Chelmsford City slipped to a narrow 1-0 defeat away to Aveley on Good Friday
after a second half strike from Luke Holness proved decisive in a game where the Clarets created several chances but failed to find a breakthrough
Ryan Blackman and Charlie Ruff all had opportunities throughout the afternoon
but Millers goalkeeper James Holden – named as Aveley’s Man of the Match – produced a series of fine saves to preserve his clean sheet
Manager Robbie Simpson made four changes from City’s previous outing ahead of the Essex derby at Parkside
He handed a first senior start since November to forward Freddie Hockey
Arthur Penney and Jazzi Barnum-Bobb also came into the starting XI
The Clarets lined up in a three-at-the-back formation and showed plenty of early attacking intent
Hockey looked lively in the early stages alongside right winger Nico Valentine and both players tested Aveley keeper Holden in the opening 10 minutes
Left wing-back Sam Oguntayo burst forward in the 12th minute and produced a powerful strike
which forced Holden into a smart stop to keep the scores level
Aveley carved out a good opportunity of their own in the 28th minute
when Manny Ogunrinde headed over at the back post from Desse Kasinga-Maida’s inviting cross
City came close again before half-time when Barnum-Bobb and Valentine linked up well down the right
The latter had a low shot saved once more by Holden
The Aveley stopper was called into action again just before the break – this time getting down quickly to deny Hockey after he got on the end of Barnum-Bobb’s poked through ball
The Clarets began the second half with more attacking intent and created an early opportunity when the front three of Hockey
but Holden stood firm once again to deny Crichlow
Aveley missed a golden opportunity to take the lead in the 52nd minute
when Kasinga-Maida broke through and squared the ball across goal
only for no teammate to get on the end of it
City responded well to the let-off and came close around a minute later when Blackman connected with Ruaridh Donaldson’s cross
the midfielder was unable to guide his header on target
The deadlock was broken in the 63rd minute by the hosts
A quick exchange on the halfway line allowed Holness to find an opening in the City backline
The Millers man then raced through on goal and rifled a powerful finish into the roof of the net to make it 1-0
Chelmsford City pushed for an equaliser and did have several more chances to score
before Blackman struck the crossbar directly from a corner later on
Substitutes Jacob Bland and Charlie Ruff combined inside the Aveley penalty area in the 75th minute
but Ruff’s header was again well saved by the in-form Holden
Paul Appiah and Archie Tamplin made important defensive interventions late on to prevent Aveley from doubling their lead
but the single goal proved enough for the hosts
who held firm to deny the Clarets a late route back into the match
The defeat sees City drop to 13th in the National League South table
with only two games remaining in the 2024–25 campaign
Chelmsford City XI: Collins (GK); Penney (Akanbi 88’)
Chelmsford City FC © 2025
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The Sports were dominant in the first half at Parkside
and after goals from Jason Adigun and George Alexander took a two-goal lead into the break
Borough secured an eighteenth league clean sheet of the campaign and moved up a congested table
Adam Murray made one change to the side that beat Chippenham Town last weekend
with Courtney Clarke returning from suspension – David Sesay dropping to the bench
Borough made a strong start – pressing from the front and forcing errors – and went in front after just five minutes
Jayden Davis was found by George Alexander down the left-hand side
and he played the ball through to Adigun who made the overlapping run
the playmaker fired through the legs of Jack West-Astuti from a tight angle and found the far corner
with West-Astuti doing well to claim Jack Clarke’s ball through searching for Ollie Kensdale
before the visitors were given the chance to double their advantage
Davis was found by Adigun on the left and after having his first shot parried away by the keeper
was first to the loose ball – only to be tripped by Jason Ring inside the area and referee Tommy Breen pointed to the spot
and sent the home keeper the wrong way to double the lead on 16 minutes
Jack Clarke’s corner then picked out the head of Courtney Clarke
but his downward header was turned away in a crowded area by the diving West-Astuti
before a last-ditch block from Brooklyn Kabongolo denied Alexander a tap in after good work from Yahaya Bamba
Adigun forced West-Astuti into a low save early in the second period
but as the half progressed the game became scrappier – which suited the hosts
David Hicks had a shot deflect into the arms of Joe Wright – Aveley’s first shot of the game – on the hour mark
Substitute David Kawa then forced Wright into a smart save at his near post
before the Borough keeper had to be alert to make a great stop to deny Jack McDowell – who met former Sport Imran Uche’s cross from the left
And Borough’s defensive efforts were on display once again late on – with substitute David Sesay producing an excellent block to prevent Jake Leahy’s strike inside the area from making it to the goal
the Sports got the job done in the first half before showing grit and determination to not allow the hosts to get back into the game to secure back-to-back wins
Reach TV Stadium Priory Lane Eastbourne East Sussex BN23 7QH
AVELEY brought the curtain down on their time in the Vanorama National League South with an eventful match at Parkside on Saturday (26 April)
In the last match under the direction of outgoing manager Danny Scopes
Millers had two players sent off but showed much of the fight that has been a trademark of many previous performances when they have lost out
but at least got the consultation of a point
Bath made a lively start but it was Aveley who opened the scoring on nine minutes
when Luke Holness firing home from close range.
