THURROCK 3rd 2 v 3 SAFFRON WALDEN 6th
THIS was an important game for both teams lying 3rd and 4th in East Division 8 South East. From the start the game was played at high tempo with both teams having chances. Midway through the first half the skilful Saffron Walden forward weaved through the Thurrock defence and as keeper Danny Hick came out to narrow the angle, he slipped it into the net.
Thurrock worked hard and Jimmy Venus was unlucky to see his shot from the edge of the area hit the outside of the post. Thurrock made a couple of changes at half time and soon levelled the score when Ricky Smith made a run up the right before crossing for Michael Fleming to beat the keeper from close range. The game continued at high pace and both defences were worked hard to maintain parity. Eventually the visitors added to their score from a well-taken short corner which just evaded the diving stick of Danny Hick.
With 10 minutes to go Fleming weaved through and drew the keeper before passing for Jimmy Venus to shoot. The ball was stopped illegally but Venus levelled from the penalty spot. Thurrock worked hard to add to their score and avenge the 6-3 defeat earlier in the season but the Walden defence held firm. In the final minute, a quickly taken free hit from the edge of the area allowed the speedy forward to nip in and score leaving Thurrock no time to come back.
