.
The game itself kicked off five minutes late due to the club pen going missing and the team sheet was finally filled in with a borrowed pen. Even in high-level sports, small details can make a difference. The Old Es won the toss and kicked off with the bright low winter sun glaring across the field from the right-sided corner flag. The ground sloped very gently down towards the Loughton's goal. High balls and headers would be a challenge in the amplified glare coming from the clear blue sky.
From the opening, the Loughton defence was busy kicking anything that moved. The ball was being played forward, but Henry playing back to goal was struggling to maintain possession and was receiving some harsh treatment. The defenders were coming through and the physical, nature of their defending was apparent for all to see, except the referee.
The referee allowed the game to flow, and any number of fouls could have been awarded, but he decided not to. In fact, he hardly blew for anything, at one point it was thought he had lost the pea from his whistle, as nothing was given.
Through the robust challenges, the Old Es started gaining the initiative with Les and Shaun closing down the midfield providing space for Matthew on the left wing to start threading balls through the back line. On fifteen minutes, a Loughton mistake, the ball, was overturned thirty-five yards from goal; Henry picked up the loose ball and squared it to Matthew unmarked on the left-hand side of the box, a touch followed by a left-foot strike that flew high into the net. It was no more than the Old Es deserved.
The game now settled into an attritional football match with Loughton playing the ball forward quickly. Sometimes they even passed the ball around midfield trying to work the flanks, but the fullbacks remained strong and there were no gaps for Loughton to exploit. Stef Popescu in central, defence rose high to head a ball, colliding with the Loughton forward, a clash of heads. Both players were down. Luckily neither was seriously hurt and they both got to their feet, slightly dazed, shook hands with anyone they could focus on, and continued.
On 40 minutes, a route one clearance from Johnny Clayton in goal, flew down the middle right, evading a defensive header. Henry chased the ball and caught a beauty of a right-foot shot from outside the box launching the ball over the advancing keeper. A fine goal. Even the Loughton defender congratulated Henry for the effort, which was odd, as he normally spent the entire game trying to kick him.
2-0. Halftime
At half-time, the message was clear. One more goal and the semi-final awaits. However, if Loughton scores early in the second half, the game will become a battle. The game needed to be killed off. No subs were made at halftime as the game plan was to keep things tight until the hour mark then introduce pace from the bench as Loughton would be pushing players on to get track into the game.
The second half started brightly with both teams battling for possession of the ball; this was now a tough physical contest, maybe not the prettiest of games to watch, but compelling, nevertheless. The effort in the cold conditions, put in both sets of players was outstanding.
On the hour mark, Harland and Kieron came on for Nelson and Matthew to add some more pace and energy into the midfield. Five minutes later Ola replaced Henry at centre forward. The Old Es now had exceptional pace up front ready to exploit any gaps that would occur as Loughton pushed on. Would the fast players break away and secure the goal needed to close out the game?
Twenty minutes to play and Loughton broke down their right. A good ball across the penalty found the left winger in space; a touch and a guided shot, just passing Johnny in goal. 2-1. The game was alive. The tension could be felt. Both sets of players gasped for more air. A storm was brewing. Loughton threw everything into attack. A blocked shot as Les put his body on the line. A painful one, but Les carried on.
Then Harland broke clear down the left into the box, a foul a clear penalty as Harland was grappled to the floor, the ball flying over the bar as he tried to score. The referee gave a goal kick. Harland complained, then complained again, and found himself sin binned.
The Old Es were now down to ten men with eight minutes to play The attacks continued, and the blocks and tackles continued. Defending became industrial. The ball was cleared, then cleared again. Finally, the referee blew his whistle and a semi-final was the reward. The players cheered with smiles and hugs. It was a hard brutal match. No quarter was given by either set of players as they shook hands and mutual respect was handed out, as both sets of players, limped off the pitch.
This was true cup football in the finest tradition of English cup football.
No game on the 1st of February, but a top-of-the-table clash on the 8th of February to look forward to. Come along and watch.
What else are you doing when Saturday comes?
Match Report
January 18th
League Division 1
Old Esthamiens 2 Ocean Pacific FC 1
This fixture had been looming on the horizon as a season defining fixture. The Old E’s have sat second in the league to an Unbeaten Ocean Pacific for most of the season. Ocean’s record of 10 wins and 1 draw sat ominously in the minds of everyone associated with the Old E’s. A first meeting of the season on their home ground after a poor performance last week saw the E’s going into the game as a definite underdog.
Ass Coach, Johnny Clayton was once again standing in for Manager Steve Butler, who remained absent due to continued recovery from knee surgery. However, Steve had made his presence felt on social media, with team selection and strong word of encouragement. Captain Danny Harris was still carrying heavy bruising on his ankle following a foul tackle during last weeks game, but 1st team regulars Kane Williams in midfield and Nathan “Beans” Wilson were back in the starting line-up following absences on holiday. Kane acknowledged he had picked up a knock in training and was worried about his right hip and this proved to be an issue, and Kane was replaced by Nelson Goncalves after 10 minutes.
The E’s started strongly - as well as they have started all season and the change to formation that was necessitated by Kane’s substitution didn’t impact on early control of the game. Surprisingly Ocean’s early tactic was to use “route 1” long balls out of defence, over the E’s midfield, for their forwards to run on to. This was repeatedly ineffective with Nathan and Joe comfortably mopping up these seemingly “hit and hope” balls. The E’s settled to their game with Brad and Henry troubling their defenders. It was quickly becoming a physical game with strong tackling and wayward elbows, but the Es were in control. Harland played a lovely ball down the left for Brad to run on to and he was bearing down on the goal, only to be tripped 5 yards outside the box. The resultant free kick created the first clear chance of the game. Henry and Brad lined up behind the ball sizing up a direct shot on goal. Henry stepped forward and placed a glorious shot into the top bins left hand corner of Ocean’s goal. 1-0 to the E’s – a deserved lead inside the first 10 minutes.
Ocean were unflustered and settled to their game, dropping the long balls and starting to play through the midfield with some slick passing. The heavy lifting began for Shaun and Les in midfield to try and supress the Ocean surges. Shaun was inspirational in his industry and pressing, with his good standard of fitness showing through. Others were struggling on the heavy and uneven pitch.
Half-time arrived at a convenient point with lots of players on both sides looking like they welcomed the break.
Henry was replaced by Matty Pemberton at half time and commenced his customary practice of baiting the opposition and swearing at the referee from the sidelines. As sure as night follow day, Henry received his customary caution late in the game.
Ocean started the second half with renewed vigour and started to play the kind of football that had kept them at the top of the league for most of the season. The Old E’s dug in. This was going to be a long 45 minutes. Following a skirmish 25 yards out in which the referee got in the way of the E’s defence the ball broke loose to an ocean midfielder who launched a perfect shot on goal, beating, Jamie the E’s goalkeeper comfortably. No criticism of Jamie. This was a blistering shot. Energetic remonstrations followed from the E’s midfielders arguing the game should have been stopped after the referee’s obstruction. The Ref was having none of it and the goal stood. Ocean were on the ascendancy, but the Old Es were holding their ground and countering effectively. Harland Taylor (said to be a heavy smoker) ran endlessly and Shaun continued his tenacious play in midfield. A free kick to the Es from 25 yards out, to the right of centre and Brad lined it up. Ocean had every man back with a large 6-man wall. Another scorching free kick and the ball rippled the back of the net. 2-1 to the Es with a good 20 minutes to play. Ocean threw everything into the last period, with goal mouth scrambles, a couple of near misses and Les Moyo valiantly putting his body in the way to clear from the line. A sudden counterattack from the E’s and Nelson found himself running at goal with only the keeper to beat. The ball bobbled erratically on the uneven pitch as Nelson gently lifted the ball over the goalkeeper only to see it drift just wide of the post. An opportunity to nail the game beyond doubt had gotten away. The E’s suffered a nervy final 5 minutes, before rejoicing for a well-earned victory at the final whistle.
Every E’s payer gave a great performance! The best game of the season against a decent opposition.
Match Report
January 11th
League Division 1
Old Barkabbeyans 4 vs Old Esthamiens 3
It was a cold and wintery Saturday when the Old E’s league campaign got back underway in 2025. An away fixture at local rivals Old Barkabbeyans was the order of the day. A team the E’s had beaten comfortably at home earlier in the season, meant that the we were travelling with confidence (maybe too much?)
Head Coach, Steve was laid up recovering from knee surgery, which meant Assistant Coach Johnny Clayton was marshalling troops from the touchline. Steve wasn’t the only absentee, with first team regulars, Kane Williams (defensive midfield) and Nathan Wilson aka Beans (Central Defence) both away catching some winter sunshine.
The E’s hadn’t played a competitive game for 7 weeks and whilst they had been back training for a couple of weeks, concern had been raised by Steve about fitness levels after the Xmas break. Prior to kick off, messages were flying in on the group chat from a number of players who were delayed due to work, family commitments and/or traffic. A few players arrived late and were still getting changed minutes before kick-off. First team regular Nelson Goncalves, was so late he didn’t make kick off and so started on the bench. The signs were not good and the discipline and organisation that had improved over the season, was not in such strong evidence as the match got underway.
Within 15 minutes the E’s were 2-0 down. Old Bark’s number 11, a clever winger, was waltzing through our midfield and catching the back 4 off guard. The E’s have been slow starters in quite a few games this season and managed to turn it around. Would it happen again?
The E’s settled and Brad Harris and Matty Pemberton started to boss the midfield, pushing the E’s forward. Captain, Danny Harris was having some success on the left wing, pressing to the by-line and putting in balls for top scorer Henry Gray. Brad and Matty were putting balls over the Old Barks backline for Henry to run on to but he was having difficulty timing his runs and was repeatedly caught off-side. Before too long Tahmid Ahmed picked up the ball on the right wing, beat the defender an put in a lovely assist which Brad confidently tapped home. 2-1. Was the comeback on?
