Essex SFA Finch League - 20/5/10

Barking & Dagenham 2                                       (Thomas, Cheema)     

Thurrock 2  

BARKING & DAGENHAM SAW THEIR title dreams crushed as old foes, Thurrock came from two goals down to grab an unlikely point. Despite dominating the first half and taking a two goal lead, the draw means the District side can no longer catch leaders Havering.

Such was the dominance of the home team, keeper Alfie Reynolds didn't touch the ball in the first half. The District side also saw saw two goals disallowed, hit the woodwork twice and saw Thurrock keeper, Lockyear, keep his side level with a series of saves.

Daniel Cheema and Max Watters were a constant threat with their pace and Jesse Amoh and Michael Turner quickly grabbed control of the ball in the midfield. Ricky Morris saw Lockyear superbly keep out his volley and Turner tested the Thurrock keeper from the edge of the box.

Domination

The home side continued to dominate proceedings but couldn't find a way past an inspired Thurrock rearguard.

The second half saw Thurrock have more possession but Barking & Dagenham continued to look the more likely to score. Lockyear denied both Nathan Casey and MJ Folkes until the pressure eventually paid off with Sorba Thomas' 19th of the season. Watters played Thomas in and he coolly chipped the ball over the onrushing Lockyear, to give his side a well deserved lead.

Barking and Dagenham then doubled their lead when Cheema raced through and gave Lockyear no chance with a sublime finish.

Harsh

The two goal cushion was just reward for the home sides efforts but Thurrock refused to lie down and had a chance to reduce the arrears when they were awarded a harsh looking penalty. Keeper Jack Kemsley guessed right and almost saved it but Plunkett's effort just snuck in.

Thurrock sensed they could get something from the game and piled on the pressure. Barking & Dagenham still looked dangerous on the break but, as time ticked away, Thurrock levelled things up with a thunderous effort from outside the area.

The final whistle saw Thurrock celebrate like they had won the league, whilst Barking & Dagenham were left to reflect on what might have been.

 

 

 

What Might Have Been