The visitors continued to enjoy the majority of possession but couldn’t turn this into clear chances and had an escape in the 36th minute when Manny Ogunrinde struck the crossbar
Two minutes later Aveley saw their first red of the game when Jason Ring received a second caution for pulling down Jordan Alves
The second half began with an off-the-ball incident in the penalty box involving Alves and Harry Beadle and the Aveley man saw red before Bath converted the resultant penalty through Jesse Nwabueze
Bath’s dominance continued but the Millers nine men thwarted the Romans with a ‘backs-to-the-wall’ performance
with the crossbar coming to their rescue when Ewan Clark was denied in the 69th minute
And then they had the audacity to take the lead again on 79 minutes when a rare break ended with sub David Kawa
The lead last just three minutes responded within three minutes with Scott Wilson shooting past James Holden but the Millers were not be denied some reward and held on for a point despite seven minutes of added time
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City’s final fixture of the league season is
The Millers sit bottom of the table and are already relegated
though they could still avoid last place if they win and Weymouth lose
The Romans are comfortably safe after taking eight points from their last five matches
and will travel with the confidence of having beaten their opponents 3-0 at Twerton Park in December
A supporters’ coach is definitely running, with reduced fares. Book your seat here
Show your Stripes on the road one last time this season
Danny Cashman's brace was the inspiration for Worthing to comeback from a goal down to beat Aveley at Parkside
It was a spot of Monday night football for Worthing
as they were targeting a fourth successive league win while on their travels at Aveley
The Rebels knew that a victory would extend their lead at the top of the table to four points for at least 24 hours
with the rest of the top seven in action the next evening
The Millers were bottom of the league table ahead of the contest and 11 points adrift from safety
Chris Agutter named an unchanged eleven from the one that was victorious against Chesham United on Saturday
with just one change to the squad as Tommy Willard returned in place of Arthur Gregory on the bench
Worthing struck the woodwork less than five minutes into the contest
as Jack Spong’s corner evaded everyone at the near post and cannoned off the post
Odei Martin Sorondo was there to follow up
The Rebels were dominant in possession in the first half
but couldn’t create anything clear cut
Joe Partington went closest with a header that was kept out by the Millers’ keeper James Holden
low to his right as Agutter’s side continued to search for the opener
it was the hosts who got themselves the first goal
Jake Leahy’s ball in behind the Worthing defence on the left channel had encouraged keeper Lucas Covolan to race out of his area to head it clear
fell straight to Alfie Lewis who was about ten yards inside the Worthing half as he struck a half volley towards goal
It was an agonising wait for the ball to hit the back of the net
with Sam Beard’s scrambling efforts unable to prevent it and the Rebels suddenly had it all to do in the second period
Agutter made two early changes in the second half before the hour mark
as Mo Faal and Sam Packham both came on inside the first fifteen minutes
Liam Nash had the first real chance of the second half after being set up by Spong
but the forward’s chipped effort was held onto by Holden
A third change was made five minutes later
as Nicky Wheeler made way for Ruben Carvalho
Then came the moment of inspiration that got the Rebels a crucial goal back to set up the turnaround
It was Danny Cashman who popped up at the edge of the area with a fine effort that dipped just underneath the crossbar and into the back of the net
It was Cashman again with the finish after Spong’s corner was met by the head of Joe Cook
whose header bounced at the back post to Cashman who fired in
was denied a quickfire effort when he got in behind once again
Joel Colbran then had a huge chance to kill the game on 87 minutes from inside the six-yard box
but he couldn’t keep his effort down
something that Worthing fans will have come accustomed to by now
but they held on for another crucial three points in their push for promotion
It takes them four points clear at the top
They return home on Saturday as they face Hemel Hempstead Town
Sussex Transport Community Stadium Woodside Road Worthing West Sussex BN14 7HQ
Gilbert Investments Limited & Barry Hunter
Chelmsford City travel across Essex to Parkside on Good Friday to face the already relegated Aveley
The Millers’ fate was sealed at the end of last month following a home defeat to Torquay United
meaning Danny Scopes’ side have nothing left to play for except pride for the remainder of this season
as both teams’ overall fates in the National League South are sealed
with just three matches left in the 2024-25 season
can neither reach the play-offs nor drop into the relegation zone
Robbie Simpson’s side still have the incentive of looking to secure a top half finish
Millers boss Scopes will be departing the Parkside dugout at the end of the season
who will also leave the EMJ Community Stadium following the current campaign
Here’s everything Clarets supporters need to know ahead of the game…
Click below to watch the highlights of the Clarets’ away victory at Parkside last season
Aveley’s second season in the National League South will end in disappointment
The Millers achieved back-to-back promotions to secure their place in Step Two of the Non-League football pyramid and had a chance to earn a third consecutive promotion last season after ending 2023-24 in a play-off place
the Millers lost their play-off eliminator to Maidstone United and have struggled to bounce back from this disappointment since
having lost many key members of last season’s successful squad
Manager Danny Scopes has therefore arguably been a victim of his own success
with his new-look side going on to lose more matches this season than any other team in the division
it was confirmed that Scopes would depart the club after a successful three-and-a-half-year tenure
In a move similar to Chelmsford City’s after Robbie Simpson’s departure was announced in January
Aveley acted quickly to appoint their next manager
they confirmed the arrival of Brett Munyard
who will take charge at Parkside from the end of the current season
One Aveley player Munyard might be keen to retain is forward David Kawa
The 21-year-old has been a shining light for the Millers this season
registering 12 goal contributions in the National League South
Kawa started in his side’s most recent outing
Aveley showed their spirit in Wiltshire last weekend and will hope to do so in front of their home fans on Good Friday
Cameron James and Jake Hyde are expected to remain sidelined for the rest of the season
Freddie Hockey and Saleem Akanbi all gained valuable minutes in Chelmsford City Under-21’s 2-1 victory over Bromley on Monday night
Penney will be available for selection against Aveley after serving a two-match ban
Here's how we lineup for tonight's match against Bromley! 👇#TheFutureIsClaret pic.twitter.com/YArKRGUvfv
Supporters traveling by car should be aware that the journey from the EMJ Community Stadium to Parkside takes approximately 40 minutes
There are over 200 parking spaces available
including disabled parking and coach spaces
The Chelmsford City Supporters Club coach will be travelling to the game on Friday
Tickets for Friday’s match can be purchased online ahead of the game by clicking here and visiting Aveley’s ticketing website
Admission fees for the 2024-25 National South campaign at Parkside are as follows:
Radio Clarets will provide live audio commentary of proceedings at Parkside
Clarets fans can find pre-match coverage of the game and live updates of the proceedings by following the club’s X (formerly Twitter) page: @OfficialClarets and Instagram page: chelmsfordcityfc
Post-match reactions will be found on the club’s website, official social media channels and on ClaretsTV
ALMOST 800 players have already registered to play an innovative physical activity game that has been launched in South Ockendon and Aveley
Beat the Street launched on Wednesday 23 April and is running until Wednesday 21 May
thanks to funding from a National Lottery Grant from Sport England
The interactive game encourages people of all ages to get active by transforming outdoor spaces into a real-life adventure
Residents will notice special sensors called Beat Boxes appearing on lampposts across the area.Beat boxes can be found by using the Beat the Street map
People can get involved by picking up a free game card from designated distribution points listed on the Beat the Street website
participants aged 13 and over can choose to play via the official mobile app
available for download on Google Play and the iOS App Store
and tapping their cards on the sensors or using the Beat the Street app as they pass
Players who collect the most points have a chance to win a £150 voucher for Decathlon
Some events have been planned to help participants to get active and meet with others while they play
A full list of the upcoming events can be found on the Beat the Street website
said: “We are delighted to finally launch Beat the Street in South Ockendon and Aveley
“Being part of a national initiative that has already engaged over a million players in England is very exciting
We’ve already got over 790 players registered and I’m looking forward to seeing how many more we can get to take part
“There are some great prizes available
and even if you don’t win it’s a great way to benefit your physical and mental health by getting active and outdoors.”