Brad Matty and Danny continued the press and this resulted in an equalising goal from Henry. Unfortunately, Old Barks were not for throwing in the towel and with a clever passing move down the left and an accurate cross, they were rewarded with a goal. Before the E’s had time to recover Old Barks had bagged another goal and went in 4-2 up at half time. Adding to the Old E’s woes, Captain Danny Harris was grounded with an ill-timed tackle where the defenders studs landed forcefully on Danny’s ankle. A definite call for a red card, but the referee explained at half-time he had been unsighted and what he hadn’t seen he couldn’t make a ruling on. Danny was sidelined for the rest of the game with an ice pack for company.
Johnny changed the team at half time, bringing on strikers Harland and Nelson for Matty and Tahmid. Later Ola and Queba joined in the fray with Blue and Les subbed. The changes were positive and the E’s started to command the game, with shots against the bar and post. E’s goalkeeper Jamie had little to do in the second half.
Ola was worrying the Old barks defence with some pacey runs and finally from a corners the E’s pulled on back with the ball going in off a defender for an own goal. 4-3.
It was now all out pressure for the equaliser. Tempers were fraying as the frustration built. Cautions were issued to Henry, Les and Harland, who was sin-binned for the final 10 minutes, for protesting too forcefully about an off-side decision. His anglo saxon language didn’t really help his case.
Old Barks dug in and made it to the final whistle with their 4-3 victory. A poor start had cost the E’s dearly.
Next week the biggest fixture of the season so far, when we go away to unbeaten League leaders, Ocean Pacific in a “must win” game for the E’s to stay in contention for a promotion place.
Match Report
November 30th
League Division 1
Ford Sports Ground
Old Esthamiens 5 Loughton Town 2
The Old Es kept up their impressive form of late with a hard-fought win against local rivals Loughton Town. A seven-goal thriller with a fine second-half hattrick from Ibrahim Sidibe helped secure the three points.
For those who can remember, the season's opening day fixture was on a warm summer day back on September 7th, 2024. The Battle of Loughton was played on a small, narrow, bobbly hard pitch, that saw Harry Evans go to hospital with a broken collar bone, alongside a dozen other red and yellow card offenses that left the Old Es nursing injuries and bruises for weeks. The encounter was won 3-2, but animosity was in the air. This was no friendly return fixture.
Despite that, the focus of the day was not revenge, but three points. A calm disciplined performance was needed to keep pace with the league leaders, who lay a tantalizing three points away. Thankfully, the rain had stopped and the ground was soft and in good condition meaning that football could be played today. A chance to narrow the gap.
The Old Es warmed up and practiced defending corners. Offensive corner routines were not practiced as full focus was given over to defending set plays. Loughton are a strong powerful team and they use their physicality well at set pieces. As the team went through the defensive drills, a Loughton player watched from afar, somewhat confused by a team practicing and being organised.
The Es lined up with essentially the same group of players as the previous fixture, with the only changes being that Jamie Brown returned in goal and Johnny Clayton started at right back. Milo McCartney was again playing at left-back alongside the reliable old guard of Joe Higgins and Nathan Wilson playing in central defense. In midfield Kane Williams partnered Les Moyo with Shaun Vickers, playing slightly to the right and Danny Harris, the club captain, playing left wing. Brad Harris continued in the number 10 position, playing just behind Henry Gray who led the line at centre forward.
The game kicked off with Loughton passing the ball around the back four, which was slightly unexpected, before launching the ball forward to the centre forward; that’s more like it. Battle commenced and the tackling was hard but fair The linesman on the other hand, who was a Loughton supporter, was very biased, bordering on out right cheating. Fearful of the speed of Old Es forwards, the linesman enjoyed flagging for offside at every opportunity, even when and Old Es player was in his own half. The keenness to raise his flag soon started to grate on nerves.
After fifteen minutes, it was becoming clear, who the better team was as good football started to open up the Loughton back line. The first goal followed shortly afterwards, when Milo McCartney won a 50/50 loose ball inside the Loughton half, then played a neat one-two with Danny Harris. Milo continued his run and drove to the byline crossing the ball with his left foot across the six-yard box which was calmly tapped home by Shaun Vickers. A finely worked team goal.
Soon after, Nelson Goncalves entered the game on the right side, replacing Shaun Vickers. Full squad rotation was being used today, and as the opening clashes settled down more attacking guile was being brought on to control the game.
The second goal came shortly afterward, as Brad Harris rifled a shot off the bar which bounced towards the edge of the box where Danny Harris steadied himself and scored with a fine first time shot managing to keep a rising ball down. A very well-taken goal. Danny then picked up the ball, and placed it under his shirt racing back to the centre spot, waving to his heavily pregnant girlfriend who was cheering him on from the sides.
The game was going well. The Old Es were in control, they were playing better football, and, looking more dangerous in the attacking areas, but football springs surprises. With halftime approaching, the fabled clean sheet was shouted out just as Loughton won a free kick about thirty yards out on the right side. The Loughton big boys salivated at the chance to head the ball, or jump on someone’s toes; either would have pleased them. You could feel their excitement and tension at the opportunity. The ball was launched directly at the goal, route one. Jamie Brown came through a crowd of players and managed to get a fist to the ball, which landed near the edge of the penalty box. A Loughton forward took a touch and crashed the ball home.
The Loughton number 10 celebrated by shouting to the old ES bench,
“You should have practiced more set pieces mate. Huh huh.” He laughed at his own joke. No one joined in.
Shortly afterward, the referee blew for half-time. The Old Es were in control of the game, but Loughton remained a threat from set plays. A tough second half was expected.
Half time 2-1
Ibrahim Sidibe came on at left wing allowing Danny Harris to move to right back replacing Johnny Carson, who had taken a hard kick on the ankle in the first half. Shaun Vickers returned to action in centre midfield replacing Kane Williams. The second half then started and within five minutes, Loughton scored from another corner. Another set-piece goal. Our friend shouted.
“You should have practiced more corners mate. Huh huh.” It wasn’t funny the first time.
Some Old Es head's dropped for a moment as the second goal went in. After all the good football played, to concede two goals on either side of half-time was hard. Then a few moments later Loughton won another corner, and a header was cleared off the line, which is why you practice defending corners. A man was set on the front post and cleared the ball away.
The wake-up call had definitely sounded. The home team were fired up now and started passing the ball around the visitors who were now tiring, more gaps were opening, and space was appearing between the lines.
The ball was now passed forward, finding Henry in the inside right channel, Ibrahim came in from the left wing and collected the cross just inside the penalty area, one touch, and the ball was in the back of the net. 3-2. A great team goal. Shortly afterward, Brad Harris got away from his man down the left side, crossing the ball for Ibrahim who shot early making the score 4-2. The game was won.
Matthew Pemberton came on for Henry Gray who had had a fine battle with the centre-halves, he smiled as the opponents shared a few words as he left the field, but at 4-2, the argument was won.
Queba Embalo replaced Danny at full-back and was immediately involved in a seat of neat passing moves numbering over twenty passes that moved the ball around the pitch followed by tired Loughton midfielders.
Then another goal of the season contender. Ibrahim picked up the ball inside his own box, skipping past a weak challenge he started running towards the centre circle. Three Loughton midfielders converged but none of them managed a tackle or foul, as Ibrahim sped away into the opposition half. At this point, the crowd feared for his life and limbs, running at that speed towards the Loughton defenders. Everyone fully expected a foul at any moment, but none came, and Ibrahim out paced the last defender with both legs still attached to his body, beating the goalkeeper with a low powerful strike. The crowd went wild. What an individual goal. Ibrahims recent warm weather training had paid off.
The game ended shortly afterward and the players shook hands.
“where did you get him from mate?” Said the Loughton Number 10 pointing at Ibrahim.
“I don’t know, but we practice that goal in training” came the reply.
Three more points were gained, keeping the Es on the coattails of the league leaders who also won their fixture 3-1. However, the goal difference gap had been narrowed for the second week running. It remains very tight at the top of the league.
Next week Leyton City is the next opponent. The only league team to have beaten the Old Es this season.
It promises to be another great game. Revenge for the defeat, is in the air?
Come along and watch your team play.
What else are you doing when Saturday comes?
AI Video coverage sponsored by Major Housing Association
Match Day Squad
Manager Stephen Butler
Assistant Coach Kevin Higgins
Starting Team
Jamie Brown
Johnny Clayton
Milo McCartney
Nathan Wilson
Joe Higgins
Les Moyo
Danny Harris
Shaun Vickers
Kane Wiliams
Brad Harris
Henry Gray
Substitutes
Ibrahmin Sadibe
Nelson Gonclaves
Matthew Pemberton
Queran Embola
Match Report
November 23rd
League Division 1
Ford Sports Ground
Old Esthamiens 9 Freetown FC 3
Hello Supporters
After a week off, the Old Es were back in action at home against Freetown FC, in a League One fixture. A very wet game saw a dozen goals, three penalties, and three points for the Old Es.
The turbulent day started with storm Bert blowing a gale across the country early on Saturday morning. In the words of AA Milne, it rained, and it rained, and it rained. Would the game be called off? The Ford groundsman advised that the game was on, and to be fair, the ground was soft but playable.
As the team arrived, the midday sky was gloomy grey, as the rain softened to a fine drizzle, the day was milder than of late, which was welcome, but it was very wet. The weather teased for a brief moment suggesting it might improve, but then the rain returned as a squall, as the wind changed direction again. Would the pitch hold up to another downpour, should the team take the wind in the first half? Lots of questions. The players found their long studs and pulled them out of the loft. This was not a game for modern short studs or perhaps modern footballers. It felt like a game of yesteryear.
So, it may have been apt, that the team arrived in their new Royal Blue, Old Es team jackets, retro in design, with a blue and white collar, emblazoned with the club badge, finished with elasticated cuffs and waistband. The squad looked uniform, smart, and 1970s chic cool. Maybe long mustaches could be grown to complete the look? Perhaps, another day?
