Essex Finch League - 20/3/10
Barking & Dagenham 1 (Turner)
Redbridge 0
BARKING & DAGENHAM PRIMARY schools' side produced a resolute performance, securing three vital Essex League points in the process. Michael Turner's first half penalty was enough to settle a game that the visitors dominated for large periods.
The visitors started well and the lively Henry Ochieng signalled their intent with an early snap shot, one that just flew over Alfie Reynold's crossbar. Reynolds was then called upon when Tyrone Hussey again played in Ochieng.
Redbridge were playing the ball around with confidence and looking to get their wide players involved, with Barking & Dagenham struggling to get a foothold in the game. Reynolds had to be quick off his line, twice in quick succession, as Redbridge continued to put pressure on the home side.
As the half progressed, Barking and Dagenham began to come into the game, with Ricky Morris and Turner getting hold of the ball in the middle of the park.
Chance
Morris fashioned his side's first chance; a ball releasing Sorba Thomas, whose left footed effort was well held by Daniel Green. Aaron Molloy then combined with Turner to set up MJ Folkes, but his shot was off target.
Redbridge still looked good going forward and Reynolds was relieved to see Mehmed Bexavogui's shot fly past his left-hand post.
With eighteen minutes on the clock, the deadlock was broken in controversial circumstances. Turner's free kick was cleared by Kian Flanaghan but the ball struck his hand and referee Duggins had no hesitation in awarding a spot kick. Redbridge felt aggrieved but Turner kept a cool head to give his side the lead.
Redbridge almost immediately replied but Jack Richardson produced a perfectly timed tackle to snuff out the danger.
Confidence
The goal gave Barking & Dagenham confidence and Thomas, who up until this point had been well-marshalled by Redbridge's skipper, George Collis, began to get in behind the Redbridge back four.
Barking & Dagenham continued their improvement, starting the second half quicker. Folkes showed great pace to get away from his marker, but his shot went the wrong side of the post.
Morris then released Thomas but his cross was just out of the reach of the onrushing Jayke Welch.
The home side then thought they had doubled their lead when Thomas got on the end of Richardson's free kick but his joy was short-lived as he had wandered offside.
Redbridge then went close but Ochieng's neat turn and shot, which looked destined for the bottom corner, was superbly turned round the post by Jack Kemsley.
Game Plan
Redbridge stuck to their game plan, looking to pass the ball around but they were unable to get pass the Barking & Dagenham rearguard. Daniel John and Daniel Parish were very impressive as for all Redbridge's pressure they were unable to trouble the home goal.
Jesse Amoh then come on to provide some protection as Redbridge began to throw bodies forward in search of an equaliser. With time running out John, Casey and Parish all produced last ditch tackles to deny Redbridge as the final whistle brought to an end a game that Redbridge felt they had done enough to win.
However, Barking & Dagenham could be proud of their efforts, grinding out a vital three points without ever being at their best.