A handy guide for supporters planning their trip to Aveley to follow the Rebels in the National League South
The Rebels can extend their lead at the top of the table to four points if they win tonight
with the rest of the top seven all in action tomorrow night
Aveley are bottom of the league table and 11 points adrift from safety with 9 matches to play
Parkside has been Aveley’s home since the start of the 2017/18 season after selling their old Mill Field ground to developers
The ground has a capacity of 3,500 with 424 of those seated
The ground itself is entered by turnstiles at either end of the main stand
it doubles as a seating area (pitchside) with a standing area behind it
The far side of the pitch is home to another stand which straddles the halfway line and has
there are designated covered standing areas behind each goal
and a metal barrier which stretches around the circumference of the playing surface
Buy Tickets
By Rail: C2C stations Ockendon and Rainham are the closest and most accessible to get to Parkside
Available to access from both Fenchurch Street/Liverpool Street and Southend Central
Ockendon Station: The station is around 2.9 miles away from Parkside
on Saturdays the Number 22 Bus runs from Elan Road to Hanford Road and the ground is a 3 minute walk from the Hanford Road bus stop
Rainham Station: The station is around 4 miles away
and on matchdays there are 3 TFL 372 Buses an hour that take around 15 minutes to get to St Paul’s Close and into Aveley
followed by a ten minute walk either through the Village centre or down the Aveley Bypass
Hot food can be purchased from a hatch near the main turnstiles
The clubhouse/bar area is located in the main stand which is where supporters can enjoy alcoholic drinks and bar snacks
Three pubs near Aveley’s Parkside Stadium:
For more information, visit Aveley’s club website, or check out the guide on Football Ground Guide
City completed their 24/25 campaign with an incident packed 2-2 draw against already relegated Aveley this afternoon
The home side were reduced to nine men early in the second half but almost pulled off a remarkable victory in manager Danny Scopes final game in charge
The tone of the game was set in the opening minutes when Jesse Nwabueze was tripped as looked to get clear
but against the run of play the Millers went ahead on nine minutes
City continued to enjoy the majority of possession but couldn’t turn this into clear chances and had an escape in the 36th minute when Ogunrinde struck the crossbar
Two minutes later Aveley saw their first red of the game when Ring received a second caution for pulling down Jordan Alves
The second half began with an off the ball incident in the penalty box involving Alves and Beadle
The former was left with a swollen eye and bloody nose and the latter a straight red card
And from the resultant penalty Nwabueze fired City level
It was effectively attack against defence now but City struggled to produce a telling final pass or cross
The closest they came saw Ewan Clark’s 69th minute shot strike the crossbar
Then with eleven minutes left a rare break by the Essex side caught City short-handed at the back and Kawa made no mistake from 10 yards
Suddenly facing an embarrassing end to the season
City responded within three minutes as Aveley failed to deal with Louis Sweeten’s cross allowing Scott Wilson to shoot past Holden
Despite seven minutes of stoppage time City couldn’t find a winner
the point seeing them finish in 15th place
Osman Foyo’s first half header secured Chelmsford City’s second consecutive National League South victory and a perfect start to 2025
Sam Oguntayo set up Foyo’s 13th goal of the season
which separated City and Essex rivals Aveley at the break
Both teams had chances to add to the scoreline in the second half
Kane Crichlow and Charlie Ruff could’ve doubled City’s lead
while Hamza Bin-Semakula and Razzaq Coleman De-Graft threatened to equalise for the visitors
partnering Frankie Edwards at centre back on his home debut after captain Cameron James missed out due to a back injury
Alfie Bendle dropped to the bench to make way for Ruardih Donaldson in midfield
The Clarets started the game brightly and were denied in the 7th minute by Aveley goalkeeper James Holden
The Millers’ shot stopper saved Crichlow’s effort from 12 yards out
with Foyo providing the cross from the right flank
Aveley almost responded immediately when Josh Anifowose flashed a dangerous ball across the six-yard box
none of his teammates could apply a decisive touch on the cross
much to the relief of Robbie Simpson’s back four
The Clarets regained control of the match after this close call and were rewarded six minutes before half-time
A free kick won by Jake Hyde was delivered dangerously into the Aveley penalty area by Sam Oguntayo
The full back’s wicked cross was met by the head of the unmarked Foyo at the back post
An indifferent second period of the match came to life in the closing stages of the half
Foyo nearly turned from scorer to provider in the 70th minute when he set Crichlow through on goal
The Clarets nearly paid for Crichlow’s miss when Aveley had two good chances in quick succession
Bin-Semakula bent a dangerous free kick towards goal in the 72nd minute
but his effort clipped the top of the crossbar
Anifowose delivered another threatening cross
which this time found Coleman De-Graft in the box
but his low shot narrowly missed the target
City ended the game strongly and were unfortunate to not increase their lead on numerous occasions
Charlie Ruff had the ball in the back of the net in the 82nd minute when he converted Donaldson’s quickly taken wide free kick
the goal did not stand after referee Jack Bloxham signalled that the set piece needed to be re-taken
Jake Hyde was denied twice by Aveley defenders
Passes from Ruff and substitute Kalvin Kalala nearly found the striker in space
but both balls into Hyde were intercepted to prevent him from having clear sights of goal
City held firm in five minutes of added time to secure their first win of 2025
their second consecutive National League South victory and a third straight clean sheet
Simpson’s side are back in action on Saturday with an away clash against Enfield Town
Chelmsford City XI: Ted Collins (GK); Williams
Chelmsford City FC © 2025. All Rights Reserved.
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THOUGH the mathematical formality of relegation is yet to be confirmed for Aveley FC, the club has announced that manager Danny Scopes will be leaving the club at the end of the season reports Thurrock Nub News.
Saturday’s (22 March) 1-1 draw at Hemel Hempstead Town delayed the official confirmation of the end of Millers’ time in the Vanaram National South, but the bell has now tolled for Scopes’ tenure at Parkside.
Scopes joined The Millers in October 2021 in the wake of a run of managerial successes that included guiding Concord Rangers to the FA Trophy final in May that year, where the Beachboys lost 1-0 to a side that went on to win promotion to the Football League,
Scopes had assisted Danny Cowley and his brother Nicky in Concord Rangers’ rise from the Essex Senior League to the National South before coming first team manager at Rangers in 2019.
In his first season with Aveley, Scopes guided the club to the Isthmian North title.
And he carried that momentum into the following year. Largely regarded as relegation favourites, Aveley won promotion to the National League South via a play-off final 1-0 win away at Hornchurch. In addition Millers won the Isthmian Velocity Cup, defeating Potters Bar 3-0 in the final.
Millers’ first season at Step Three proved remarkable as they made the play-offs, before being defeated by Maidstone United.
This season has been a huge contrast, with Millers rarely breaking away from the relegation zone and they are currently bottom, with only a mathematical chance of escaping the drop.
And this weekend Scopes’ decision to step down has been announced. he says: “It is a tough decision to walk away from this wonderful football club, that has been mine and my family’s life for three and a half seasons.
“I would like to say a big thank you to Graham (Jennings) and Craig (Johnson) for their trust in me to manage this great football club, hopefully I have shown my loyalty over my time as manager.
“Their years of relentless hard work before I arrived and their support and backing from day one of my tenure, helped give me the confidence and drive to push this club to the success we have had.
“Two guys and their families, that I will always call my friends.