Several controversial selection decisions were now made. Chameleon, the AI cameraman was rested today. It was decided this was not a match for a tripod set up in possible 40mph wind gusts. Alongside Chameleon, Jamie Brown was also rested in goal due to a nasty collision which happened on Thursday at training. It was not worth risking the best keeper in the league on a slippery pitch against this opposition. Nelson Goncalves was also rested, tight groins and mud are not happy bedfellows, and a week’s rest was prescribed. Several changes then from the planned lineup. The players were disappointed but took the decisions well.
The Old Es casually started the warmup, some more players then arrived, late, also in a casual manner, it was all a bit, well, casual. Definitely not the attitude or start one had come to expect from the team of late. Several were grumbling about tactics, team selection, and global warming. The Manager gathered the players together before the start and let go with both barrels. The team was told in no uncertain terms what was expected. The three Ms. No moaning, mistakes, or bad misses. This was the holy trinity of weekend football, and it was drummed home. Notice was taken and focus was restored.
A 3-0 scoreline was demanded at halftime. The team accepted the challenge. Would it be followed?
Across the other side of the pitch, Freetown FC players also started arriving in the rain in drips and drabs. There appeared to be little structure to their team or warmup. The Freetown manager requested a delay to kick-off due to some of their players not being on time. The referee quite rightly said “No!” 2.00 pm kick-off was scheduled and the light was fading fast. Would it still be light at 4.00 pm? There was no time for delays or a late kick-off in the fading autumn gloom.
Freetown FC had now assembled twelve players, so the game could kick off on time. A rumour was heard later, that two of their players were late due to slow service at McDonalds. However, it wasn’t made clear if they were working or dining there. Nobody said it was easy managing at this level.
The Old Es changed line up formed up in a 451 shape. Johnny Clayton was playing in goal today with Stef Popescu coming in at right back, with Milo McCartney again playing at left-back. The reliable old guard of Joe Higgins and Nathan Wilson formed the central defence with Kane Williams and Les Moyo resuming their central midfield axis. Shaun Vickers, back in the side after a toe injury, started on the right with Danny Harris, the club captain, also back in the side playing left wing. Brad Harris resumed in the number 10 position, playing just behind Henry Gray who led the line as centre forward.
A competitive tough and experienced team was fielded today, ideally suited for a muddy game in the wind. The 3 Ms were repeated, with no Mistakes, Moaning, or bad Misses. Three points were vital today as Ocean Pacific, the league leaders lay six points ahead with a +9-goal difference advantage. Today was the game in hand and a chance to gain ground on the leaders could not be squandered.
The referee blew his whistle to start the game, and the Es kicked off, launching a ball towards the Freetown right back, which was miscontrolled and cleared for a throw-in. Pressure started early and Freetown was being overrun already. The good start got even better as within ten minutes, Henry Gray drove into the 18-yard box where he was pushed, pulled, and finally thrown to the ground. The referee hesitated for a moment, possibly out of confusion regarding what the defender was trying to do, but finally gave a clear penalty, but for some unknown reason, the referee did not award a clear yellow card. Nonetheless, Henry stepped up and rifled the ball to the keeper's right side. 1-0.
A few moments later, it was penalty number two. Danny Harris, drove into the box chasing a ball played over the top. The covering defender practiced his own form of jujutsu, bringing Danny down and gaining a submission all in one move. Another clear penalty which was awarded and another clear yellow card was not given. Henry stepped up and smashed the ball into the roof of the net making the score 2-0.
Brad Harris then curled a beauty with his left foot, into the top corner from twenty-five yards. 3-0. Game over. Now it was about goal difference. Could the Old Es pull back the +9 in one game? Another penalty was awarded. Henry stepped up for his hat trick of penalties and smashed it against the bar. The ball ricocheted out, into the middle, a scramble, and the ball was cleared for a corner.
The pressure continued, then Henry who was enjoying the Freedom of Freetown, shot a rocket of a shot, from twenty-five yards past the shell-shocked keeper, who now must have wished he had stayed in McDonald's with his lost friends. You could see that this was starting to hurt, but football is a funny old game, and then a bizarre goal came out of nowhere, as the Freetown forward picked up a loose ball and hit a shot that was half-blocked by Joe Higgins. The ball went high, very high, and then came down and dipped under the bar. A fluke! But the jammy goal made the scoreline 4-1. Freetown rejoiced.
“One more goal before halftime,” they jumped for joy, as they picked up the ball and sprinted to the centre circle. Their spirit was lifted, renewed energy flooded through the players, and for a brief moment, they looked like a team. Some hasty defending had to be done.
A few moments later, the game was killed off again. A ball by Nathan Wilson from the right found Les Moyo in the box, the midfielder rose high and his glancing header landed to the right of the goalkeeper, making the score 5-1. The fine headed goal made Freetown’s head finally drop.
Then another cross from the right-hand side and Les again was in the zone, not a header this time, but an overhead kick, which would have been a wonder goal, if only his foot had connected with the ball. More pressure was exerted, and a corner was cleared. But the Old Es continued to push hard. Henry, who had not scored for 15 minutes, and was feeling a bit left out, scored his fourth goal just before the referee blew for halftime. The players came off to warm applause from the few supporters who had braved the elements of the day.
Halftime 6-1. The league leaders, Oceans’ goal difference was down to five goals now. If the Es could win 10-1 the difference would be eradicated. A target was set for the second half. There could be no let up. Games like this are rare, and the opportunity had to be taken to close the gaps.
Queba Embalo came on for Stef at right back, whilst Tahmid Ahmed and Ola Kareem replaced Shaun and Danny on the wings. The Es were throwing youngsters with pace against a tired and dispirited back line.
The second half started with an early goal, to Freetown, poor defending allowed the forward to tap in an easy goal. That was not supposed to happen. The Old Es, target was ten, but every goal conceded was a goal against the goal difference target set by the league leaders.
The team pushed on, Danny Harris returned to action along with Shaun, and the pair combined well to create a fine goal making the second half score 1-1. The intensity remained high and the target was still very much in mind. Then, the maddest goal of a mad day. Johnny Clayton gathered the ball, and trying to maintain the intensity, threw the ball to Milo at left-back with speed. The ball, however, came off Milo’s heal as he sprinted away, and the ball careened into the path of the Freetown forward who was so surprised by his good fortune, he completely miskicked the chance, wrong footing Johnny in goal, and the ball bobbled over the line. 2-1 down second half! This was not how the script was supposed to play.
The Old Es stepped up the pressure again, and a second goal from Brad Harris made the score 8-3. The team continued the pressure, the desire of every player was clear. Milo following in off a goalkeeper parry tapped the ball into an empty net to make the score 9-3. Three minutes left. Could the Old Es score ten? A final chance, but no, it wasn’t to be. The referee blew his wet whistle. The game ended with three good points, and six goals improvement to goal difference tally, a fine performance.
The players came away happy with the day's work. The effort had been ten out of ten but only nine goals had been scored.
Next week, another home game against Loughton Town. Why not come along and watch your team play?
What else are you doing when Saturday comes?
Match Day Squad
Manager Stephen Butler
Assistant Coach Johnny Clayton
Assistant Coach Kevin Higgins
Starting Team
Johnny Clayton
Stef Popescu
Milo McCartney
Nathan Wilson
Joe Higgins
Les Moyo
Danny Harris
Shaun Vickers
Kane Wiliams
Brad Harris
Henry Gray
Substitutes
Tahmid Ahmed
Ola Kareem
Queran Embola
Match Report
November 9th
League Division 1
Noak Hill Sports Complex
Romford
Alpha FC 1 Old Esthamiens 1
Hello Supporters.
A thrilling 1-1 draw on Saturday. Two points dropped a good point gained? Only at the end of the season will we know. But another good strong performance from the team.
The Old Es were playing away again, that’s three matches in a row, away and this time, the team was playing in the most easterly game yet, way past the Romford shopping centre, against FC Alpha, a team based around a set of Eastern European players.
Noak Hill Sports Complex is a smaller sports facility compared to many of late, but the pitch was enormous. Easily the largest football pitch in the league, almost Wembley in size and dimension. Today would require a lot of running.
As the players arrived, a veteran game was finishing and on the referee's whistle, the old players, some with grey beards exited the large 3 G pitch very slowly and gingerly. It was great to see men of a certain age still playing the great game, but there was some worry that several of the older gentlemen, might not reach the touchline before the start of the next game.
The Old Es’s finally entered the pitch and warmed up. A new corner drill was to be practiced today in secret. However, two FC Alpha KGB agents were nonchalantly standing around, pretending to fix the nets and other such things. The warm-up drill was changed until the coast was clear. Eventually, the opportunity presented itself to practice V1 and V2 drills, two corner routines providing a clear plan for scoring from a corner. Old Es’s statisticians will know that the team has yet to score from a corner this season. Unfortunately, training night is not on a full-size pitch, so time is short to practice corner routines and set plays. Today, V2 was also being introduced, a corner routine, that provides a variety of movement and deception. The first set of players, take the opposition defenders away, leaving the last man to attack the ball unchallenged. After a few attempts, it worked, in practice. Would it work during the game?
The team then practiced a Rondo routine, keeping the ball in a tight circle to warm up the legs. The weather had become chillier. Late autumn chill. Some of the players, were now wearing skins under their shirts. Winter football was not far away. The mist was heavy and the sky was grey, which gave the pitch a slippery shine. The ball would run today on this surface.
The referee arrived. It was the same referee as last week.
“Not him again!” some sighed as the ref entered the field and shook hands with the manager and coaches of both teams before writing some notes in his notebook. Some suspected that Henry’s name was being added now, to save time later. Discipline was again mentioned. This ref likes a booking, but he does control the game. There are a lot worse officials in the league.
The referee blew his whistle and called both sets of players together around the centre circle to mark remembrance day. Some had forgotten it was Remembrance weekend, but arms were linked and heads were bowed in solemn respect as a minute silence was honoured. Both sets of supporters stood still and quiet, except a young lady on the side from Alpha whose telephone call to Bucharest was more important. Chameleon the AI cameraman gave her a hard stare. As did one or two others on the side. Noticing, she reluctantly, walked away from the side lines, carrying on her conversation which was obviously very important - to her at least.
