Bill Robinson reports from Ship Lane….
A tough and competitive match played out on a heavy pitch and Thurrock should feel disappointed that they failed to collect all three points. With only a handful of chances being created the two second half opportunities that fell to Fola Orilonishe and then Leon McKenzie would have sealed a victory to boost their sagging confidence.
The first half was a tepid affair with very few chances, Havant dominating possession for the greater part with a constant flow of crosses and long throw-ins that were sent deep into the box but Joe Woolley in the Thurrock goal commanded his area and dealt with the majority with some confident handling.
Thurrock played better football in the second period and deserved a share of the points creating many chances on the break. On 50 minutes a fantastic pass from David Bryant found Fola Orinolishe’s who’s volley was well saved by Aaron Howe and away for a corner. From the corner kick taken by Orinolishe’s the ball went deep and evaded everyone but Bryant who just couldn’t get high enough and his header went out for a goal kick.
With five minutes left on the clock Matt Bodkin’s through ball from defence set Leon McKenzie away, he ran 20 yards to the edge of the box with keeper Howe advancing but the striker shot straight at Howe.
At the final whistle with the points shared it left Thurrock with just one win in their last eight matches.
Next up for Thurrock is a long and difficult away trip to table toppers Newport County on Wednesday evening, a draw on that occasion and Manager Hakan Hayrettin would see it as a point won.
Thurrock: Woolley, Andrews, Anderson, Olima, Flynn, Paine, Bodkin, Lalite, Bryant (Judge 82), McKenzie, Orinolishe
Havant: Howe, Newton, McDonald, Tabiri, Woodford, Simpemba, Fogden, Walker, Williams, Tyriaki, Forbes
Attendance: 246
Referee: Lee Forrester