“To achieve success in football, you have to have lots of good people, who all want to work hard and drive a club forward as a collective.
“Aveley Football Club is full of good hard working people that have drove this club forward over the years.
“Staff, committee, volunteers, sponsors, who I will always be thankful for their support and efforts to help me.
“Thank you to all the players that have played under me in this period, your commitment and dedication has helped us grow as a football club.
Last, but not least, thank you to the supporters of the football club, your passion, commitment, loyalty and dedication are values that I live by.
“It has been a pleasure to manage your team and hopefully provide you with individuals that play with pride for the shirt and club you support. Plus some wonderful moments and memories that will stay with us forever.”
CEO Mr Johnson said “Danny has given our club nothing less than his total commitment from the minute he walked through the door. The club has had three and a half years of fantastic memories that we will keep for a lifetime, and those who have experienced it will be forever greatful for it.
“From the Isthmian North to National South, followed by the play-offs, something that we could only ever have dreamt about, rubbing shoulders with the likes of Torquay and Yeovil.
“Loyalty in football is two way and something I am proud to say was abundant from both sides in Danny’s time at the club.
“Danny will be taking the team for the remainder of the season while we search for his replcement, and will be as committed as ever in trying to win each and every game we have remaining.
“I personally would like to thank him, not only for what he has done for Aveley Football Club, but his personal friendship. Danny, Zoe and his family will always be welcome as part of the Aveleyfamily.
Aveley Football Club can confirm that applications to become our new First Team Manager are open. Applications must be sent to Lewis Pack, Club Secretary, here.”
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Cody Cooke scored Torquay United's winning goal for the second successive week
Torquay United moved up to fourth place in National League South with a 1-0 win at bottom-of-the-table Aveley
It took an 87th-minute winner from substitute Cody Cooke for the Gulls to get over the line and remain three points behind leaders Worthing with five games to go
who were relegated as a result of their defeat
were reduced to 10 men with 27 minutes to go after Jack McDowell was sent off for a second booking
it was not until late on that Cooke fired in low to secure a fifth win in six games as Torquay kept a fourth clean sheet in five matches
"It's a big result," Torquay manager Paul Wotton told BBC Radio Devon
"I've had people all week saying you're going to go there and win 4-0
"I thought we were flat first half and second half we were better marginally
but it's is all about the result."
The sees Torquay draw level on 77 points with second-placed Dorking Wanderers - who beat fifth-placed Eastbourne Borough 3-1 - and third-placed Truro City who 0-0 at Chelmsford City
so cut throat in the league and there's no easy games," Wotton added
"That's why there's no runaway leader this year
but all we can do is worry about ourselves
but defensively we were really comfortable
"I thought our discipline defensively was excellent and going forward I thought we lacked a bit of quality today in the final third
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Last weekend’s 4-1 win over Chippenham Town made it five National League South fixtures unbeaten for Adam Murray’s side – who have also lost just twice in the last 19 league outings
the Sports travel to Parkside looking to get back to winning ways on the road following a goalless draw at Bath City in their last away game a fortnight ago
Aveley’s progress under Danny Scopes has been remarkable – but after guiding the Millers to the play-offs last season in the club’s first season at this level
things haven’t quite gone to plan this time around
The Parkside outfit come into the game fourteen points from safety with eight games to go at the foot of the table – one point behind Weymouth
However – they have shown they aren’t giving up the fight
with both Boreham Wood and Worthing only winning narrowly in recent weeks
Having lost 1-0 at Boreham Wood last weekend
Aveley went in front against Worthing on Monday night
Alfie Lewis put the Millers in front at half-time
but two goals in five minutes – both from Danny Cashman – gave Worthing all three points at Parkside
Eastbourne Borough bounced back from a disappointing week to continue their unbeaten home record with a dominant victory over Chippenham Town
Adam Murray’s side were made to come from behind after Leone Gravata scored an early goal against his former club
the Sports responded with a superb display and were too good for their visitors – with Jayden Davis and Yahaya Bamba goals giving them the lead at half-time
And Borough went on to add to their advantage – with Jason Adigun and George Alexander – who had missed a penalty in the first half – completing a 4-1 win at The ReachTV Stadium
Supporters unable to make the trip to Parkside today can follow the Sports’ progress across our social media channels – with commentary throughout the game on our X channel
Welling United shared a 1-1 draw against the 10 men of Aveley at Parkside Stadium on Friday evening
Despite being a man up following Josh Anifowose’s first-half red card
finding themselves behind with an hour gone
before substitute Elliot Long came to the rescue late on to bag the leveller
There was little to separate the sides in the opening 45 minutes
although the home side had the better openings with Razzaq Coleman De-Graft dragging wide
while Joel Thompson was denied at the near post by an excellent Chiori Johnson block
former Aveley man Garrett Kelly saw an effort blocked
before the midfielder diverted another effort towards goal which was held by the keeper
A key moment came with 36 minutes on the clock when Aveley’s Anifowose was shown a straight red car
A clumsy and dangerous challenge saw Anifowose catch Dave Winfield in the head
leaving the Wings skipper bloodied and requiring lengthy treatment
giving the referee no choice but to reach for his top pocket
it was Aveley who took the lead on the hour through David Kawa
After getting the ball into the box from the right-hand side with some tenacious work
it fell to the Millers’ number nine who finished well
It would prove bittersweet for the goalscorer
as he injured himself in the process of finding the net and was stretchered off after a lengthy break in play
Welling were struggling to make their extra man count and the hosts very nearly extended their lead with 15 minutes remaining when Ibby Akanbi’s header forced Rhys Lovett into an excellent save
the Wings spurned a good opportunity when Gene Kennedy dragged an effort wide from a promising position inside the box and
just when it looked like they would not be able to break down the Essex side’s stubborn defence
With the ball falling to Long on the edge of the box
he took a touch and sent in a low shot which squeezed inside thee right-hand post
With a mammoth 13 minutes of injury time added
there was still plenty of time for either side to find a winner and it was the visitors who were now looking the more likely
Anthony Grant’s powerful volley stung the palms of the keeper
while Gene Kennedy’s glancing header dipped inches wide
a point apiece was probably a fair result on a bitterly-cold night in Essex as Welling extend their unbeaten run of games to three
Rod Stringer’s men can now rest up until December 10th when they return to action in the London Senior Cup with a trip to Phoenix Sports
J Hearnden Skip Hire Community Stadium Park View Road Welling Kent DA16 1SY
Welling United Football Club is a Community Interest Company registered with Companies House
Full name Welling United Football Club Community Interest Company Limited Registered number 08055420
The Rebels can extend their lead at the top of the table to four points if they win tonigh
It was a comfortable win for Worthing at the weekend
winning 3-0 thanks to goals from Joel Colbran
It was the first time that the Rebels had won by more than a one-goal margin since their 2-0 win away at Salisbury at the start of December and the first clean sheet they had kept since their win against Weymouth in January
the win took Chris Agutter’s side back to the top of the National League South
as Dorking Wanderers dropped points at home to Chelmsford City
Tommy Willard missed out on Saturday after picking up a knock during last Tuesday’s win over Bath City
He remains a doubt ahead of tonight’s trip to Aveley
Joe Cook picked up his 10th yellow card during last Tuesday’s win over Bath City
but his two-match ban will be in effect for the matches against Hemel Hempstead and Welling United
you rarely see them getting beaten by more than one goal
“I am surprised that they’re down there
They’ve got some very good individual players
“We’ll rest and recover and give ourselves the best chance possible to hopefully go four points clear at the top
but we know it’s going to be very tough.”