The Old Es kicked off in a 4231 formation, mostly unchanged from last week's excellent performance with Jamie Brown in goal, Johnny Clayton, coming in at right back and Milo McCartney again playing at left-back. Nathan (aka Beans), started alongside Joe Higgens at centre-back. Les Moyo captained the side again, accompanied by Kane Williams in midfield. Brad Harris played just behind Henry Gray who was playing as centre forward with Harland Taylor on the left and Nelson Goncalves on the right. A strong lineup.
The Old Es had beaten Alpha at home earlier in the season, but Alpha had improved significantly since then and their results had picked up of late. Alpha had changed, they seemed to have had more new signings than Chelsea. It was a completely new team and they were a good young fit side at that.
The message before the game was patience. Wait for Alpha to blow themselves out. They were expected to come out like a train and it was important to remain compact on this large pitch and weather the storm, before exerting authority, and picking them off. As predicted, the game started at a brisk pace, with Alpha having the majority of the ball and proving to be a good footballing team, comfortable in possession but not getting behind the Old Es back line, who were comfortable holding a midline, however, the ball was being played in the Old Es half.
Then a mistake. Beans passed across the face of the goal and the ball was well-read by the Alpha number forward who stole possession, pushed the ball to his left, and rifled a shot from the edge of the box into the lower left corner. A quick well taken goal. 1-0 after ten minutes.
A few moments later, a good save by Jamie Brown, saving high to his right, keeping the game alive. The resulting corner was punched away. Things needed to improve. The Old Es stepped up their game. Some words were said. Tackles came flying in and more aggression helped to regain authority as the frenetic pressing of Alpha started to wane. The midfield started to gain control. Alpha were less keen now and some started shouting very loudly when tackled. One particular culprit screamed every time he was touched, which was very off-putting to the Old Es players, as most of them couldn’t stop laughing at him. Finally, the referee booked him for screaming out of tune and play-acting.
The game became more direct. The ball was then won by Johnny Clayton in right midfield and a chip over the top set Brad Harris clear, holding off the defender, cutting inside, and making it 1-1. Shortly afterward, the Es had a corner, Nelson shot, blocked by the defender, the chance feel to Johnny Clayton on the edge of the box, which flew over the bar.
Harland was next through in the inside channel, the ball bounced, a flick to the defenders left and a blatant hand ball, stopping an effort being shot at goal. Sending off surely? No said the mystic ref. Yellow card. The resulting free kick struck the wall, The Alpha player blocked the shot but was down. That hurt.
The tide had turned.
Halftime 1-1
Johnny was replaced at halftime by Blue Walsh who came on at left back with Milo returning to right back. All the team had to do was win the second half. Continue with the pressure. No mistakes. Go long on the large pitch and find the wide men.
Alpha's defence was solid but they offered less and less going forward in the second half, with Jamie in goal dealing with a small number of tasks without fuss. Alpha's fouling became an art form. Another hand ball from a player with a yellow. No said the ref. Another foul, push on Milo, a second yellow for number 7. No said the ref. If Alpha had finished with 9 players, they would have been fortunate.
The Old Es had their chances to win the game however. Yet another corner, V1 used, chaos, cleared off the line. A shot, the keeper made a good save. Another shot, just wide. Brad Harris cut inside from the right, left foot shot from twenty-five yards, off the bar. Magic, luck, skill, and effort, rules of the game. None were rewarded today.
At 80 mins Dipro Adip replaced the very tired Henry Gray, and the game settled for a draw as both teams had given their all. The referee blew to end a very hard-fought game, and a few limped off, as a sign that the Old Es had battled today for only one point. It felt like two points had slipped away. FC Alpha however, were happy at the final whistle; the Old Es were not.
Seven points had been earned from three away games and only two goals had been conceded in 270 minutes of football; a great set of stats, but it felt like it was not enough, as the players slumped to the ground. The draw felt like a defeat, especially as Ocean Pacific, the league leader had won again. The gap at the top widened by two more points.
The autumn chill felt chillier as the players headed to the changing rooms disappointed and bruised but looking forward to the next match, a home game, (finally at home) against Condor FC. A game between the two best defences in the league. Will it be a 4-3 classic?
Come along and watch your team play.
What else are you doing when Saturday comes?
Click to watch the match highlights
Alpha FC 1 -0
A chance
Old Es 1-1
Hitting the bar
AI Video coverage sponsored by Major Housing Association
Match Day Squad
Manager Stephen Butler
Assistant Coach Johnny Clayton
Assistant Coach Kevin Higgins
Starting Team
Jamie Brown
Milo McCartney
Johnny Clayton
Joe Higgins
Les Moyo
Nathan Wilson
Brad Harris
Kane Wiliams
Harland Taylor
Nelson Goncalves
Henry Gray
Substitutes
Sahir Ahmed
Dipro Adib
Stef Popescu
Blue Walsh
Queran Embola
Match Report
November 2nd
League Division 1
Wadham Lodge
Walthamstow
West Essex Reserves 1 Old Esthamiens 3
Hello Supporters.
Another good win for the Old Es
The match was played at Wadham Lodge in Walthamstow, the home pitch of West Essex Reserves (WER) and coincidently the last pitch that the gaffer had played on over 15 years ago, scoring his last-ever goal. Would it be a happy return? The answer was yes with a strong, disciplined, hard-working performance that delighted everyone, including the West Essex Reserve manager who was very complimentary about the Old Es football after the game. A well-run, good sporting team.
The Old Es arrived in good time for the earlier 1.00 pm kick-off. Wadham Lodge is a large multi-purpose Football Facility with several floodlit astro pitches and tiny changing rooms, designed more for 5-a-side team changing than an 11-a-side team. Dressing room 4 was allocated to the team, which was an apt number as it had about enough room for four players to get changed.
Some background music was put on using a portable iPhone speaker to get the team in the mood as players bunched up trying to get changed in the tight space. In the opposite changing room, West Essex arrived with a 1980s-style music box with the volume turned up to 11. The Old Es shut the door to keep the noise out. If WER could play as well as they danced it was going to be a tough day today having won 5 out of 6 games so far this season, matching the Old Es league record. Two teams on the same points, but with vastly different tastes in music.
The players quickly made their way to the 4G pitch to get away from the dreadful music to find that the pitch was marked out for multi-use, with red lines for hockey, yellow lines for five aside, and white lines for soccer. It was not very clear what line was what. The ref was going to find it hard to read the lines today, or was he? The team soon discovered that the referee was an experienced official, who had refereed in this league for many years and was known to a great deal of the older players in the team.
“Oh no!” was the collective groan from the old guard when he finally arrived. The light misty rain, which was clearing, covered the refs' glasses, making it hard for him to see, as he raised his glasses to write in his notebook. Would this small vision impediment affect his performance today?
“Don’t speak to this ref.” The coaches all said. The referee or “Mr. Sin Bin” as he was affectionally christened was known to like an early yellow, and any excuse to get his new shiny sin bin card out of his pocket was to be avoided. During the Pre-match team talk, discipline was drummed home. WER are a young fit energetic side, so organisation was key today, and keeping 11 men on the field was vital on this large pitch.
The Old Es warmed up, and then slowly walked over to the penalty area furthest away to run through some corner drills; a new set-piece routine was being introduced today. The players walked through the drill quietly to avoid giving anything away. No running. Top secret deception was key. Diagonal decoy runs, staggered starts, and accurate delivery, all were surreptitiously practiced at a walking pace to avoid detection. Would this hard work pay off during the game? The answer was No. However, work in progress.
Les Moyo was captain on the day as Danny Harris's knee kept him out of today’s fixture. WER won the toss and elected to change ends, trying to gain a small psychological advantage. There are fine margins at this level.
The Old Es kicked off in a 4231 formation, mostly unchanged from last week's excellent performance with Jamie Brown in goal, Alex Baker-Merry, coming in at right back and Milo McCartney switching to left back. Les Moyo and Joe Higgins continued at centre-back whilst Kane Williams and Shaun Vickers resumed their partnership anchoring the midfield. Brad Harris played just behind Henry Gray who was playing as centre forward with Harland Taylor on the left and Nelson Goncalves on the right.
The game started at a brisk pace, with WER having the majority of the ball and proving to be a good footballing team, comfortable in possession and winning three corners in the first fifteen minutes. Jamie Brown was asked a few questions from long range, but all were comfortably answered and saved.
Then a classic Old Es turnover in midfield. Nelson coming in from the wing was found in the centre circle, a turn followed by a deftly weighted through ball which cut through the centre of the defence, Brad Harris broke the offside line and was clean on goal. The keeper came out, a jink to the right and a sidestep to the left and the ball was rolled into an empty net. 1-0.
The game resumed. WER again attacked and hit the Old Es brick wall. The ball was cleared by Alex into midfield where it was controlled by Nelson who looked up and found Harland Taylor with a deft flick over the top Harland, coming in from the left, out paced the covering defender, and finished with his left foot, 2-0. Harland peeled away, celebrating his goal by poking his tongue out at the opposing fullback and waving his fingers in his ears. Yes, discipline was key today. Mr. Sin Bin however, was not happy, his finger wagged, his head nodded from side to side, and out came the first yellow card. The misty glasses were raised and placed on his head while number 7 was added to his notebook.
A few moments later, a throw was awarded to WER about 25 yards from the goal, a very wrong decision, which saw Harland kicking the ball away in disgust. Gasp! went the management team on the side, followed by “NOooh” from the supporters. The entire right-hand side of the pitch looked at Mr Sin Bin who kept his card in his pocket. “Phew,” sighed everyone.
The game settled into a familiar pattern, WER kept the ball well, then lost it against the Old Es back line. Harland then found Nelson floating in from the right side, putting him through the middle with the defender closing in. The ball was clipped over the goalkeeper and landed the wrong side of the crossbar. A chance to kill the game. Nelson looked on with total dismay, hands on head. How did that happen? The Old Es however, were not finished with near misses, another attack, the keeper was again all over the place and a shot was struck into the centre of the goal blocked by the covering defender who cleared away the shot.