Aveley currently sit in last place in the league table
having picked up just one point from their last six matches
they beat promotion contenders Maidstone United 2-0 away
They fell to a narrow 1-0 defeat at the hands of Boreham Wood on Saturday
but picked up a point at home to Salisbury before that
They are 11 points adrift from safety with 9 matches to play
If you can’t be at the game, you can follow the game via live updates from the club’s official Twitter account. You can also listen to live commentary via the club’s official commentary service
An affordable housing project in Aveley will benefit from more than £700,000 of government funding to kickstart the redevelopment of three blocks of flats into modern
Communities and Local Government announced it had awarded Thurrock Council £734,370 to rejuvenate the council-owned brownfield site in South Ockendon into a thriving estate
which has been awarded through the Brownfield Land Release Fund (BLRF2)
will be put towards demolishing the three existing blocks of flats containing 36 council homes and preparing the site
The land will then be redeveloped into 48 affordable
modern council homes made up of a mixture of flats and houses
Proposals for the redevelopment of numbers 158-228 (evens only) at Teviot Avenue were approved at a Cabinet meeting on Wednesday 13 March 2024
The council’s planning committee granted planning permission on Tuesday 9 July 2024
said: “We are delighted to receive this significant amount of funding from the government towards the Teviot Avenue housing project
This investment will enable us to kickstart demolition of the existing blocks of flats in the estate and to replace these with 48 brand new affordable homes
“By rejuvenating this council-owned developed land which hasn’t been used to its full potential
we can give our residents the high-quality affordable homes that they deserve
We are committed to unlocking a new generation of social housing that meets the requirements of modern living.”
Watch manager Darren Way speaking to Bath City Radio’s Mark Stillman following yesterday’s fine game of the season
The Essex side called the early shots as Razzaq Coleman dragged his third minute shot wide and David Hicks also failed to hit the target five minutes later
On sixteen minutes a shot from on loan Newport County striker Hamzad Kargbo lacked the power to trouble Holden
A minute later an Aveley corner was headed back across goal by Brooklyn Kabongolo to Tyrese Owen who directed his headed effort straight at Will Henry
Coleman again shot wide before David Kawa’s shot was deflected onto a post and out for a corner
The resulting thirty sixth minute flag-kick from Hicks was headed home by Kabongolo
Before the break a shot from Harry Beadle cannoned off the cross bar whilst in stoppage time Alfie Lewis fired over
After the break Coleman’s shot was blocked before the Bluebirds levelled on fifty one minutes as a free kick routine saw the ball floated over for Luke Haines to head home
Three minutes later Luke Spokes’ shot took a wicked deflection off a defender to loop over Holden for the winning goal
Just before the hour it could have been three as Tyreke Johnson’s shot was just too high
A Bluebird breakaway then ended with Leone Gravata shooting high
Eight minutes from time another effort from Johnson was blocked as was a shot from Kargbo
Henry did well to save at an Aveley corner and also kept Aveley out with a good save from a low shot as the Bluebirds held on for the three points
David Kawa (Charlee Hughes 73) subs not used: Adam Leathers
THE owners of a house in Aveley are seeking formal permission to turn it into a children’s home reports the Local Democracy Reporter
The property at 41 Meadow Drive was granted a lawful development certificate for a change of use from a residential home to a children’s home but now full planning permission is sought to operate the three-storey town house as a children’s care home
If approved the home will care four children aged from 12 to 16
The home will be staffed on a 24-hour basis to adequately support the residents
There would be two carers on duty during the day and night and a manager would also be working Monday to Friday
The property has two parking spaces which applicants
say is sufficient and would not impact street parking
The applicants said: “Given the intended form of occupation
which would be akin to a family in residence rather than an institutional care home
there would be no harm to the residential amenities of the adjoining residents with regards to noise or disturbance
Comings and goings from the property would be akin to a residential dwelling
“There may be a difference in terms of vehicle movements to and from the site as staff will be employed and there will be visits from other care professionals but given the small scale nature of the proposal
it is not considered that this difference would give rise to a material adverse impact on the character of the locality.”
They added: “The change of use would be acceptable as the proposal is providing a much-needed community resource
The proposal would not detrimentally impact the character of the area
“The scheme complies with relevant policy and guidance and should therefore be approved without delay.”
the home will be one of a spate of children’s home to open in Thurrock
The borough currently has a shortage of accommodation for looked after children adding to the ever-increasing cost of children’s services
Graham Gennings has announced he is to step aside after 23 years at the club
Mr Gennings said: “I have seen many highs and lows in my time as my time as chairman and have been privileged to have helped our club grow considerably over many years
“I feel it is time for me to return to what I have always enjoyed
being a supporter of this wonderful football club
“Craig Johnson will take over the title from me and I know he and our other Directors will continue to put their heart and soul into every waking hour for the club.”
added: “I knew this day would come eventually
and to be honest when I asked Graham 23 years ago
I never dreamt we would have made so many memories together both on and off the pitch
and that it would have lasted more than most marriages these days
“When Graham told me of his intentions
I felt it only fitting that he should be offered the current vacant club president role
to which I am personally delighted he has accepted
I am pleased to say that Danny Shipp will take up a board director position
responsible for safeguarding and youth development.”
AVELEY FC have announced the manager who will succeed outgoing Danny Scopes when the club start their Isthmian Premier campaign next season
Scopes recently announced he was standing down at the end of the Vanarama National South season
after the club were unable to avoid relegation
The new man in the Parkside hot seat is Brett Munyard
whose most recent managerial appointment was at Maldon & Tiptree
Munyard only took over at Maldon in Mid November last year after leaving Brightlingsea Regent
He took the Jammers on a nine match unbeaten run – which was only ended on New Year’s Day in defeat by Sporting Bengal United
That was followed two days later by his surprise dismissal
in advance of a takeover of the Isthmian North club by millionaires Barrie and Scott Drewitt-Barlow who appointed high-profile Kevin Horlock
That prompted Munyard to say: “‘Unfortunately my time at Maldon has come to an end
“The team have been top drawer since I arrived and achieved all objectives set
The potential new owners are brilliant and I wish nothing but success for all involved
Munyard had joined Regent from White Ensign in November 2021
In his time at Ensign he oversaw two promotions
He took over with Regent in nineteenth place in Pitching In Isthmian Premier
but couldn’t repeat the feat in 22-23
when they were relegated to the North Division
Speaking about Aveley’s new appointment Chief Executive Craig Johnson said: “I am delighted with the calibre of applications that we received for the first team managers position
“I am pleased to announce that after many hours of deliberation we have chosen Brett Munyard as our Manager for the 2025/26 season
hungry and enthusiast manager who has had a great start to his managerial career
and his vision for the future matches that of ours
and I know our fans will welcome into the Aveley family.”
Millers’s next boss said: “Firstly
I want to say a huge thank you to Aveley Football Club for giving me this great opportunity
I’m absolutely delighted to be here and feel very proud to be given the responsibility to lead this club into a new chapter
“It is extremely big boots to fill after the great job Danny had done here
but I guarantee I will work tirelessly up to make this club successful once again
Danny Scopes will say goodbye in May after taking the club from the Isthmian League North into Step 2
The club have struggled this season and are effectively already relegated with five weeks to go
Scopes thinks a fresh start for both himself and the club is in order
saying in an emotional statement that those at Parkside are like family to him
His decision comes as Chelmsford City announced Angelo Harrop will take over from Robbie Simpson in a couple of months as Tonbridge Angels revealed Jay Saunders is also leaving at the end of the season
Aveley CEO Craig Johnson said "Danny has given our club nothing less than his total commitment from the minute he walked through the door
“The club has had three and a half years of fantastic memories that we will keep for a lifetime
and those who have experienced it will be forever greatful for it
something that we could only ever have dreamt about
rubbing shoulders with the likes of Torquay and Yeovil
“Loyalty in football is two way and something I am proud to say was abundant from both sides in Danny's time at the club.”
Scopes said it was a “tough decision to walk away” from a “wonderful football club that has been mine and my families life for three and a half seasons.”
He told the club’s website: “I like to say a big thank you to Graham and Craig
for their trust in me to manage this great football club
hopefully I have shown my loyalty over my time as manager
“Their years of relentless hard work before I arrived and their support and backing from day one of my tenure
helped give me the confidence and drive to push this club to the success we have had
who all want to work hard and drive a club forward as a collective
Aveley Football Club is full of good hard working people that have drove this club forward over the years
who I will always be thankful for their support and efforts to help me
“Thank you to all the players that have played under me in this period
your commitment and dedication has helped us grow as a football club
thank you to the supporters of the football club
loyalty and dedication are values that I live by
“It has been a pleasure to manage your team and hopefully provide you with individuals that play with pride for the shirt and club you support
Plus some wonderful moments and memories that will stay with us forever.”
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We take a closer look at tomorrow's opposition as the Sports head to Parkside
The Sports sit in fifth spot in the league standings following midweek results
which saw everyone but Worthing catch up on games played
after they came from behind to beat Aveley 2-1 on Monday night
That result was followed by wins for Boreham Wood and Truro City on Tuesday night
whilst Torquay United were held by Salisbury and Maidstone United and Dorking Wanderers drew with each other
come into the game bottom of the table and will be hoping for three points in their battle against the drop
Danny Scopes was appointed manager of The Millers in November 2021
Aveley have risen up the non-league pyramid
After winning the Isthmian League North in his first season
the following season saw the club win the League Cup
defeating Potters Bar Town 3–0 in the final
They went on to finish fourth in the league
and after beating Canvey Island in the play-off semi-finals
defeated Hornchurch 1–0 in the final to earn a second consecutive promotion in the National South
Scopes also guided Concord Rangers to the Isuzu FA Trophy Final in 2021
where they lost to Harrogate Town at Wembley
Won the National League South Manager of the Year in 2023/24 after Aveley finished in the play-offs in their first ever season at this level
Charlee Hughes joined The Millers ahead of last season in July 2023 and went on to make 48 appearances upfront
including a hat-trick against former club Hemel Hempstead Town in a 4-3 victory
Charlee also assisted on four occasions too
Charlee played for Brentwood Town and Maldon & Tiptree
where he was top goal scorer for both in back to back seasons with 20 in 33 for Brentwood and 30 in 45 games for The Jammers which earned him a move to National League side Wealdstone
the forward moved to Aveley and helped The Millers to a seventh placed finish
Salisbury vs Hampton & Richmond Borough
Barnet Football Club
The Bees play host to National League South side Aveley FC at the Hive tomorrow afternoon (3pm) in third round of this year’s Isuzu FA Trophy
The Bees played out a goalless draw at Hartlepool United last weekend after a late disallowed goal from Brennan’s side denied a six-pointer week from two long away trips
it sprung into life with 20 minutes to go with the Bees having the better chances
In the final 10 minutes Ade Oluwo jumped highest to place to ball into the back of the net
only to be judged to have committed a foul in the buildup as the goal was chalked off
A glorious chance fell to Nik Tavares shortly after when he got his head on the ball from a cross
forcing the Hartlepool keeper into making one of the saves of the season from point blank range to deny Tavares with his feet
Hartlepool saw the game out with Barnet making the long trip back to North London with four points from the two away games
You can view Saturday’s match highlights by clicking HERE.
Connor Smith spoke to us pre-match and you can view his interview by clicking HERE.
Tomorrow’s visitors currently sit fourth to bottom in the Vanarama National League South
Despite this they will be hoping to get revenge on the Bees from their defeat at the Hive last season in the FA Cup
In their last outing they came to a home defeat to play-off chasing Maidstone United
Matt Rush got the opener after 29 minutes; George Fowler doubled the scoring with 15 minutes to go before Matt Bentley rounded off the scoring 5 minutes before time
Aveley are currently managed by former Concord Rangers boss Danny Scopes who has been in chance of the National league South side since November 2021
Razzaq Coleman De-Graft will be one to watch tomorrow afternoon
he has six goals to his name so far this season from his 19 games
David Kawa also has six goals but from 12 games for Aveley
The last time these two sides met was in October 2023 when Barnet ran out victorious in the FA Cup 4th round qualifying replay at the Hive
Nicke Kabamba got three goals to his name plus the match ball before Harry Pritchard added a fourth in injury time at the end of the game
Tickets for tomorrow’s fixture can be purchased HERE.
Back the Bees at The Hive Stadium this Saturday (3pm) as they take on Aldershot Town in their last home game on the season in
Back the Bees this Easter Monday (3pm) as the team go up against Sutton United away in the Vanarama National League. Barnet FC: A
Get the Hive Stadium rocking this Good Friday (5:30pm) as Barnet take on Eastleigh in a late afternoon clash in the Vanarama National League.