Shortly afterward, Brad Harris was put through again in the inside left channel, three defenders closed in, the keeper closed down, the ball bobbled towards goal, and a boot cleared the ball away, as all four players were left on the floor.
The Old Es continued to dominate. Tackles were won, and the energy level was high, resulting in a fabulous goal, coming from a thirty-yard angled delivery from Nelson, from the inside right channel that was floated to the far post, which was caught clean by Harland who volleyed into the net. The ball didn’t touch the floor. A goal of the season contender and a comfortable 3-0 lead.
3-0. Half time.
The team talk at half-time was all about shape and discipline. The game should have been out of sight, but an early goal from WER would open up the game again. One more goal and the opposition would cave. Keep it tight. No mistakes.
“Goals win games, clean sheets win leagues.”
Henry was replaced as Centre forward by Ibrahim Sidibe bringing more pace to the attack. As WER was expected to press to get back in the game, space was to be expected to be found in the wide areas.
The game restarted and the Old Es won the first tackle, WER looked deflated. More pressure and another shot was cleared off the line by the WER covering defender. It could have been 6 by now.
Shaun Vickers was replaced on the hour, by Stef Popescu who slotted into centre back and Les Moyo stepped forward into midfield. Tahmid replaced Nelson on the right wing. Henry returned to replace the tiring Harland at 75 minutes, who had run himself into, the ground and Ibrahim went to the left wing.
The Old Es were sitting deeper now. Absorbing pressure and closing the gaps but space was opening between the midfield and forwards. Legs were tiring. However, Ibrahim was enjoying the space on the left and was causing problems down the wing culminating in a thunderous shot from 25 yards that was well saved by the WER keeper. The killer fourth goal however, was not to be.
With little more than ten minutes to go, WER won a corner which was whipped in beyond the far post, the ball was clipped back across goal into the danger area, a looping header was floated back into the six-yard box, and a WER forward headed the ball over the line. A scrappy tired goal making the score 1-3. Would there be a rally, a surprise ending?
Johnny Clayton came on up front to replace the bruised Henry who had taken some big hits battling alone up front, and he was straight into the game. His experience was on show as the big man held the ball up and chased down the defenders helping the team to close out the match.
The ref blew the final whistle. A good professional second half was over, a well-managed and contained half. It could have been six but 1-3 was the final score. The players were slightly upset, it should have been a clean sheet but they smiled as they shook the ref's hand. The ref wasn’t that bad in the end. Don’t know what all the fuss was about?
A good sporting game. Not a bad tackle on show. Goal-mouth action, really good football played by both teams. A very enjoyable afternoon.
Next week. The Old Es are Away again. That’s three away games in a row.
FC Alpha in Romford
All this away traveling, and not a moan in sight.
Come along and watch your team play.
What else are you doing when Saturday comes?
Click to watch the goal highlights
AI Video coverage sponsored by Major Housing Association
Match Day Squad
Manager Stephen Butler
Assistant Coach Johnny Clayton
Assistant Coach Kevin Higgins
Starting Team
Jamie Brown
Milo McCartney
Alex Baker-Merry
Joe Higgins
Les Moyo
Shaun Vickers
Brad Harris
Kane Wiliams
Harland Taylor
Nelson Goncalves
Henry Gray
Substitutes
Tahmid Ahmed
Ibrahim Sadibe
Stef Popescu
Johnny Clayton
Match Report
October 26th 2024
League Division 1
Parsloes Park Hub
Dagenham
Leymour Gardens U23 0 Old Esthamiens 2
Hello Supporters
Another win for the Old Es’ in a tight game played by two good footballing sides on artificial grass. Those who missed it missed a feast of football.
The game was played at Parsloes Park, Dagenham, a large modern purpose-built complex of artificial football pitches and training facilities, dedicated to the late great Bobby Moore.
Upon arrival, a young lady at reception handed over the key to the dressing room in exchange for a £20 cash deposit. The changing rooms were clean and modern, but had the feeling of a Russian detention centre, with dim strip lighting which only half lit the room making it hard to find anything in the kit bag. Harsh narrow wooden benches ran along the sides. The showers, however, worked, and neither scolded nor froze the players when you turned them on. These changing rooms were luxurious compared to the old days. How times have changed?
The game was away, at 3.00 pm kick-off, and in Dagenham, would the squad assemble on time? The answer was almost yes. A strong group of sixteen players were selected with most of the squad being fit and available. The Old Es’ were ready and focused. After the defeat last week, 3 points were needed.
Lymore Gardens has several teams, and the U23 team was originally developed to support younger players. Today, however, it seemed that Under 23 was more of a weight category than age limitation, with some very large defenders on show. A few incidents over the last few seasons also meant that today was a bit of a grudge match. Would today be a red card feast? The message from the coaches was all about keeping cool, no cards, no mistakes. Provocation was to be expected and ignored.
“They can win the arguments; we will win the points.” Everyone agreed, but how many would keep their promises? Today was a test at many levels including the first use of “Chameleon,” our new “Artificial Intelligence,” powered camera. Sitting on a 14-foot-high tripod, the camera, would automatically track the ball and record the game in full high definition. Sound recording, on or off, was optional.
Chameleon however, suffered from a few glitches, one was that Lymore had an array of assorted colour balls, which meant that the new ball replacing the one that was kicked over the fence, was a different colour. No doubt Chameleon's AI user testing in California had never considered this major sporting event, nor had the designers considered the effect of substitutes playing “keepy-uppy,” on the sidelines. Chameleon panned left and right as spare balls bounced around. The good news, however, was that most of the key action was captured including both goals. Highlights coming soon.
The pitch was relatively new and in excellent condition, complete with floodlights and a dugout for the manager and squad to sit in. The supporters, seeing the seats free, soon took up residence in the dugout, making themselves comfortable, which meant that the players, who now had nowhere to sit, stood and crowded the technical area.
The pitch was large, easily 15 yards longer, and 5 yards wider than the Old Es’ home pitch at Ford's. Acres of space to run into, the linesman would be busy today as runs behind were to be expected.
This brings us to the subject of referee’s assistants. In every game, both sides allocate a person to run the line for the ref. The Old Es’ are incredibly lucky to have Kevin Higgins who does a tremendous job every week for the club, running the line and Kevin is a particularly good and fair lino.
Now, we all know that some linesmen from the opposition can be a little biased. Most of them are grumpy substitutes doing a “half” for the team, so will obviously favour their side in the tight calls, and this is tacitly understood. On Saturday however, we had a very keen person, who took on the role a bit more earnestly than most and took every opportunity to flag offside whenever the ball was played forward. The linesman even managed to flag Henry offside whilst he was in his own half. The crowd in the dugout, mostly made up of wives and girlfriends, showed their displeasure, and soon things became a little heated. The assistant coach of Lymore came over to smooth things over. After a short discussion, the “lino” kept his flag down, restricting his flagging to when a forward was only a yard onside. Things improved.
The Old Es’ started in a changed formation of 4231 with Henry Gray back in the side after injury, leading the line as number 9 supported by Brad Harris, who took up the number 10 role just behind the forward, with Ibrahim Sidibe and Matthew Pemberton taking the wide positions. Shaun Vickers and Kane Williams created a strong midfield two, with Les Moyo dropping to centre-back beside Joe Higgins. Danny Harris and Milo McCartney took the full-back spots with Jamie Brown in goal.
The Old Es started well, playing good football which resulted in several long-range efforts that were well saved by the Lymore Keeper, who had a very good game. Pressure was now building, Henry was put through, but the keeper was quick off his line and smothered the shot, the ball ran loose, a scramble, which ended as a corner. The Old Es were getting closer.
Then a mistake, the Lymore centre half lost control of the ball, Ibrahim, who was getting some rough treatment from the defenders, nicked the ball, broke through, the keeper came out fast, a jink to the right, the keeper went down, a turn to the left and tap in. A well-taken goal that Jimmy Greaves, a lifelong friend of Bobby Moore, would have enjoyed.
Half Time 1-0
A few changes were made at half-time. Henry came off along with Matthew, as Tahmid Ahmed came on the left wing and Harland Taylor came on at right wing with Ibrahim going forward into the number 9 role. New legs and fresh pace were added to the attack. Raw speed was causing problems in the wide-open areas and more space was going to appear as legs tired. The second half continued in much the same way, with both defenses doing well, and the fullbacks making good covering runs. Ibrahim was fouled again. Then again. Then Tahmid picked up the ball in midfield and drove forward before being rugby tackled to the ground 25 yards from goal. A three-man wall lined up to face Brad Harris whose ferocious left-foot shot kept on rising as it hit the back of the net, making it 2-0. Twenty minutes to play, surely that was the winning goal. Lymore Gardens, however, were not finished but Ibrahim was, as he limped off. Karim Kadri went to right wing and Harland went up front as number 9, giving Lymore defenders some new legs to kick.
The pressure was now building with Lymore, searching for a goal, pushing more and more men forward trying to make the breakthrough. A good corner was taken followed by a melee in the six-yard box, then a shot at full power at close range, brilliantly blocked by Les Moyo, but Les was down. The ball had hit where you would least want it. At first, the management team on the side thought it was a head injury, but fortunately, they had the wrong end of the stick. But Les was in serious distress and was unable to continue. Stef Popescu came on at right back and Milo went to centre back.
15 minutes to play, then another strong attack and a Joe Higgins challenge resulted in a penalty. If the penalty was converted, the game was set for a rousing finish. A few Lymore Gardens players jostled for the ball wanting to take the kick. Finally, their number 10 stood over the ball, breathed, and waited for the whistle. Jamie Brown, who nearly saved a penalty in the last game set himself. Number 10 shot to the keeper's right, high with power. Save! Jamie got both hands to the ball and pushed it around for a corner. The crowd went wild, the players jumped on the keeper. Surely now the team was home and dry. The corner came in, resulting in another goal-mouth clearance. Everyone was protecting the Old Es’ clean sheet. Shot, block, shot, and finally the ball ballooned over the bar.