The Bees are back at The Hive Stadium this Saturday (12:30pm) for an early afternoon kick off against Wealdstone in the Vanarama National League. Barnet
The Bees make the trip over to Essex this Saturday (3pm) as they take on Braintree Town at The Rare Breed Meat Co. Stadium in
Barnet are back at The Hive Stadium this Saturday (3pm) as they take on Gateshead in the Vanarama National League. Barnet FC: Barnet secured
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Tickets for our FA Trophy 4home fixture against Aveley are now on sale
Season ticket holders will have 48 hours to purchase their regular seat for this fixture before it is released on general sale
Tickets will go on general sale on Thursday at 11am
Supporters can purchase tickets online by clicking HERE!
The prices for this fixture are as follows:
Please note season tickets are not valid for this fixture
The Champions head up to the Mill Farm Stadium this Monday for their final game of the 24/25 season
Barnet FC is delighted to announce that Manager Dean Brennan has today signed a new 3 year contract with the Club
Tickets for our last Vanarama National League trip to AFC Fylde are now on sale!The Bees make the trip to Fylde on Monday the 5th
MILLERS were unable to stretch their recent improved form to a third consecutive win and take derby bragging rights from the Urchins on Monday (21 April)
The visitors were rarely on a par with their hosts in the first half and the only surprise was that they only went in a goal down at the break
Early on Hornchurch’s Angelo Balanta latched onto a stray Brooklyn Kagonbolo back pass after only three minutes but keeper James Holden was quick to recover the situation
That goal came on 22 minutes when Tommy Wood who squared to Will Greenidge and he made no mistake cutting inside his marker and firing left footed across Holden into the far corner
Aveley did finally mount a serious attempt on goal right at the end of the half when they were awarded a freekick 25 yards out
With the penalty area bustling with six footers Alfie Lewis chose to shoot low
but his effort found only the side netting
The second period was a more even affair but the Millers failed to seriously trouble Urchins keeper Mason Terry
though Kagonbolo saw a header drift wide before an effort by Imran Uche cleared the bar as the Millers tried to press
In the end the match was settled when Harry Gibbs
who has had three spells as a Miller during his career
put the game beyond doubt firing home with five minutes remaining
Millers complete their time in Vanarama National South with a home match against mid-table Bath City on Saturday (26 April).
AVELEY showed they are committed to living this league on a high with a 1-0 victory against Chelmsford City
A single goal by Luke Holness (58) was the difference between the two clubs
The result leaves Aveley still bottom of the league
They return to league action on Easter Monday
As Worthing prepare for their National League South encounter at home against Aveley
Aveley Football Club was formed in 1927 and played in local leagues until 1939
Club activities were then suspended during the war years 1939-45
In 1946 the club was reformed and joined the Thurrock Combination
Aveley gained Senior League status in season 1949/50 and were elected into the London League
They were Division Champions in the 1951/52 season
they moved from Lodge Meadow to Mill Field and were promptly nicknamed The Millers
In season 1954/55 they were Division Champions once again which was followed by election to The Delphian League in 1955/56
They competed in this league until 1962/63 with little success
1963/64 saw Millers join the Athenian League
Full membership of the Football Association was granted in 1964/65
Season 1970/71 was probably the club’s most successful one
The first round proper of the FA Cup was reached along with the FA Amateur Cup quarter-finals
they were also Champions of the Athenian League
Aveley were elected to the Isthmian League in season 1973/74
Here they competed without success in Division One until they were relegated to Division Two North at the end of the 1985/86 season
The 1989/90 campaign was a memorable one for The Millers
Promotion back to Division One was gained with a tremendous end-of-season run-in to finish second to Heybridge Swifts by two points
This was followed by a 3-0 victory over Premier Division St.Albans in the final of the AC Delco (League) Cup
This made Aveley the first team from the lowest division to win this competition
the club slipped down to Division Three and cup successes were limited to appearances in the finals of both the East Anglian Cup and the The Essex Thames-Side Challenge Trophy in 1997/98
After a disappointing start to the 2007/08 campaign
November saw the arrival of Rod Stringer as Manager
and fortunes turned with the Millers putting a string of impressive results together to finish the season in Mid-Table
2008/09 saw the foundations that were laid the previous season
bare its fruit as the Ryman League Division One North Championship was won on the last day of the season in dramatic fashion at East Thurrock United
Millers created a club record of 11 straight away league wins
and Rod Stringer was duly judged as the Manager of the Season for the Division
the Millers were granted the green light on the 13th May 2016 allowing the club to start building a new stadium as soon as possible
with Parkside completed for the 2017/18 season
the Millers had a successful season and finished 2nd
with a month left of the season to go manager James Webster resigned and Aveley moved quickly to bring in Danny Dafter who came in with five games left and won every game to help Aveley to finish 2nd
behind Bowers & Pitsea in the Bostik North
that winning run ended with defeat in the Play-Off Semi Final against Heybridge Swifts
The Millers had a historic season in 2019/20 which was cut short due to the Corona-Virus outbreak
Aveley made it to the Quarter Final of the FA Trophy and were second in the Isthmian North
although PPG would’ve seen Aveley promoted
they were denied promotion after the season was decided and later announced to be null and void
The next complete season (2021/22) saw the Millers win the Isthmian North Division
beating Canvey Island to the title by two points
Their first season in the Isthmian Premier Division saw them promoted via the play-offs after a remarkable season that saw them finish 4th in the league
A narrow 1-0 win away at Hornchurch was enough to clinch promotion in the play-off final
the Millers had the highest league finish in their history after another remarkable campaign saw them finish 7th in their first season in the National League South
They were eventually beaten by Maidstone United in the play-offs
The start to the 2024/25 season in the National League South has been a difficult one for the Millers who currently sit bottom of the table after 14 matches
They have picked up just eight points so far this season
with wins against Dorking Wanderers and Enfield Town being the real highlights
they were beaten at home to Weymouth which saw the Terras leapfrog the Millers in the league table
Danny Scopes has been in charge at Parkside since November 2021 and has guided the Millers to back-to-back promotions
as well as a 7th-placed finish in their first season in the National League South
Scopes was Concord Rangers’ Manager in the National League South and guided the Beachboys to the FA Trophy final taking on Football League side Harrogate Town in May 2021
Scopes also assisted the Cowley Brothers in Concord Rangers’ rise from the Essex Senior League to the National South before becoming first team manager in 2019
After back-to-back promotions with the Millers
Scopes was awarded the Manager of the Season award last term in the National League South after guiding his side to a play-off place finish
Following the departure of Harry Gibbs earlier this season
Jason Ring was named as club captain at Aveley
Jason joined The Millers after the pandemic in 2020 and went on to make his debut for Aveley away at Harpenden Town in the Emirates FA Cup in a 3-0 victory
‘Ringo’ went on to make 11 appearances that season before it was cut short
The following Isthmian North title-winning season