The Old Es’ counter-attacked with Tahmid getting in on the act and blazing over the bar and fence with his left foot. Another new coloured ball. Chameleon looked confused. The ref blew a few moments later. 2-0 final score. Another zero for the defense making it three clean sheets in six league games, the best defense in the league held firm.
A good day indeed, along with top-of-the-table Ocean Pacific being held at home by Loughton Town. The Old Es are now only four points off the leaders with a game in hand and a visit to Ford's home ground to come soon. It is getting exciting at the top.
Next up. Away again playing West Essex at Wadham Lodge.
A game between two sides with equal records this season.
Come along if you can.
What else are you doing when Saturday comes?
Match Day Squad
Manager Stephen Butler
Assistant Coach Johnny Clayton
Assistant Coach Kevin Higgins
Starting Team
Jamie Brown
Milo McCartney
Danny Harris
Joe Higgins
Les Moyo
Shaun Vickers
Brad Harris
Kane Wiliams
Ibrahim Sadibe
Matthew Pemberton
Henry Gray
Substitutes
Tahmid Ahmed
Karim Kadri
Harland Taylor
Stef Popescu
Match Report
October 19th 2024
League Division 1
Ford Sports Ground
Old Esthamiens 4 Leyton City 5
Hello Supporters
Another thrilling all action game on Saturday. For those that were unable to attend, you missed nine goals and countless penalty box incidents. It was edge of the seat stuff, including a dodgy penalty, the Old Es hitting the post with minutes to go and Jamie Brown pulling off another top draw save. It was a basketball game at times, but you couldn’t keep your eyes off it.
The Old Es were missing several regulars for this match, so the game plan was to start solid, be tight and hit Leyton City on the break. Leyton had shipped in fifteen goals in the last four games, so the Old Es forwards were licking their lips. If the back line held tight today, we win.
The team were set up to play a 451 shape, with the enthesis on counterattack. If Leyton could be drawn on, the pacy forwards would be able to break into the space left behind and win the game.
Things started well, that was until the third minute, when the Old Es goalkeeper who is normally a man of the match contender, had a mad moment, missing an easy cross which landed at the feet of a startled Leyton forward. Open goal 1-0. “We go again,” shouted the captain.
Leyton came searching for the second goal, pouring down the right side gaining ground, but no real chances were created. Then the trap was sprung, as Ibrahim collected the ball on the left hand side of the halfway line unmarked, with only one defender to beat it was a race to goal. It turned out not to be a fair race and within seconds the teams were even.
The game restarted in the same pattern. Ten minutes later, Nelson received the ball on the right side, dinked inside and chipped the keeper to make it 2-1. Leyton were looking worried. They had all the ball, but the Old Es were picking them off. Words were said. The game became more even now with Leyton dropping off. They were wising up.
The Old Es started to get more of the ball and were looking more threatening. The ball was being passed around more and confidence was growing. Then, a badly placed pass was intercepted in the centre circle. The Leyton forward was quick and in a flash he was bearing down on goal equalising.
The game restarted, the Leyton bounce was back and they continued to cause a number of problems, especially down the right flank, with skilful pacy wingers pushing the defence back towards goal. The boys in midfield were running hard but were being outnumbered and out run. Jamie in goal, pulled off a top save in his left-hand top corner. Pressure was building, but few meaningful shots were getting through. Then another goal for the Old Es, a copy of the first in many ways, as Ibrahim, escaping his marker on the left, cut inside and buried the chance with a powerful shot into the roof of the net, making the score 3-2 at half time.
Half Time 3-2
The Old Es were leading, but the team came off disappointed. The vibe was that of being beaten because Leyton had most of the ball. It was a strange team talk, leading but disappointed. The team changed shape to a 442 formation with Brad Harris dropping from centre forward to add more bodies into the midfield. Harland Taylor came on at right full back to add some more pace against Leyton’s tricky winger. Maybe it was a mistake to change. Whilst Leyton had most of the ball, the Old Es were hitting them hard on the break. The front three were causing a lot of problems and had the beating of the Leyton back line.
The game restarted with Leyton on the front foot. The Old Es dropped deeper and deeper as the attacks intensified. The back four were winning many challenges but the ball kept coming back. Leyton’s pressure soon paid off, scoring a soft goal which should have been cleared, followed shortly afterwards, by their right winger, diving over Joe’s leg and winning an Oscar nomination and penalty for his efforts. Jamie Brown, nearly saved the spot kick, diving to his right hand side getting a glove to the ball, but he could not keep it out. The score was now 4-3. Leyton were now flying, finally scoring a good passing goal with their wide man finding himself free at the back post after a clever interchange. 5-3 down. Heads dropped a little. The players had worked hard and some were running on empty. It was not to be our day. Or was it?
A few changes were made, and the team rallied. Ibrahim broke again and scored his Hatrick. Three goals, all break aways. Heads went up. The Game was not over. The Old Es pushed forward with the last reserves of energy to try and grab the equaliser. A corner was won, the defenders sucked in deep and ran the length of the pitch, into the box to get the equaliser. The corner was miss hit by Milo who slipped, the defenders moaned at the quality of the delivery as the ball went along the floor, no one reacted, it hit the front post, a scramble and a Leyton boot just cleared. A free kick was awarded shortly afterwards, twenty-five yards from goal. The shot was blocked by the Leyton wall which stood firm. The Old Es pushed again, but the referee blew the final whistle.
It was a good sporting encounter, a chaotic exciting watch. The neutrals liked it as both teams battled to the end. Those that represented the old club gave it a real go. Nothing but praise for the effort including the referee who had a very good game. Sadly, the winning run had to come to an end, but it took five goals to end it. But that’s football.
Special thanks to Kevin Higgins for all the match day help.
Back to winning ways next week. Why not come along and watch.
What else are you doing When Saturday Comes?
COYEs
Match Day Squad
Manager Stephen Butler
Assistant Coach Kevin Higgins
Starting Team
Jamie Brown
Queba Embalo
Milo McCartney,
Joe Higgins
Brad Harris
Kane Wiliams
Blue Walsh
Ibrahim Sadibe
Nelson Goncalves
Adib Dipro
Joe Coffey
Substitutes
Sahir Ahmed
Tahmid Ahmed
Karim Kadri
Harland Taylor
Ben McDonald
Match Report
October 12th 2024
League Division 1
Ford Sports Ground
Old Esthamiens 4 Old Barkabbeyans 1
Hello Supporters
Another, thrilling all action game on Saturday. For those that were unable to attend, you missed a cracker.
A 4-1 win, a sending off, sunshine, a torrential downpour, yellow cards awarded for fouling diving, and simulation. Both the posts and crossbars were rattled, and both keepers pulled off top saves. We even had a back heal. The game had everything !
The match started well, the Old Es’s were back in their familiar 433 shape, gaining control of the midfield. The Old Barkabbeyans had set up in a fluid 352 formation, which seemed to confuse both teams at the beginning. There was acres of space on the Old Barks’ flank, as the two full backs were playing very high. The Old Es started to make good progress down the right-hand side, with Milo McCarthy and Tahmid Ahmed, creating a number of chances down the flank.
A corner was won, a half chance, but the Old Barkabbeyans broke clear, their pacy forward charging in on goal. Joe Higgins came across to cover just as Nathan Wilson, who was playing his first game of the season at centre back, took the ball and the man resulting in a foul and yellow card. A free kick was awarded twenty yards from goal very central. The ball was struck well, dipping inches over the crossbar. A close call, a big moment.
The goal kick was taken and the Old Es regained control of the midfield. Then Henry Gray was put through, but he was flagged offside when clearly on. A few moments later, the Old Es broke the line again, only for offside to be called for a second time. Finally, Nathan Wilson, delivered a long ball that found Henry in the box, onside this time, and with defenders appealing and with only the goalkeeper to beat, the ball was smashed into the net to make it 1-0.
The Old Barks started barking at each other, as their defence was finally breached. The Referee then sin binned their defender for talking out of turn, and over explaining to the Ref how to run the game. One goal down, one man down, could the Old Es capitalise on the Old Barkabbeyans disadvantage?
Within five minutes, the answer was given, as Henry, who was struggling with a hamstring injury, was found just outside the box by Shaun Vickers; a good pass, a good first touch, powerful shot, goal. 2-0.
The Old Es were playing good football now, cutting through the Old Barkabbeyans back line, time after time. Then another through ball opened the static defence. A half shot and block sent the ball spinning into the six-yard box, a scramble, as bodies dived into the melee, ending when both the left back and the ball bounced over the goal line; the final touch coming off Tahmid Ahmed for his first goal of the season. 3-0. Game over, or was it?
The Old Barks tricky forward was up to his tricks again, receiving the ball in his own half and running direct at the defence. Nathan, who uses the nickname of “Beans,” came across to cover, pulling out of the challenge before contact. The forward however, had other ideas, he dived and screamed, convincing no one on the pitch that there was any contact, except the referee, who took out a second yellow card from his pocket. Beans was off.
“441” the manager cried from the touch line as Les Moyo dropped into centre back and the wide players tucked inside. It was going to be a long 50 minutes. The game was not over after all.
The Free kick was taken and the shot went high and wide. If that effort had gone in, then the game would have turned on its head. Half time was blown a few moments later. Time to regroup.
Half Time 3-0
Brad Harris came on upfront, to play the lone striker role. Henry, happy with his two goals, limped off.
The four-man midfield were instructed to run themselves into the ground, the subs would come on after an hour to carry the game home. The first fifteen after the restart were critical. If the scores remained the same by at the hour mark, the game would be won. However, if the Old Barkabbeyans, scored after the restart, a battle would be on with the ten men holding on.
Strangely, the Old Barks came out in the second half in the same formation. Keeping a three-man defence against a lone striker. Brad chased and harried but naturally with the extra man the Old Barks started to gain territory, but few real chances were created. The Old Es back four expertly marshalled by Joe Higgins and man of the match Les Moyo were as solid as ever. A long-range shot was well saved by Johnny Clayton in goal. It would require a good strike to beat Johnny today.
Then the heavens opened, rained lashed down and strong winds helped keep the ball in the Old Es half. The supporters on the side headed to the bar to take cover from the rain, (that is what they claimed) as the monsoon lashed down.