he played a vital part and made 31 appearances before he was injured against Coggeshall Town in a 5-2 victory at Parkside which ruled him out for the last two months of the season
The defender signed on for the Millers’ Isthmian Premier League campaign and built his way back to full fitness as he recovered from injury to play another vital role in helping his side seal promotion via the play-offs and Velocity Trophy cup victory
He was ever-present throughout our debut season in the National South and went on to make 44 appearances and achieved his 100th appearance against Torquay United at Plainmoor
Young midfielder Manny Ogunrinde joined The Millers in 2020 from Isthmian North side Grays Athletic and has gone on to make more than 100 appearances for the club
Manny scored 9 and assisted a further 8 times in 39 appearances as Aveley were crowned the champions of Isthmian North for the first time since 2009
The 2022/23 campaign in the Isthmian Premier League saw Manny score vital goals away in our 2-1 victory at Hornchurch and break the deadlock against Bowers & Pitsea the game after
Manny made 20 appearances in total after an injury-affected season
which saw the Millers win promotion to the National South and Velocity Trophy winners for the first time since 1990
Last season saw Manny’s biggest return for goals for The Millers
after starting the season on the fringe of the team
he went out on loan to Isthmian North side Brightlingsea Regent where he made 7 appearances and scored two goals
Manny was recalled from loan and came off the bench against St Ives in the FA Trophy
only to score an equaliser in the 85th minute and the winner in the 90th minute to seal Aveley’s place in the next round
Manny would go on to score 6 more times to take his tally to 8 for the season
a 95th-minute winner against Dover Athletic
and scoring the goal that put ahead away at Maidstone in the National South Play-Off Eliminator before being defeated 2-1
Tomorrow night will see the return of two former Rebels to the Sussex Transport Community Stadium with Tyrese Owen and Ibby Akanbi both part of the squad at Aveley
Akanbi joined the Reds in October 22 after a short spell with Dulwich Hamlet
making his debut from the start in a defeat away at Braintree Town
He didn’t have to wait long for his first goal for the club
netting the opening goal in the 1-1 draw with Taunton Town on his home debut
He followed that up with a winning goal against his former club just three days later
He netted a brace in the thrilling 4-3 win over Hampton & Richmond on Boxing Day
then in February 2023 bagged four goals in the thrashing of Crowborough Athletic in the Sussex Senior Cup
he’d established himself as a regular in Hinshelwood’s side
starting both play-off ties and the Sussex Senior Cup final where he converted from the spot in the shoot-out win over Bognor Regis Town
In total Akanbi contributed 12 goals in 34 appearances
Tyrese Owen joined the Rebels back in the summer but never went on to make a competitive appearance for the club after featuring in pre-season
He then joined Aveley at the end of August
Harrison Smith struck an injury time winner as Worthing squeezed past Aveley for three points in the National League South
substitute Harrison Smith provided the catharsis
Worthing’s forwards feeling the breath of an opponent every time they touched the ball
with hope almost lost and time almost gone
On the back of Saturday’s supreme performance over League Two Morecambe
Three points are as valuable and brilliant no matter the match
There was something rather poignant about this evening’s minute’s silence
Observed impeccably ahead of Remembrance Day
the distant dins and bangs from fireworks forking nearby gave this a particularly authentic representation
but the thousand-strong crowd would be made to wait before the game burst into life
But upbeat in the saloon of their sinking ship
Were they unfortunate to head home without any points
It took only four minutes for the groans of a missed opportunity to reverberate around Woodside Road
Moans of a scattered few visitors upon Josh Anifowose’s clipped effort that drifted wide
He might have done better had he been a little more composed in the box
The recent intensity of the Reds’ calendar had prompted a minor shuffle to Chris Agutter’s side
who was impressive in his 15-minute cameo against the Shrimpers
leading the line as he does so well at Glen Rea’s expense
Agutter had plenty at his disposal behind him
Faal had his shirt pulled and Sam Beard took a tumble
It didn’t take long for the ball to be solely in the Aveley half
Manager Danny Scopes had set them up for a defensive rearguard
yet when they galloped forward with gusto and verve they displayed some confidence
Then Kane Wills would waltz in and just pluck the ball from his path
Since his return to the starting fold he has been superb
With the ball at his feet it’s so rarely lost
and when under pressure he just bursts through the battles
It was Beard’s briskness and nous that released Cashman down the left
but the spin took it away from Tommy Willard when he was poised to pounce
Faal dragged a shot wide; Willard cranked one hard into the legs of Carey Bloedorn
Then he spanked a left footed effort wide of the post
And then he hit the post with a fizzing drive at the near post
It’s probably safe to say he was in the mood for a goal
Wadham had a flurry of shots blocked by the bruised backline of the Essex opponents
But the pressure finally paid off and the loudest sound in Worthing was no longer a colourful explosive in the night sky
Cashman has been perfect from the 12-yards this season
and this one might just have been the most sumptuous of the lot
What had happened in the Aveley changing room
It was as if they had swapped controllers with an older brother at half-time
Razzaq Coleman De-Graft had barely touched the ball in the opening 45 minutes
pirouetting through three red shirts before placing his effort to perfection
Alex Giles could only guide his head straight at Chris Haigh
but the flourish in the final third remained amiss
Faal had a real opening from inside the box
David Kawa slammed one into the side netting at the other end
It was Nicky Wheeler who made way for Spong
it just needed someone to connect the dots
This would prove to be a shrewd decision from Agutter
Two dropped points turned to three points gained
It’s Friday night lights for Welling United as they head to Parkside to take on Aveley (8pm)
The Wings can head across the Dartford crossing in good spirits having picked up four points over the last week with victory at Slough Town on Saturday followed up by a midweek draw at home to Tonbridge Angels
That leaves Rod Stringer’s men head into the game in Essex in 18th position in National League South with 20 points
six points ahead of Friday’s opponents who occupy the final spot in the relegation zone in 21st
Zain Walker could be available again having been made to sit out following a concussion protocol
but Daniel Martin will remain sidelined with a knee
After a successful first season at step two last term in which they proved to be the surprise package by reaching the play-offs
they have found it somewhat more difficult the second time around
They come into the game in 21st position with four wins
but they will be buoyed by two wins from their last three league outings
most recently securing an impressive 6-3 victory at home to fellow strugglers St Albans City on Monday night
Welling United kicked off their season with a 1-0 victory over Aveley at Park View Road when the sides met on opening day back in August
Martell Taylor-Crossdale marked his debut with a spectacular winner midway through the first half which was all that was needed to get those all-important first three points on the board
Tickets for the clash at Parkside Stadium are available to purchase online in advance and will also be available from the turnstiles on the day of the game
Supporters should note that tickets purchased online will incur an additional transaction fee
it is cheapest to purchase your ticket at the turnstiles
Wings fans not making the journey on Friday evening can follow all the action with live commentary thanks to Radio Wings
You can join Nigel Jones in the commentary box by clicking here come kick off.
Due to major traffic disruption in the area tonight’s match Vs @AveleyFC has been postponed