The Old Es midfield, continued to battle in the slippery conditions, coping well as the ground become very wet. Discipline was maintained, the shape was held. No gaps or spaces for the opposition to work on.
Brad Harris, on his own up front, was causing all sorts of problems for the three-man defence, who were struggling with his pace and power. There was oceans of space on the flanks, as the Old Barks kept pushing on in the hope of getting that all important next goal.
Then an attack down the right, driven on by Matt Pemberton, who was starting his first game for the club, crossed for Kane Williams, who burst un marked from midfield, making no mistake with a powerful shot taken from the edge of the box, 4-0. The game was effectively over.
Matt Pemberton then left the field having run himself into the ground. Blue Walsh came in at left back and Danny Harris moved into midfield. The shape remained solid. A clean sheet was now the target.
As the rain and storm passed over, and the supporters returned, the Old Barks’ storm also subsided. It was the Old Es that now looked most like scoring, with another effort hitting the post followed by a shot that bounced off the bar. Then Brad Harris, chasing a long ball down the middle, gave a delicate chip over the defender and keeper, who was way off his line. The ball bounced, shaved the post, and went wide. Another chance: Shaun Vickers cut inside, shot, the defender did well, and managed to get the block in. Surely another goal was coming?
Towards the end, Sahir Ahmed replaced Tahmid, and Fabio Balde came on for his first game of the season, replacing Danny Harris who was carrying a knock. The game was easing now into the final stages, but all credit to the Old Barks, they wanted a goal, and the Old Es wanted a clean sheet which would mean the team had managed 3 ½ league games without conceding a goal. That zero was on everyone’s mind now. 92 mins on the clock. A corner, “surely it’s over ref?”
The corner was delivered long, outside the box to a forward who caught the ball on the volley, crashing the ball into the top of the net with his left foot. From corner to goal without touching the floor. The Ref then blew for full time. The Old Es’s clean sheet was lost to the last kick of the game, a wonder goal.
The players walked off deflated, some fell to their knees, it felt like a loss. The enormous effort put in to keep that clean sheet was heroic. Everyone including the spectators were soaked and exhausted. A true battling performance. However, after a moment of reflection, the mood lightened. The smiles and jokes returned, it was after all, a very good win. Four league games, 12 points, only 3 goals conceded so far.
I suggest, dear supporters, you would have been proud of your team today. A very good result indeed.
Thank you to Kevin Higgins assistant coach and all the supporters that showed up. The noise and support was very welcome.
Next week. Another home fixture against Leyton FC
Hope you can make.
What else are you doing when Saturday comes?
COYE's
(Come on you Es)
Match Day Squad
Manager Stephen Butler
Assistant Coach Johnny Clayton
Assistant Coach Kevin Higgins
Starting Team
Johnny Clayton
Milo McCarthey
Joe Higgins
Danny Harris Capt
Nathan Wilson
Henry Gray
Kane Wiliams
Les Moyo
Shaun Vickers
Tahmid Ahmed
Matt Pemberton
Substitutes
Brad Harris
Sahir Ahmed
Blue Walsh
Fabio Balde
Harland Taylor
Match Report
October 5th 2024
Fenton Cup Game
Round Two
Bancroft Rugby Ground
Buckhurst Hill
Score
Buckhurst Way 4 Old Es 0
Dear Supporters,
Not the result that we were hoping for. Round two of the Fenton Cup, a competition, that the Old Es have won in the past. Our opening game of the cup was against Buckhurst Way a solid Division 3 side, two leagues below the Old Es. Whilst not being complacent, the team were expecting to go through to the next round, and everyone arrived in good spirits and in shirt sleeves, as the early autumnal sunshine created the ideal conditions for playing football.
Everyone had turned up on time, all in kit and read to play, all except one player, (there is always one, but we move on). Clean sheet was the order of the day, after all, the team had gone 225 minutes without letting a goal in. Three hundred minutes was the call. Another clean sheet, and the Old Es would surpass three hundred and fifteen-minutes mark without conceding. Something to work for.
Bancroft Rugby Ground was a rugby facility for Bancroft’s public School. Association Football was not the main sport played at this venue. On arrival some big men were throwing a strange shape ball at some school kids. It was all a bit strange. There was no lock on the changing room doors, so obviously everyone is very trusting in this part of the world. As the weather was very pleasant, the team got changed by the side of the pitch, which was the other side of the playing fields, maybe a quarter of a mile away, across a number of Rugby pitches. In the dim distance, a very long way from the club house stood some lonely Association Soccer goals that showed us the direction. The team trundled over bobbly ground carrying their bags, like sherpas on an adventure, carrying kit, balls, and the managers folding table amongst other things.
The ground was bumpy, very bumpy not watered roll or treated. The lines must have been painted by Picasso, not one was straight. On arrival at the pitch, we found that the goals were on wheels and were in the wrong position and had to handled into position, they were also an odd shape, the cross bar for one of the goals had sunk by a few inches in the middle. In the centre circle a dog had left us welcome present, which had to be cleared before a ball was kicked.
Buckhurst Way then turned up, in all Navy Blue. Big lads, not a very skilful warm up routine, but they were big. Some probably played with another odd shaped ball on their weekend off. The Opposition then asked for a team sheet pad, as they had lost or forgotten theirs. No problem, we are professional, we have spare. Huh Amateurs.
The Ref then turned up a bit flustered, he had got lost and noticed that his new Black Football Association referees’ uniform would colour clash with the Navy shirts of Buckhurst. So, he brought out a bright yellow shirt that had seen better games. It was a little tight. It wasn’t a good look. He then asked, in his snug yellow top.
“Are we OK to play on a pitch with a wonky cross bar?”
A difficult question really. If we said no, the game would be called off, and postponed. Could we have claimed the result? Would that be in the spirit of the Old Es?
So, we said. “Not a problem, we shoot low anyway.” A joke was made of the terrible state of the pitch and off the Ref went to inspect the corner flags.
Somehow, we knew this was not going to be a normal day, but the team was confident.
The Old Es won the toss for kick off, which was the last thing they won in the entire first half. Buckhurst Way were direct and played long ball but they were winning the 50 50s. The Old Es tried to play football, which was a mistake, pass, bobble bobble. Oh dear. There was not much of threat from Buckhurst all the same, direct yes, but not dangerous, until that is; two mistakes, and two goals conceded all within the first 30 minutes. Buckhurst then had a corner which was half cleared, the ball was sent back into the box and hit the crossbar. Luckily, the cross bar was three inches lower than regulation, so the ball stayed out. That’ll teach them. Private school playing fields and the cross bar was bent. The game continued.
Then another mistake, leading to a rash challenge and a penalty. Strangely the referee got that decision correct. Johnny Clayton in goal, made himself big. Staring down the opposition forward. The lad calmly walked up and side footed onto the post. Hi missed. A change in fortune. Half time arrived. Time to regroup.
Four substitutions. On went the cavalry. The Old Es were two down to Loughton earlier this season and came back to win 3-2. This team were not as good as Loughton. They were bigger, but not better. A comeback was on the cards. The Es started the second half much better, playing more direct to the forwards. Then a foul, an argument and the captain decides to get himself sin binned for 10 minutes for explaining to the referee the error of his ways. Chaos. Shortly afterwards 3-0 Game over.
Heads dropped. The manager fumed; players lost discipline. The game turned ugly as tackles went in. Buckhurst Way had a few players who started hitting the dirt faster than a war film. The game was now horrible. The camera man showed up late, but luckily he didn’t have his camera equipment ready. It was one of those days. So, apologies for no match coverage. Maybe it was better that way.
The game ended 4-0. The Old Es had lost the first game of the season. It was not a good feeling. Lots of bruises and no goals scored. Words were said, a few home truths shared, and the players trouped off. The only positive, was that it was a warm day, the league position has not suffered, and we don’t have to play on that pitch again this season.
Next week, a home game, on a football pitch against an old foe, The Old Barkabbeyans FC.
Come along and watch. That should be a good game.
What else are you doing when Saturday comes.
Match Day Squad
Manager Stephen Butler
Assistant Coach Johnny Clayton
Assistant Coach Kevin Higgins
Starting Team
Johnny Clayton
Curwin Hutson
Blue Walsh
Brad Harris
Stef Popescu
Danny Harris Capt
Les Moyo
Shaun Vickers
Harland Vickers
Tahmid Ahmed
Nelson Goncalves
Substitutes
Henry Gray
Sahir Ahmed
Blue Walsh
Tahmid Ahmed
Ola Kareem
Match Report
September 21st 2024
Castle Green Centre
Dagenham
Score
Freetown FC 0 Old Es 2
Another good win for the Old Es.
A quick thank you to Johnny Clayton who was Team manager on the day and assisted by Kevin Higgins. Also special thanks to Mr Chairman Chris Wood. Massive contribution on the sides from all the back-room team.
Match Report
Going into the game the Old Es had a number of hitches to preparations. Our regular Thursday night training session had to be cancelled owing to a fire at a nearby light industrial unit. Emergency services locked down the area and access to the training facility was denied. No pre match training, no team tactics. What’s App was used to communicate team information, not the ideal start to the weekend.
The following day Harland Taylor (wide forward) and Kenny Avebuan (Midfielder) had to pull out owing to minor injuries. This was on top of four first team players who are out with team long term injuries and four other players who were missing due to planned absences owing to work and family commitments. Even the team manager, Stephen Butler, was off in Germany at a wedding. Johnny Clayton stepping into the management role. All hands-on deck for this match. This was a test for the squad.
As the team arrived in Dagenham, the weather started to turn ever greyer the closer the players came to the ground. The boys warmed up well, shape and tactics were discussed, a clean sheet was spoken about again and again. The team was ready, focused, but the game was delayed as the referee arrived late having been held up in traffic. The omens were looking ominous. Concentration was key. Focus.
Finally, the game kicked off and the heavens opened, the pitch became slippery and wet and good football became harder to play. Freetown, who had lost their previous two league games, were up for the points today. The home team started well and put the Old Es under pressure, but the Old Es defence is strong and managed the initial onslaught well.
Then, within 10 minutes Henry Gray, the leagues’ top goal scorer (5 in 2 games) slipped on a greasy uneven pitch and had to come off with a suspected hamstring injury. Another injury. New signing, Ibrahim Sidibe, went on to lead the line up front.
Within 10 minutes following a long clearance from keeper, Jamie Brown, Ibrahim sprinted after the ball, comfortably outpacing the defender, and quickly bringing the ball under control beating the covering defender before launching a blistering shot from the edge of the area which settled into the corner of the goal. The Old Es were out of the starting blocks. The low midfield block had dented Freetown’s initial wave, and the team were now gaining possession of the ball, the rain eased a little. Within 5 minutes, left winger Tahmid, put a well-placed cross into the box and Brad Harris, playing in midfield for the day, had a comfortable tap-in.
2-0 Half Time
Second half: Freetown came out with renewed energy and vigour and put together some good moves in midfield. The Old E’s back line warriors were at work again and not for the first time this season were the heroes of the day remaining solid and impenetrable. Freetown struggled to make a shot on target and the E’s defended set plays and corners well. Joe Higgins playing Centre Back won everything and thoroughly deserved his Man of the Match award.
The pressure mounted in the final 10 minutes and the game became even more physical as Freetown pressed for a goal. Jamie Brown, made a couple of his trademark one handed saves to protect the clean sheet. However, the enduring image will be that of big man Stef Popescu chasing an opposing attacker out of the box and launching a superbly timed sliding tackle which took man and ball off the field. This was cheered by the players, as much as a goal. A symbol of a great defensive performance and the desire to keep the clean sheet.
The final whistle was blown and the team shook hands having maintained their 2-0 advantage and another clean sheet. That is now 225 minutes without conceding a goal. Three league games, 3 wins, 9 points, only two goals conceded all season and second in the league on goal difference.
We were very proud of the Old Es today. These games shape seasons.
A week off next weekend. A chance to lick the wounds and get some players back. A cup game awaits on 5th October. It should be another great game.
See you there.
What else are you doing when Saturday comes?
Match Day Squad
Assistant Manager Johnny Clayton
Assistant Coach Kevin Higgins
Team
Jamie Brown
Alex Baker
Stef Popescu
Blue Walsh
Brad Harris
Joe Higgins
Les Moyo
Tahmid Ahmed
Kane Williams
Henry Gray
Nelson Goncalves
Substitutes
Johnny Clayton
Ibrahim Sidibe
Match Report
September 14th 2024
Ford Sports Ground
Score
Old Es 4 FC Alpha 0
Hi Supporters.
What a good day
A quick thank you to Johnny Clayton and Kevin Higgins. Massive contribution on the sides.
Also thanks to Mr Chairman Chris Wood and Capt Danny Harris.
Excellent team work all around. Thanks team.
Match Report
The Old Es scored four goals and could have easily have made it six! The team truly dominated the game, and kept their cool under the warm sunshine. It was a professional performance that showcased everything that the team have been working on. Hard work, passing, pressing and teamwork!
Knowing that Alpha would start strong, the Old Es started in their regular 433 formation, which turned to a 451 when the opposition had the ball. - No space, - no mistakes.
Jamie Brown in goal had little to do, but managed a few shots cleanly and without fuss. After the heroics of last week, today was a easier day with the gloves. The Old Es back four were strong disciplined, like bouncers on a nightclub door. No one was getting passed Curwin Hutson, Joe Higgins, Bradley Harris and Danny Harris today. Meanwhile, the midfield was ticking over with Leslie Moyo and Shaun Vickers leading the press and Kane Williams stealing the show with his man of the match performance bossing the midfield.
Then Nelson Goncalves had a chance, chipped the keeper, narrowly over the bar. Then another chance that went wide. The Old Es were starting to dominate the game.
On the half-hour mark, Shaun Vickers sent Harland Taylor clear who rounded his marker showing off some fancy footwork, cutting inside and scoring with his right foot, followed by Premier league class celebration. Henry Gray, not wanting to be outdone, quickly made it 2-0 after being found by a clever pass from Danny Harris. Alpha were now struggling with the heat and closing down was hurting. Gaps were starting to show. A good delivery by Bradley Harris allowed Henry Gray to bag his second and make 3-0 at half time.
Half Time 3-0
Cool down. Water. Lots of water. It was warm. Kenny Avebuan came on for Shaun to bring some fresh legs to the midfield. As the second half started, again the Old Es were tight. Then a moment. A split second loss of concentration, allowing Alpha a golden opportunity to score, but their forward decided to kick it wide instead. A chance and a warning. Gaps were closed, tight tight, no space for Alpha to play. Nothing else was given.
The Old Es started to dominate again, with Kenny, who is maturing into a fine midfielder, driving into the ever larger spaces opening up in midfield pushing the opposition back.
Tahmid Ahmed came on the left wing teasing the opposition full back with some great touches. A chance. What a shame the ball went narrowly over, it would have capped off a fine second half performance.
Johnny Clayton, replaced Curwin Hutson, who had a very strong game at right full back on the hour mark, and slotted in tight with the Joe Higgins playing right sided centre back. Blue Walsh came on at left back for Danny Harris, and was immediately into the game. The two full backs were compact, solid and played some excellent quick ball into the midfield. Sahir Ahmed came on for Nelson and immediately kicked the opposition full back. It showed a willingness to win the ball. The players shook hands. No harm done. The referee, who had a good game, said a few words but kept his card in his pocket.
Then a bit of magic. The fourth goal. What a goal. Highlights below. I won't describe it. Just watch it.
A very good day indeed.
Match Day Squad
Manager Stephen Butler
Assistant Coach Johnny Clayton
Assistant Coach Kevin Higgins
Team
Jamie Brown
Curwin Hutson
Brad Harris
Joe Higgins
Danny Harris Capt
Les Moyo
Shaun Vickers
Kane Williams
Henry Gray
Harry Evans
Nelson Goncalves
Substitutes
Johnny Clayton
Kenny Avebuan
Sahir Ahmed
Blue Walsh
Tahmid Ahmed
Match Report
September 7th 2024
Loughton Sports Ground
Scoreline
Loughton Town 2 vs Old Es 3
Click to watch the full match
Match Report
Where do I start? What a game.
Two down after half an hour....
The match between Loughton Town and Old Es was a thrilling encounter, with Loughton taking an early lead with two goals in the first half hour. Loughton's direct play and effective set pieces caused trouble for the Old Es defenders, but Jamie Brown's top saves kept the Old Es in the game.
Loughton are a big strong side who unsettled the defenders with long balls and set plays. Their delivery from corners and free kicks was especially good. During the opening phase, Jamie Brown in goal kept the Old Es in the game with a string of top saves. The Old Es tried to play football, but the pitch was hard and bumpy, as were Loughton Town.
Further high balls into the box soon created more chances, with both of Loughton two goals coming from second ball opportunities after the Old Es failed to clear.
The day was warm and sticky, playing football was difficult on a dry bumpy pitch, and the referee, who had a good game overall, didn’t give a thing; hard but fair tackles went flying in.
This was now a battle.
The Old Es came fighting back. The intensity of the first half hour started to wane, as the Old Es started to gain control of the ball in midfield. Then, Harry Evans had a bad fall on the hard ground, and had go to hospital for an x-ray. Unfortunately, the injury was a bad one and a broken collar bone was the result.
Things were not going according to plan.
A few changes were needed.
Olawale Kareem came on, taking up the left forward position in a 4-3-3 formation. The Old Es started to play more direct now, using pace into the channels to push back the tough Loughton back line. Space was appearing in the midfield as legs began to tire in the warm weather. Nelson Goncalves was then found by Henry on the edge of the box and scored, jinking past the full back and neatly scoring with his left foot.
Within five minutes, the equaliser. Henry Gray scored a screamer into the top left corner from the edge of the box. The Old Es were now dominating the game, and with only a few minutes to half time Henry scored again, with a near-post angled shot to the goalkeeper’s left making the score 2-3.
A few words were exchanged between the players, and a Loughton Town defender head butted Henry Gray, who to his credit stayed on his feet and didn't react. The manager substituted Henry immediately, as rolling substitutions are allowed, to prevent any cards being shown. Time to calm down.
Why wasn't their centre half sent off? No idea. Not even a yellow. I think it’s fair to say that the ref let the game flow.
Tahmid came on the left forward position and Ola went centre forward. The half ended.
At half time Kenny Avebuan replaced Kane Williams to get some fresh legs into the midfield. Stef Popescu came on at right back for Curwin Hutson. The bench was being used, to create maximum energy. Both teams had put a lot of effort into that first half.
In the second half, the game finally become more open. At one point there was an outbreak of football, as more space was found in the centre of the field. The Old Es were now hurting Loughton with pace down the flanks.
Loughton were now blowing hard, the day felt warmer and some players were feeling the heat and the physical nature of the game. The Old Es stayed organised and compact in the middle, magnificently organised by Les Miyo, who had a fine game. The team were now feeding the pacy wingers who were pushing back the Loughton back four. Foul... foul... foul... No yellow cards. The wingers got up and went again. A good shape remained and control of the game was held: Thamid and Ola both going close to sealing the match.
Loughton, however, were not finished. In the final few minutes they piled on the pressure, with Jamie Brown again pulling off a top save to effectively take the points.
The game ended with a shot by the Old Es that went narrowly wide. The referee blew his whistle. Both sets of players shook hands, knowing that they had been in a game.
Bruised. Battered. Happy.
3 points to take home.
What a great game to start the season.
Rosta
Manager Stephen Butler
Assistant Coach Johnny Clayton
Team
Jamie Brown
Curwin Hutson
Brad Harris
Joe Higgins
Danny Harris Capt
Les Miyo
Shaun Vickers
Kane Williams
Henry Gray
Harry Evans
Nelson Goncalves
Substitutes
Stef Popescu
Kenny Avebuan
Olawale Kareem
Tahmid Ahmed